Equipment with combustion engines may be operated for short periods in areas where flammable materials might be ignited.

Equipment with combustion engines may be operated for short periods in areas where flammable materials might be ignited.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Only with permit

Answer: (B)

Ignition sources in flammable environments. Internal combustion engines can spark and emit heat from exhaust, hot surfaces, and moving parts. In areas where flammable vapors or materials are present, those sources can ignite the surroundings even with brief operation. Because the risk is always present, equipment with combustion engines should not be operated in such areas. The safest approach is to use non-ignition sources of power or ensure the atmosphere is cleared of flammable vapors and proper controls and permits are in place if any ignition risk remains.

Ignition sources in flammable environments. Internal combustion engines can spark and emit heat from exhaust, hot surfaces, and moving parts. In areas where flammable vapors or materials are present, those sources can ignite the surroundings even with brief operation. Because the risk is always present, equipment with combustion engines should not be operated in such areas. The safest approach is to use non-ignition sources of power or ensure the atmosphere is cleared of flammable vapors and proper controls and permits are in place if any ignition risk remains.