Before starting a vessel with an inboard gasoline engine, what is a critical safety check to perform?

When preparing to start a vessel with an inboard gasoline engine, conducting a thorough check for leaks and ensuring adequate ventilation in the machinery space is crucial for safety. Gasoline vapors are highly flammable and can create a dangerous situation if they accumulate in an enclosed space. By checking for fuel leaks, the operator can prevent the risk of fire or explosion, which could lead to severe accidents or injuries.

Ventilating the machinery space helps to disperse any potentially explosive gasoline vapors, ensuring a safer environment for starting the engine. This is particularly important because, in the absence of proper ventilation, vapors can build up and reach explosive concentrations. Therefore, addressing these concerns by inspecting for leaks and ensuring proper ventilation directly contributes to onboard safety and helps mitigate serious hazards associated with operating gasoline engines.