Pipeline welding shelter and method of use of the same

A pipeline welding shelter, comprising:

• an umbrella-like framework;
• a support post having a first end and a second end, the first end engaging the umbrella-like framework;
• an elongated saddle for maintaining the support post in a substantially vertical orientation when positioned on a pipeline, the saddle being adapted to rest lengthwise upon a horizontal section of the pipeline, the saddle having a concave underlying engagement surface that fits a curvature of the pipeline and a receiver that receives the second end of the support post, the receiver being pivotally mounted to the saddle for pivotal movement about a substantially horizontal pivot axis, means being provided to lock the receiver in a substantially vertical orientation, thereby maintaining the support post in a substantially vertical orientation when the saddle is positioned on the pipeline;
• chains wrapped around the saddle and boomers for placing the chains in tension to secure the saddle to the pipeline;
• a flexible heat resistant covering enclosing the umbrella-like framework, the covering being capable of withstanding limited exposure to heat from a welding torch without melting or igniting;
• and
• a plurality of rigid vertical supports positioned at intervals around a perimeter of and depending from the umbrella-like framework, the vertical supports limiting inward movement of the covering in response to pressure exerted by wind.