CHAPTER 19

SAFETY AND HAZARDOUS M ATERIALS

Naval warshipsareinherently dangerous. Crowdedliving conditions, confined working spaces, and longhours, often at night, are just a few reasons why youmust usecaution at all times. Some evolutions, such asunderway replenishment, conducting flight operations,testing weapons systems, or just a change in weatherconditions, greatly increasethedangersof being at sea.Al l Navy shipshave acomprehensive shipboard safetyprogram. Thisprogram wasdeveloped over manyyearsto make lif e at sea safe. This program is designed tofollow established procedures in conducting theday-to-day business aboard ship, and it places specialemphasis on observing certain precautions.

The safety program stresses constant awareness ofthe hazards of being at sea. The word mishapis oftenused in referring to an incident that just happened.Mishaps don’t just happen; they are caused. Mostmishaps could havebeen prevented if the individualsinvolved had followed established procedures andsafety precautions.

Most of theprecautionsdiscussedinthischapter arefrom a shipboard viewpoint, but many of them alsoapply ashore. Don’t depend on memory to remembersafety precautions. Almost every task you perform hassafety precautions that must be followed.Get theoperator’s manual, planned maintenance system(PMS) card, or technical manual and read theseprecautions. If youdon’t understand themor can’t f indthem,ask your supervisor for help.Thefewminutesyoutaketoreadandunderstandthesesafety precautionswillmake your job safer. Don’t be one of the casualtiesreported during amishap. It’s better to besafethan hurtor possibly worse—dead!

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

LearningObjective: Whenyou finish thischapter, youwill be able to—

• Recognize that safety is a personalresponsibility.

Your personal responsibilities for safety are asfollows:

• Observe all safety precautions related to yourwork or duties.

• Report unsafeconditions. Do not walk around aladder well with missing safety chains and forget it.Report it! If you use a piece of equipment that isdamaged, report it!

• Warn others of hazards. If you see someoneknowingly, or unknowingly, placing themselves orothersindanger,say something. If that particular personwill not listen, tell your supervisor.

• Protective equipment and clothing is issued toyou for a purpose—use them.

• Wear eyeand/or full- faceprotection. It’s hard toexplain to thechief that you had to go to sick bay to getsomethingremovedfromyour eyewhenyouweregivena full-face shield before you started working.

• Report all injuries or illnesses. If you shouldbecomeinjuredor feel sick, tell your supervisor. A littlescratchcouldbecomeinfectedor your illnesscouldbeasignof somethingmoreserious. A littl etimehaving thecorpsman check you now is better than being in thehospital later.

• Remain alert. Look for any possibilities ofdanger. Be safety conscious.

• Don’t rush into a job. Look at what you aresupposed to do. Istheequipment you havesuited to thejob? Check the safety precautions for the equipmentyou were issued. Is the equipment in good condition?

A shipboard environment introduces factorsaffectingsafety that arenot foundashore. Danger existsin every naval operation and aboard every naval vessel.Going to sea involves working with powerfulmachinery; high-speed equipment; high-temperature,high-pressure steam; volatile fuels and propellants;

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I wishtohavenoconnectionwithanyshipthat doesnot sail fast for I intendto go in harms way.

—John Paul Jones

heavy lifts; high explosives; stepped-up electricalvoltages; and the unpredictable forces of wind andwaves.

Underway refueling, multiship exercises, storms,and other situations require personnel at sea to beconstantly alert. A mishap (there’s that word again) atsea can involve all hands in a matter of seconds.Therefore, you must be continually alert to hazardousconditions. If you observe unsafe practices orconditions, report them to your supervisors.

REVIEW 1 QUESTIONS

Q1. List some of the safety precautions that couldsave you and your shipmate’s life.

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

Q2. What aresomeshipboard environments that aredangerous?

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f.

g.

h.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ANDHAZARDS TO SAFETY

Learning Objectives: When you finish this chapter,you will be able to—

• Recall the purpose and use of Material SafetyData Sheets (MSDS).

• Recognize safety precautions when you areembarked in a small boat.

• Recognize the purpose of safety precautionswhen working around various equipment andworking in spaces to include the following:steam; lifelines, ladders, and scaffolding; heavyweight and moving equipment; personnel aloftor over the side; antennas; flammable liquids,paints, and solvents; weapons, ammunition, andexplosives; electrical and electronic equipment;compressed gases; fiber glass and asbestos;power tools; cutting and welding operations;liquids under pressure; rotating machinery;marine sanitation systems; high noise levels;liftin g objects; shipyardsand docks; aircraft andflight deck operations; wheninvolvedinsportingand recreational events; and operating motorvehicles.

Thesafety precautionsandhazardsdiscussedareofa general nature only. Following them wil l help you toavoid injury toyourself andothersandtoprevent lossofor damage to equipment.

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET (MSDS)

Material Safety DataSheets (MSDS) are technicalbulletins that contain information about hazardousmaterial (figs. 19-1 and 19-2). Manufacturers createMSDSs based on their testing and research of theirproducts.By law, manufacturers must provide thedata tohazardousmaterial users. Theytell usershowto use, store, and dispose of hazardous material.According to OPNAVINST 5100.19, all hands arerequired to follow theseguidelines. MSDSsmust be inEnglish and contain at least the following informationabout the material:

• Identity

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Student Notes:

19-3

Figure 19-1.—Material Safety Data Sheet (front).

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Figure 19-2.—Material Safety Data Sheet (back).

• Hazardous ingredients

• Physical and chemical characteristics

• Physical hazards

• Reactivity

• Health hazards

• Precautions for safe handling and use

• Control measures

• Routes of entry into the body

• Emergencyand first-aidproceduresfor exposure

• Dateof preparationof theMSDSor last change

• Name, address, and phone number of aresponsible party who can provide additionalinformation on the hazardous material andappropriate emergency procedure

Manufacturersmay useanyformat or arrangementsof this information, but every MSDS must include allthe items. Every hazardous material user must betrainedon theprecautionsassociatedwith that material.MSDSs must be available upon request to any user. Ifyou have a question, check with your command’shazardous material/hazardous waste coordinator.

REVIEW 2 QUESTIONS

Q1. Manufacturers provide data to people who usehazardous materials. What publication containsinformation on using, storing, and disposing ofhazardous materials?

Q2. What instruction dictates that all hands are tofollow Material Safety Data Sheets guidelines?

BOAT SAFETY

Themajor concernof Navy personnel aboardsmallboatsissafety—for passengersandcrewmembers.Thissectioncoverssafety precautionstofollowaboardsmall

boats. Every Sailor should be thoroughly familiar withboat safety precautions. When you areon or boarding aboat, observe the following precautions:

• Obey all orders from the coxswain.

• Embark in aquiet, orderly manner and moveasfar forward as possible. Once embarked, stay inplace.

• Keep all partsof your body in theboat; do not siton gunwales.

• Don’t engage in horseplay.

• Never distract the attention of crew membersfrom their duties.

• Don’t sit on lif e jackets; this wil l compress thefiller and reduce buoyancy.

• When told to do so, don your life jacketimmediately.

• Don’t smoke in a boat.

• If told to embark or disembark, do so withoutargument. Duringheavy weather, boat loadswillbe reduced.

• If a boat swampsor capsizes, do not panic. Fearcan spread quickly from person to person. Aterrifiedpersondrownseasily. Stay with theboator huddle with other passengers. A large groupcan be found much easier than individualswimmers.

DECK SAFETY

Weather decks of ships at sea are extremelyhazardous places, particularly aboard small ships. Theship may be level one minute and take asharp roll thenext. At any moment, alarge wavecould submergethemain deck to a depth of several feet, or a wavecouldcome unexpectedly over the fantail.

Vigilance (alertness) is always anecessity aboardship. In foul weather, you must be even more alert. Ifyour duties don’t require your presence on the maindeck, don’t go there. Use interior passageways orsuperstructure decks for moving about the ship. When

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Student Notes:

youmust beonthemaindeck infoul weather,wear yourlif ejacket. Youmust alwayswear an inherently buoyantlife jacket whenever you are handling lines or areotherwise involved in underway replenishment ortransfer operations.

A ship’s deck has many tripping hazards, such ascleats, bitts, and pad eyes, as well as larger obstacles,suchasboat davitsandwinches.Learntheir locationssothat if you must go on deck at night, you wil l haveabetter chance of avoiding these hazards.

Don’t sit or lean on lifelines. When the sea isunusually rough, asafety linemay beriggedonthemaindeck. When you aremoving along thedeck, you shouldstay inboard of, and hold on to, the safety line.

Theflight decksof aircraft carriersareparticularlyhazardous areas.Beware of propellers and jet blast!Often, propellers are invisible because of the speed atwhichtheyrotate. Theycanact just like ameat slicer; soyou need to use extremecarewhen walking or workingnear propeller-driven aircraft.

Jet planes present other hazards—a person can besucked into the jet’s intake, be burned, or be blownoverboard(or against anobject) by its exhaust. Keepoffthe flight deck if you don’t work there. Because ofminimumlightingrequirements,nighttimeisespeciallyhazardous on the flight deck. When working on theflight deck, always wear your ear protectors when jetengines are running. One other caution—Smoking isprohibited on theflight and hangar decksand in all fueland ammunition-handling spaces.

In general, the same rules apply to ships withoperating helicopters. Only authorized personnel arepermitted in the landing area during helicopteroperations. Those personnel must wear properprotective clothing and equipment. During verticalreplenishment operations, keep out from under loadsand stay clear of theunloading areauntil thehelicopterhas departed. Keep the landing area free from loosedebris or “foreign object damage” (FOD) that may beblown about by thedownwash from therotor bladesorsucked up by jet intakes.

During flight quarters, theflight deck of an aircraftcarrier is adangerousplace. Thisdeck, combined withthe hangar deck, magazines, and shops, provides theequivalent operating facilities of a large airfield.

However, the hazards associated with aircraftoperations are focused into a relatively small area.Therefore, personnel are exposed to agreater potentialof danger.

REVIEW 3 QUESTIONS

Q1. List four boat safety precautionsthat every Sailorshould know.

a.

b.

c.

d.

Q2. If a boat swamps, what usually causes aloss ofpersonnel?

Q3. Why should you learn the location of cleats,bitts, and pad eyes on a ship’s deck?

Q4. What are two hazards found on flight decks ofaircraft carriers?

a.

b.

LIFELINES, LADDERS, ANDSCAFFOLDING

Lifelines, asusedhere, refer to lineserectedaroundthe edges of weather decks. They are safety barriers toprevent personnel from fallingor being washed over theside. Never sit, lean, or standonany lifeline—if theshiptakes a sudden roll while you are leaning against alifeline, you could fall overboard.

