Risk of explosion caused by the ignition of methane gas exiting from components of the black water system and gray water system. Risk of injury caused by burns to the skin and eyes and by the inhalation of methane gas or by skin contact with feces. - AS86.00-Z-0003-01A

Wear respiratory protection, protective gloves and safety glasses. Before commencing work, ensure that all sources of ignition have been removed and the black water system has been completely emptied. 

MODEL 903.662 with CODE Z29 (James Cook touring camper, NAFTA) with CODE ZU8 (National version for USA) 

Potential risks 

Risk of explosion 

Methane gas is produced by decomposing organic matter in a sealed environment. Methane gas can ignite. Accidental ignition can cause an explosion.

Risk of injury 

Accidental ignition of methane gas can cause burns to skin and eyes and serious injuries due to the explosion. Nausea and vomiting can occur from inhaling methane gas. Black water can cause skin irritations.

Fig 1: Caution For Ignition Of Methane Gas Exiting From Components Of Black And Gray Water System

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Safety precautions/instructions 

Before commencing work, ensure that all sources of ignition have been removed.

• Before commencing any repair work on the black water and wastewater tanks, first empty and clean both systems as per the legal requirements.
• No open flames or smoking in the work area.
• Avoid the formation of sparks (use spark-inhibiting tools).
• Keep fire extinguishing devices at hand.
• Wear respiratory protection, protective gloves and safety glasses.
• Ensure that the place where repairs are made is adequately ventilated.
• Workshop personnel must demonstrate their knowledge in accordance with the OSHA requirements (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and be able to act accordingly.
• All work involving assembly and disassembly and all leak tests must be performed as per the relevant regulations and requirements of the ANSI and NFPA standards.

First aid measures: 

Remove the affected person from the hazard area.

In case of skin and eye contact, thoroughly and immediately wash with generous amounts of water. For eyes, make sure eyelids are open the entire time. 

In the event of burns, place the affected body part under cold running water for at least 15 min. Cover the affected area with a sterile Metalline burn compress. Apply the Metalline coated side to the burn and wrap loosely with a gauze bandage or a triangular bandage. The burn compress will not stick to the wound, is heat insulating and protects the wound from contamination. 

If inhaled, and if nausea, headaches, visual impairment or irritation of the eyes, nose and throat occur, take the person into the fresh air. If the person is unconscious, place in the recovery position and check breathing and pulse. If there is no breathing or insufficient breathing, the preferable action is to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If necessary, carry out CPR. 

If injuries are serious, consult a physician immediately.