Safe working practice

The use of appropriate, protective equipment is essential when carrying out maintenance or running repairs. Goggles are necessary for operations such as grinding, wire brushing, scaling and drilling. For electric welding and work with Oxy-acetylene equipment, the correct eye protection must be available and used. Suitable heat resistant gloves are necessary and substantial footwear is required for protection from red hot metal droplets.

Ear protection is essential when working in the engine room. Ear defenders may well be required when, working adjacent to noisy equipment in other areas' of the vessel.

When dealing with pressurised systems, make sure that the pressure is relieved and ensure that equipment using hydraulic rams cannot fall as a result. Ensure that any lifting system is strong enough for the task and make sure that it cannot suddenly slip.

Have the right tool for the job and keep tools in good condition. Many accidents occur through either using the wrong tool for the task or by using brute force. Guards on power tools must be kept in place and always disconnect power tools from the supply when changing accessories.

Having finished work on machinery, whenever possible, turn it up, to make sure that everything is free. Check that all nuts and bolts are tight, refit all guards and clear away tools and equipment.

Stop machinery before commencing work on it and make sure it cannot be accidentally restarted, either locally or from a remote position such as the wheel-house. Turn off any isolator switches and attach a warning notice. Inform others about your intentions and where appropriate, have someone to help you, they can then take action if anything should go wrong.

II. NOTES:

goggles – очки

substantial – существенный

suitable – подходящий

adjacent – смежный

brute force – грубая сила

guards – предохранители

III. ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS:

1. Why is it necessary to observe safe working practice?

2. What is necessary to protect during welding?

3. What must we put on when working in the engine room?

4. Can we correct any thing using brute force?

5. Why do we disconnect power on power tools?