Never removelifelineswithout permissionfromtheproper authority. When removing a lifel ine,

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Student Notes:

immediately rig atemporary line. Don’t hang or secureany weight on a lifeline.

When working near a ladder, Sailors havethe badhabit of placingpaint cans, buckets, or toolsonthestepsto minimize bending over. This practice could cause amishap. Because water wil l cause aladder to becomevery slippery, you should beespecially careful on rainydays. Paint drippings are equally dangerous for thesame reason.

Never unship (take down) a ladder withoutpermission. Rope off all open hatches and gangwaysleading to unshipped ladders.

Thesmooth deck of a ship doesnot provide agoodhold for scaffolding. The base of scaffolding must beproperly braced and lashed down to prevent it fromsliding. The use of makeshift scaffolds is prohibited.Scaffoldsmust beerected only when needed to do ajoband dismantled as soon as the job is completed.

You should not work on ascaffold in high windsorwhen the scaffold is covered with ice or snow. Neverthrow or drop objectsfrom ascaffold; usehandlinesforraising or lowering objects. Do not paint scaffolds,because the paint might conceal defects. Use lifelinesandsafety beltswhen workingon aboatswain’s chair oron unguarded scaffolds above a height of 10 feet.

HANDLING CARGO

Serious, sometimes long-lasting injuriescan resultfrom improperly handling heavy objects and from thefailure to observe basic safety precautions. Byobserving the following precautions, you can preventinjury to yourself or to others and prevent damage tocargo and equipment:

• When liftin g a heavy or bulky object, crouchclose to the load with feet solidly placed and slightlyspread. Get agood grip on theobject and lif t with yourarm and leg muscles, keeping your back as nearlyvertical aspossible. If the load is bulky or heavy, don’tfeel embarrassed to ask for help.

• Don’t throw articlesfrom elevated places; lowerthem by a line or carry them.

• Wear appropriatesafety clothingandequipment,such as safety shoes, a hard hat, gloves, and a lifepreserver, for the job at hand. Remove rings,wristwatches, and bracelets when handling cargo.

• Stow hatch covers and strongbacks in such amanner that they won’t interfere with traff ic or beknocked into the hatch or over the side.

• When steadying loads, don’t stand between theload and a fixed object. Don’t stand under asuspendedload. Never ride loads. Use the nonworking side of aship for fore-and-aft travel.

• Never stand in the bight of a line. Keep clear oflinesunder astrain. A line(particularly nylon) can partwith a whiplike snapback, which can cause severebruises, broken bones, amputations, or even death.

• Don’t engage in horseplay.

• When going up or down a ramp with a handtruck, keep the load below you. Thus you pull the loadup and push it down.

WORKING ALOFT OR OVER THE SIDE

Before any work may be done aloft, permissionmust be obtained from the OOD. Before grantingpermission, the OOD makes sure that all power onappropriateradioand radar antennasissecuredand thatcontrols associated with the antennas are tagged“SECURED. PERSONNEL ALOFT.” The OOD alsonotifiestheengineer off icer wherethepersonnel wil l beworking so that thenecessary precautionscan betakento prevent operationssuch asthe liftin g of boiler safetyvalvesor theblowing of tubes. After the work hasbeencompleted, a report is made to the OOD, who, in turn,will notify the appropriate off icers.

When you are working aloft, wear a standardNavy-approved safety harness with a safety lineattached. Radio and radar transmissions, even fromanother ship, can induce acharge in guy wires, stays,ladders, and other metal f ittings. If you touch one, youmay receive a shock. The shock itself may not bedangerous, but a natural reaction when shocked is tojerk away. Without a safety harness you could easilyfall.

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Student Notes:

Secure all tools and equipment with lanyards toprevent dropping them and injuring personnel below.Burning and welding or thepresenceof any open flameisn’t permittedon astageor boatswain’s chair unlessthesuspension ropes and bridle are made of steel. Alwayscheck equipment for weakenedor broken fittingsbeforegoing aloft.

When working over the side, you must wear astandardNavy safety harnesswith asafety lineattachedand tendedby someoneondeck. Youmust alsowear aninherently buoyant lif e jacket with ahole in the back.Theholein thelif ejacket wil l allowyoutowear asafetyharness. Thelineshould beonly long enough to permitfreedom of movement.

Wear a lif e jacket when you work at underwayreplenishment stations,whenyouarein alifeboat at sea,whenyou work onweather decksduringheavy weather,or whenever you aredirected to do so. Whiletheship isunder way, you must begiven permission by theCO towork over the side.

ANTENNAS

Personnel aren’t permitted togoaloft in thevicinityof energized antennas. The voltages set up in a ship’sstructure or section of rigging by electromagneticradiation (EMR) can shock or burn you. When deckforcepersonnel or others work on rigging, theymust befamiliar with the hazards that exist and know theprecautions to be observed. Safety harnesses are usedwhen working aloft to guard against falls.

The previously mentioned precautions should beobserved also when other antennas in the immediatevicinity areenergized by electronic transmitters, unlessit is definitely known that no danger exists. Otherantennas may be interpreted to mean any antennas onboard another ship moored alongsideor across apier orat a nearby shore station.

Personnel aloft are in danger from falls caused byradar or other antennas that rotate or swing throughhorizontal or vertical arcs. Motor switches controllingthemotionof radar antennasshouldbelockedopenandtaggedbeforeyougoaloft to work inthevicinity of suchantennas.

REVIEW 4 QUESTIONS

Q1. Handling cargo improperly can result in injuryand death. What precautions should you followin the following cases?

a. Working over the side

b. Lifting heavy objects

c. Steadying a load

Q2. What person grants permission for any workdone aloft?

Q3. What precautionsaretaken beforepermission isgiven for personnel to work aloft?

Q4. Describe the purpose of lifelines.

Q5. Describe the equipment you should wear whenworking over the side.

STEAM

Most accidents involving steam occur in enginerooms and firerooms. However, steam lines runthroughout a ship; therefore, observe properprecautionsat all times. Somepracticescan beappliedto almost any situation regardless of the type ofequipment, thesteam pressure, or any other job-relatedcondition.

Live steam is often invisible and it is alwaysdangerous. If youarenot familiar with asystem or havenot been trained for thetask at hand, do not attempt thejob.

Always drain lines before removing valves orotherwise opening the system. Close all associated

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Student Notes:

valves to isolate thesystem to beopened, and tag thesevalvestoensuretheyremainshut whileyouare workingon theequipment. Wear proper protective clothing. Donot try totakeshortcutsanddonot skylark.Carelessnesshas been a factor in nearly all reported mishapsinvolving steam. Observe all appropriate precautions.

CLOSED COMPARTMENTS ANDUNVENTED SPACES

Never enter a closed spaceunti l it iscertifiedsafe by a gas free engineer.

Closed compartments may contain hiddendangers,bothtoyourself andtotheshipas awhole.Onepossibility is toxic or explosive gases. After thesespaces are opened, your gas free engineer wil l makesure that it s safe for you to work there.

If the ship’s been damaged, other dangers mayexist. The manhole access cover to adamaged tank orcompartment might be all that’s preventing flooding.Additionally, water entering a closed compartmentpressurizes the air already there. Don’t try to open apressurized compartment or void without venting thepressure first. If you don’t vent the pressure first, thehatch cover/access wil l fly open violently, possiblyinjuring you or ashipmate. Check with your supervisorfor help in learning to recognize these and otherhazards.

Consider all compartments dangerous if they’vebeen closed for any length of time. If the bulkheads,deck, or overhead are rusted, they have absorbedoxygen from the air. This means there may not beenough oxygen left for you to breathe. If thecompartment was painted before it was closed, thehardening paint has absorbed oxygen and given offcarbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is particularlydangerous because it gives no warning. If you’reworking in acompartment that’s been closed and younotice asudden feeling of weakness, drowsiness, or aslight headache,call for help and get to fresh air.

In storage compartments, several toxic gases maybe generated by mildewing or rotting foodstuffs or bymaterials such as cloth, leather, and wood. Mildewingand rotting arespeeded up when thespaceis warm andhumid, such aswhen aship iscruising in the Tropicsor

when an areahasbeen flooded as aresult of damageoraccident.

Carbon dioxide is frequently found in refrigeratorspaces, even though thespacesareundamaged and thefoodstuffs are still good. This condition results fromlack of ventilation and the fact that foodsslowly absorboxygenandgiveoff carbondioxide. If personnel stay insuch spaces longer than a few minutes at a time, theymay be overcome and eventually suffocate.

Sulfur oxidesareacrid, corrosive, poisonous gasesproduced when fuels containing sulfur are burned. Forexample, aboard ship the primary producer of sulfuroxidesisfuel oil,whichcontainssulfur asanimpurity.

Government agenciesand industrieshavesought toreduce sulfur oxide emissions in three ways:

1. Switching to low-sulfur fuels (those with lessthan 1% sulfur).

2. Removing sulfur from fuels entirely.

3. Removing sulfur oxides from combustiongases.

To reduce the sulfur oxide problem on ships, the Navydeveloped a fuel oil calledNavy distillate fuel.

Sulfur oxides produce an offensive odor and cancause eye and lung irritation. Tanks that have heldpetroleum products and compartments in which oil,gasoline, solvents, and organic products that havebeenspilled will contain the vapors of these products.

Tanks that have held petroleum products, andcompartments in which oil, gasoline, solvents, andorganicproductshavebeenspilt,wil l containthe vaporsof these products.

You must assume that any closed space, doublebottom, tank, cofferdam, pontoon, or void containsgases that can poison or suffocate you or can explode.(NOTE: Never enter any such space until it has beenthoroughly ventilated and checked by a gas freeengineer to make sure there is no danger of poisoning,suffocating, or igniting flammable gases.) Beforeentering a closed space, make sure that it’s beenventilatedfor 24hours. Also, the gasfreeengineer mustcertify the safety of the space and recertify it every 8hourswhilepersonnel are working in thespace. Alwayshave aperson stationed at the entrance to maintain

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Student Notes:

communications and to watch to see that you are notovercome.

Symptoms of bad air include the following:

• Labored breathing

• Excessive fatigue from slight exertion

• Headaches

• Dizziness

If you feel any of thesesymptoms, warn othersandget to fresh air immediately.

A more dangerous situation occurs if there is verylittl e or no oxygen in a compartment. In this case, aperson can loseconsciousnessalmost immediately andwithout warning. If thishappensand you’retending theperson, don’t enter the space without wearing anoxygen breathing apparatus (OBA). If you do, you’ llbecome acasualty yourself. Alwayssummon (call for)help before making a rescue attempt.

