SAFE WORKING PROCEDURE SWP No.

88(W)
Page: 1 of 1
Maintenance work on ‘Common Rail’ Diesel
Engines Date: April 2004

Personal Protective
Key Hazards Risks
Equipment
1. Risk of contact with high 1. Eye damage 1. Overalls
pressure diesel spray (1500 2. Skin damage 2. Gloves
bar) 3. Burns from fire 3. Eye protection
2. Risk of fire if diesel spray is in 4. Safety footwear
contact with hot parts 5. Skin barrier cream

DO
• Be aware of the fact that ‘Common Rail’ diesel
engines operate at significantly higher pressures
than conventional diesel engines and therefore
carry certain risks as a result
• Seek medical help if you have any suspicion that
you may have been in skin or eye contact with a
very high pressure diesel spray
• Wait for one minute after engine stops before
commencing repairs
• Always consult vehicle dealer if any doubt as to
correct procedure
• Consider wearing eye protection if you have any
suspicion of a diesel leak
• Be aware of the possible pressure in the system
before you dismantle any component on the
pressure side – pressures can exceed 1500 bar
DO NOT
• Work on or dismantle any part of the
pressurised side of the fuel injection
equipment unless you are trained and
competent to do so
• Do not carry out repairs to injection
equipment with engine running
• Do not carry out repairs until fuel injection
pressure has dropped to zero
• Smoke anywhere near an engine with a
suspicion of a diesel leak

Specific Training Requirements

• Manufacturers technical training courses

References