Common Hazards - L3Harris XL Series Operator's Manual

1.7

COMMON HAZARDS

The operator of any mobile radio should be aware of certain hazards common to
the operation of vehicular radio transmissions. Possible hazards include but are
not limited to the following:
Explosive Atmospheres – Just as it is dangerous to fuel a vehicle while its engine is running,
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be sure to turn the radio OFF while fueling the vehicle. If the radio is mounted in the trunk of
the vehicle, DO NOT carry containers of fuel in the trunk.
Areas with potentially explosive atmosphere are often, but not always, clearly marked. Turn
the radio OFF when in any area with a potentially explosive atmosphere. It is rare, but not
impossible that the radio or its accessories could generate sparks.
Interference To Vehicular Electronic Systems – Electronic fuel injection systems,
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electronic anti-skid braking systems, electronic cruise control systems, etc., are typical of the
types of electronic devices that can malfunction due to the lack of protection from radio
frequency (RF) energy present when transmitting. If the vehicle contains such equipment,
consult the dealer for the make of vehicle and enlist his aid in determining if such electronic
circuits perform normally when the radio is transmitting.
Electric Blasting Caps – To prevent accidental detonation of electric blasting caps, DO NOT
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use two-way radios within 1000 feet (305 meters) of blasting operations. Always obey the
"Turn Off Two-Way Radios" (or equivalent) signs posted where electric blasting caps are
being used. (OSHA Standard: 1926.900).
Radio Frequency Energy – To prevent burns or related physical injury from radio frequency
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energy, do not operate the transmitter when anyone outside of the vehicle is within the
minimum safe distance from the antenna as specified in Table 1-1. Refer to Section 1.2 for
additional information.
Vehicles Powered by Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gas – Radio installation in vehicles
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powered by liquefied petroleum gas, where the LP gas container is in the trunk or other
sealed-off space within the interior of the vehicle, must conform to the National Fire Protection
Association standard NFPA 58. This requires:
 The space containing the radio equipment must be isolated by a seal from the space
containing the LP gas container and its fittings.
 Outside filling connections must be used for the LP gas container.
 The LP gas container space shall be vented to the outside of the vehicle.
Vehicles Equipped with Airbags – For driver and passenger safety, avoid mounting the
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radio's control head (or any other component) above or near airbag deployment areas. In
addition to driver-side and passenger-side front-impact airbags, some vehicles may also be
equipped with side-impact airbags. For occupant safety, verify the location of all airbags within
the vehicle before installing the radio equipment.
The Vehicle Communications Hub (VCH) runs at elevated temperatures that can be up
to 45°F above ambient.
14221-1850-2000, Rev. C
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