Another hazardof working inclosedcompartmentsor connected spaces is the use of internal combustionengines in these spaces. For example, if a P-100 pumpfor fire fighting or dewatering is used in a closedcompartment, theengineusedtodrivethepumptakesinthe air through the carburetor and exhausts poisonouscarbon monoxide. If you need to use an internalcombustion engine in a closed space, make sure theexhaust is carried (vented) to the open atmosphere.

REVIEW 5 QUESTIONS

Q1. Wheredomost accidentsinvolvingsteamoccur?

Q2. Describe thereason why you should never entera closed space until its certified by the gas freeengineer.

Q3. List the symptoms caused by bad air.

a.

b.

c.

d.

FLAMMABLES

Rules for preventing fuel f ires were presented inchapter 13 of this manual. Our discussion here willinclude fire hazards and toxic hazards of flammablematerials and applicable safety precautions.

The vaporsof petroleum productscauseanestheticeffects when inhaled. Breathing air where petroleumvapors have aconcentration of only 0.1 percent byvolume can result in the inability to walk straight afteronly 4 minutes. Longer exposure or greaterconcentration may cause unconsciousness or death.Whenleadisaddedtothefuel, toxicity isincreased.Thelead may be inhaled or it may be absorbed through theskin. Proper ventilation, therefore, must beprovided atall timeswhen personnel are working in fuel tanks. Anair-line respirator is recommended when personnelenter such spaces.

Symptoms of exposure to toxic vapors areheadache, nausea, anddizziness. If youare working inaspacethat formerly heldoil, gasoline, or other fuelsandyou experiencethesesymptoms, get to freshair at once.Recovery is usually prompt in fresh air; but if you areovercome by the vapors, you may require immediatemedical attention. First-aid measuresare to prevent thevictim from becoming chilled and to administerartificial ventilation if breathing has stopped.

Al l fuel spills must be wiped up immediately toprevent the spread of vapors to a possible ignitionsource. Never use gasoline for cleaning purposes, andavoid getting gasoline on the skin. Repeated contactcauses drying, chapping, and cracking and may causeinfection.

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Student Notes:

OPEN FLAME AND NAKED LIGHTNEAR FUELS

The use of open flame, naked lights, or anyapparatusthat is likely to cause aspark isnot permittedin spaces or areas where fuel is exposed or duringfueling. Thetermopen flameincludesall formsof fuelor gas lanterns, lighted candles, matches, cigarettelighters, and so on. The termnaked lights includesanyunprotected electrical lighting device. Permanentlyinstalledelectrical apparatusnecessary for maintenanceof power or services in the ship could produce sparks.

PAINTS

Paints, varnishes, lacquers, cleaners, solvents, orother finishing materials contain flammable solventsthat can ignite at comparatively low temperatures and,therefore, present a firehazard. Theyalso give off toxicvapors that are harmful when inhaled. When usingpaints and finishing materials, you should observe thefollowing precautions:

• Do not smoke or use an open flame in areaswhere paint, varnishes, lacquers, and solventsare mixed or applied.

• Wipeup spilled paint or solventsimmediately toreduce fire and vapor hazards.

• Place rags or other items used for cleaning uppaint in a separate container with a closed top.

• Takecareto prevent paint productsfrom comingin contact with the eyes and skin.

• Wear goggles when chipping and cleaningsurfaces to be painted.

• Wear gloves and a filter respirator when mixingpaint and when painting.

SOLVENTS

Solvents used in paints, adhesives, rubber andplastic materials, and degreasing solutions arehazardous to your health. Most solvents are toxic and,with a few exceptions, are flammable. Appropriatemeasures must be taken to reduce their toxic andflammable effects. In addition, exposure of the skin to

solvents can cause serious skin problems. Therefore,you should observe the following precautions whenusing solvents:

• Use adequate ventilation.

• Wear protective clothing, goggles, gloves, andother appropriate safeguards.

• Havereadily accessible fire-fighting equipmentnearby.

• Take every precaution to prevent excessivevapors from contaminating the air.

• Check all liquidsbeforeusing. If in doubt of anycleaning fluids, consult the off icer in charge.

• Wipe up spilled solvents immediately.

• Avoid contact with your eyes, skin, or clothing.Do not take solvents internally, and avoidbreathing solvent vapors.

• Keep solvent containers tightly closed when notin use.

• Check containers for leakage; if a container isdefective, transfer thesolvent to anewcontainer.

• Be sure containers are empty before they arediscarded. Observe approved practices fordisposal of solvents and cleaners and theircontainers.

• Label all containers in which solvents are to bestored.

• Store solvents in an appropriate solvent storagelocker.

REVIEW 6 QUESTIONS

Q1. Define the following terms.

a. Open flame—

b. Naked lights—

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Student Notes:

Q2. When storing solvents, what actionsshould youtake?

a.

b.

WEAPONS AND EXPLOSIVES

You should observe the following generalprecautions when handling any type of weapon:

• Consider every weapon loaded until youexamine it and find it otherwise.

• Never point a weapon at anyone you do notintend to shoot or in a direction where anaccidental discharge may do harm.

• Place acartridge in the chamber only when youintend to fire the weapon.

• Whenever you handle a weapon, think aboutwhat you are doing. Accidents seldom “justhappen.” They frequently arecaused by personsignorant of safety precautions. Al l toooften theyare caused by carelessness.

• Makesuretheammunitionissuitedtothetypeofweapon you intend to fire.

Ammunition is stowed aboard ship in speciallyconstructed compartmentscalled magazines, which arelocated as far as possible from firerooms and enginerooms. Each magazine is equipped with a sprinklersystem, and many are equipped with aquick-floodingsystem for usein an emergency to prevent explosion ofthemagazine. Lighting isaccomplishedwith vaportightfix tures. Naked l ights, matches, or otherflame-producing apparatus must never be taken into amagazine. Heel plates or other spark-producingmaterials are also forbidden. Magazines must be keptscrupulously clean and dry at all times. Particularattentionmust bepaid toensurethat nooily rags, waste,or other materials that may cause spontaneouscombustion are stored in magazines.

Extreme care must be exercised when handlingammunition. Remember, thepurposeof ammunition isto cause destruction. Be sure the destruction is to theenemy and not to your own ship. Figure19-3 showsthe

tragic results of careless handling of ammunition. Aship was lost and over 150 persons were killed orinjured.

An important part of ammunition handling isidentifying the type of ammunition. Projectiles of3-inch and greater diameter arecolor-coded to indicatetheprojectile typeand thekind of bursting charge theycontain. Armor-piercing, antiaircraft, illuminating, andchemical projectiles are identified by their owndistinctive color markings. Whenever you arehandlingammunition, keep projectiles of the same type (samecolor) together.

A few additional rules are given here for handlingammunition. These rules are general in nature and arenot all-encompassing, but they apply to all types ofammunitions.

• Loading or unloading ammunition is not acontest. Racing against other handling partiesonly increases the possibility of a mishap.

• Be careful not to dent cartridge cases. Dentedcasings may jam in the bore. Some thin-casedexplosives are known to have detonated whentheir casings were dented.

• Avoid obliterating (blotting out, blurring, etc.)identification marks.

• Grommetsareused to protect therotating bandsof projectiles; don’t lose the grommets.

• Don’t smoke in magazines or in the vicinity ofexplosives-handling and explosives-loadingoperations.

• Unless you are involved, keep clear ofammunition-handling operations.

• Never tamper with explosive devices.

• Don’t store drill charges in magazines with liveammunition.

All pyrotechnic materials are kept in specialstowage spaces, usually located on topside decks. Anypyrotechnic material that shows signs of damage to itssafety device is considered unserviceable and must besegregated for prompt disposal. Extreme caution must

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Student Notes:

be taken to prevent accidental ignition of loosepyrotechnics made ready for disposal, becausedamaged material can be ignited by rough handling.

REVIEW 7 QUESTIONS

Q1. When handling a weapon, you need to thinkabout what you’re doing for what reason?

Q2. Projectilesthat have a3-inch or greater diameterare color-coded. What information is shown bythe color code?

ELECTRICAL AND ELECT RONICEQUIPMENT

All electrical and electronic equipment ishazardous; therefore, strictly observe all safetyprecautions. Most people treat high-voltageequipmentcarefully, but they tend to treat the common 115-voltequipment lightly. Yet, 115-volt equipment isthecauseof more deaths than any other voltage. Cases of fatalshock havebeen recorded from the use of equipmentsuch as portable grinders and drills, fans, movieprojectors, and coffee makers. In most cases, deathwould have been avoided if proper groundinginstructions had been observed. The precautions thatfollow must be observed by personnel working on ornear other types of equipment:

• Most electronic equipment has a metalgrounding strap connecting theequipment to theship’s hull. The straps keep the equipment’sframe and the ship’s hull at the same electricalpotential. Never paint, loosen, disconnect, or

19-13

Student Notes:

Figure 19-3.—A result of carelessness.

otherwise tamper with thestrapswithout properauthority.

• Never replace or pull a fuse. Only authorizedpersonnel are allowed to do such work.

• Motors and generators often have openings intheir casings. Avoid dropping tools or otherobjects into the openings. Some machinery andelectrical circuitsgeneratemagnetic fields, sobealert; don’t let magnetic toolsyou areholding bedrawn to such equipment.

• Electrical and electronic equipment and powercables are identified by nameplates, tags, orother markings. Never paint over suchidentification markings.

• Don’t hang items on, or secure lines to, anypower cable, antennas, wave guide, or otherelectrical or electronic equipment.

• Don’t use personal electrical equipment aboardshipwithout theapproval of theengineer off icer.

COMPRESSED GASES

Compressed gases includesair, oxygen, acetylene,carbon dioxide, and other gaseous or gas-formingcompounds held under pressure in steel bottles,cylinders,or tanks. Ingeneral, threetypesof hazardsareconnected with compressed gases as follows:

1. Cylinders containing compressed gas areusually round and long. They are made of heavy steel.Unlesssecured to astructure, theycan roll, tip over, orbang around. If not secured properly, they can rollaround and causedamageby bumping into aperson oran object.

2. The cyl inders contain gas underpressure—often under very high pressure. A crackedcylinder can fly apart. Ai r or gas from a valve or hoseconnected to a cylinder can blow dirt into your eyes; orthe hose can whip around and strike you, causing aninjury. If you drop or mishandlean oxygen cylinder sothat its valve breaks off, you may see the heavy steelbottle take off like a rocket—causing injury anddamage.

