TM-9-2320-273-20

TM 9-2320-273-20

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING CAN BE DEADLY

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas, which, when breathed, deprives the body of

oxygen and causes suffocation. Exposure to air contaminated with carbon monoxide produces symptoms

of headache, dizziness, loss of muscular control, apparent drowsiness, or coma. Permanent brain damage

or death can result from severe exposure.

Carbon monoxide occurs in the exhaust fumes of fuel-burning internal combustion engines and can

become dangerous under conditions of inadequate ventilation. The following precautions must be

observed to insure the safety of personnel:

A. DO NOT operate the engine of a vehicle in an enclosed area unless it is ADEQUATELY

VENTILATED.

B. DO NOT idle the engine for long periods without maintaining ADEQUATE VENTILATION

in the personnel compartments.

C. DO NOT drive any vehicle with inspection plates, cover plates, or engine compartment

doors removed unless it is necessary for maintenance purposes.

BE ALERT at all times during vehicle operation for exhaust odors, and exposure symptoms.

If either are present, IMMEDIATELY VENTILATE the personnel compartments. If symp-

toms persist, remove affected personnel from the vehicle and treat as follows:

(1) Exposure to fresh air.

(2) Keep warm.

(3) DO NOT PERMIT EXERCISE.

(4) If necessary, administer artificial respiration (see FM 21-11).

THE BEST DEFENSE AGAINST CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING IS ADEQUATE VENTILATION.

COMPRESSED AIR

Compressed air used for cleaning purposes will not exceed 30 psi. Use only with effective chip guarding

and personal protective equipment (goggles/shield, gloves, etc.).

WINCH HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR (M916 AND M920)

Do not remove fill cap when hydraulic fluid is hot. The hydraulic tank is pressurized to 5 psi. Remove

the fill cap slowly.

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