2010 SECTION VIII, DIVISION 2
4-454
ANNEX 4.B
GUIDE FOR THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF QUICK-
ACTUATING (QUICK-OPENING) CLOSURES
(INFORMATIVE)
4.B.1 Introduction
4.B.1.1 This Annex provides guidance in the form of recommendations for the installation, operation, and
maintenance of quick-actuating closures. This guidance is primarily for the use of the Owner and the user.
The safety of the quick-actuating closure is the responsibility of the user. This includes the requirement for
the user to provide training for all operating personnel, follow safety procedures, periodically inspect the
closure, provide scheduled maintenance, and have all necessary repairs made in a timely fashion.
4.B.1.2 This Annex also contains guidance for use by the Designer. The rules specific to the design and
construction of quick-actuating closures are found in paragraph 4.8 of this division.
4.B.1.3 The Manufacturer should supply the Owner a copy(s) of the Installation, Operational, and
Maintenance Manual for the quick-actuating closure which should, as a minimum, address the requirements
described in this Annex. The Owner should supply a copy of the Installation, Operational, and Maintenance
Manual to the user.
4.B.2 Responsibilities
4.B.2.1 It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that the sensing and safety devices and the equipment
specified by the Manufacturer are properly installed before initial operation, and maintained during
subsequent operation. Provision of written operation and maintenance procedures and training of personnel
are also the responsibility of the Owner or user.
4.B.2.2 The user must not remove any devices furnished or specified by the Manufacturer of the vessel,
and any repairs or replacements must be the same as, or equal to, the original equipment furnished or
specified by the Manufacturer.
4.B.2.3 The rules of this Annex do not require these devices to be supplied by the Manufacturer of the
vessel or of the quick-actuating closure.
4.B.3 Design
4.B.3.1 Code rules cannot be written to address each specific design; therefore, engineering judgment
exercised by a qualified designer with the necessary experience is required to achieve a safe design.
Because of the multiple requirements imposed on the design, it should be prepared by a designer with
suitable experience and training in the design of quick-actuating closures.
4.B.3.2 The design must be safe, reliable, and allow for quick and safe opening and closing. Therefore,
sensing and safety devices and equipment are integral and vitally important parts of the closure, and are to
be furnished or specified by the Manufacturer of the vessel or quick-actuating closure. These devices must
never be removed by the user.