General information
This section provides general information that will help reduce the environmental impact of car maintenance and repairs.
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 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 vessels is also possible. All containers in which solvents are stored must have tight-fitting lids. During operation, do not allow excessive consumption of solvents. Alternative solvents may be used instead of commonly used solvents. 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.
Checklist
Always follow the instructions below.
Engines:
- Do not allow engines to run unnecessarily;
- In this way, organize repair processes so that the engines run for the minimum necessary time. Keep track of the direction in which the exhaust gases are emitted.
Operating materials:
- Make sure that containers containing solvents are securely closed.
- Do not overuse solvents.
- Consider replacing solvents with alternative materials.
- Minimize paint waste.
Emissions of harmful gases:
- Use only special equipment for collecting refrigerants;
- Do not allow garbage to be burned in repair areas.
Discharge into the sewer
Most service centers have two sewer systems: rain sewer and city sewer. Rain sewer provides for the discharge of clean water, polluted water can be discharged into the city sewer.
Domestic sewage may be discharged into the city sewer, but under no circumstances should oils, gasoline, solvents, acids, brake fluid, antifreeze and other technical liquids be discharged. If you have any questions, first of all, consult with the service company.
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.
Additional Precautions
Check if your service center has an oil separator connected to drain funnels. This device will reduce negative consequences in case of emergency. Oil separators require regular maintenance.
Checklist
Always follow the instructions below.
Drain to sewer:
- Before draining into the sewer, make sure that the drain does not contain substances prohibited for discharge into the sewer, and that such discharge is not contrary to local legislation.
- Ensure regular maintenance of oil separators.
Measures to prevent the spill of technical fluids:
- Technical fluids must be stored in a specially adapted room;
- Make sure that the lids of the containers are securely fastened in the closed state 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 transfusion of liquids from one container to another should be carried out away from unprotected sewer funnels;
- Ensure that after use, containers with technical fluids must be securely closed with lids;
- 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".
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