What should not be used if hoses show evidence of severe wear or damage?

In the context of safety practices related to soldering and brazing, using flashback-hazardous hoses is critical to preventing accidents. Flashback-hazardous hoses are specifically designed to minimize the risk of a flashback occurring, which is when a flame travels back into the hose, potentially causing an explosion or fire. If hoses are showing severe wear or damage, it is vital to ensure that all safety measures are in place, including using hoses that are free of hazards.

Choosing not to use flashback-hazardous hoses when existing hoses are damaged or severely worn is correct because these compromised hoses may not effectively prevent flashback incidents. Their failure can compromise the overall safety system in place, leading to dangerous situations during soldering or brazing operations.

On the other hand, new hoses would be a suitable alternative to use, as they would not have the issues associated with wear and damage. Damaged hoses obviously should not be used, and old hoses, similar to damaged ones, may also contain weak spots that could lead to failure during operation. Opting for hoses that might not have protective features against flashbacks in this scenario could create a significant safety risk.