Westerbeke 9.0 BCG Technical Manual page 3

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
The following symbols appear in this manual to call attention
to and emphasize conditions potentially dangerous to the
operator.
IWARNINGI
The above symbol is used in the manual to warn of possible
serious personal injury or loss of life.
CAUTION
The above symbol is used in the manual to caution personnel
of possible damage to equipment.
Read the manual carefully and thoroughly before attempting
to operate the equipment. Know when dangerous conditions
can exist and take necessary precautions to protect personnel
and equipment.
Fuels, exhaust gases, batteries, electrical equipment, and
moving and hot parts are potential hazards that could result in
serious personal injury or death. Follow recommended proce-
dures carefully.
Always operate bilge blowers for at least five minutes before
starting a gasoline-fueled enginej ensure no gasoline fumes are
present before starting.
• Prevent
Electric Shock
Shut off electric power before accessing electrical equip-
ment.
Use insulated mats whenever working on electrical equip-
ment.
Make sure your clothing is dry, not damp (particularly
shoes), and keep your skin surfaces dry when handling
electrical equipment.
Remove wristwatch and jewelry when working on electri-
cal equipment.
Do
not connect utility shore power to vessel's AC circuits,
except through a ship-to-shore double-throw transfer
switch. Damage to vessel's AC generator may result if this
is not done.
Be
extremely careful when working on electrical com-
ponents. High voltage can cause injury or death.
• Exhaust Gases Are Toxic
Ensure that the exhaust system is adequate to expel gases
discharged from the engine. Check exhaust system
regularly for leaks and make sure the exhaust manifolds
are securely attached and no warping exists.
Be
sure the unit and its surroundings are well-ventilated.
• Use Extreme Care When Handling Engine Fuel
(A constant danger of explosion or fire exists)
Do
not fill fuel tank(s) while the engine is running.
Do
not smoke or use an open flame near the engine or the
fuel tank.
• po Not Alter or Modify the Fuel System
Be
sure all fuel supplies have a positive shut-off valve.
Be certain fuel line fittings are adequately tightened and
free of leaks.
Make sure a fire extinguisher is installed nearby and is
properly maintained.
Be
familiar with its proper use.
ex-
tinguishers rated ABC by the NFPA are appropriate for all
applications encountered in this environment.
• Use Extreme Care When Servicing Batteries
Wear rubber gloves, a rubber apron, and eye protection
when servicing batteries.
Lead acid batteries emit hydrogen, a highly-explosive gas,
which can
be
ignited by electrical arcing or by a lighted
cigarette, cigar, or pipe.
Do
not smoke or allow an open
flame near the battery being serviced. Shut off all electri-
cal equipment in the vicinity to prevent electrical arcing
during servicing.
• Ayoid Moving parts
Do
not service the unit while the unit is runningj if a situa-
tion arises in which it is absolutely necessary to make
operating adjustments, use extreme care to avoid moving
parts and hot exhaust system components.
Do
not wear loose clothing or jewelry when servicing
equipmentj avoid wearing loose jackets, shirts or sleeves,
rings, necklaces, or bracelets that might be caught in
moving parts.
Make sure all attaching hardware is properly tightened.
Keep protective shields and guards in their respective
place at all times.
Do
not check fluid levels or the drive-belt's tension while
the unit is operating.
Do
not work on the equipment when mentally or physical-
ly incapacitated by fatigue.