Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Motorcycles: Fundamentals, Service, Repair 18 Use welding and heating equipment only in designated areas. If welding, brazing, or heating parts on the motorcycle is required, remove the fuel tank and rear shocks to a safe distance, at least 50 ft (15.24 m) away. Welding on a gas tank requires special safety precau- tions and must be performed by someone skilled in the process. Do not attempt to weld or braze a leaking gas tank without the proper precautions and training. Wipe up gasoline spills immediately. Do not spread oil absorbent on gasoline because the absorbent will become flammable. Gasoline-contaminated oil absorbent is also con- sidered a hazardous waste. Also, do not use water to dilute the fuel. Water will simply spread the fuel over a wider area. Check to be sure that all floor drain covers are snugly in place. Open drains can cause toe, ankle, and leg injuries. Disconnect the negative battery cable when working on or near the electrical, clutch, or starter systems and before disconnecting any wires or electronic devices. On most bat- teries, the negative terminal is marked with a minus (–) sign and the positive terminal with a plus (+) sign. When removing a battery, be careful not to spill battery electrolyte. Always protect your eyes, skin, and clothing. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, flush your eyes thor- oughly with clean water and get prompt medical attention. Follow OSHA and safety data sheet precautions. Safety data sheets are discussed later in this chapter. Vehicle Safety Rules When moving a motorcycle about the shop, do so with great care. Do not start and ride the vehicle push it around the shop instead. Operate it under power only when necessary. When moving the motorcycle, do not sit on the seat. Stand on one side, preferably the left or side stand side, and move the motorcycle while holding the handlebars with both hands. If the motorcycle is to be parked on its side stand, check the stand to make sure it is secure and not damaged. When working on any motorcycle, check all equipment for proper operation. Make sure the brakes, forks, wheels, handlebars, seats, and other accessories are in good working order. This check is for your safety as well as for the safety of the rider. Inform the motor- cycle’s owner of any problems you find. Whenever you are working on a motorcycle, make sure that it is securely mounted in the stand, lift, or supported by its side stand. Request assistance if needed for heavier units. If a motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or scooter begins to fall, do not attempt to catch the motorcycle. Get out of the way and allow it to drop. When you are test riding a motorcycle on the road, follow the rules of the road. Wear all protective equipment that is necessary and required by law. Be sure to have a valid motorcycle endorsement/license. Obey the local speed limits and do not ride recklessly. If high speed testing is required, use a dynamometer. Note Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) courses are available in most areas. Consider taking MSF courses to gain practical knowledge and enhance your personal and professional development. Fire Prevention The best defense against a fire is to prevent one. Gasoline, oil, and other chemicals pres- ent in most motorcycle shops are highly flammable. Care must be taken when handling or storing fuel and other combustibles, such as cleaning fluids and paints.