2.9
Risks during handling operations, use and maintenance
For safety reasons, all operations must be carried out by staff with the necessary skills and using suitable
equipment. Maintenance must be carried out on a regular and conscientious basis, using only original parts. Gloves
must be worn.
Precautions to be observed when handling petroleum-based products:
RISK OF POISONING OR EXPLOSION
Respect the local regulations in force concerning the handling of petroleum products. Fill up
when the unit is switched off and the engine cold. When filling the tank, smoking, using a
naked flame, producing sparks and making telephone calls are forbidden. After filling, always
check that the tank's filler cap is properly tightened. Clean any traces of fuel with a clean cloth
and wait until the vapours have dispersed before starting the unit.
The fluids used by the units, such as oils and fuels, are dangerous products. Never ingest
DANGER
them. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with the skin.
Precautions to be observed when handling batteries:
RISK OF POISONING OR EXPLOSION
Follow the battery manufacturer's recommendations. Only use insulated tools. Keep away
from fire or naked flames. Always ensure adequate ventilation during charging.
DANGER
2.10
Risks during welding operations
2.10.1 Compulsory protective measures
Before any welding operation:
1.
Ensure the work zone is safe and secure: check it is clean, ensure that the welding zone is well ventilated by fresh air, and
check that the cables are not trip hazards.
2.
Protect others: install protective screens or curtains to protect against radiation, glare and sparks and warn everyone in the
area against looking straight at the arc.
3.
Protect yourself: wear safety goggles with side shields, an approved welding helmet with tinted glass to protect the face
and eyes when welding, clothing made from resistant, flame-proof materials (leather, heavy cotton or wool) and protective
boots.
2.10.2 Fire risks when welding
RISK OF FIRE
Before welding: Remove any combustible substances from your pockets and check
that the protective clothing you are wearing is not soiled. Connect the cable to the part
to be welded as close as possible to the welding zone. Never use the unit inside an
enclosed container such as a tank, drum or duct (risk of bursting).
When welding: Keep all flammable or explosive products (petrol, oil, cloths, etc.) a
minimum distance of 11m from the welding arc. Prevent the electrode from
accidentally coming into contact with metal objects (risk of sparks, explosion).
After welding: If the unit is not being used for welding, do not leave the electrode rod
in the electrode holder or cut the wire at the point of contact. Never cover the unit or
DANGER
its electrode with any type of material while it is in operation or just after it has been
turned off.
2.10.3 Burn risks when welding
Welding generates sparks and ultraviolet and infrared rays which can burn the skin or damage
the eyes.
Parts which have recently been welded will be hot, and may cause burns: ensure that these
IMPORTANT
have time to cool before handling and use.
2.10.4 Electrocution risks when welding
RISK OF ELECTROCUTION
The electrode, the welding sockets and the welding circuit are live as soon as the unit is
switched on: any contact may cause serious burns or death.
DANGER
Wear insulated gloves and use the necessary protection to ensure there is no contact with the work surface or the ground. Remove
the welding cables as soon as the welding operations are complete.
2.10.4.1 Connection and choice of welding cables
The welding cables must be of the minimum length required, they must be kept together and they must pass along the ground. Do
not use cables which have an incorrect cross section or a damaged insulated sheath.
Adhere to the cross sections and lengths for the cable diameter given in this table.
Maximum welding current:
Recommended cable cross section:
Length of
cable used
5 to 10 m
10 to 20 m
15/144
130 A
220 A
mm²
mm²
25
35
35
50
300 A
mm²
50
70