lubricants, and so on) are to be located where they are convenient to the users, secured safely (locked up), and at a safe distance to minimize injury in the event of a mishap. Warning signs pertaining to hazardous materials are required to be posted. The shop safety petty officer is to be aware of all of the locations of these materials in the maintenance shop. All shop personnel have to be briefed and are to understand fully countermeasures to take in the event of an accident. Complete safety instructions for hazardous materials storage are listed in the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM 385-1-1.

STORAGE

Fuels may be stored in underground tanks, fuel bladders, or properly equipped fuel tankers. The method of disbursing fuels depends on whether the site is temporary or not. At a temporary site, drummed fuels may be used. When selecting a fueling site, consider the accessibility of vehicles requiring fuel. Tracklaying equipment and automotive equipment are usually fueled in separate areas to avoid congestion.

Paints and lubricants are inventoried by the supply department. However, you are responsible for storing those in use or drawn in large quantities. Storing lubricants properly includes taking steps to prevent fire or contamination by water. Paints should be stored away from flames. Provide a fire-resistant area for paints stored inside a building. A well-constructed metal CONEX box is generally suitable for small quantities. By using good housekeeping practices, you can help avoid accidents or fires.

Gases normally used by Construction Mechanics include oxygen, acetylene, MAPP-gas, helium, and butane. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual, EM 385-1-1 is the current reference for safe handling and storage of compressed gases.

WARNING

Oil and grease must NOT be allowed to come in contact with gases; if they do, they may explode or burn out of control.

Compressed gas containers will be segregated and stored in the manner prescribed at specific distances from each other and working areas.

Acid or electrolyte used in the battery shop is to be stored in an upright position on a stable platform. This space is to be well ventilated, A facility for quick drenching of the eyes is to be available in this area.

SPILLS AND CLEANUP

When spilled in the shop, fuels are hazardous. They cause fires and accidental falls and they contaminate air and water. Small spills can be cleaned with absorbents that must be disposed of properly. Good housekeeping means fewer accidents.

Spills at fueling stations are normally smaller than bulk fuel spills. They may be absorbed with sand or oil dry types of absorbents. These absorbents must be properly disposed of also.

Fueling spills spell fire! Hosing the affected area with water will dilute the fuel to a degree, but it will also spread the fuel over a larger area. Fuels may contaminate water systems as well as sewer systems. Should a large quantity of volatile fuel enter a sewer system, notify proper authorities.

Oil drums at fueling stations used by the Equipment Operators must have a catch trough for spillage. Oil caught in this way is placed in a container for waste oil. Waste oil from service stations, shops, and lubrication areas is disposed of by re-refining when possible.

Using waste oil as a dust or weed control agent is prohibited, because this oil often washes into water systems during heavy rains. Burning of waste oil contributes to air pollution and is prohibited. Re-using or burning waste oils is allowed in large power plants that can separate contaminates or blend the waste with fuel properly.

Field repair personnel are responsible for collecting oils and fuels drained during repair operations. Spilled lubricants penetrate the soil and could reach the groundwater table. Contaminating the groundwater table may harm local drinking water. Immobilize a ground spill by adding dry soil to soak up the spill. To prevent contamination of the water table, collect the waste lubricants and return them to a collection point for disposal. You must develop contingency plans in case of a hazardous material spill. OPNAVINST 4110.2 (series), Hazardous Material Control and Management, and OPNAVINST 5090.1 (series), Environment and Natural Resources Protection Manual provide detailed information.