6-9 used in an unventilated space under any circumstances. Special clothing requirements also must be observed when using  some  solvents.  As  a  petty  officer,  you MUST make sure all safety precautions are observed at all times. Laxity on anyone’s part could cause a mishap, resulting in injuries or even deaths. By observing safety precautions, you and your people will reduce mishaps and save lives. Damage to containers, including dents, pitting, rust, creases, cracks, and damage to closures and gaskets, may lead to leakage and dangerous spills. Containers in flammable liquid stowage facilities will be inspected weekly. Containers of other hazardous materials will be inspected monthly and inventoried quarterly. NSTM, chapter   670,   describes   proper   stowage,   handling, container inspection, and disposal of hazardous general- use combustibles. Types of solvents As mentioned throughout this chapter, the Navy uses many types of solvents for a multitude of cleaning assignments. Many of these solvents are highly toxic and some are highly flammable. You must take special care when using many of these solvents; make sure you store them in cool, dry areas. NSTM, chapter 631, contains a list of approved solvents and their flash points (lowest temperature at which vapors ignite in air when exposed to flame). Figure 6-4 shows a list of commonly used solvents approved by the Navy and the flash points of these solvents. NSTM, chapter 670, describes proper stowage, handling, and disposal of these solvents. Most cleaning solvents contain toxic substances. These substances can cause injuries if they are inhaled, absorbed by the skin, or ingested. All toxic materials must  be  handled  carefully  to  prevent  injury.  The following paragraphs contain information about two general categories of toxic cleaning solvents. There is another type—fluorocarbon refrigerants and solvents; however, special approval is required to obtain and use them. If you have any questions about the solvent you are going to use, check the maintenance requirement cards (MRCs) for the task; ask your supervisor; or check the NSTM, chapters 631 and 670. CHLORINATED-CLEANING SOLVENTS.— Chlorinated-cleaning solvents can be highly toxic if used improperly. They may be irritating to the skin and toxic if ingested. Toxic vapors may cause damage to the lungs, eyes, and nervous system when the vapors are present in confined spaces, in spaces with inadequate ventilation, or when the vapor concentration is increased by heating. Solvents decompose at high temperatures and  produce  gases  more  toxic  than  the  solvents themselves. Solvents react with alkalies, oxidizers, and powdered metals to produce toxic gases. Common types of chlorinated-cleaning solvents are trichloroethane (inhibited methylchloroform), trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethane, and tetra- chloroethylene (perchloroethylene, dry-cleaning solvent). Because of the extreme dangers involved, the Navy severely restricts the use of these solvents. For detailed restriction information on solvents, refer to NSTM, chapter 670, section 3. Never stow chlorinated-cleaning solvents near heat sources or open flames. Do not allow them to come in contact with hot surfaces. Make sure stowage areas are well ventilated and monitored regularly by the gas-free engineer. Additionally, do not stow these solvents near incompatible materials. Incompatible materials include strong alkalies, such as sodium hydroxide; oxidizers, such as calcium hypochlorite and sodium nitrate; and powdered metals, such as aluminum. When handling chlorinated-cleaning solvents, wear the following personal protective equipment (PPE): Neoprene gloves Safety goggles that will protect against splashes or a face shield A chemical cartridge respirator for protection against  small  amounts  of  organic  vapors  or  for protection for a short duration; or an air line respirator (or some other type of supplied-air respirator) if use is extensive or in a confined space Coveralls Make sure work areas in which you use chlorinated- cleaning solvents have proper ventilation.