If it is necessary to enter an aircraft's fuel tank, which procedure should be avoided?

When entering an aircraft's fuel tank, the safety and health of personnel are of paramount importance. Conducting defueling and tank purging operations in an air-conditioned building should be avoided primarily because fuel vapors are highly flammable and can pose an explosion risk. An air-conditioned environment may create a scenario where flammable vapors accumulate without adequate ventilation, increasing the risk of ignition.

Moreover, such operations typically require adherence to strict safety protocols, including the proper management of airborne vapors, to ensure a safe working environment. Performing these tasks in an open environment or one that allows proper ventilation is crucial to mitigating risks associated with flammable substances. This helps ensure that the work does not introduce hazardous conditions that could lead to an accident or fire. Therefore, any practice that could potentially compromise safety, such as working in an air-conditioned space where vapor concentration might not be effectively managed, should be strictly avoided.