Harmful emissions into the atmosphere
Many of the jobs carried out during vehicle maintenance and repair involve the release of gases and vapors into the atmosphere, which contribute to the greenhouse effect, the destruction of the ozone layer and the formation of smog. With the correct organization of repair work, emissions of these gases and vapors will be minimal, which will reduce the harmful impact on the environment.
Vehicle exhaust emissions
During many repair and maintenance work, the engine needs to be started. The exhaust gases in this case must be sucked off and discharged into the atmosphere. In this case, it is necessary to reduce the operating time of the engines to the minimum possible. This will reduce harmful emissions and reduce the inconvenience to people living nearby.
Solvents
Some of the cleaners used contain solvents. If handled carelessly, solvents will evaporate and saturate indoor air. Evaporation of solvents from loosely closed vials is also possible. All containers in which solvents are stored must have tight-fitting lids. During operation, do not allow excessive consumption of solvents. Use low toxicity and non-flammable solvents whenever possible. Always follow the solvent manufacturer's instructions. Many paints and varnishes also contain solvents, so the consumption of paints and varnishes during painting work should be minimized.
Refrigerants
Legislation prohibits the release of any refrigerants into the atmosphere. The release and replacement of refrigerants must be carried out using the special equipment provided.
Discharge into the sewer
Most service centers have two sewer systems: rain sewer and city sewer. Rain sewer provides for the discharge of clean (rain) water. Domestic sewage can be discharged into the city sewer, but under no circumstances should it be discharged: oils, gasoline, solvents, acids, brake fluid, antifreeze and other technical liquids. If you have any questions, please consult your local authorities or water supply company first.
Spillage of technical liquids
Take all precautions to prevent oil, fuel, solvents and other technical fluids from entering the sewer. Work with technical and operating fluids should be carried out in special rooms, the layout of which does not allow special fluids to enter the drain funnels. In the event of a spill of special liquids, immediately localize and clean up the place of the spill. A special kit for cleaning up spilled liquids will greatly facilitate the task.
Checklist
Measures to prevent the spill of technical fluids:
- Technical fluids must be stored in a specially adapted room.
- Make sure container lids are securely closed and cannot be accidentally opened.
- Cranes of large capacities for storing technical liquids and oils must have locking devices that exclude manifestations of vandalism.
- The transfer of liquids from one container to another should be carried out away from unprotected sewer funnels.
- Ensure that all personnel securely close fluid containers after use.
- Keep spill kits available in close proximity to storage and handling areas.
Special kits for cleaning up spilled liquids
Special materials are available for cleaning up spilled liquids. Usually they are available in the form of granules, completely ready for use. They are sold in ordinary packaging containers and are subject to storage. Disposal of these materials is described in detail in the section "Recycling".
Land pollution
Oils, fuels, solvents and other technical liquids, when introduced into the soil, cause its poisoning. These fluids should never be disposed of by dumping into the soil layer. All precautions must be taken to prevent their accidental entry into the soil. If containers with materials to be disposed of are stored in open areas, the liquids contained in them may leak or be washed away by precipitation and then enter the soil layer. Store these materials in appropriate containers to prevent such leakage.
Matters requiring legal approval
Some service centers may obtain permission to discharge sewage from car washes into the sewer. In this case, you need to find out about the permitted substances that may be present in the drain, as well as familiarize yourself with the results of the check carried out by the water supply company.
If a service center organizes a car painting site, then it may be necessary to obtain a license from local authorities to conduct this activity. After obtaining a license, it is necessary to constantly monitor the fulfillment of the conditions for granting a license. Be familiar with the periodic air emissions checks.
Checklist
Always follow the instructions below:
- Find out what permits and licenses you need to obtain to organize a particular type of activity.
- Do not exceed the content of harmful substances in wastewater and atmospheric emissions.
Recycling
One of the most effective ways to reduce environmental hazards is the proper organization of waste collection, storage and disposal. The legislation prohibits the unauthorized removal of waste. Waste disposal companies must have the necessary licenses. Waste disposal should be carried out only at special plants or landfills.
This means that it is necessary not only to monitor the composition of the waste, but also to have the necessary permits and licenses.
Storage and waste management
Ensure that liquid waste does not drain into drains or onto the ground. Waste storage should be organized in such a way as to avoid the release of waste into the soil, surface water and airspace.
