points (lowest temperature at which vapors ignite in airwhen exposed to flame). Figure 6-4 shows a list ofcommonly used solvents approved by the Navy and theflash points of these solvents. OPNAVINST 5100.19(Series) describes proper stowage, handling, anddisposal 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 materialsmust be handled carefully to prevent injury. Thefollowing paragraphs contain information about twogeneral categories of toxic cleaning solvents. There isanother type—fluorocarbon refrigerants and solvents;however, special approval is required to obtain and usethem. If you have any questions about the solvent youare going to use, check the maintenance requirementcards (MRCs) for the task; ask your supervisor; orcheck the NSTM, chapters 631 and 670.C H L O R I N A T E D - C L E A N I N GSOLVENTS.—Chlorinated-cleaning solvents can behighly toxic if used improperly. They may be irritatingto the skin and toxic if ingested. Toxic vapors may causedamage to the lungs, eyes, and nervous system when thevapors are present in confined spaces, in spaces withinadequate ventilation, or when the vapor concentrationis increased by heating. Solvents decompose at hightemperatures and produce gases more toxic than thesolvents themselves. Solvents react with alkalies,oxidizers, and powdered metals to produce toxic gases.Common types of chlorinated-cleaning solventsare trichloroethane (inhibited methylchloroform),trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethane, andtetra-chloroethylene (perchloroethylene, dry-cleaningsolvent). Because of the extreme dangers involved, theNavy severely restricts the use of these solvents. Fordetailed restriction information on solvents, refer toNSTM, chapter 670, section 3.6-9Figure 6-4. Approved Navy solvents.
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