Page 277 - Introduction to Marine Engineering

Fire fighting and safety 251

High pressure reducing valve '

Auxiliary connector
^
Figure IS. 16 Self-contained breathing apparatus

Safe working practices

Accidents are usually the result of carelessness, mistakes, lack of thought
or care, and often result in injury. Consideration will now be given to
avoiding accidents, largely by the adoption of safe working practices.
Working clothes should be chosen with the job and its hazards in
mind. They should fit fairly closely with no loose flaps, straps or ragged
pockets. Clothing should cover as much of the body as possible and a
stout pair of shoes should be worn. Neck chains, finger rings and
wristwatches should not be worn, particularly in the vicinity of rotating
machinery. Where particular hazards are present appropriate protec-
tion, such as goggles or ear muffs, should be worn.
When overhauling machinery or equipment it must be effectively
isolated from all sources of power. This may involve unplugging from
an electrical circuit, the removal of fuses or the securing open of circuit
breakers. Suction and discharge valves of pumps should be securely
closed and the pump casing relieved of pressure. Special care should be