Health & Safety

The National Vintage Tractor and Engine Club (1967) Ltd Code of Practice and Guidance For Exhibitors of Stationary Engines  (Extracts)

For the purposes of this Code of Practice a stationary engine is considered to be an internal combustion engine powered by petrol, paraffin (kerosene), diesel or gas together with hot air, vacuum engines and similar. 

The loading and unloading of stationary engines should take place within the confines of their own enclosure

Engines shall be located at least 2m (6 ft) from the enclosure fencing or barrier. There shall be at least 1m (3 ft) between adjacent exhibits. There should be an area of at least 1m (3 ft) all round the exhibit that is clear of trip hazards such as tools, fuel cans, seating, etc. 

At all times the engine is running it shall be supervised by the owner or their representative, who shall be a person of not less than 13 years of age who holds appropriate third party public liability insurance.

Children should not be allowed to roam freely around moving machinery. 

Engines should be arranged such that any exposed flywheel is parallel to the enclosure fencing or barrier. Where this is not possible, the top of the flywheel should rotate away from the enclosure fencing or barrier. 

Before refuelling engines should be brought to a standstill and the fuel taps turned off. All sources of ignition shall be removed to at least 2m (6 ft) away. Fuel cans shall have their caps replaced and only sufficient fuel for the immediate requirements should be stored in the vicinity of the engine 

When bottled gas is used to power a stationary engine the gas bottle or container should always be suitably secured to maintain the container in a vertical position and prevent it being displaced.