OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.
October 8, 1993
MEMORANDUM FOR: PATRICIA K. CLARK, DIRECTOR
DIRECTORATE OF COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS
FROM: ROGER A. CLARK, DIRECTOR
DIRECTORATE OF COMPLIANCE PROGRAMS
SUBJECT: Defective Stub Ends Which Have Been or May Be
Installed in Work Place Piping Systems
The following comments are provided on review of documentation provided concerning the evaluation and testing of stainless steel stub ends.
1. Several (named) foreign manufacturers produced defective piping stub ends ranging in size from 1/2 to 6 inches (1.27 - 15.24 cm) in diameter. These defective stub ends which were introduced into the U.S. marketplace were discovered by employers to be installed in piping systems in their work places.
2. The defective stub ends lacked full penetration welds due to poor fit-up, that is, excessive space between the stub neck and flange. The cause of the poor fit-up could be caused by deficient welding procedures, lack of supervision to ensure that acceptable welding procedures are followed or use of unqualified welders. Shipping defective stub ends could be the end result of deficient quality control (inspections and testing) or other reasons.
3. Since certification (stub ends stamped with ASTM A403) by manufacturers supplying the defective stub ends is not reliable, follow-up quality control must be provided by intermediate suppliers or end users (employers).
4. Fatigue testing results indicate that stub ends without full penetration welds will fail much earlier than those with full penetration welds (required by ASTM A403).
5. Normally, OSHA expects an employer to determine, through information provided by the manufacturer (supplier), machine or equipment quality to ensure safe work place use in compliance with OSHA safety and health requirements. This determination includes information provided by foreign manufacturers. Therefore, a safety alert on these defective stub ends is deemed appropriate.