7
Safety information
Hot surfaces and fluids
A hot engine always offers the risk of burns. Be on
your guard against hot surfaces, such as the ex-
haust manifold, turbocharger, sump, charge air pipe,
starting heater, hot coolant and hot lubricating oil in
pipes and hoses.
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Only start the engine in a well-ventilated area. When
operated in a confined space, exhaust fumes and
crankcase gases must be ventilated.
Chemicals
Most chemicals, such as glycol, rust preventer, con-
servation oils, degreasers etc. are hazardous. Always
read and observe the advice on the packages.
Some chemicals, such as conservation oils, are flam-
mable and also hazardous to breathe. Ensure good
ventilation and use a protective mask for spraying. Al-
ways read and observe the advice on the packages.
Store chemicals and other hazardous material out of
the reach of children. Hand in surplus or used chemi-
cals to a recycling station for destruction.
Cooling system
There is always a risk of water entry when any work
is done on the seawater system. For this reason,
stop the engine and close the sea cocks before you start
work.
Avoid opening the coolant filling cap when the engine
is hot. Steam or hot coolant can spray out and cause
scalding.
If the filler cap, coolant hose etc., still has to be ope-
ned or removed when the engine is hot, undo the
filler cap slowly and carefully, to let the pressure out
before removing the filler cap completely and starting
work. Note that the coolant can still be hot and cause
scalding.
Lubrication system
Hot oil can cause burns. Avoid skin contact with hot
oil. Make sure that the oil system is de-pressurised
before starting work. Never start or run the engine with
the oil filler cap removed, because of the risk of oil spil-
lage.
Fuel system
Always protect your hands when searching for leaks.
Fluids which leak under pressure can force their way
into body tissue and cause severe injury. Risk of
blood poisoning (septicaemia).
Always cover the alternator if it is located beneath the
fuel filters. Fuel spillage can damage the alternator.
Electrical system
Cut the current
Before any work is done on the electrical system,
the engine must be stopped and the current cut by
switching off the battery isolator. Shore current for
engine heaters, battery chargers or other auxiliary
equipment connected to the engine must be discon-
nected.
Batteries
Batteries contain a highly corrosive electrolyte. Pro-
tect your eyes, skin and clothes during charging and
other handling of batteries. Always use protective
goggles and gloves. If this comes into contact with
your skin, wash at once with soap and a lot of water.
If you get battery acid in your eyes, flush at once with
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