Natural Gas Vehicles, Safety Precautions
Danger: Natural gas is highly flammable. Failure to observe the following safety precautions could lead to the ignition of the natural gas, which could cause serious bodily injury or death.
Follow these safety precautions when operating or repairing a natural gas vehicle.
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Do not start the engine if a natural gas leak is detected.
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Do not transfer CNG from one vehicle to another, as a buildup of static electricity could cause a spark and ignite the fuel.
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Do not attempt to cut any fuel supply piping components.
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Avoid open flames or sparks near a natural gas vehicle.
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Cover eyes and exposed skin when working on a natural gas fuel system or fueling a natural gas vehicle.
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Permit no smoking or other ignition sources within thirty feet of a natural gas vehicle.
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Have CO2fire extinguishers (ABC minimum) located in a highly visible and easily accessible location.
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Use Purple-K powder (PKP) or a similar dry powder to extinguish an LNG fire. Do not attempt use water around an LNG fire.
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Always purge the fuel lines before performing maintenance or repairs on a natural gas fuel system. To purge the lines, close the manual fuel shutoff valve, and start the engine. Let the vehicle idle until the fuel lines are empty and the engine stops.
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Always use a natural gas detector to test the system for leaks, whether an odor is present or not. Routinely inspect the fuel filtering and regulating mechanisms, and the fuel lines. A bubble solution can be used to pinpoint the exact location of leaks.
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Always tighten fasteners and fuel connections to the required torque specification. Overtightening or undertightening could cause leaks.
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Close the fuel shutoff valve(s) before performing maintenance and repairs.
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Do not store a natural gas vehicle indoors for any extended period of time. Do not bring a natural gas vehicle indoors unless the workshop is equipped with a methane detection and ventilation system.