LR3/Disco 3
Health and Safety Precautions
Introduction
Modern vehicles contain many materials and liquids which if not handled with care can be hazardous to both personal
health and the environment. Also, many of the procedures associated with vehicle maintenance and repair involve
physical hazards or other risks to health.
This subsection lists some of these hazardous operations and the materials and equipment associated with them.
Precautions necessary to avoid these hazards are identified.
The list is not exhaustive and all operations and procedures and the handling of materials, should be carried out with
health and safety in mind.
Before using any product the Materials Safety Data Sheet supplied by the manufacturer or supplier should be consulted.
Acids and Alkalis
For example - alkalis such as caustic soda used in cleaning materials; acids such as sulphuric acid used in batteries.
Both alkalis and acids are irritant and corrosive to the skin, eyes, nose and throat. They cause burns and can destroy
ordinary protective clothing.
Avoid splashes to the skin, eyes and clothing. Wear suitable protective impervious apron, gloves and goggles. Do not
breath mists.
Make sure access to eye wash bottles, shower and soap are readily available for splashing accidents.
Display Eye Hazard sign.
Air Bags
Highly flammable, explosive – observe No Smoking policy.
Used within the vehicle as safety restraints.
The inflator contains a high-energy propellant which, when ignited, produces a VERY HOT GAS (2500°C).
The gas inflator (generator) used in air bags is Sodium Azide. This material is hermetically sealed in each air bag module
and is completely consumed during deployment. No attempt should be made to open an air bag inflator as this will lead to
the risk of exposure to Sodium Azide. If a gas generator is ruptured, full protective clothing should be worn when dealing
with the spillage.
After normal deployment, gloves and safety goggles should be worn during the handling process.
Deployed air bags should be disposed of in a plastic bag in accordance with local regulations at an approved chemical
waste site.
Following any direct contact with Sodium Azide:
l
Wash affected areas thoroughly with water.
l
SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE.
Air Bags - Do's
WARNING: Many liquids and other substances used in motor vehicles are poisonous and should under
no circumstances be consumed and should, as far as possible, be kept from contact with the skin. These
liquids and substances include acid, anti-freeze, brake fluid, fuel, windscreen washer additives, lubricants,
refrigerants and various adhesives.
