A day in the life of a Boiler Operator:

Recording and Analysis of Data

• Record all running conditions of Boilers on log sheet. 
• Ensure all running conditions on Electrostatic Precipitator are monitored & recorded regularly.
• Perform Emissions tests once per shift and action out of norm conditions.
• Check boiler flame & grate condition. Analyse situation and readings and act on out of norm conditions.       
• Take water samples and analyse to specification once per shift. Act on out of norm conditions immediately.            
• Interpret logged data and constantly optimise running of equipment.       
• Make use of trends to analyse and improve running conditions.
• Take full responsibility for the accuracy of the data.
•  Record running conditions of the softener and condensate systems., interpret and act on deviations.
• Check quality of the effluent output to the municipality three times per shift and record.
•  Record water, electricity readings for departments

Operational Responsibility

• Operate plant as per production operating parameters. (POP’s) including wood/coal/ HFO equipment and emissions control equipment. Operation of services equipment as per plant requirements.
• Ensure that equipment is always operated safely and efficiently.         
• Read and understand operating manuals and ensure operation as per safe operating procedures.
• Out of norm equipment and operation to be rectified immediately. Report these to superior and enter in logbook. For all equipment scoped in steam production, includes compressed air, ash handling and, boiler house equipment including boilers, sump and effluent pumps.
• Make sure standby equipment is rotated weekly, correctly banked in case of boilers and always fully functional.     
• Maintain high quality steam to the production departments according to requirements and minimize water consumption in process management.
• Manage ash handling & Sootblow as recommended and maintain emissions as per Nestle standard of 150mg/m3.
• Make sure safety checks are done once per shift e.g., Mobrey checks, safety valve checks etc.
• Co-ordinate initiation based on levels of escalation, procedure for arranging delivery, offloading logistics for fuel & chemical deliveries, and for ash removals.
• Ensure the boiler house and equipment is kept clean.
•  Condition monitoring of the Effluent for proper operation, sump levels for safety (in case of leaks) & draining.

Safety, Hygiene and Environment

• Demonstrate & practice use of knowledge of all safety rules and regulations.   
• Equipment to be operated safely. Ensure that equipment is safe to work on during breakdowns observing the required lockout procedure.        
• Ensure that plant is compliant with ISO standards. Inspect and report defective safety equipment immediately.      
• Mandatory use of PPE as required.         
• Full participation in the 5S programme.
• Your work area and equipment are always kept clean and tidy.     
• Ensure that walkways are demarcated and kept free of hazards.            
• Understanding and implementation of NEMS is essential as area impacts.
• Control emissions from boilers and air heaters. Ensure that stacks are always clear.
• Operate boilers such that safety valves do not blow unnecessarily.  
• Report out of norm conditions immediately.
• Ensure that the SHE performance plan elements are updated on a regular basis.

What will make you successful

• Matric preference Mechanical N3+ must be willing to develop technical skills in area of maintenance of boilers or have already had experience preferably.
• Boiler operator training by certified body
• Minimum of one year experience as a responsible boiler operor for a shift.