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North Carolina State University is a land- Grant university and a constituent institution Department of Wood and Paper Science of The University of North Carolina

NC STATE UNIVERSITY

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP) FOR PROPANE TORCH

Location: 3121 Biltmore Hall (Robertson Labs)

Contact: Barbara White, Research Operations Manager

Telephone: 919-513-0298 or 919-753-8523

Only fully trained and authorized personnel are permitted to use the propane torch.

CAUTION

Read and understand all directions and warnings provided with the cylinder and torch.

Do not remove the sealing ring or retainer. Do not insert tools or objects into the sealing ring.

Do not store propane cylinder above 120°F (49° C).

Do not store cylinder with torch or other appliance attached. Store cylinder with protective cap in place.

Discard empty cylinder properly. Do not refill a cylinder.

Do not modify the torch construction.

Torch burner tube and metal parts become very hot.

STANDARD OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE

Use torch only in the hood. Do not use if flammable liquids are being used in the lab. Make sure that the flammable chemical storage cabinet is closed and latched.

Always wear eye protection when using the torch. Have a fire extinguisher near when using a torch. Do not use the torch without practicing familiarity with the proper use of a fire extinguisher. Be certain that the fuel on/off valve is turned completely off before attaching the torch. Tighten torch finger tight only. Do not use tools.

Check for leaks at all burner fittings. If a leak is suspected, do not attempt to repair it. Return the torch to the dealer or manufacturer.

Never operate torch unless orifice is in place and burner tip is secured.

Light and use torch in an upright position only. Light torch using spark lighter only.

Close the on/off valve finger tight. If knob breaks off due to too much force, return the torch to the factory for repair.

Make sure the flame goes out completely. Remove torch from cylinder, keeping cylinder pointed straight up. Replace white cap onto cylinder.