3. The cylinders may contain gases that arepoisonous, flammable, or explosive, andoftenall three.Acetylene cylinders are common aboard ship. If youignite acetylene, it wil l blaze with intense heat; if it’smixed with air and aspark gets to it, it wil l explode. Infact,anacetylene cylinder can explodeif it is overheatedand then given a sudden blow. If oxygen comes intocontact withoil or grease, youcanbesureyouwil l havea fire. CO2 used in fire extinguishers is particularlydangerous; you wil l suffocate in a room filled with it.Also, CO2 is extremely cold when it is discharged. Itmay cause painful blisters if it comes in contact withyour skin.

You must handle, work with, and work aroundcompressed gas cylinders with care and caution. Thecylinders are heavy and can easily be tipped.

In general, weather-deck stowagewil l beprovidedfor flammableand explosive gases.However, inspecificcases, the approval of below-deck stowage depends onthe particular type, mission, and arrangement of theship. In such cases, theseapproved locationsareshownon the ship’s plans.

Compressed gases aboard all ships, except cargoships, should be stowed in compartments designed forstowage of gas cylinders. In such cases, the followingprecautions must be observed:

• Take the necessary steps to prevent themaximum temperature of the stowagecompartment from exceeding 130°F.

• When provisions are made for mechanicalventilation, operate this ventilation according tothe damage control classification assigned.

• The classification for closure of this system isZEBRA (Z), CIRCLE WILLIA M [(W)] , andWILLIAM (W).

• In compartments designated for stowingflammableor explosive gases, theinstallation ofportable electric wiring and equipment isn’tpermitted.

19-14

Student Notes:

• Flammable materials, especially grease and oil,must be kept out of the stowage space used foroxygen cylinders.

• Each cylinder must be securely fastened in thevertical position (valve end up) by using suchmeans as metal collars. On cargo ships fittedespecially for cylinder transport, otherarrangements are approved.

• Oxygen and chlorine must be stowed incompartments separate from flammable gases.Inert or nonflammable gases may be stowed incompartments designated for compressed gasstowage.

• Compartments containing compressed gasesmust be ventilated for 15 minutesbeforeentry ifthe ventilation has been secured; a suitable signto this effect should be posted on the outside ofthe access door.

When compressed gas is stowed on the weatherdeck, the following additional precautions must beobserved:

• Oxygen and chlorine cylinders must not be inclose proximity to fuel-gas cylinders.

• Cylinders containing compressed gases shouldbe stowed so that they wil l be protected. During thewinter, cylinder valves must be protected against theaccumulation of snow and ice. Warm water (not hot)should be used to thaw ice accumulations in cylindervalve caps and outlets. During the summer, cylindersmust bescreened from thedirect raysof thesun. Everyeffort should be taken to prevent corrosion of threadedconnections of cylinders in stowage for extendedperiods of time. The use of grease or flammablecorrosion inhibitors on oxygen cylinders is notpermitted.

• The stowage area should be as remote aspractical fromnavigating, firecontrol,andgunstations.

ASBESTOS

Asbestos is a fibrousmaterial that is incombustible(doesn’t burn),possesseshightensilestrength,hasgoodthermal and electrical insulating properties, and has

moderatetogoodchemical resistance. Becauseof thesecharacteristics, the Navy has had many uses forasbestos. Asbestos was used as the primary insulationand lagging material for high-temperature machinery,boilers, and piping on board ships. Other applicationsincluded floor tile, tileunderlayment (especially decksabove engineering spaces), rope and pressed gaskets,brake and clutch facings, and expansion joints.

When intact and not disturbed, asbestos doesn’tnormally present a hazard. Problems arise when repairwork causes the generation of asbestos dust. Inhalingasbestos fibers present in the dust may lead to variousforms of asbestos-related diseases. Most symptoms ofasbestos-related diseasesdo not show up until 10 to 45years after exposure. Since the total removal of allasbestos materials on board Navy ships is not feasible,theNavy hasinstituted aprogramtocontrol theuseandreplacement of asbestos with nonasbestos substitutes.

Only specially trained and medically qualifiedpersonnel are authorized to removeasbestos. Whenasbestos material is being handled, complex safetyrequirements and precautions are used.Never enter aspacethat hasbeen designated asan asbestoshazardarea unless specifically told to do so. For moredetailed instructions on the hazards and control ofasbestos, refer to Navy Safety Precautions for ForcesAfloat, OPNAV 5100.19.

FIBERGLASS

Reinforced plastic materials are currently beingused by the Navy in—

• Boat hulls,

• Submarines,

• Minesweeping equipment,

• Protective coverings for wood and steel, and

• Many other types of equipment and materials.

Reinforcedplastic ismadeof glass fibers, resin,andchemicals, whichgivesit thenamefiberglass. Theresinand activating chemicalsbond theglass fiberstogether,producing a very tough and rugged material. Polyesteror epoxy resins are used to make fiberglass.

19-15

Student Notes:

Fiberglass isn’t totally safe to work with. Certainsafety precautionsmust beobservedwhen workingwithor around fiberglass. If f iberglassiscut or ground, a finedust is produced. This dust is abrasive and can irritateyour skin and eyes. Use a filter mask respirator whenworking in this type of atmosphere.

The chemicals used in making fiberglass and fiberglass patches are very flammable and toxic. Provideadequate ventilation to remove the fumes and dustparticles. Most important, never smoke in areas wherefiberglass work is being carried out.

REVIEW 8 QUESTIONS

Q1. What is thecauseof many fatal shocks receivedfrom drills and fans?

Q2. List the three types of hazards associated withcompressed gases.

a.

b.

c.

Q3. Trueor false. Oxygen and chlorinearestowed incompartments separate from flammable gases.

Q4. Why should you use a filter mask respiratorwhen working with fiberglass?

POWER TOOLS

During your career in the Navy, you may berequired to use a variety of power tools. Whether thesetools are electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic, the samecommon sense safety precautions apply to all of them.

Before you use aportable electric tool for the firsttime, have it inspected and approved by the ship’selectrical department for safety. If it has acurrent ship’sinspection mark, visually examine the attached cable

for any cracks, breaks, exposed conductors, or adamaged plug. If any defectsarefound, turn thetool into theship’s electrical shop for repair. Beforepluggingan electric tool into areceptacle, make sure the tool isturned off. When using portable electrical tools, wearsafety glassesor gogglesif thejob involvesdanger fromflying objects, such aspaint or metal chips. You shouldalso wear ear protection devices if the tool has a“Produces Hazardous Noise” label on it.

Metal-cased portable electric tools must have athree-pronged plug on the power cord. If an extensioncord is used, it must be the three-pronged type with athree-pronged plug at one end and a three-prongedreceptacle at the other end. When using an extensioncord with an electric tool, you must first plug the toolinto the extension cord and then the extension cord intothe receptacle. When you are finished with the electrictool, switch it off, unplug the extension cord from thereceptacle, and then unplug the tool.

Portable tools should be kept clean and in goodrepair. Arcing portable toolsarenot to beused in areaswhere flammable vapors, gases, liquids, or exposedexplosives are kept.

CUTTING AND WELDING OPER ATIONS

Theconvenienceof arcand gasweldingandcuttingallows the performance of repair jobs in almost anylocation. Failuretouseproper safety precautionsduringwelding or cutting operations presents a serious firehazard.Only properly trained personnel shouldoperate gas welding or cutting equipment. Becausecutting and welding operations are continuously beingperformed throughout theship, youmay becalledupontostand a fire watchandmust be familiar with thesafetyprecautionsof suchoperations. Thefollowingaresomebasic precautionsto betaken during welding or cuttingoperations:

• The gases used in welding and cutting areexplosive. When one of these gases is mixed with air,themixturewil l burst into flames if a spark or flame isbrought near it.

19-16

Student Notes:

• Removeall combustiblematerials, flammableorexplosive, from theareawherewelding or cutting is tobe done.

• Whenweldingor cutting a bulkhead, deck, floor,or other structure, you should check both sides of thestructure to ensure that no materials near the structurewil l bedamagedor wil l become apossible firehazard.

• Post fire watches on both sides of a deck orbulkhead before welding or cutting operations can bestarted. Personnel assigned fire watches should bethoroughly familiar with fire watch responsibilitiesandoutfitted with the proper safety gear, such as gloves,proper eye protection (particularly when arc welding),and safety shoes. To make sure no fire hazards exist,personnel assigned to the duties of a fire watch mustremainat thelocationat least 30minutesafter thejob iscompleted.

• Keep approved fire-extinguishing equipmentnear welding and cutting operations. Usually, a CO2extinguisher is adequate. If the space is small or if theaccess is only a small opening, CO2 is not theextinguishing agent to use. CO2 could fil l the smallspace, and the small opening would not allow forbreathableair to enter. Thesmall entry or exit may alsohinder any rescueattemptsshould you be overcomebysuffocation. If CO2 is not recommended, the use ofwater spray from afog nozzle ispreferred. In the eventthe fire is caused by electricity, secure power beforeusing the water spray.

• Weldingor cuttingoperationsaren’t permitted inor on the outer surfaces of a compartment or tank thatcontains or has contained a flammable or explosivesubstance, unless applicable safety precautions areobserved.

ROTATING M ACHINE RY

Thesafeoperation of rotating machinery and toolsrequirestheoperator tobethoroughly knowledgeableinthe equipment operation. It also requires strictadherence to established operating procedures. Theoperatorsshouldbe familiar with thesafety precautionsfor their own particular machinery. However, when

operating rotating machinery, the following generalsafety precautions should be observed:

• Never place any part of your body into movingmachinery. Never attempt to ridemachinery that isnotdesigned for human conveyance.

• Never wear jewelry, neckties, or loose-fittingclothing.

• Wear proper protective clothing and equipmentsuited to the operation being performed (hearingprotection; eye, hand, and foot protection; dust andpaint respirators; and so on).

• Before attempting to perform repairs orpreventive maintenance on any equipment, ensure thatit is de-energized and/or depressurized and properlytagged out of service before beginning to work.

• When working in the vicinity of electricalequipment or electrical cables, be alert to the presenceof dangerous voltages and avoid striking suchequipment with toolsof any kind. Should such damageinadvertently occur, report it immediately to the ship’selectrical off icer.

• Don’t use compressed air to clean parts of yourbody or clothing or to perform general space cleanup.Compressed air may be used to clean machinery partsthat havebeen properly disassembled provided that thesupply air pressuredoesnot exceed 30 psi and asafetyshield tip is used.

• Reinstall shaft guards, coupling guards, deckplates, handrails, flange shields, and other protectivedevices removed as interference immediately afterremoval of machinery, piping, valves, or other systemcomponents during maintenance to prevent injury topersonnel.

• Inspect and/or test, according to scheduled PMSandother typecommander (TYCOM) requirements, allinstalled safety devices, alarms, and sensors. Assign ahigh priority to repair of defective safety devices.

