<< Back to OSHA Safety and Health Information Bulletins - Table of Contents

OSHA Safety Hazard Information Bulletin
on Barnstead/Thermolyne Equipment


March 24, 1989
 
MEMORANDUM FOR: REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS
THRU: LEO CAREY
Office of Field Programs
FROM: EDWARD J. BAIER Director Directorate of Technical Support
SUBJECT: Hazard Information Bulletin: Barnstead/Thermolyne Equipment


The Dallas Regional Office (Region VI) has brought to our attention a potential hazard associated with the use of pre-1984 Barnstead/Thermolyne Laboratory precision heating and stirring apparatus (bench type ovens, furnaces, hot plates, dri-bathes, incubators, and heat tapes). These units are equipped with exposed heating coils, and are not intended for use in or around flammable or combustible materials. The hazard was brought to the Dallas Regional Office's attention by Barnstead/Thermolyne Corp.

In 1984, the Barnstead/Thermolyne Company offered to affix warning labels on electrical laboratory equipment sold in the United States and Canada prior to that date. This warning label was affixed to notify users whether this equipment could be used in or around flammable or combustible laboratory operations. Because some pre-1984 equipment may still be in service, Barnstead/Thermolyne sent us the attached self-explanatory letter for information and use.

According to Barnstead/Thermolyne, all non-explosion proof units manufactured after 1984 have carried warning labels against the presence of flammable materials. As you know no electrical laboratory apparatus, regardless of brand, shall be used in the presence of flammable or combustible materials unless the apparatus has the appropriate approval from a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Please distribute this bulletin to Area Offices, State Plan States, and Consultation Project Officers.