<p> 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</p><p>NC STATE UNIVERSITY</p><p>STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP) FOR PROPANE TORCH</p><p>Location: 3121 Biltmore Hall (Robertson Labs)</p><p>Contact: Barbara White, Research Operations Manager</p><p>Telephone: 919-513-0298 or 919-753-8523</p><p>Only fully trained and authorized personnel are permitted to use the propane torch.</p><p>CAUTION</p><p>Read and understand all directions and warnings provided with the cylinder and torch.</p><p>Do not remove the sealing ring or retainer. Do not insert tools or objects into the sealing ring.</p><p>Do not store propane cylinder above 120°F (49° C).</p><p>Do not store cylinder with torch or other appliance attached. Store cylinder with protective cap in place.</p><p>Discard empty cylinder properly. Do not refill a cylinder.</p><p>Do not modify the torch construction.</p><p>Torch burner tube and metal parts become very hot.</p><p>STANDARD OPERATIONAL PROCEDURE</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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. </p><p>Never operate torch unless orifice is in place and burner tip is secured.</p><p>Light and use torch in an upright position only. Light torch using spark lighter only.</p><p>Close the on/off valve finger tight. If knob breaks off due to too much force, return the torch to the factory for repair.</p><p>Make sure the flame goes out completely. Remove torch from cylinder, keeping cylinder pointed straight up. Replace white cap onto cylinder.</p>