2. 1
Safety in the Small Gas Engine Shop

3. Learning Objectives
Explain why a clean, well-organized shop is extremely important.
List several dangers associated with working in a small engine shop.
Explain the importance of maintaining and using tools properly.
Describe methods for minimizing the risks involved in working with small engines.
Explain the function of OSHA.

4. Shop Safety Small engine shop can be dangerous
Special precautions should be taken when working on small engines
Safety is the responsibility of everyone in the shop

5. Proper Housekeeping Shop should be clean and well organized
Floor should be free from oil and dirt
Use spill control devices
Store tools in toolbox or workbench
Return all unused supplies to storage area
Discard waste in appropriate containers

6. Proper Housekeeping Keeping shop clean will minimize fire hazards
Possibility of fire increases when combustible materials are allowed to accumulate
Oil- or solvent-saturated waste should be stored in a proper container

7. Hazardous Materials Store chemicals in safe place
Store flammable liquids in closed safety containers
Safety containers should be stored in safety cabinets

8. Hazardous Materials Gasoline
Vapors can explode if exposed to sparks or flames
Low flashpoint
Never fill the fuel tank of a hot or running engine
Never use as a cleaning solvent

9. Hazardous Materials Do not splash battery acid on clothes or skin
Battery can explode if hydrogen gas is ignited
Many chemicals can cause serious burns
Avoid skin contact
Wear rubber gloves and safety goggles when working with cleaning solvents

10. Protective Gear Avoid loose-fitting clothing
Long hair should be worn up or secured under a cap
Keep hands, feet, hair, and clothing away from rotating engine parts

11. Protective Gear Safety glasses Safety goggles Face shield
Impact resistant lenses
May have side shields
Safety goggles
Fit tightly against face
Face shield
Covers entire face

12. Personal Protective Gear
Safety shoes
Non-skid soles
Steel inserts
Hearing protection
Headphone-type protectors
Earplugs
Respirators
Choose type designed for contaminant present

13. Ventilation
Adequate ventilation extremely important in small engine shop
Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide
Can quickly accumulate in shop
Can cause death
Solvents used in shop can release toxic fumes

14. Tool Safety Hand tools Power tools Keep clean and in good condition
Use only for intended application
Power tools
Keep in good condition
Make sure guards and shields are in place
Never make adjustments with tool running
Should be equipped with dead man switch

15. Compressed Air Safety Wear safety goggles
Check all connections before turning on system
Regulate cleaning air to no more than 30 psi
Never use to clean clothing or hair
Never set hose down without shutting off air nozzle

16. Proper Lifting Ask for help when lifting heavy objects
Lift with legs, not back
Do not carry items that will obstruct your view
Make several trips if needed
Never reach for heavy overhead items

17. Electrical Safety Check wires for cracking or fraying
Make sure all electrical equipment is properly grounded or double insulated
Extension cords should not be used as permanent substitutes for fixed wiring
Do not overload circuits

18. Engine Operating Safety
Do not exceed maximum recommended engine speed
Keep hands, feet, and hair away from rotating parts
Avoid touching hot engine parts
Allow to cool before attempting repairs

19. Engine Operating Safety
Do not touch electrical parts with engine running
Some systems produce more than 30,000 volts
Can cause electrical shock
Do not operate engine without muffler
Wear ear protection

20. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Store emergency equipment in highly visible areas
List emergency numbers next to each phone
Make sure first aid kits are located in prominent locations
Make sure kits are properly stocked

21. Fire Extinguishers Mounted in highly-visible, unobstructed area
Inspect monthly
Fire classifications
Class A
Class B
Class C
Using the wrong extinguisher can be dangerous

22. Figure Extinguishers

23. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Establishes rules for safe work practices
All businesses and industries required to follow OSHA regulations
Regulations require employers to provide employees access to material safety sheets

24. Why is it important to keep the shop clean and well organized
Why is it important to keep the shop clean and well organized? Oily floors are slippery and may cause falls. Clutter may be a tripping hazard. Keeping the work area clean minimizes fire hazards.

25. Why must you never fill the tank of a hot or running engine
Why must you never fill the tank of a hot or running engine? Gasoline is extremely flammable and its vapors may ignite.

26. When using a wrench, why should you pull the handle toward your body
When using a wrench, why should you pull the handle toward your body? Pulling on the handle may help prevent injury if the tool slips.

27. Why should engines never be operated at speeds greater than those recommended by the manufacturer? Excessive engine speed can cause parts to break loose from the engine, causing severe injury.

28. What is the function of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)? OSHA establishes rules for safe work practices that all businesses and industries are required to follow.