FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS 

Flammable liquids can produce vapors that burn readily and intensely and are explosive under certain conditions.  Storage and handling precautions are necessary when they are present.  These precautions should include:

§         One-day supply of flammables in the building at one time.  Larger quantities should be in a separate building

§         All flammables should be stored in safety cans

§         Storage of five-gallon or smaller cans in approved, closed metal cabinets

§         Class B fire extinguishers available in storage areas

§         Labeling of all liquids, with an indication of their flammability and other characteristics

§         Grounding and bonding of drums when pouring liquids into smaller containers to prevent static electricity from igniting vapors.

§         Adequate ventilation at the point of vapor escape

§         Enforced ban on smoking

§         Control of any ignition sources

§         Properly installed explosion-proof electrical equipment

 Any spills should be cleaned up immediately, using noncombustible absorbents. All employees should be trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers.

 Proper disposal of used rags is explained in the article on spontaneous combustion.  It is extremely important that these soiled rags be placed in a metal contained half-filled with water to prevent fires.