Not-so Structural

Strangely, at several plants we have reviewed there seems to be at least a few occurrences of structural steel near steam turbines being gouged out by flame-cutting to fit piping or other equipment.

The reason is obvious.  It takes no effort to cut a beam compared with the proper approach to ask engineering for a modification.

However, people walk and work on those platforms including often disassembling valves or other items that weigh a bit.  Some of the photos show a platform that is failing (sagging) under its own weight.

Overall, not a great present for a contractor to leave an O&M team.

One high-level observation…  On projects with an involved and demanding owner, the type of behavior it takes to affect these types of actions is usually not found.  Why?  Because it is implicitly understood there is personal risk (being fired) for an individual involved in this type of careless activity.