Don't use my fluids!

Tim_41

The job I am at now; the tile guys have used one of the drains at the boiler twice now. I have really let them know of my displeasure in many ways. I ended up posting signs (big ones) as if I was talking to very "slow" people. They finally got the message and now use the proper water source.

MechTech_2

Not again!

Does anyone have any good ideas on stopping the other trades from opening the drain valves on our systems for mixing mud, etc...?

Al Crawford
Canadian Infloor

MechTech_2

Signs

We use signs for nails and screws in the floor, and your right, we have to start posting signs in our mechanical rooms. Does any manufacturer have drain cap that can't be removed? These guys are killing me!

Al crawford

Brad White

True Story

I can relate to your situation. Maybe put a neutral coloring in the water?

Here is my related story:


A client building of ours, Boston's Prudential Tower, had the dickens of a time maintaining chemistry balance in their chilled, hot and condenser water systems. Diluted chemicals, excessive make-up, inhibitors taxed to the max.

Turns out that the local underground garage parking valets had a lucrative side-business washing and detailing cars.

They hooked hoses up to drain valves (Hey, a pipe is a pipe, right?) Hot, cold or tepid wash and rinse depending on the season. Given the tower's 750 foot height, the 325 PSI pressure really got the rims their brightest.

MechTech_2

True Story

I thinking about starting a detailing business!LOL. Are there any code issues with removing the handles on the drain valves?

Al Crawford

Brad White

Good question

I cannot see a reason why you cannot remove the handles of a service drain valve (as opposed to a gas shut-off or main isolation valve). I would say "go for it". The other thing you could try is a lock-shield valve. But then you would need a padlock, key and a lot of money because you will be paying for it. With your newly high-priced $CDN no less!

When removing handles, it is an invitation for the miscreants to use pliers. Then you can use pliers on their fingernails, I suppose.

[Deleted User]

Disguise them....

I've asked my guys to pull the handles off the drain cocks and put the handles under the boiler control vesibule. No one ever looks there. Then, cover the remaining drain cock male hose end with donkey **** insulation so they can't see the hose threads.

We also post signs (english and spanish) in the boiler room warning people that there are toxic chemicals (there realy aren't) in the water. Only problem is, some people can't read...

Good Luck in your venture. There is a google web site for converting from one language to another FWIW.

ME

MechTech_2

Sign

You just gave me a great idea for the wording of our new mechanical room warning sign!

scrook_2

LOTO covers?

OSHA valve lockout/tagout boxes and padlocks (LOTO or regular type) since talking to the sheetrockers is like talking to a boiler section ;-)

They (LOTO covers, not 'rockers) clamshell around the valve handle/wheel/lever, etc., also versions are made for cord plugs, circuit breaker handles, wall switches, air lines, gas cylinders, you name it they have it -- whatever energy source you might need to lockout so you don't get burned, zapped, fryed, sprayed, whacked, bent, folded, spindled or mutilated.

Check at your favorite safety supply house or at Grainger's; and "lets be REAL careful out there..." (for you Hill Street Blues fans, -- even when they aren't stealing the freaking boiler water to mix mud).

MechTech_2

Diguise

Disguise them, great idea! You guys are Great!