Safe Starting

Engine start-up

Enclosed gasoline engine and fuel tank compartments must have a blower and an underway ventilation system in accordance with the Construction Standards for Small Vessels. The blower must be operated for at least four minutes immediately before every start-up.

Ignition protection

Many older vessels, and even some new ones, have been fitted with converted automotive engines. If your boat is being serviced by the novice handyman or backyard mechanic, it is possible marine parts are being replaced with less expensive automotive versions.

Every pleasure craft must have ignition-protected electrical devices. Ignition-protected components are designed and constructed so they will not ignite a flammable hydrocarbon mixture like gasoline or propane under normal operating conditions.

This protection uses seals and flame arrestors to prevent sparks from escaping when the equipment is operating. Most Canadian ignition-protected components are labelled.

Not sure if your pleasure craft’s engine has ignition protected parts in it? Have it serviced by a certified marine technician. They can tell you if a replacement part (or related work done to the engine) has compromised the engine’s ignition-protection.

Automotive Parts Dangerous in a Marine Environment

Fuel-burning appliances

Propane and butane, often used on boats for fuel-burning appliances, can be dangerous and must be treated with care. These substances may present more risk than gasoline to use.

Gas fumes and leaking propane or butane are heavier than air and will quickly flow into the lower parts of your boat. These substances are extremely difficult to remove and are highly explosive.

Be sure to provide adequate ventilation for gas-burning appliances, even with just a pilot light on.

Ensure portable cooking or heating appliances are secured to guard against leakage due to unexpected movement of the boat. Secure gas cylinders and tanks in an area with good ventilation.

Always attend to an open flame heating, cooking or refrigeration system that uses gaseous fuel. Be sure the fuel-burning equipment installation is in accordance with manufacturer’s recommended practices.

Typical ventilation system:

Typical propane installation with ventilation: