Follow safe handling, storage practices for flammable liquids

Solvents, paint thinners, fuel, and other flammable liquids are some of the most hazardous chemicals workers are exposed to. As flammable liquids evaporate, their vapors can ignite and start fires. The vapors are often heavier than air, and they can build up and spread over a wide area. Fires that are fueled by flammable liquids spread quickly and are very dangerous. Following safe handling and storage procedures can reduce the risk of injury or fire in the workplace.

Snuff out ignition sources

Smoking, open flames, sparks, and other ignition sources aren’t allowed where flammable liquids are in use. Keep in mind that electric motors can spark, welding and cutting operations have open flames, and equipment can have hot surfaces. Even hand tools can make sparks. Workers should use only hand tools made from non-sparking alloys, and non-sparking power tools where flammable vapors may be present.

Handle with care

Take extra precautions when flammable liquids are transferred from one container to another. The molecules of these chemicals rub together to create static electricity as they’re poured. The static builds up on the containers, and when the static discharges, the spark can ignite the flammable vapors. To keep the static from building up, the original container must be electrically grounded, and the receiving container must be electrically bonded to the original container. Wires and clips are used to ground and bond containers.

Keep all containers closed when they aren’t in use; this prevents the liquids from evaporating and helps prevent spills.

Safe storage procedures

Only certain types and sizes of containers can be used to store flammable liquids. Usually these are metal containers, however, some types of plastic containers have been approved. Safety cans have self-closing lids and flame arresters. OSHA sets limits on the amounts of flammable liquids that can be stored outside of protected areas. (See the Flammable Liquids standard at 29 CFR 1910.106.) One type of protected storage is the flammable liquid storage cabinet.

Another type of protected storage is the specially designed inside storage room. It meets OSHA’s specifications for ventilation, fire protection, wiring, capacity, and the arrangement of stored items. When a drum of flammable liquid is placed into storage, the bung cap should be replaced with a drum vent; this prevents pressure build-up if the drum is exposed to excessive heat.

Local or state fire codes also may dictate storage requirements; therefore, employers should contact their local fire authorities as they generally know what OSHA requires as well as the requirements found within local and state fire codes. These authorities will be the best source of information regarding flammable liquid storage.