Safe Repair of Leaking Pipes

• Stored pressure in leaking pipes
• Hot water, steam, chemical, or wastewater exposure
• Slips and falls from water on floors or ground
• Electrical hazards near leaking water
• Pinch points during clamp, coupling, or fitting installation
• Unstable soil or excavation hazards during buried pipe repairs

Leaking pipe repairs can look simple, but the hazard depends on what is inside the pipe, how much pressure is present, where the leak is located, and what conditions the leak has created around the work area.

The first step is to identify the pipe contents and pressure. Water, wastewater, chemicals, steam, compressed air, gas, and process liquids all require different controls and PPE.

Pressure should be isolated and relieved before repair work whenever possible. A small leak can become a sudden release if a pipe, fitting, valve, clamp, or coupling fails during the repair.

Workers should watch for hot water, steam, chemical exposure, sewage, or contaminated water. Skin, eye, respiratory, and hygiene protection may be needed depending on the material.

Water from leaks can create slip hazards and electrical hazards. Wet floors, mud, ladders, cords, outlets, pumps, panels, and tools should be evaluated before workers move into the area.

Pinch points are common when installing clamps, couplings, fittings, or pipe supports. Hands and fingers should be kept clear as parts are tightened, aligned, or repositioned.

Buried pipe repairs may involve excavation hazards. Soil stability, utility locating, water accumulation, spoil placement, access, and protective systems should be addressed before anyone enters the excavation.

Safe leaking pipe repair depends on slowing down before touching the pipe. Identify the contents, control pressure, manage water and electrical hazards, use the correct PPE, and stop if the leak worsens or conditions change.

• Identify the pipe contents before repair.
• Isolate and relieve pressure when possible.
• Use PPE for hot, chemical, wastewater, or splash exposure.
• Control slip hazards from leaking water.
• Watch for electrical hazards near wet areas.
• Keep hands clear of clamps, couplings, and pinch points.
• Use excavation safety controls for buried pipe repairs.

• What is inside the leaking pipe?
• Has pressure been isolated or relieved before repair?
• Could the leak involve heat, chemicals, sewage, or contamination?
• Are wet surfaces or electrical hazards present?
• Does the repair require excavation or work in a confined area?