PACIFIC FIRE LIGHTER MK II
HAND HELD DRIP TORCH
INSTRUCTION AND SAFETY MANUAL
1. EMERGENCIES, SAFETY AND FIRST AID
At all times, safety must come first. In an emergency, preservation of life becomes
paramount. Observe wind movement and all other elements effecting fire
behaviour, abandon equipment if necessary, take action to save yours and others
lives. Hand held drip torches operate using a flammable liquid, designed to operate
in a controlled manner to light fires in controlled burning programs or assist in
containing out of control fire. When in operation the fuel outlet nozzle and wick
can become hot and should be treated with caution, otherwise serious burns may
be the result. Flammable fuels are hazardous if not handled with care. The fuel
tank must never be opened while the wick is flaming or hot. Until the wick is cool
the torch must not be re-fueled. Refer to refilling instructions for further safety
information. Comply with storage and emergency procedures appropriate for
flammable liquids. Take precautions to avoid spilling fuel, clean up spilt fuel
promptly and apply environment care in the work. If fuel is spilt on the body or
parts of clothing, work is to cease immediately and the area of spilt fuel must be
thoroughly cleaned with detergent and water and rinsed with clean water. Do not
work in clothing that is contaminated with fuel.
Do not inhale fumes or vapor from fuel. Regardless of cause, treat any burn
promptly.
If fuel gets into your eyes, immediately carry out eye procedure for flammable
liquid. At the work place provide a first aid kit with burns and eye wash items, also
have a person on hand with first aid training.
Personnel are to be aware of emergency, safety and first aid procedures
appropriate to lighting fire with drip torches and on the safe use of flammable
liquids prior to taking part in fir lighting operations. All use is to comply with OH&S
requirements and the agency or employers instructions for the task to be
undertaken.
Personnel protection equipment (protective clothing) is a fundamental requirement
for any work.
Comply with agency or employer requirements for all aspects of the work when
using a Pacific Fire Lighter. The clothing worn by users must comply with any risk
assessment for work to be done. Where there is no specific advice, if lighting in
vegetation it is a good idea for users to be fully clothed in low flammability
clothing (feet and body), preferably in clothing that meets appropriate standards
eg. AS/NZS 4821 AS/NZS 4824.
Sun protection, head protection, eye protection, hearing and respiratory
protections requirements may also apply. Avoid working in hot dusty or smoky
conditions, operating a Pacific Fire Lighter can be hard work, remember to drink
plenty of water. The additional heat from the sun and nearby fires increases the
risk of dehydration. Remember that when lighting a fire in addition to safety there
are legal requirements. Plans for burning may have to be approved and complied
with, and the may require firebreaks to be used with equipment and adults to be
on hand to assist in controlling any fires. Neighbours and fire agencies may have to
Pacific Fire Lighter MKII
Instruction and Safety Manual
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