Separate collection of waste should be organized: oils, metal, waste batteries, removed and recycled automotive units. This will prevent unwanted contact of various substances in the composition of the waste and facilitate their further disposal.
Recycling
Waste disposal should be carried out in accordance with the following recommendations:
- Fuel, hydraulic fluids, antifreeze fluids and oils: ensure their separate collection and disposal under contract with an authorized contractor.
- Refrigerants: must be replaced with special reusable equipment.
- Detergents: can be discharged into the domestic sewer if properly diluted with water.
- Paints and varnishes, solvents: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor.
- Components: are subject to return to the manufacturer for elimination of defects or disassembly for spare parts and troubleshooting. Unclaimed residues are disposed of in the usual way.
- Spare parts: subject to disassembly and troubleshooting. Unclaimed residues are disposed of in the usual way.
- Metals: it is possible to sell them to salvage purveyors with separate collection.
- Tires: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor. DO NOT attempt to dispose of tires by burning them.
- Asbestos-containing components: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor.
- Air filters: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor.
- Rubber products and plastic products: Dispose of in the usual way.
- Hoses: Dispose of in the usual way.
- Rechargeable batteries: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor.
- Airbags and explosives: arrange for their separate collection and disposal under an agreement with an authorized contractor.
- Electrical components: To be returned to the manufacturer for repair of defects or disassembly for spare parts and troubleshooting. Unclaimed residues are disposed of in the usual way.
- catalytic converters: it is possible to sell them to salvage purveyors with separate collection.
- Package: Recycle/recycle where possible and dispose of in the normal way.
- office trash: The paper and cartridges of copiers can be reused. Unclaimed residues are disposed of in the usual way.
Noise
Works related to checking burglar alarms, straightening the body and other work using pneumatic tools are a source of high noise levels. Pay attention to the time of day when work is carried out with an increased noise level, and the place where such work is carried out - it should be located at a distance from residential buildings, schools, etc.
During some operations, very loud noise can be generated, which can sometimes even cause hearing damage. In these cases, hearing protection should be used.
Solder
Solders are mixtures of different metals, characterized in that the melting point of the mixture is lower than the melting point of the corresponding metals (usually lead and tin). Generally, the use of solder will not produce toxic lead fumes, but only if a gas/air flame is used. Oxy-acetylene torches should not be used, as they heat up the solder much more and can cause lead fumes to be released.
Some fumes may also be released when any type of flame is used on surfaces covered with grease, etc. Inhalation of these vapors should be avoided at all costs.
When removing excess solder, care must be taken to avoid the formation of fine lead dust, which is very poisonous if inhaled. Respiratory protection may be required.
Solder splatter and chips should be collected and removed immediately to prevent general lead air pollution.
Strict personal hygiene practices are essential to avoid lead ingestion or inhalation of solder dust remaining on clothing.
Solvents
These are, for example, acetone, white spirit, toluene, xylene, trichloroethane.
They are used in cleaning and dewaxing materials, paints and varnishes, plastics, resins, thinners, etc.
Some of them may be flammable or combustible.
Solvents come into contact with the skin to degrease it, and repeated or prolonged exposure may lead to irritation and dermatitis. Some substances can penetrate the body through the skin in dangerous to life and health quantities.
Splashes in the eyes can cause severe eye irritation and even loss of vision.
Short-term exposure to high concentrations of vapors or aerosol droplets results in eye and throat irritation, lethargy, drowsiness, dizziness, headache and, in the worst case, loss of consciousness.
Repeated or prolonged exposure to vapors or aerosols at a lower but not harmless concentration, which may not have characteristic warning signs, may cause more serious consequences for life and health.
The entry of such substances into the lungs (e.g. vomiting) - this is the most serious consequence of their ingestion.
Avoid splashing on skin, eyes and clothing. Use protective gloves, goggles and clothing if necessary.
Good ventilation is essential when working with these substances. Avoid breathing vapors and aerosol droplets. Keep containers of these substances tightly closed. Do not work with them in confined spaces.
When spraying materials containing solvents, such as paints, adhesives, various coatings, exhaust ventilation must be used, and in the absence of adequate general ventilation, respiratory protection should be used.
Do not use heat or flame when working with these materials, except as directed by the manufacturer's instructions.
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