Safety Precautions General
– 2 –
Components
Ensure that all personnel are clear of
any rotating parts or moving compo-
nents.
Synthetic rubber seals, O-rings and
gaskets which have been damaged by
fire or come into contact with direct
heat, may produce hazardous fumes
and highly corrosive chemicals.
Allow burnt or decomposed seals etc.
to completely cool. Use impervious pro-
tective clothing and gloves. Work in a
well ventilated area when handling
these components. In the event of
skin contact seek medical attention
immediately.
Electrical
Batteries contain electrolyte (sulfuric
acid) which is a highly corrosive and
toxic substance. Accidental skin/eye
contact with battery electrolyte can
cause serious personal injury.
Always wear protective clothing and
suitable eye protection when handling
batteries and wash hands after use.
WARNING! Battery posts,
terminals and related acces-
sories contain lead and lead
compounds, chemicals
known to the State of Cali-
fornia to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
Always disconnect the batteries before
commencing work on the vehicle. To
minimize the risk of accidental short cir-
cuits when disconnecting the batteries,
ensure that the negative (–) lead is dis-
connected first and the positive (+)
lead last; reverse this procedure when
re-connecting the batteries.
To prevent accidental short circuits do
not place tools/metal objects on or near
the battery terminals.
Batteries produce a highly flammable
and explosive gas while being charged.
It is essential that the area around the
battery is well ventilated and protected
against any flame, spark or intense
heat source. The use of
“boost”
charg-
ers is not recommended.
The ignition switch, steering lock, and
its electrical circuits are designed to
prevent the auxiliary circuits and starter
motor from being energized while the
steering lock is engaged. Serious con-
sequences could result from alteration
or substitution of the ignition switch and
PB1340A.book Page 2 Friday, September 1, 2000 7:40 AM
