Which of the following safety practices is required when handling nylon parachute fabric?

• A. Store fabric in direct sunlight to prevent mold.
• B. Use oil-based lubricants on fabric for smooth packing.
• C. Keep fabric clean and dry, avoid heat and flames, prevent oil/grease contamination, handle gently to avoid snags, and follow anti-static and storage procedures.
• D. Wash fabric with bleach to sterilize.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is preserving the fabric’s integrity and reducing hazards by handling nylon parachute fabric properly. Nylon fibers are damaged by heat, flames, and UV exposure, so keeping the fabric clean, dry, and away from heat or direct sunlight helps prevent weakening, melting, and color/fiber degradation. Oils and greases stick to the fabric and attract dirt, which weakens the material and can create handling or performance issues, so contamination must be avoided. Handling should be gentle to prevent snags or runs that can propagate into larger tears during packing and use. Static buildup from friction can pose a risk of sparks or unwanted dust attraction, so following anti-static procedures helps minimize those risks. Proper storage procedures—clean, dry, cool, and protected from sunlight and contaminants—keep the fabric in ready condition and extend its service life.