Knowledge of EquipmentEach piece of equipment used in the Navy isdesigned to perform a specific function. For example,material handling equipment can safely handle aspecified maximum load and operate under specifiedconditions. You create a potential hazard when you useequipment beyond its rated capacity or for other than itsintended purpose. You must use a piece of equipmentonly for the purpose for which it is designed. As anexample, when handling flammable gases, you must usethe electric-powered and spark-enclosed equipment.Equipment must be in proper operating condition.The operators must ensure that the equipment ismechanically safe. Operators must report all unsafeequipment conditions to the supervisor for correction orreplacement. Equipment operators should alsofamiliarize themselves with the layout of the area theyare working in. Some of the factors to consider in thelayout are distance of travel, type of terrain, elevationchanges, and aisles. The greater the distance traveled orthe rougher the terrain, the greater the potential foraccidents. Changes in elevation involve extra handlingand increases the potential for accidents. Narrow aisles,turns and jogs in aisles, and protruding objects also aresafety hazards.SAFETY EQUIPMENT ANDCLOTHINGThe use of safety equipment and clothing provideextra protection to personnel. The following textdescribes some of the items that you can use to protectyourself while working.Synthetic Rubber GlovesYou must wear synthetic rubber gloves forprotection when handling ordinary commercialconcentrations of harmful chemicals, petroleumproducts, or chlorinated solvents.Natural Rubber GlovesYou must wear natural rubber gloves when handlinghigh concentrations of acids and alkalis, organicsolvents, or highly toxic or corrosive chemicals. DONOTuse this type of glove for protection againstpetroleum products and chlorinated solvents.General-Purpose Work GlovesYou must wear general-purpose work gloves forprotection against cuts or abrasions when handlingsharp or rough material. These gloves are made fromleather material that cover the palm, thumb, and indexfinger areas. When using gloves with leather parts, makesure the leather parts do not become greasy.Hoods, Aprons, Sleeves, and SuitsYou must wear hoods, aprons, sleeves, or suits madefrom natural or synthetic rubber or acid-resistingrubberized cloth when handling acid.Rubber-framed GogglesYou must use rubber framed goggles to protect youreyes against smoke, gas, fine dust, mists, and sprays ofliquid or substances.Spectacle GogglesYou must wear spectacle goggles with side shieldsfor protection against flying particles of dust, chips, andmachine cuttings.Protective HelmetYou must wear a helmet for protection againstfalling or flying objects. While working in crampedplaces, you must wear a helmet to protect you frombumps against hard objects. A helmet is mandatorywhen you are working in a shipyard or in areas whereyou are hoisting and lifting materials.Safety ShoesYou must wear authorized safety shoes whileworking in foot-hazardous areas.SAFE STORAGE RULESGood housekeeping practices are essential to safetyas well as to efficient storage operations. Storage areasmaintained in a clean and orderly condition can preventmany potential accidents and fires. Adequate lighting instorage areas decreases the hazards of accidents andenhances personnel health and morale. Place and securestorage materials in a safe manner that will prevent themfrom shifting or falling. Stack pallet loads with 2 inchesof clearance on both sides to prevent dislocation ofadjacent units.6-17
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