Read    and  comply  with  all  instructions  and precautions on the label. PRECAUTIONS Always follow safety precautions when working with solvents.   Never   use solvents in an unventilated space  under  any  circumstances.  Special  clothing requirements also must be observed when using some solvents. Always  follow  safety  precautions! Carelessness on anyone’s part could cause a mishap, resulting in injuries or even deaths. By observing safety precautions, you will reduce mishaps and save lives. Ventilation When you think of ventilation, you usually think of air conditioning and cooling. However, when working with solvents, the term   ventilation   means providing fresh  air  and  exhaust  to  the  area  in  which  you  are working.  Make  sure  the  work  area  is  properly ventilated. That includes topside areas of a ship because some topside areas are enclosed on three sides and will not allow proper ventilation. When  applying  flammable  coatings  or  using solvents, you must provide adequate ventilation, which will help prevent accidental ignition. You may have to use extra fans or local exhaust to ventilate a space, especially  in  spaces  where  pockets  can  develop.  A pocket  is the buildup of vapors and poisonous air in an area,  causing  an  explosion.    Always  follow  safety precautions and make sure spaces are ventilated properly when solvents are used!   When in doubt, contact your supervisor for additional guidance. Preventing Excess Vapors Any type of solvent will give off some type of vapor. These vapors may be toxic or flammable. Always use proper ventilation to prevent a buildup of vapors. As you have learned, some vapors can linger in pockets of spaces; therefore, make sure the complete work area is fully ventilated. Before starting a job, ask a gas free engineer to examine the area for toxic gases and ask for the proper ventilation plan for the space. Be sure to have the space checked frequently for excessive vapors. If vapors  are  found  to  be  excessive,  stop  all  work immediately and have all personnel clear the area until it is safe to return. Protective Clothing When working with solvents, you always face the risk of their contacting your skin through splatters or spills. Some caustic solvents will actually eat the skin off your body. Make sure that you have all the protective clothing needed for the job. When  working  with  solvents,  you    must    wear adequate protective clothing and gloves to prevent skin contact with the solvents and cleaning materials. Do not wear jewelry or clothing with cuffs, loose pockets, rips, or loose ties. Observe the following safety precautions when working with solvents: Wear chemical splash goggles at all times. Wear  acid-resistant  aprons,  face  shield  with goggles, gloves, and boots when handling acid or caustic cleaners. Wear nonskid rubber-soled shoes when working in enclosed spaces or when flammable vapors may be present (spark prevention). Never work in an enclosed space without using the buddy system. Respiratory protection, with either an organic vapor cartridge or supplied air, should be worn when dispensing, handling, or cleaning using solvents. Using solvents for cleaning saves time; but, make sure you read all the labels before using the solvent. Many solvents are corrosive and can irritate or cause serious injuries to your eyes, skin, and lungs.  Always check the caution labels before using any solvents! Fire-Fighting Equipment Required While Using Solvents Nothing ruins a CO’s day faster than receiving word that the ship is burning. A fire can cause injury and loss of life and take a ship off the line for a long time. When working with solvents, you have no room for error. If you’re on a work detail that requires the use of solvents 18-5 Student Notes: