When taking a boiler offline, what is the first step?

When taking a boiler offline, securing the fire is the first step because it involves ensuring that the combustion process is safely stopped before any further actions are taken. This is crucial for preventing the possibility of combustion-related hazards, such as backflow of flue gases or other dangerous conditions that can arise if the boiler is still active while other safety precautions are implemented.

Securing the fire typically involves shutting down the fuel supply, completing combustion processes, and allowing the flames to go out, thereby minimizing risks associated with residual heat and pressure. Once the fire is secured, it is safe to proceed with additional steps such as cooling down the boiler, draining the water, and ensuring proper ventilation for maintenance or inspection.

In this procedure, the safety of personnel and the integrity of the boiler system is paramount, making the initial step of securing the fire foundational to any further actions.