What are the intake distance requirements?

• A. 25 feet away and 5 feet away from the sides.
• B. 15 feet away and 10 feet away from the sides.
• C. 10 feet away and 5 feet away from the sides.
• D. 20 feet away and 8 feet away from the sides.

Answer: (A)

Safety around engine intakes depends on a defined clearance zone because a running intake creates strong suction that can pull in clothing, tools, or debris and cause injury or engine damage. The required setup of 25 feet straight ahead and 5 feet to the sides establishes a broad front buffer to keep people and equipment out of the suction path and to minimize the chance that loose objects are drawn into the engine. The 25-foot front distance accounts for the reach of debris kicked up by wind and the engine’s intake influence, while the 5-foot side clearance provides a safe lateral margin for workers near the opening. Other options either shorten the front distance, increasing ingestion risk, or push the side distance too far, making operations less practical while still not adequately protecting the intake zone.