SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING

Knowledge of Equipment Each piece of equipment used in the Navy is designed to perform a specific function. For example, material handling equipment can safely handle a specified maximum load and operate under specified conditions. You create a potential hazard when you use equipment beyond its rated capacity or for other than its intended purpose. You must use a piece of equipment only for the purpose for which it is designed. As an example, when handling flammable gases, you must use the electric-powered and spark-enclosed equipment. Equipment must be in proper operating condition. The operators must ensure that the equipment is mechanically safe. Operators must report all unsafe equipment conditions to the supervisor for correction or replacement. Equipment operators should also familiarize themselves with the layout of the area they are working in. Some of the factors to consider in the layout are distance of travel, type of terrain, elevation changes, and aisles. The greater the distance traveled or the rougher the terrain, the greater the potential for accidents. Changes in elevation involve extra handling and increases the potential for accidents. Narrow aisles, turns and jogs in aisles, and protruding objects also are safety hazards. SAFETY EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING The use of safety equipment and clothing provide extra protection to personnel. The following text describes some of the items that you can use to protect yourself while working. Synthetic Rubber Gloves You must wear synthetic rubber gloves for protection when handling ordinary commercial concentrations of harmful chemicals, petroleum products, or chlorinated solvents. Natural Rubber Gloves You must wear natural rubber gloves when handling high concentrations of acids and alkalis, organic solvents, or highly toxic or corrosive chemicals. DO NOT use this type of glove for protection against petroleum products and chlorinated solvents. General-Purpose Work Gloves You must wear general-purpose work gloves for protection against cuts or abrasions when handling sharp or rough material. These gloves are made from leather material that cover the palm, thumb, and index finger areas. When using gloves with leather parts, make sure the leather parts do not become greasy. Hoods, Aprons, Sleeves, and Suits You must wear hoods, aprons, sleeves, or suits made from natural or synthetic rubber or acid-resisting rubberized cloth when handling acid. Rubber-framed Goggles You must use rubber framed goggles to protect your eyes against smoke, gas, fine dust, mists, and sprays of liquid or substances. Spectacle Goggles You must wear spectacle goggles with side shields for protection against flying particles of dust, chips, and machine cuttings. Protective Helmet You must wear a helmet for protection against falling or flying objects. While working in cramped places, you must wear a helmet to protect you from bumps against hard objects. A helmet is mandatory when you are working in a shipyard or in areas where you are hoisting and lifting materials. Safety Shoes You must wear authorized safety shoes while working in foot-hazardous areas. SAFE STORAGE RULES Good housekeeping practices are essential to safety as well as to efficient storage operations. Storage areas maintained in a clean and orderly condition can prevent many potential accidents and fires. Adequate lighting in storage areas decreases the hazards of accidents and enhances personnel health and morale. Place and secure storage materials in a safe manner that will prevent them from shifting or falling. Stack pallet loads with 2 inches of clearance on both sides to prevent dislocation of adjacent units. 6-17