18. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Operation of electrical equipment and explosion risk
Besides the actual electricity-related hazards, electrical equipment may also cause a
risk of explosion because of sparks from the equipment.
There is an explosion risk in e.g. in:
a space where paint thinners, solvents, adhesives and fuels are openly
handled.
a poorly ventilated confined space during painting or immediately after
painting when the paint is drying (e.g. in double bottoms, tanks, cabins
that are being painted).
Preventing sparks:
use only explosion proof lighting (marked with Ex) near objects that are
being spray painted
you can also use waterproof lighting when you are working farther
(approx. 4 m) from the object (except in confined spaces)
ventilation equipment must be explosion proof (you can get more
information from your supervisor)
do not forget to ground the spray painting equipment.
Preventing electrical hazards
Always handle the electrical equipment in a correct way. If there is a defect in the
equipment or in the cord, it always causes a hazard when used. Wet skin or clothes
are extremely good conductors of electricity and increase the risk of shock. Always
use only certified and undamaged equipment. If you notice that there is a defect in
the equipment or cord, do not try to fix it yourself, but report it to your supervisor and
return the equipment or cord to the maintenance department. Remember to report
the problem to the maintenance department.
Do not move general lighting. Instead, ask your electrician to install additional lights
or check with your supervisor whether a flashlight should be used. Use only certified
flashlights.
Before beginning any work near crane power supply rails,
make sure the rails are not charged.
Unauthorized staying in the electrical equipment space
is not allowed.
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