Safety valve or safety relief valve discharges shall be located or piped in what manner?

The safety valve or safety relief valve discharges should be piped and located in a manner that carries them clear of running boards or platforms to ensure safety and accessibility. This positioning is crucial for several reasons. Primarily, it prevents the release of potentially hot or pressurized fluids from coming into contact with personnel who may be working nearby. By keeping the discharge clear of working areas, it minimizes the risk of injury from steam or liquid that could escape during operation and ensures an unobstructed area for maintenance and emergency situations.

Moreover, having the discharge directed away from pathways reduces the possibility of water or steam accumulating in areas where workers are present, which can lead to slipping hazards. This approach aligns with best practices in workplace safety by prioritizing both the health of the personnel and the efficiency of the operational environment.

In contrast, discharging near the boiler could pose risks if there are leaks or failures, while connecting to the exhaust system may not provide the necessary precaution against back pressure. Directing discharge downward could also create issues without proper management of runoff or steam release. Hence, ensuring that the discharge points away from operational areas significantly enhances the safety of the working environment for pipefitters and other personnel.