National Caches will no longer refurbish non-OSHA approved torches.

Non-OSHA approved torches must be removed from service by June 2019

Please Note: Lock collar and stem apparatus are not interchangeable between manufacturers and can cause major leaks and fire hazards. Keep the lock collar, stem, and body of drip torch together throughout the inspection, repair, and refurb process. See ETC Safety Warning and Cache Memo for more information.

ETC Safety Warning 21-01, Drip Torch Lock Rings Detaching (nwcg.gov)

Drip Torch Lock Ring Cache Memo 2021

Initial Inspection/Disposal Criteria

1. Visually inspect tank for cracks, splits, and obvious damage that may cause tank to leak.  Ensure lock ring and threads are not damaged and seal properly and air breather tube is not broken or missing.  Ensure that discharge plug and chain are attached to tank cover assembly.  Visually inspect for correct alignment of igniter, fuel trap and fuel outlet.
2. Return to stock if item is clean, undamaged, and in unused condition.
3. Refurbish if economically feasible and parts are available
4. Dispose of item if it fails inspection and is damaged beyond repair.
5. Salvage usable components and parts for future repairs. 

Refurbishing Procedures

A. Cleaning

1. Remove and properly dispose of any residual fuel before any refurbishment.
2. Steam clean or wash with mild degreaser soap, rinse with water, inspect for and remove any scab deposits inside tank.
3. Carbon buildup on the igniter and screen can be cleaned with wire brush as necessary. If carbon buildup is excessive on wick, replace as needed.
4. Tighten screw that holds igniter and screen in place.
5. Thoroughly dry all components with clean rag and air hose. Use air hose to blow wick dry and blow air through stem to ensure no water is trapped.   

B. Repair

1. Replace igniter if screen is ruptured, crushed, or wick material is burned out.
2. Ensure that the alignment of; igniter, fuel trap, and fuel outlet is correct (see figure 4 below).  Tighten screw that holds igniter and screen in place.
3. Install discharge plug into the fuel outlet seat.
4. Insert spout into tank and tighten lock ring.
5. Replace worn flammable liquid labels if damaged.
6. There are several different manufacturers of drip torches. Do not mix the components as the drip torch will not function correctly or will leak.

C. Testing for Performance 

1. With torch in operational configuration, fill tank with water to check for leaks, turn drip torch with spout down, open vent, water should flow, close vent water should stop.
2.  Repair any deficiencies found.
3. Drain and let dry completely before repackaging. 
4. Remember that parts from differing manufacturers are not interchangeable. Keep components together throughout the process.

D. Repackaging

• 1 EA in NFES #008189 carton (16” x 8” x 8”)

Pictured (figures 1 & 2) are two D.O.T. approved shipping containers.

1. Note the UN Markings and Flammable Liquid Label.  Drip Torch cans without these Markings and Label may not be used to transport fuel.
2. The red can is the ‘NEW’ OSHA approved can for fuel dispensing.
3. Non-OSHA approved torches, including those not powder coated red, must be removed from service by June 2019.

 
Figure 1

 
Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4