• Cleanliness of machinery and its spacesprofoundly affects the safety of personnel andequipment. Correct oil leaks at their source. Wipe upspills of any kind immediately, and dispose of the

19-17

Student Notes:

wiping rags immediately or store them in firesafecontainers. Avoid trip hazards by maintaining properstowage. Do not allow fire hazards to accumulate.

REVIEW 9 QUESTIONS

Q1. Before beginning work to repair a piece ofequipment, you should take what action?

Q2. What personnel are authorized to operate gaswelding or cutting equipment?

Q3. When working around rotating machinery, whattypes of clothing/equipment should you wear?

LI QUIDS UNDER PRESSURE

Any liquid in asystem that hasbeen pressurized isto be considered dangerous until the pressure has beenremoved. For example, theship’s fire-mainsystemusessalt water that has been pressurized to make the wateravailable throughout theship. Thepressurized water inthe system is not dangerous, but the misuse of it is.Therefore, you should observe the following safetypracticeswhen using the fire-main system or any othersystem that may have pressurized liquid in it:

• Never connect or disconnect a hose from thesystemuntil thepressurehasbeenremoved. Thiscan be done by shutting off the valve on thefire-main system.

• Never use ruptured or worn hoses with anysystem that has pressure in it.

• Never point a charged (pressurized) fire hose atanyone.

• Spray paints, butane fluids, lacquers, and otheraerosol productscontain liquidsunder pressure.Be extremely careful with these containers.

Don’t use these containers near a flame, throwthem in a fire, or puncture the containers.

ACIDS, ALKALIES, AND OTHERCHEMICALS

Acidsand alkaliesareused in theNavy in theformof purecompoundsandmixtures.Acidsandalkaliesarehazardous because they’re corrosive (cause chemicalburns) when they come in direct contact with the skin,eyes, or other body tissues. They can cause breathingdiff iculties or injure respiratory organs if too much oftheacid mist is inhaled. Theacidsand alkaliescan alsocause dangerous chemical reactions if not handledproperly.

When handling acids, alkalies, or other chemicals,you should observe the following precautions:

• Wear chemically resistant rubber or plasticgloves.

• Wear chemically resistant rubber or plasticgoggles. You may need to wear a plastic faceshield in addition to the goggles.

• Wear chemically resistant rubber boots orovershoes with resistant soles. Wear trousersoutside of the boots.

• Wear a rubber or plastic apron.

• Wear a respirator when indicated for thechemical you are working with.

Personswho havebeen exposed to acidsor alkaliesshould seek medical attention immediately.

MARINE SANI TATION SYSTEMS

Sewage is amixture of all liquid domestic wastes,especially human body wastes(fecal matter and urine).Sewage contains large numbers of microorganisms,someof whicharediseasebearing. Bacteriaandvirusesenter the human body through the mouth, nose, opensores, and so on. Therefore, you must observe thefollowing basic precautions when working insewage-handling areas.

19-18

Student Notes:

• Never take food or drink of any nature intosewage-handling areas.

• Never work on sewage-handling equipment ifyou have open cuts or sores.

• Maintain cleanliness of equipment at all times.

• Wash down any spilled sewage immediately(before it dries) with water and a good qualitynonscented disinfectant. Don’t use liquid soapsor scented disinfectants because they maytemporarily disguise inadequate cleanupprocedures.

• Always follow personal hygiene routines afterworking in asewage-handlingareaor after beingin contact with sewage-handling equipment.

NOTE

Notify themedical department and thedamagecontrol assistant (DCA) on the status of anyholding or other marine sanitation device(MSD) whenever the ship is threatened byhostilities, fire, flooding, or conditions thatcould turn theMSD into abiological hazard tothe ship’s crew. Each ship should havedeveloped plans to eliminate or control thebiological hazards from these occurrences.

WARNING

Do not smoke in the vic in i ty of thesewage-handling equipment. Fuel leaks orspills can occur in the incinerator area wheretemperaturesmay exceed theflash point of thefuelsused. Methaneand hydrogen sulfidemaybe emitted by any tank or tank leaks. Thesegases are also flammable and under someconditions are explosive.

REVIEW 10 QUESTIONS

Q1. List the safety precautions to follow whenworking with systems having pressurizedliquids.

a.

b.

c.

d.

Q2. If you’ve been exposed to acids or alkalis, whataction should you take?

Q3. Why shouldn’t you smoke near sewage-handling equipment?

HIGH NOISE LEVELS

Continuous exposure to noise at a high level cancause temporary or permanent hearing loss.Electrical/electronic equipment, portable power tools,machinery, and weapons are a prime source of loudnoise.

TheNavy hasdifferent typesof hearing protectionfor usein subduing noise, such asearplugs(regular anddisposable), headband earplugs, and the circumauralmuff. If thenoiseistoo loud, you may need to wear theearplugs and the circumaural muff for doubleprotection.

RECREATION AND SPORTS

Participationinrecreational activitiesisresponsiblefor many injuries to personnel. Practically all sportsinvolve some type of hazard. The principles of attackand retreat in body-contact sportsarouseemotions thatcan lead to hazardous circumstances. Whenparticipating in sports, you should be familiar with andobserve protective measures, rules, regulations,procedures, and applicable safety precautions.

Whenyouengageinrecreational activities, observethe following precautions:

19-19

Student Notes:

• Don’t engage in recreational activities unlessyou are physically able to do so without harm.

• Wear necessary and prescribed protectiveequipment and clothing.

• Avoid overexertion and excessive fatigue. Suchconditions can lead to injuries.

• Don’t engage in an activity if you havean oldinjury that may be aggravated by additionalactivity.

• Warm-up properly before engaging in anyvigorous sport.

• Avoid horseplay. This is a common cause ofaccidental injuries.

• Obtain medical attention immediately if you areinjured, feel faint, become dizzy, or ill.

• Alcohol and sports do not mix. Drinking whileparticipating in sports increasesyour chancesofinjuries.

• Don’t try to play a new game or practice newathletic skillsunlessyou areunder thedirectionof a qualified instructor. Don’t takeunnecessarychances.

• Always keep a safe distance from sportingequipment being thrown, such as thediscusandbats.

Remember,whenengagedin arecreational activity,you areresponsiblefor protecting yourself from injury.Therefore, you must observe all rules and safetymeasures.

MOTOR VEHICLES

You may beassigned dutiesas adriver. As adriver,you areresponsiblefor thesafeoperation of the vehiclewhile it is assigned to you and for the safety of thepassengers and cargo.You (as a passenger oroperator) are required to wear seat belts. You are tomakedaily inspectionsof the vehicleassignedtoyou. Ifthe vehicleisfoundtobeunsafe, youaren’t permittedorrequired to operate that vehicle until it has been

repaired. You must obey all local traffic laws andordinances while operating amotor vehicle on and offduty.

Except under extreme emergencies when no reliefis available, you should only drive for short periods oftime. If youmust drivefor alongperiodof timeor if youbecome fatigued(tired) or drowsy whendriving,pull offthe road and stop for a few minutes to rest. Neveroperate a vehicle if you havebeen drinking alcoholicbeverages, if you are taking medication that wil l makeyou drowsy, or if you are sick or physically unfit todrive.

LIFTING

Liftin g is so much apart of our everyday jobs thatwe don’t think about it, and most of the time we do itwrong. Results of improper liftin g may be a painfulhernia, astrained or pulled muscle, or adisk lesion. Forthesakeof your back, youshouldobservethefollowingrules and precautions for lifting:

• Don’t lif t an object if it is too heavy or tooclumsy for good balance. Get help, or usemechanicalaids such as a dolly or hand truck.

• Keep theload closeto thecenter of your body.The farther the load is from thesmall of your back, thegreater the strain. That is the reason a heavy compactload iseasier to lif t than a bulky, lighter load—you justcannot get the bulky object closetoyou.Thebest way tohandle acompact load istosquat downcloseto theloadwith one foot alongside it and the other foot behind it.With the feet comfortably spread, you wil l havebetterstability with therear foot in theposition for theupwardthrust of the lift.

• Pull the load toward you; then lift itgradually. Avoid quick and jerky motions. Push up onyour legs(fig.19-4) while keepingyour back straight.Astraight back keeps the spine, back muscles, and otherorgansof thebody incorrect alignment. Tuckinginyourchin helps to align the spine. No matter what size theload, get ascloseto it asyoucan; thenget agoodgripbyusing the full palm and extending your fingers andhands around the object. Remember that your fingers

19-20

Student Notes:

have very littl epower andneedthestrengthof theentirehand. Keep your armsand elbows tucked in to thesideof your body to help keep the body weight centered.Avoid twisting your body during the lift or whilemoving the load; change directions by moving yourfeet. Twisting your body during alif t isoneof themostcommon causes of back injury.

• Besureyouhave aclear vision over theloadyouare carrying.

• Don’t changeyour gripwhilecarryingtheload.

• Facethespot whereyou intend to set theobject;bendyour knees, keepingyour back asstraight aspossible and the weight of the object close toyour body.

• Always allow enough room for the load toprevent injury to your toes and fingers.

• When you areplacing aload on atableor bench,set it on the edge and push it forward with yourarms and body.

Remember, if the load is too heavy or tooawkward for you to move alone, get help!Remember, also lif t with your legs, not with yourback!

SHIPYARDS AND DRY DOCKS

Sooner or later every ship in the Navy wil l enter ashipyard or dry dock, usually during a predeterminedscheduled overhaul. At times, shipsgo intoshipyardsordry docks between overhauls for necessary repairs.

Shipyards and dry docks are dangerous places towork. Somuch work isscheduled, normally in alimitedtime frame, that safety is sometimes sacrificed forexpediency(speeddoing the work). During thesetimes,look at what’s taking place around you. Notice thingslike missing lifelines on deck (it’s a long way to thebottom of a dry dock) and hatch or manhole coversremoved without warning barriers erected. Workinginsidepreviously sealed compartments, voids, or tankscan be extremely dangerous if the proper safetyprecautions are not followed.

Often alot of different evolutionsaregoing on in aconfined space. Welding or cutting operations couldand often are conducted in the same small space asheavy equipment removal and chipping and painting.

Sometimes all lighting in a compartment orpassageway may be removed for various reasons. Thatpresents several safety concerns. You may trip onequipment or tools someone has left behind or bang

19-21

Student Notes:

Figure 19-4.—Lift using your legs, not your back.

your head on wire runs or ventilation ducts hangingdown where they shouldn’t be.

