SEBU7901-01 11 Safety Section Fire Prevention and Explosion Prevention 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. Inspect all lines and hoses for wear or for deterioration. The hoses must be properly routed. The lines and hoses must have adequate support and secure clamps. Tighten all connections to the recommended torque. Leaks can cause fires. A flash fire may result if the covers for the engine crankcase are removed within fifteen minutes after an emergency shutdown. Oil filters and fuel filters must be properly installed.
The filter housings must be tightened to the proper torque. 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 involves the presence of combustible gases, consult your Caterpillar dealer for additional information about suitable protection devices. Remove all flammable materials such as fuel, oil, and debris from the engine. Do not allow any flammable materials to accumulate on the engine. 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. Do not expose the engine to any flame. Exhaust shields (if equipped) protect hot exhaust components from oil or fuel spray in case of a line, a tube, or a seal failure. Exhaust shields must be installed correctly. g00704059 Illustration 10 Use caution when you are refueling an engine. Do not smoke while you are refueling an engine. Do not refuel an engine near open flames or sparks. Always stop the engine before refueling. 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. All electrical wires must be properly routed and securely attached. 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. 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. Arcing or sparking could cause a fire.
Secure connections, recommended wiring, and properly maintained battery cables will help to prevent arcing or sparking. g00704135 Illustration 11