4 Useful Flammable Material Storage Options

Flammable materials can include gas, liquids and solids. Proper storage of these materials is essential to avoid exposing employees to danger. Here are a few of the most useful flammable liquid storage options:

Refrigerators

Avoid the use of a domestic refrigerator or freezer for storing flammable or combustible materials. They are often built with internal components that can cause a spark which leads to the contents igniting. It is more practical to use the laboratory safe or explosion-proof unit that is purpose-built to accept the particular material.

Safety Cans

The safety cans are mostly limited to 5 gallons or less and include a spout cover and spring closing lid. This type of can is effective at providing accepting pressure relief in the event of being exposed to a fire situation.

Liquid Storage Cabinets

The standard design of the liquid storage cabinets includes multiple vents to help protect the material from an external fire. The vents are generally placed on opposite sides of the unit. Plus, any material placed inside the cabinets must be stored in their own closed container. This type of cabinet should only be used if it is kept and maintained to a high standard. It should be replaced in the event it starts to deteriorate. Avoid any attempt to make repairs or repaint the cabinet. In the event the structural integrity of the cabinet is compromised, there is a greater risk of an explosion or fire should a dangerous situation arise.

Storage Rooms

The storage rooms used to house flammable materials must comply with certain standards, such as having proper ventilation and equipped with electrical fixtures that are explosion-proof. The room should be fitted with the appropriate equipment to clean up in the event of a spill. Also, training should be given to specific employees to ensure they have the ability to clean spills in the event of an emergency.

A further thing to consider with storing flammable materials is to make sure each of the chemicals is compatible and can be stored in the same location. Most chemicals have safety information noted on an outside label. Any that is found to be incompatible should be stored in separated cabinets or rooms divided by a fire rated partition or wall.

Also, it is essential to locate appropriate types and properly sized fire extinguishers in close proximity to the place of storage of these materials. The employees should know when and how to use the fire extinguishers.

Learn more about the safe practices for storing flammable materials at Big Safety.


By Leo Eigenberg


Article Source: 4 Useful Flammable Material Storage Options