Q3. You should pick up and put away gear that has
been left adrift for what reason?
Q4. True or False. When sweeping exterior decks,
you can sweep dirt over the side.
Q5. List the three steps used in most detergent
cleaning.
a.
b.
c.
Q6. List two types of deck covers.
a.
b.
CLEANING SOLVENTS
Learning Objectives: When you finish this chapter, you
will be able to—
Identify types of cleaning solvents.
Recall the precautions to be followed when
working with cleaning solvents.
No matter what the job, from paint removal to
swabbing the decks, take precautions against
carelessly using cleaning solvents. Look at the
following example:
Seaman Joe Frost didn’t read the labels on the
chlorine-based cleaning material he was using
to clean the commode. He decided to clean the
drains at the same time and added a granulated
drain cleaner to the chlorine-based cleaner.
Then he left the head. A few minutes later he
heard a loud explosion. The reaction between
the chlorine-based cleaner and granulated
cleaner caused the explosion. Luckily, no one
was hurt, but the head was a mess.
Solvents used in paints, adhesives, rubber and
plastic materials, and degreasing solutions are
hazardous to your health. Most solvents are toxic and,
with a few exceptions, are flammable. Take the
appropriate measures to reduce their toxic and
flammable effects. In addition, solvents that come in
contact with your skin can cause serious skin problems.
When using solvents, always observe the following
precautions:
Make sure the space in which you are working
has adequate ventilation.
Wear protective clothing, goggles, respirators,
gloves, and other appropriate equipment.
Make sure accessible fire-fighting equipment is
nearby.
Take every precaution to prevent excessive
vapors from contaminating the air.
Check the labels on all containers of liquids.
Wipe up spilled solvents immediately.
Avoid contact with your eyes, skin, or clothing.
Never swallow solvents.
Avoid breathing the vapors.
Keep solvent containers tightly closed when you
are not using them.
Check containers for leakage.
Transfer solvents from a defective/leaking
container to a new container.
Make sure containers are empty before you
discard them. You must observe the approved
practices for disposal of solvents, cleaners, and
their containers.
Label all containers used to store solvents.
18-4
Student Notes:
