OFTEC Commissioning and Servicing 5

Question 1

What PPE should an OFTEC technician wear when servicing an oil burner?

Accepted Answer

Safety glasses, protective gloves, and dust mask when cleaning soot — plus hearing protection if needed

Answer

When servicing oil burners: safety glasses protect eyes from soot and debris; nitrile or latex gloves protect hands from oil and soot; a dust mask (FFP2 minimum) protects against soot particles containing carcinogens; hearing protection may be needed near running burners.

Question 2

What should be done with the old oil filter element during a service?

Accepted Answer

Dispose of it as oil-contaminated hazardous waste through a licensed waste carrier

Answer

Used oil filter elements are oil-contaminated waste and must be disposed of through proper hazardous waste channels. They should be placed in a sealed container or bag and taken away by the technician for proper disposal.

Question 3

What is the significance of the boiler's data plate during servicing?

Accepted Answer

It provides essential information including model, serial number, input/output ratings, and correct nozzle size

Answer

The data plate contains critical servicing information: manufacturer, model number, serial number, year of manufacture, rated input and output (kW), maximum working pressure, correct nozzle specification, and pump pressure setting.

Question 4

When commissioning a new oil boiler, what water treatment consideration applies?

Accepted Answer

The system water should be treated with inhibitor to prevent corrosion and scale formation

Answer

System water should be treated with a suitable corrosion inhibitor (to BS 8552) after flushing. This protects the boiler, radiators, and pipework from internal corrosion and scale. A system filter is also recommended. This is a Building Regulations requirement.

Question 5

What is the OFTEC recommended procedure for testing the lockout function of the burner control box?

Accepted Answer

Close the oil supply valve and run the burner — it should lock out within the specified time period

Answer

The lockout function is tested by closing the oil supply valve and attempting to start the burner. The control box should lock out within its specified time (typically 15-45 seconds) when no flame is detected. This confirms the safety shutdown works.

OFTEC Practice Test

OFTEC Practice Test

OFTEC Commissioning and Servicing 5