Fire hazards are always a problem in shipyards.Often, there is alargeamount of equipment removal orrepairsthat requireweldingor cutting, therepaintingofspaces, or opening fuel tanksand voids. Therefore, theneed to make sure that all flammable material isremoved from the ship everyday is significantlyincreased.

You won’t be able to stop all shipyard accidents;but, by following theprescribedsafety precautions, youcan make theshipyard environment a lot safer place towork. Every ship has a shipyard safety doctrine andconducts safety training before entering ashipyard. Ifyou pay attention at safety lectures and read the safetydoctrine, your ship’s stay in thedry dock wil l bemuchsafer.

AIRCRAFT STRESS AREAS

Flight decks and hangars are dangerous, and thedanger to personnel goes beyond the possibility ofcrashes. Engine exhaust tailpipes, engine-startingunits,liquid oxygen (LOX) bottles, and connectors are allcapable of causing severe injury. Engine-startingequipment (known ashuffers) generate hightemperatures that could severely burn personnel. If notsuff iciently separate from the area where fuel tanks,ammunition, or other hazardous materials are beinghandled, they could cause fires or explosions. Jetengines also generate very high temperatures. Beforeattempting any type of repair or service work on theseengines, make sure they havehad enough time to cooldown to avoid any possibility of burns.

AnyareainwhichLOX isbeingusedrequires extrasafety precautions. LOX in liquid formflowslike water,but it also boils into gaseous oxygen at -297°F and iscapableof immediately freezing any object it contacts.When LOX expands as a gas and is confined andallowed to warm, it exerts extremely high pressures(upto 12,000 psi), causing it to be very dangerous. Alwayskeepclothingandtoolsfreeof oil anddirt. Never smokeor haveany spark or flame-producing materialsnear anarea where LOX is being handled. A spark or flame inthis oxygen-rich atmosphere could be extremelydangerouswith violent results. If your skin comes into

contact with LOX, get medical attention immediately.Onceagain, safety proceduresand precautionsmust befollowed when you work with aircraft and equipment.By following these procedures and precautions, yousignificantly reduce your chances of getting hurt.

REVIEW 11 QUESTIONS

Q1. List the three types of hearing protection.

a.

b.

c.

Q2. List the threemajor precautions that you shouldfollow when lifting heavy loads.

a.

b.

c.

Q3. What precaution is taken before aship enters ashipyard for dry dock work?

Q4. LOX is dangerous and requires that you followextra safety precautions. List two reasons whyyou should be careful when handling LOX.

a.

b.

HEAT STRESS PROGRAM

Heat stress is a combination of air temperature,thermal radiation, humidity, airflow, and workload thatplaces stress on the body. The Navy’s Heat StressProgram evaluates and monitors heat stress conditions

19-22

Student Notes:

to establish safe work schedules in heat stressenvironments.

Aboard ship, heat stress conditions can occur inalmost any space. The causes of heat stress conditionsare steam and water leaks, ventilation systemdeficiencies, missing or deteriorated insulation, andweather conditions of high heat and humidity.Prolonged exposure to heat stressconditionscan causeheat exhaustion or heatstroke. These injuries occurwhen the body temperature continues to increase. Thefirst signs are—

• Increased body temperature causing fatigue

• Severe headache

• Nausea

• Reduced physical and mental performance

I f not immediately and properly treated, theseinjuries can be life threatening.

The best way to control heat stress hazards is tofollow recommended work practices and procedures.Every ship in the Navy has a heat stress monitoringprogram. This program is designed to assist personnelthat may be required to work in a heat stressenvironment by limiting the time they spend in ahighheat stress situation. Personnel required to work in aheat stress environment receive training at regularintervals. Heat stress not only affects personnel thatwork below decks or in confined spaces but alsopersonnel that work topside.Readyour command’s heatstress instruction; it may help you work smarter andsafer.

COLD WE ATHER

The Navy conducts operations in areas whereweather is often a problem. You havealready learnedabout the possible problems that you may meet in theTropics. Now, you wil l learn about the problems youmay facewhentheNavy operatesinseverecoldweatherareas. Theseproblem areasrangefrom theAntarctic tothe northern regions of the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans.

Your major health risk when working in theseareasis hypothermia. Hypothermia results when thetemperatureof thebody reachessubnormal levels. Firstaid for hypothermia, like that for heat stress, must beimmediate. Other safety factors involved withoperations in colder regions include ice accumulationon ships’ decks and superstructures or when outsidebulkheadsor fittingsbecomesocoldthat,whentouchedwith bare skin, the skin sticks to these objects.

To protect yourself from hypothermia if you’reworkingtopsideor gotopsideaspart of your duties, youneed to wear clothing designed to maintain body heat.You need to limi t theamount of timeyou’re exposed tosuch conditions. If you work topside and start to losefeeling on any part of your body, get inside and warmup.Safety is paramount!

REVIEW 12 QUESTIONS

Q1. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are lifethreatening. List thesignsof heat exhaustionandheat stroke.

a.

b.

c.

d.

Q2. What isthemajor healththreat of coldweather?

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

Theprecautions that follow aregeneral, all-aroundsafety practices that don’t fit into any particularcategory. Some apply to several situations. Failure toobserve any one of these practices could result in aserious mishap.

• Use tools that fit the work being done.Screwdriversaren’t meant tobeusedaspunches.

19-23

Student Notes:

• If you are issued protective gear, wear it whenperforming work for which the gear wasdesigned.

• Never overload electrical outlets.

• Keep file drawers closed when they are not inuse. Avoid making files top-heavy and be suredrawer stops are operative.

• Don’t hang extension cords where somebodycan be snagged by them. Extension cords canbecome a trip hazard also. When using anextension cord, makecertain it won’t becut by aclosing hatch or door or by any other meanswhile it is lying on the deck.

• Keep all tools in good condition.

• Don’t watch awelder’s arc if you aren’t wearingdark goggles.

• Report defective equipment.

• When you open a hatch, always secure it openwith the equipment provided.

• Secure all loose articles when heavy weather isexpected.

• Take heed of all warning signs: HIGHVOLTAGE,STACK GAS,RFHAZARD,andsoon.

• Never smokein NO SMOKING areas, when thesmoking lamp is out, when painting, or whenhandling ammunition or flammables.

• Followgoodhousekeepingpracticesat all times.Don’t allow loose gear to accumulate where itmight present a tripping hazard.

• Learn and follow all safety precautions for thejob you are doing.

EQUIPMENT TAG-OUT PROCEDURES

LearningObjective: Whenyou finish thischapter,you will be able to—

• Recall the purpose and procedures of the NavyTag-out System.

• Identify and interpret HAZMAT labels.

• Identify the purpose of hazardous materialslabels, signs, and symbols.

Post DANGER tags, CAUTION tags, andinstrument OUT-OF-COMMISSION or OUT-OF-CALIBRATION labels following the authorizedprocedures. Thosetagsand labelshelpensurethesafetyof personnel and prevent improper operation ofequipment. Don’t remove or break posted safety tagswithout proper authorization.

Practically every day, youareinvolvedwithtaggingout apieceof equipment. Youtagout aswitchor amotorto secure the equipment to perform plannedmaintenance.

Whydowehavetag-out procedures? Wehavethembecause our ships are complex and personnel can gethurt because of improper equipment operation. Forexample,

A submarine wasmooredto apier, whereitwas waiting for the local diving team to dosome repair work on the hull. Since it wasSaturday, only the duty off icer, the duty chief,and the duty section were aboard. The divingtag-out had been written out and hung, and thediving team was waiting for thesenior diver toget to theship and check thetag out. Oncethatwasdone, thediversenteredthe water.Thedutychief decided to check the tag outs in thetorpedo room. The chief found the DANGERtags for the torpedo high-pressure air ejectionsystem proper ly hung in place andsecond-checked—just liketheyweresupposedto be. But, when the duty chief checked theposition of theair valves, theywerein theopeninstead of shut position. With the valves in theopen position, thediversweresubject to ablastof air of 5,000 pounds from the torpedo tubes.The duty chief immediately ordered the diversout of the water.

What happened? The persons who hungthe tags hadn’t changed the position of the air

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Student Notes:

valves. That time, noone washurt. Thepersonswho had hung the tags were reprimanded, andthe repairs were completed.

During your career, you wil l probably tag out sometype of equipment. Be alert, do the job right, and youshouldn’t haveany problem. Takeyour timeand do thetag out right the first time. Don’t let anyoneor anythingdistract you whi le you’re hanging a tag orsecond-checking one. If you’re not sure of a tag-outprocedure, get a copy of your command’s tag-out bill.TheStandard Organization and Regulationsof the U.S.Navy, OPNAVINST 3120.32, govern the Navy’sequipment tag-out bill.

PURPOSE OF EQUIPMENT TAG-OUT BILL

An equipment tag-out bill has three purposes—

1. To provide aprocedure for personnel to use toprevent theimproper operationof acomponent,pieceofequipment, system, or portion of a system that isisolated or in an abnormal condition.

2. To provide aprocedure for personnel to use inoperating an instrument that is unreliable or not in anormal operating condition. (NOTE: Thisprocedureislikethetag-out procedure, except that it requirestheuseof labels instead of tags to indicate instrument status.)

3. Toprovideseparateproceduresfor personnel touse when accomplishing certain planned maintenance(PMS) actions. These procedures apply only tonon-nuclear surface ships and craft and non-nuclear,non-propulsion areas of nuclear surface ships. PMStag-out procedures aren’t authorized aboardsubmarines, submarine tenders, submarine rescuevessels, in propulsion areasof nuclear surfaceships, orwithin submarine support facilities.

Al l U.S. Navy ships and repair activities must usestandardized tag-out procedures.

ORGANIZ ATION

The CO or off icer in charge heads the tag-out billorganization. Department heads are responsible for

making surepersonnel in their departmentsunderstandand follow bill procedures.

When arepair activity performs repairs on aship,the ship is responsible for and controls the tag-outsystem for the equipment being repaired. The repairactivity is responsible for complying with (following)tag-out bill procedures.

Commanding Officer

The CO or off icer in charge is responsible for thesafety of theentirecommand. TheCO must makesurethat all concerned persons know and comply with theapplicable safety precautions and procedures of thetag-out system.

Officer of the Deck (OOD)

The OOD may be the OOD or the ship’s dutyoff icer, depending on the ship’s condition. The OODkeeps track of the systems being tagged out and thecondition of readiness of the ship.

Departmental Duty Officer (DDO)

Thedepartmental duty off icer (DDO) isdesignated(named) on theapproved watch bill or in theplan of theday. The DDO is responsible for knowing the materialcondition of a department and thestateof thereadinessat all times. This off icer must know what systems aretagged out for periodic maintenance or for repairsrequiring long downtime.

Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW)

The engineering officer of the watch (EOOW)keeps up with the status of the engineering plant at alltimesand whether atag-out bill affectsthereadinessofthe plant. Depending on the engineering plantconditions, the engineering duty off icer may serve asthe EOOW. The EOOW informs the proper persons ofthestatusand readinessof theplant and when it wil l berepaired and returned to normal status.

Authorizing Of ficer

Theauthorizingoff icer signsthe final authorizationplacing a system or piece of equipment off line for

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Student Notes:

repairsor maintenance. Theauthorizing off icer has theauthority to sign tags and labels and the authority tocause tags and labels to be issued or cleared. Theauthorizing off icer isalways theoff icer responsible forsupervising the tag-out log. The CO designatesauthorizing off icers by billet or watch station.

Repair Activity Representative

If a tagout hasbeen requestedby arepair activity, arepresentative (shop supervisor or equivalent) signsthetag-out record sheet. This person’s signature indicatesrepair activity satisfaction with completenessof thetagout. Therepair activity representative should check andsigneach tag that hasbeenhungasheor shemakessureeach system is completely isolated. Only after takingthat safety precautionshould therepresentativesign thetag-out record. When verified, the tags alert personnelthat therepair activity must approveremoval of thetags.The repair activity representative approves removal ofthetagsby signing atag-out sheet stating that the workis completed and no more work is to be done on thesystem(s).

Person Attaching the Tag

The person who attaches the tag (along with theperson who second-checks the tag) can make or breakthetag-out system. Theperson hanging thetag actuallyshuts a valve or secures aswitch that takes apiece ofequipment off line for repairs or maintenance. Whenyousecure aswitchor shut a valve, youhang thedangeror caution tag securely so that it won’t f all off, then yousign it. By signing thedanger or caution tag, you verifythat you havesecured the itemsthat need to besecuredand that they are secured.

Person Checking Tag

As you know, the person checking the tag is animportant person in thetag-out procedure. Theprocessof checking atagor label iscalledsecond-checking.Thesecond-checker examinesthetagor label tomakesureitcorresponds to the equipment that is supposed to besecuredandchecksthepositionof theswitchor valve. Ifno mistakesarefound, thesecond-checker signsthetagor label.Thesignaturetells everyoneconcernedthat “allisokay” with the tag or label and that theequipment issecured. If thesecond-checker findssomething wrong,

he or she notifies the first person (person attaching thetag) and theauthorizingoff icer that something’s wrong.The person who tags asystem and the second-checkerhave abigresponsibility—thelivesof their shipmatesaswell as their own rely on how well they do their jobs.

TAGS, LABELS, AND LOGS

The varioustags, labels,andlogsusedinthetag-outsystem have adefinite purpose. The tags and labelsindicate the equipment is out of order or unable toperform its normal functions. These tags are red andyellow, and both are used as warning tags.

• A red tag means acertain DANGER exists if thevalve or equipment lineup is changed.

• A CAUTION tag isyellow and usually has asetof instructions printed on it about the operationof the equipment.

• Two labels are associated with the tag-outsystem—theOUT-OF-COMMISSION(red) andOUT-OF-CALIBRATION (orange) labels.

Thetags, labels, and logsused in thetag-out systemhelp to ensure personnel safety. Let’s look at how youuse each of them.

Caution Tag

Use ayellow CAUTION tag, NAVSHIPS 9890/5(fig. 19-5), as a precautionary measure to providetemporary special instructionsor toshowpersonnel thatthey must use extra caution in operating equipment. Inthe instructions, state the specific reason for the tag.Don’t use phrases such as “Do not operate withoutEOOW permission.” Personnel don’t operateequipment on systems without permission from theresponsible supervisor. Don’t use aCAUTION tag ifpersonnel or equipment can be endangered whileperforming evolutions using normal procedures. Use aDANGER tag in these circumstances.

Danger Tag

Attach a red DANGER tag, NAVSHIPS 9890/8(fig.19-6), toprohibit operationof equipment that couldjeopardize the safety of personnel or endangerequipment, systems, or components. Never operate or

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Student Notes:

remove equipment tagged with DANGER tags.Operating apiece of equipment tagged out because ofan electric short could causean injury or death. It couldalso cause damage to equipment that could stop ashipfrom operating.

Out-of-Calibration Label

Many gaugesand devicesareused to monitor howequipment is operating. When regularly monitored,these gaugesor devicestell uswhensomethingiswrongwith the equipment. Check all monitoring devicesperiodically to ensure they are measuring accurately.Attach orange OUT-OF-CALIBRATION labels,NAVSEA 9210/6 (fig. 19-7), to identify instrumentsthat give inaccuratemeasurementsbecausetheyareoutof calibration. This label means you must use theinstrument only with extreme caution, if at all. Whenusinganout-of-calibrationlabel,mark thelabel withthemagnitude sign (6 or 4) and units of the requiredcorrection or the wordoverdue.

Out-of-commission Label

Use red OUT-OF-COMMISSION labels,NAVSHIPS 9890/7 (fig. 19-8), to identify instrumentsthat give incorrect measurements because they aredefective or isolated from thesystem. This label showsthat you cannot rely upon the instrument or use itproperly until it has been repaired and recalibrated orreconnected to the system.

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Student Notes:

Figure 19-5.—Caution tag.

SYSTEM/COMPONENT/IDENTIFICATION DATE/TIME

POSITION OR CONDITION OF ITEM TAGGED

SIGNATURE OF PERSON ATTACHING TAG SIGNATURES OF PERSONS CHECKING TAG

SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZING OFFICER SIGNATURE OF REPAIR ACTIVITY REPRESENTATIVE

NAVSHIPS 9890/8 (REV. ) (FRONT) (FORMERLY NAVSHIPS 5008)

NAVSHIPS 9890/8 (REV. ) (BACK)

S/N 9108-441-4000

DANGER

DANGERDO NOT OPERATE

DO NOT OPERATE

OPERATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT WILL

ENDANGER PERSONNEL OR HARM THE

EQUIPMENT. THIS EQUIPMENT SHALL

NOT BE OPERATED UNTIL THIS TAG

HAS BEEN REMOVED BY AN AUTHOR-

IZED PERSON.

SE

RIA

LN

O

.

BMRf1905

Figure 19-6.—Danger tag.

Figure 19-7.—Out-of-calibration label.

Tag-out Logs

Tag-out logs are used to control the entire tag-outprocedure. The number of tag-out logs requireddependson ship size. For example, aminesweeper mayonly requireonetag-out log for thewholeship, whileamajor surfacecombatant may require aseparatelog foreach department. Individual forcecommandersspecifythe number of logs various ship classes must maintainand what areas of the ship must maintain them.

On ships maintaining more than one tag-out log,authorizing officers must exchange information ontag-out actions. When a tag-out affects otherauthorizing off icers, the initiating party obtains verbalpermission from thoseoff icers to tag out thesystem orequipment in question before the tag out is authorized.Examples of systems that may require suchcoordination are ship service electrical distribution,hydraulics, air, ventilation, and air-conditioning chillwater systems.

Thetag-out log is arecord of authorization of eacheffective tag-out action. It contains the followingdocuments:

1. A copy of the main instruction and any otheramplifying directives for administering thesystem.Thesedocumentsare kept in thefront ofthe log.

2. A DANGER/CAUTION tag-out index andrecord of audits (index/audit record). Theindex/audit record provides asequential list ofall tag outs and ensures serial numbers aresequentially issued. They are used in audits ofthe log as well to provide aready reference of

existing tag outs. The cognizant departmenthead may remove the index pages with all tagouts listed as cleared.

3. Cleared DANGER/CAUTION tag-out recordsheets that have been cleared and completed.These sheets are kept in the log until receivedandremovedby thecognizant department head.

Tagsin acommonsystem(for example,ship’s radaror a fire-control system) are logged on oneDANGER/CAUTION tag-out recordsheet.Subsequentsheets on the same system are kept together.

REVIEW 13 QUESTIONS

Q1. List three purposes of the tag-out bill.

a.

b.

c.

Q2. What person can make or break the tag-outsystem?

Q3. A DANGER tag identifies equipment that is inwhat condition?

Q4. What documents are contained in tag-out logs?

a.

b.

c.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVEEQUIPMENT

LearningObjective:Whenyou finish thischapter, youwill be able to—

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Student Notes:

Figure 19-8.—Out-of-commission label.

• Recall theproceduresfor useandmaintenanceofpersonal protective equipment.

Personal protective devicesdo nothing to reduceoreliminatehazards. Theymerely establish a“last lineofdefense.” Some devices that are not worn properly orthat are subjected to improper maintenance may notwork as designed. For this reason, proper equipmentselection, maintenance, personnel training, andmandatory enforcement of equipment use are keyelements in the use of personal protective equipment.

You should know what equipment to wear, when towear it,andhowtowear it. Youshouldalsoknowhowtotake care of the equipment. If you take care of theprotective devices, they will take care of you.

The following paragraphs describe some of theprotective equipment available to personnel and theprocedures to follow in upkeeping this equipment:

• Eyeprotection includessuch articlesaspersonaleyeglasses, common-use goggles, and common-useface shields. These articles should be kept clean anddisinfected. Personal eyeglasses are the responsibilityof the owner/wearer. Eye protection should be storedwhere it wil l be protected from dust, moisture, and theweight of other objects placed directly on it. The bestcontainer isprobably thebox it waspackaged in by themanufacturer.

• Respiratory protection, such as respirators,should be assigned to you for your exclusive use, ifpractical. Respiratorsshouldbecleanedanddisinfectedregularly. Whilecleaning, youshouldcheck for wear ordeterioration.Thistypeof protectionshouldbestoredinacontainer that wil l protect it from dust, moisture, andthe weight of objects placed on top of it.

• Hearing protection includes articles such ascircumaural protection and earplugs. Earplugs shouldbe washed often (with the exception of the disposableplugs, of course). The circumaural protective devicesshould have the ear pads cleaned and disinfectedperiodically. Most small earplugs come in a smallcontainer especially made for them. The circumauraldevice can be hung from the headband.

• Foot protection includes steel-toed boots orshoes, which should fit properly. When they wear out,replace them.

• Head protection includes helmets and hats thatare worn to protect the head from falling or flyingobjectsand low overheads. Check theseperiodically forworn headbands or cracks in the shell.

• Electrical protective devices include rubbergloves, rubber mats, rubber hoods, rubber sleeves, andrubber blankets. Keep these items clean and free ofmoisture.Check theseperiodically for cracksor holesinthe rubber material. When storing the gloves, returnthem to thebox theycamein and do not stack anythingon them that would crush them.

