Contents: Scalding ↳ Burns ↳ Fall of a raised car ↳ Fire ↳ Electric shock ↳ Poisoning by vapors or gases ↳ Poisonous and irritating substances ↳ Asbestos ↳ Hydrofluoric acid ↳ Battery ↳ Airbags ↳ Fuel equipment for diesel engines ↳ Need to know ↳
To increase your caution, familiarize yourself with the main types of dangerous situations that may occur when servicing a vehicle.
Scalding
Do not remove the radiator cap or expansion tank until the engine has cooled down.
Immediately after the engine has stopped, engine oil, transmission and steering fluids may also be too hot.
Burns
Any part of the engine, especially the exhaust system, poses a risk of burns. Brake components may be hot immediately after braking.
Fall of a raised car
When working under or near a raised vehicle, always place sturdy supports underneath it or use a ramp or inspection pit.
Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack!
Be careful when loosening or tightening fasteners tightened to high torque if this work is performed on a raised vehicle. In such cases, it is recommended to perform the initial loosening and final tightening with the vehicle lowered.
Fire
The fuel is highly flammable and its vapors are explosive.
Avoid spilling fuel on hot engine surfaces.
Do not smoke or use open flames near the vehicle being repaired. Take precautions against sparks that may come from electrical appliances or plumbing tools.
Fuel vapors are heavier than air, so do not work on the fuel system in an inspection pit.
Fire hazards may include overloads or short circuits in electrical wiring. Be careful when repairing or replacing electrical equipment.
Have a fire extinguisher on hand that is suitable for extinguishing fuel and electrical fires.
Electric shock
High tension wires in the ignition system can be dangerous, especially for people with heart disease.
Do not service the ignition system or adjacent components while the engine is running or the ignition is on.
Mains voltage is also dangerous. Make sure that any equipment that is powered by mains voltage is properly grounded. High voltage areas must be protected by residual current interrupting devices.
Poisoning by vapors or gases
Exhaust gases are poisonous. They contain carbon monoxide, which causes cell death when inhaled. Do not allow the engine to run for long periods indoors.
Also toxic are the vapors of fuels and solvents used for cleaning and thinning paints.
Poisonous and irritating substances
Avoid skin contact with electrolyte, fuel (especially diesel fuel), brake fluid, lubricants and antifreeze. When pouring liquid from one container to another, do not suck the liquid from the hose. If you accidentally swallow any liquid or it gets into your eyes, consult a doctor immediately.
Long-term contact with used motor oil can cause skin cancer. Wear rubber gloves or apply protective cream to your hands. Change any clothing that has come into contact with oil and do not carry oily rags in your pocket.
Air conditioner refrigerant can form toxic gas when in contact with fire, including a cigarette. It can also cause skin burns.
Asbestos
Asbestos dust is a carcinogen. It can cause cancer if inhaled or swallowed. Asbestos is a component of some gaskets, as well as brake and friction linings. When working with such components, you should assume that they contain asbestos.
Hydrofluoric acid
This highly toxic and corrosive substance is formed when certain types of synthetic rubber, which are used to make some sealing rings, cuffs, fuel hoses, etc., are heated above 400°C. The rubber is charred or turns into a solid substance containing fluoric acid. This acid is very stable and does not decompose for years. If it gets on your skin, it is sometimes necessary to remove the affected areas.
If you have to repair a vehicle damaged by fire or handle parts removed from such a vehicle, wear protective gloves and destroy them after work.
Battery
The battery contains sulfuric acid, which is extremely dangerous to skin, eyes and clothing. Be careful when filling and carrying the battery.
Hydrogen gas that may be released from the battery is explosive. Avoid open flames and avoid sparks near the battery. Be careful when connecting and disconnecting the charger and other portable cables.
Airbags
If the airbag deploys unexpectedly, it could cause injury. Be careful when removing the steering wheel and dashboard. Follow the instructions for handling the airbag.
Fuel equipment for diesel engines
The diesel fuel pump creates very high pressure. Be careful when working with the pump and injectors.
Warning! Never place your hand or other body part under the fuel jet from the injector; contact of fuel with skin may cause dangerous consequences.
Need to know
Protect your eyes when using power tools and when working under a vehicle.
Use gloves or barrier cream if necessary.
If you work alone, ask someone to check in on you from time to time to make sure you're okay.
Keep loose clothing and long hair away from moving parts of the vehicle.
Before working on the vehicle, especially on electrical circuits, remove rings, watches, etc.
Before using lifting and supporting devices, make sure that they have sufficient strength.
It is forbidden
Don't try to lift something beyond your capabilities - call for help.
Work slowly - take breaks.
Do not use a faulty tool - it may break off and cause injury.
Do not scatter the tool on the floor around you - someone may trip over it. Wipe up any spilled oil immediately.
Do not allow children or pets to play in or near the vehicle being worked on.