Click on an area for more specific information. 
Figure 1: Flammable and combustible liquids.
materials pose hazards to employees.
This section primarily focuses on the storage and containment
of flammable and combustible liquids. For more detailed information
regarding these materials, see the following:
The storage and containment of flammable and combustible liquids
can expose workers to the following hazards:
Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading
hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the
Shipbuilding: Confined or Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres
chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.
| Fire and Explosion Hazards |
Figure 2: Drums and containers of flammable cleaning solvents.
Figure 3: Worker spray painting in enclosed space increases fire hazard.
Figure 4: Warning sign clearly informs workers of fire and explosion hazards
of smoking and hot work in a spray area.
Figure 5: Shipyard Competent Person testing flammability and other hazards in spray area.
Potential Hazards:
Fire and explosions may be caused by:
Requirements and Example Solutions:
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| Respiratory Hazards |
Figure 6: Workers protected from toxic cleaning solvents.
Figure 7: Ventilation provided for painting in confined space.
Figure 8: Airline respirator for use when ventilation does not provide adequate safety.
Potential Hazards:Toxic vapors and mists produced by flammable and combustible
liquids may present significant health hazards when transferred,
mixed, or stored. These materials produce vapors that are
often heavier than air, and can become highly-concentrate in confined and
enclosed spaces, causing displacement of oxygen and increasing
health risks.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- A hazard assessment must be made to determine the
proper selection of respirators. [29 CFR 1915.152(b)]
- Many epoxy, anti-fouling, and coal tar pitch paints
may cause respiratory damage, skin sensitization and
possible life-threatening allergic reactions. Use of
these materials required special precautions:
- Air-line respirators
- Gloves
- Respirators must be used in accordance with 29 CFR 1915.154.
[29 CFR 1910.134]
Additional Resources:
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| Contact with Flammable and Combustible Liquids |
Figure 9: Improper practice - Worker exposed to health hazards from skin absorption and eye contact.
Figure 10: Worker protected from toxic paint fumes with proper PPE.
Figure 11: Worker using washing facilities.
Potential Hazards:
Employees working with flammable and combustible liquids are
at risk of harm if skin or eye contact occurs.
- Organ damage through skin or eye absorption.
- Skin or eye burns and irritation.
- Ingestion of contaminated food.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- A hazard assessment must be made to determine the proper
selection of PPE. [29 CFR 1915.152(b)]
- The face, eyes, head, hands and all other exposed body parts of employees handling highly volatile paints
shall be protected. [29 CFR 1915.35(b)(9)]
Also see PPE Selection: Painting.
- Spills or other releases of flammable, combustible, toxic,
corrosive and irritant materials must be cleaned up as work
progresses. [29 CFR 1915.13(b)(5)]
- When clothing becomes saturated with flammable and
combustible liquids, clothing should be changed
immediately.
- Washing facilities must be available in case employees are exposed to these materials. [29 CFR 1915.88(e)(3)]
- Workers must be trained in the hazards and precautions of
the materials they work with in accordance with the Hazard
Communication Standard. [29 CFR 1915.1200]
Additional Information:
Figure 12: Eye wash station.
- Fixed or portable eye wash stations/safety showers
should meet ANSI Z358.1-1998: Emergency Eye Wash and Shower
Equipment.
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| Electrical Hazards |
Figure 13: Portable electrical tools must be double insulated or properly grounded.
Figure 14: Worker inspecting broken insulation on power cable.
- Faulty electrical connection in power tools.
- Open lighting parts.
- Broken insulation on power cords.
Note: Arcing and spark producing tools are
not to be used where flammable liquids are capable of creating a
flammable atmosphere. [29 CFR 1915.36]
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Portable electrical tools must be grounded or double
insulated. [29 CFR 1915.132(a)]
- Temporary lighting must be grounded. [29 CFR 1915.92(c)]
- Power and lighting cables must be inspected by a person
competent to evaluate electrical hazards. (Note: This
is not the Shipyard Competent Person).
[29 CFR 1915.36(a)(5)]
Figure 15: Visual inspection takes defective welding tong out of service.
- All electrical tools or equipment should undergo a visual
inspection prior to use.
- All portable electric hand tools and temporary lighting
systems should utilize Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI).
- Electrical tools and equipment should correspond with the
requirements of the job.
- Electrical equipment and tools should be used with proper
circuit protection for the voltage and amperage used.
- Only qualified electricians should attempt repair of
electrical tools and equipment in use.
- A Ground Assurance Program should be in place for all
electrical tools and equipment used including:
- Records of tools inspected and repaired.
- Records of electrical boxes inspected and repaired.
- Records of electrical extension cords inspected and
repaired.
- Recall of records of the above.
- The requirements of the Ground Assurance Program should be performed on a
regular basis.
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