Caterpillar — Caterpillar Operation and Maintenance Manual (EN)

SEBU8598 11 Safety Section Fire Prevention and Explosion Prevention Oils A flash fire may result if the covers for the engine crankcase are removed within 15 minutes after an emergency shutdown. Hot oil and hot lubricating components can cause personal injury. Do not allow hot oil or hot components to contact the skin. Determine whether the engine will be operated in an environment that allows combustible gases to be drawn into the air inlet system. These gases could cause the engine to overspeed. Personal injury, property damage, or engine damage could result. If the application has a makeup tank, remove the cap for the makeup tank after the engine has stopped.

The filler cap must be cool to the touch. Batteries If the application involves the presence of combustible gases, consult your Cat dealer for additional information about suitable protection devices. The liquid in a battery is an electrolyte. Electrolyte is an acid that can cause personal injury. Do not allow electrolyte to contact the skin or the eyes. Remove all flammable materials such as fuel, oil, and debris from the engine. Do not allow any flammable materials to accumulate on the engine. Do not smoke while checking the battery electrolyte levels. Batteries give off flammable fumes which can explode.

All fluids that are captured in the fluid spill containment basin should be cleaned up immediately. Failure to clean up spilled fluids can cause a fire. Fire may cause personal injury and property damage. Always wear protective glasses when you work with batteries. Wash hands after touching batteries. The use of gloves is recommended. Store fuels and lubricants in properly marked containers away from unauthorized persons. Store oily rags and any flammable materials in protective containers. Do not smoke in areas that are used for storing flammable materials. i05626649 Fire Prevention and Explosion Prevention Do not expose the engine to any flame. SMCS Code:

1000; 4450; 7405 Exhaust shields (if equipped) protect hot exhaust components from oil or fuel spray in a line, a tube, or a seal failure. Exhaust shields must be installed correctly. Do not weld on lines or tanks that contain flammable fluids. Do not flame cut lines or tanks that contain flammable fluid. Clean any such lines or tanks thoroughly with a nonflammable solvent prior to welding or flame cutting. Wiring must be kept in good condition. Properly route and attach all electrical wires. Check all electrical wires daily. Repair any wires that are loose or frayed before you operate the engine. Clean all electrical connections and tighten all electrical connections.

Illustration 9 g00704000 Eliminate all wiring that is unattached or unnecessary. Do not use any wires or cables that are smaller than the recommended gauge. Do not bypass any fuses and/or circuit breakers. Use of personal protection equipment (PPE) may be needed. All fuels, most lubricants, and some coolant mixtures are flammable. Arcing or sparking could cause a fire. Secure connections, recommended wiring, and properly maintained battery cables will help to prevent arcing or sparking. Always perform a Walk-Around Inspection, which may help you identify a fire hazard. Do not operate a product when a fire hazard exists. Contact your Cat dealer for service.

Inspect all lines and hoses for wear or for deterioration. Properly route all hoses. The lines and hoses must have adequate support and secure clamps. Tighten all connections to the recommended torque. Leaks can cause fires. Flammable fluids that are leaking or spilled onto hot surfaces or onto electrical components can cause a fire. Fire may cause personal injury and property damage. Properly install all oil filters and fuel filters. The filter housings must be tightened to the proper torque.