OPEN FLAME AND NAKED LIGHT NEAR FUELS The  use  of  open  flame,  naked  lights,  or  any apparatus that is likely to cause a spark is not permitted in spaces or areas where fuel is exposed or during fueling. The term  open flame  includes all forms of fuel or  gas  lanterns,  lighted  candles,  matches,  cigarette lighters, and so on. The term  naked lights  includes any unprotected  electrical  lighting  device.  Permanently installed electrical apparatus necessary for maintenance of power or services in the ship could produce sparks. PAINTS Paints, varnishes, lacquers, cleaners, solvents, or other finishing materials contain flammable solvents that can ignite at comparatively low temperatures and, therefore, present a fire hazard. They also give off toxic vapors  that  are  harmful  when  inhaled.  When  using paints and finishing materials, you should observe the following precautions: Do not smoke or use an open flame in areas where paint, varnishes, lacquers, and solvents are mixed or applied. Wipe up spilled paint or solvents immediately to reduce fire and vapor hazards. Place rags or other items used for cleaning up paint in a separate container with a closed top. Take care to prevent paint products from coming in contact with the eyes and skin. Wear  goggles  when  chipping  and  cleaning surfaces to be painted. Wear gloves and a filter respirator when mixing paint and when painting. SOLVENTS 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.  Appropriate measures  must  be  taken  to  reduce  their  toxic  and flammable effects. In addition, exposure of the skin to solvents can cause serious skin problems. Therefore, you should observe the following precautions when using solvents: Use adequate ventilation. Wear protective clothing, goggles, gloves, and other appropriate safeguards. Have readily accessible fire-fighting equipment nearby. Take  every  precaution  to  prevent  excessive vapors from contaminating the air. Check all liquids before using. If in doubt of any cleaning fluids, consult the officer in charge. Wipe up spilled solvents immediately. Avoid contact with your eyes, skin, or clothing. Do  not  take  solvents  internally,  and  avoid breathing solvent vapors. Keep solvent containers tightly closed when not in use. Check containers for leakage; if a container is defective, transfer the solvent to a new container. Be sure containers are empty before they are discarded.  Observe  approved  practices  for disposal  of  solvents  and  cleaners  and  their containers. Label all containers in which solvents are to be stored. Store solvents in an appropriate solvent storage locker. REVIEW 6 QUESTIONS Q1.  Define the following terms. a. Open flame— b. Naked lights— 19-11 Student Notes: