Safe Handling of Flammable Liquids

1. Flammable Liquids Storage & Handling

2. Proper handling and storage of flammable liquids is important to eliminate dangers and prevent fires

3. Flammable liquids are liquids that have flashpoints at or below 199.4 °F (93 °C) • Flashpoint is the minimum temperature at which the liquid gives off vapors in a high enough concentration that it forms an ignitable mixture with the air near the surface of the liquid Some examples of flammable liquids include oil, gas, solvents, and kerosene

4. Flammable liquids are divided into four categories

5. Hazards include • Explosions • Fires Read the manufacturer’s label on the flammable liquid container before use

6. It is important that all workers involved in handling flammable liquids understand correct handling and storage requirements

7. Flammable liquid storage containers must meet OSHA’s design and construction requirements Only store flammable liquids in approvedglass, plastic, or metal containers and portable tanks that have vapor tight, self-closing covers

9. Safety cans • Need to be an approved container of 5 gal or less • Must have a spring closing lid and spout cover, which safely relieves internal pressure when exposed to fire • Should have flame arrestors or filters in place

10. Flammable liquid storage cabinets must meet OSHA’s design and construction requirements

11. Inside storage rooms and warehouses used to store flammable liquids must be designed and constructed to meet OSHA’s requirements

12. It is very important not to store or use flammable liquids around an ignition source. Remember, it is the vapors that ignite – not the liquid itself. In locations where flammable vapors may be present, precautions must be taken to prevent ignition by eliminating or controlling sources of ignition

13. Sources of ignition may include • Sparks (static, electrical, and mechanical) • Spontaneous ignition • Radiant heat • Chemical and physical-chemical reactions • Open flames • Lightning • Smoking • Cutting and welding • Hot surfaces • Frictional heat

14. Some safe work practices to help prevent the ignition of flammable liquids include • Keep flammable liquid storage areas free of open flames, hot work, smoking, and heat-producing devices • Use flammable liquid containers ONLY for their designated liquid – do NOT intermix containers • Keep flammable liquid containers closed when not in use • Always use the proper cap on containers – never use a rag in place of a lost cap • Only store compatible materials in the same room with flammable liquids

15. If a fire is started, remember, flammables will continue to burn even after the ignition source is removed. Make sure you know and follow your company’s emergency action plan. Fire control devices, such as small hose or portable fire extinguishers, must be available at locations where flammable liquids are stored

16. Know your company’s policy on whether or not you are allowed to attempt to put out fires Only attempt to put out a fire if you are trained and can do so safely

17. If not properly handled and stored, flammable liquids can be extremely dangerous. Always store flammable liquids in approved containers and be sure to check product labels and SDSs to make sure you know the proper precautions for working with flammable liquids.