Toxicity and...protection!

Routine work on your multihull means preparing, repairing and optimizing your vessel, so you can sail more serenely, faster, more comfortably... To carry out these operations, we frequently have to deal with some very toxic products. Learn about them, and how to protect yourself.

OK, so you look like a spaceman...but you are well protected!

Before using the products referred to above, consult the pictograms carefully.

The recommendations indicated will allow you to measure the toxicity of the products, and equip yourself to work well-protected.

Start by gathering together all the toxic products you use; ensure that the contents are not leaking.

When sailing, only embark the necessary products; they must be stored outside the boat, in the lockers.

Storing dangerous products at home? Er...if it’s possible, prefer the garage or a garden shed, rather than the cellar which is right next to the kitchen!

The worst configuration for handling toxic products is confinement. If you are working inside your boat, open the deck hatches and companionway. And if it’s cold...wait for better weather!

The ideal of course is to work outside. But the weather conditions – cold, damp – may reduce the working time, especially for epoxy-based products

In the boatyard or workshop, take care with ventilation using extractor fans, or...open the doors wide when toxic products are being used.

The basic equipment? A mask (surgeon, simple cartridge, full cartridge), glasses and gloves (two pairs for particularly aggressive products).

A good tip? Sprinkle some talc on your hands before putting on the gloves; this will be easier, you will sweat less and you will be able to take them off with no problems.

Overalls are very useful for protecting your clothes; don’t choose the cheapest ones, as they will tear too easily.

In the case of a leak, storage of certain inflammable products can cause heavy concentrations of highly flammable vapors. It only needs the electrical circuit to be live and faulty...and you have a disaster. Something to think about carefully before layin

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Published 18/05/2017

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Issue: 154

Published: july / aug. 2017

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Let’s not beat about the bush: the main danger from toxic products is ingestion...a problem which – we hope – only concerns very young children! Then comes inhalation, contact with the eyes, then with the skin. Poisoning, dizziness, burning, and allergies are the main consequences to be feared. But with high doses and long-term use, this can become much more serious.

What are these toxic products? To start with, fuels – remember that mechanics have been forbidden to wash their hands in gasoline for...30 years. We continue with cleaning products – trichloroethylene and acetone in first place – glues, mainly those with epoxy and neoprene components, and resins. Polyester, epoxy, benzol peroxide, aromatic amines: lots of products to be handled with care, and above all, not to be inhaled. And we don’t always think about them, but batteries are not exempt from danger. ...

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