PROCEDURES FOR REPORTINGSAFETY HAZARDS/VIOL ATIONS

LearningObjective:Whenyou finish thischapter, youwill be able to—

• Recall the procedures for reporting safetyhazards and violations.

The first part of this chapter explained yourpersonal responsibilities. If you detect a safety hazard,youarerequired to report thishazard toyour immediatesupervisor. The supervisor wil l then have the hazardcorrected or seek assistance from the ship’s safetyoff icer on ways to correct it. Navy Safety Precautionsfor Forces Afloat, OPNAVINST 5100.19, contains theinformation on Navy safety.

REVIEW 14 QUESTIONS

Q1. List the personal protection equipment youshould use in each of the following categories.

a. Head protection

b. Electrical protective devices

c. Eye protection

d. Respiratory protection

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Student Notes:

Q2. If you see a safety hazard, whom should younotify?

SUMMA RY

Throughout your Navy career you wil l continuallyhear the phrase “Think safety!” and rightfully so. Assaid at the beginning of this chapter, our profession isinherently dangerous. Wecan make our place of workconsiderably safer simply by paying attention to whatgoes on in our work space on a daily basis.

Wehavecovered awide variety of safety factors inthis chapter. How to properly and safely embark anddisembark a liberty boat was discussed. You learnedhowtousecleaningsuppliesandequipment properly tokeepyour berthingcompartment shipshape. Theproperuseof paint andutensilsto keepyour ship lookinggoodwas also covered. How to use the tag-out system torepair or replaceequipment, systems, or componentstoavoid hazards to personnel or equipment was stressed.Numerous evolutionsconducted aboard ship on adailybasis wouldbesafer if people would take afewminutesto observe what is going on. Hopefully, observing thesafety precautions associated with doing a particulartask will reduce mishaps.

Every job in theNavy has aset of safety guidelines.In their hasteto get the job done, peoplesometimescutcorners. Theydo not realize that just around thecornerlies an overlooked or disregarded safety precautionwaiting to get us. Paying attention to what goes onaround you and your shipmates and observing theproper safety precautions wil l reduce the number ofmishaps considerably. Think safety!

REVIEW 1 ANSWERS

A1. Some safety precautions that could save livesinclude—

a. Observe all safety precautions

b. Report unsafe conditions

c. Warn your shipmates of hazards

d. Wear protective clothing and equipment

e. Stay alert

A2. Being aboard ship is dangerous. Somedangerous shipboard environments you maywork in or work around involve—

a. Powerful machinery

b. High-speed equipment

c. High-temperature, high-pressure steam

d. Volatile fuels and propellants

e. Heavy lifts

f. High explosives

g. Electrical voltages

h. Wind and waves

REVIEW 2 ANSWERS

A1. The publication that contains information onusing, storing, and disposing of hazardousmaterials is the Materia l Safety Data Sheets(MSDS).

A2. According to OPNAVINST 5100.19, youshould follow MSDS guidelines when handlinghazardous materials.

REVIEW 3 ANSWERS

A1. The boat safety precautions that every Sailorshould know include—

a. Obey all orders from the coxswain.

b. Embark in a quiet, orderly manner andmove as far forward as possible. Onceembarked, stay in place.

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Student Notes:

c. Keep all partsof your body in theboat; donot sit on gunwales.

d. Don’t engage in horseplay.

e. Never distract the attention of crewmembers from their duties.

f. Don’t sit on lif e jackets; this wil l mat thefiller and reduce buoyancy.

g. When told to do so, don your lif e jacketimmediately.

h. Don’t smoke in a boat.

i. If told to embark or disembark, do sowithout argument. Durin g heavy weather,boat loads will be reduced.

A2. If a boat swamps,don’t panic! Panic is easilyspread from person to person causing people tolose their lives.

A3. You should learn thelocation of cleats, bitts, andpad eyes on a ship’s deck because they’retrippin g hazards; if you know where hazardsarelocated, youstand abetter chanceof avoidingthe hazard.

A4. Two hazards found on flight decks of aircraftcarriers are—

a. Propellers

b. Jet engines

REVIEW 4 ANSWERS

A1. Handling cargo improperly can result in injuryanddeath. In thefollowingcasesyoushould takethe indicated precautions.

a. When working with line, never stand in thebight of a line. Keep clear of lines understrain because alineunder strain can breakwith a whipli ke snap that can causeseverebruising, broken bones, amputations, ordeath.

b. When liftin g heavy objects,crouch close tothe load with feet spread. Gri p the objectand lif t with your arm and leg muscles(notyour back). I f the load is too heavy for oneperson to lift, ask for help.

c. When steadying aload,use thenonworkingsideof a ship for f ore-and-aft tr avel. Don’tstand between the load and a fixed object;don’t stand under a suspended load; andnever ride loads.

A2. TheOOD grants permission for any work donealoft.

A3. Beforepermission isgiven for personnel to workaloft, the following precautions are taken:

a. Power is secured on radio and radarantennas and controls associated withantennas are tagged.

b. The engineer officer is notified to preventoperations such as lifting boiler safetyvalves or blowing tubes.

A4. Lifelines are safety barriers to preventpersonnel from fallin g or being washed overthe side.

A5. When working over theside,youshouldwear thefollowing equipment:

a. Standard Navy safety harness with safetyline attached and tended by someone ondeck

b. An inherently buoyant lif e jacket with ahole in the back, allowing you to wear asafety harness

REVIEW 5 ANSWERS

A1. Most accidents involving steam happen inengine rooms and firerooms.

A2. You should never enter a closed space until it’scertifiedby the gasfreeengineerbecauseclosedcompartments contain unexpected dangers,including pressures, toxic gases, carbonmonoxide, carbon dioxide, and possibly nooxygen.

A3. The symptoms caused by bad air include—

a. Labored breathing

b. Excessive fatigue

c. Headache

d. Dizziness

19-31

REVIEW 6 ANSWERS

A1. Open flame and naked lights are defined asfollows:

a. The term open flame includes all forms offuel or gas lanterns, lighted candles,matches, cigarette lighters, and so on.

b. The term naked lights includes anyunprotected electrical lighting device.

A2. You should take the following actions whenstoring solvents:

a. Label all containers used to store solvents

b. Store solvents in appropriate lockers

REVIEW 7 ANSWERS

A1. When handling a weapon, you need to thinkabout what you’re doingbecause accidentsdon’t “jus t happen;” they’re caused. In fact,they’re often caused by personnel who don’tfollowsafety precautionsor whoare careless.

A2. Projectilesthat have a3-inch or greater diameterarecolor-coded toshowtheprojectiletypeandthekind of burstingchargethat they contain.

REVIEW 8 ANSWERS

A1. Tr eating common 115-volt equipment lightlyis the cause of many fatal shocks received fromdrills and fans.

A2. Three types of hazards associated withcompressed gases are—

a. Cylinders not secured

b. Cylinders under high pressure

c. Cylinders containing poisonous, flam-mable, or explosive material

A3. True , oxygen and chlorine are stowed in

compartments separate from flammable gases.

A4. You should use a filter mask respirator whenworkingwith fiberglassbecause fiberglassdustis abrasive and an irritant to skin and eyes.

REVIEW 9 ANSWERS

A1. Before beginning work to repair a piece ofequipment, you shouldmake sure that theequipment is de-energized and/ordepressurized and tagged out of service.

A2. Only properly trained personnel shouldoperate gas welding or cutting equipment.

A3. When working around rotating machinery, youshould remove jewelry and watches and youshouldn’t wear loose fittin g clothing; wearprotecting clothing and equipment, such ashearing protection, eye, hand, and footprotection, dust and paint r espirators, and soon.

REVIEW 10 ANSWERS

A1. The safety precautions to follow when workingwith systems having pressurized liquidsinclude—

a. Never connect or disconnect a hose fromthe system until the pressure has beenremoved.

b. Never point a charged (pressurized) firehose at anyone.

c. Never use ruptured or worn hoses.

d. Don’t use spray paints, butane fluids,lacquers,and other aerosol productsnear aflame; don’t throw them into a fire; anddon’t puncture the container.

A2. If you’ve been exposed to acids or alkalis,youshould immediately seek medical attention.

A3. You shouldn’t smoke near sewage-handlingequipment for the following reasons:

a. Fuel leaks or spills can occur in theincinerator area where temperatures mayexceed the flash point of the fuels used.

b. Methane and hydrogen sulfide may beemitted by any tank or tank leaks. Thesegases are also flammable and under someconditions are explosive.

REVIEW 11 ANSWERS

A1. The three types of hearing protection are the—

19-32

a. Headband,

b. Earplugs, and the

c. Circumaural muff .

A2. List the three major precautions you shouldfollow when lifting heavy loads.

a. Don’t lif t an object if it is too heavy or tooclumsy for good balance.

b. Keep the load close to the center of yourbody.

c. Pull the load toward you; then lift itgradually.

A3. Before entering a shipyard for dry dock work,every ship has ashipyard safety doctrineandconducts safety training before entering ashipyard.

A4. LOX is dangerous to handle because—

a. It f reezes immediately on contact.

b. As agas, it exertsextremely high pressure.

REVIEW 12 ANSWERS

A1. The symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke include—

a. Increased body temperature

b. Severe headache

c. Nausea

d. Reduced mental and physical performance

A2. The major health threat of cold weather ishypothermia.

REVIEW 13 ANSWERS

A1. Purposes of the tag-out bill include—

a. To provide personnel a way to prevent theimproper operation of a component, piece

of equipment, system, or a part of a systemthat’s isolated or in an abnormal condition.

b. To give personnel a way to operate aninstrument that’s unreliable or not in anormal operating condition.

c. To give personal a way to accomplishcertain planned maintenance system(PMS) procedures.

A2. The tag-out system is made or broken by theperson attaching the tag.

A3. A DANGER tag identifies equipmentwhoseoperation is prohibited because its use couldjeopardize the safety of personnel orendanger equipment.

A4. Tag-out logs contain—

a. A copy of the main instruction and anyother ampl i fy ing direct ives foradministering the system.

b. A DANGER/CAUTIO N tag-out index andrecord of audits (index/audit record).

c. Cleared DANGER/CAUTION tag-outrecord sheets that have been cleared andcompleted.

REVIEW 14 ANSWERS

A1. Personal protectionequipment youshoulduseineach of the following categories:

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a. Head protection Helmets and hats

b. Electrical protectivedevices

Rubber gloves,rubber mats, rubberhoods, rubber sleeves,and rubber blankets

c. Eye protection Personal eyeglasses,common-use goggles,and common-use faceshields

d. Respiratoryprotection

Respirators

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A2. If you see a safety hazard, you shouldnotify your immediate supervisor