8 Ways to Successfully Manage Flammable and Combustible Liquid Risks

1.  Storage

All storage must be in tanks or closed containers. The quantity of liquids allowed in manufacturing/production areas (outside of primary storage) is limited according to the liquid class and whether a container or a tank is utilized for storage. Adequate ventilation must be maintained. Means of spill or leakage prevention, control, cleanup, and disposal must be provided. Any possible source of ignition must be eliminated when using Class I liquids.

2.  Transfer

Transfer of liquids must be separated from other operations by adequate distance or fire-resistant construction. A closed piping system, safety cans, or a gravity system may be used for transfer. Air pressure transfer is prohibited

3.  Fire Control

Fire control equipment, water supply, and any special extinguishing equipment must be adequately maintained and periodically inspected and be appropriate in quantity and type for the potential hazards. Local fire marshals must be consulted to determine specific requirements.

4.  Sources of Ignition

Possible sources of ignition must be carefully identified and controlled. Dispensing of Class I liquids must be done with proper grounding and bonding.

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5.  Electrical

Locations (including surrounding areas) where flammable vapor-air mixtures may exist under normal conditions must meet Class I, Division 1 standards. Locations (including surrounding areas) where flammable vapor-air mixtures may exist under abnormal conditions must meet Class I, Division 2 standards. If only Class II and III liquids are used, ordinary electrical equipment is permitted.

6.  Housekeeping

Housekeeping must be adequate to control leaks and prevent spills. Aisle space must be adequate for fire response access. Combustible wastes and residues must be minimized, stored properly, and disposed of daily. Ground area around buildings and unit operating areas must be kept free of weeds, trash, or other unnecessary combustible materials.

7.  Maintenance and Repair

Maintenance and repair, including hot work, are permitted only under the supervision of a knowledgeable and responsible individual in charge. This individual must make an inspection of the area before and after work.

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8.  Training

Safety training programs for employees who work with or around flammable and combustible materials should cover all the basics:

• Emergency evacuation
• Use of portable fire extinguishers
• Spill response procedures
• Use, handling practices, procedures (including storage and transfer)
• Area limitations such as no-smoking rules, open-flame rules, etc.
• Ventilation systems
• Housekeeping procedures
• Special concerns specific to your facility, safety programs, and procedures

Supervisor training programs should cover:

• Training responsibilities
• Supervisory responsibilities
• Necessity for careful supervision of safety precautions
• Fire control and maintenance procedures
• Requirement that hot work and spark-producing tools be used only under the supervision of a person in responsible charge, and that that individual make an inspection of the are a before such work commences
• Housekeeping requirements including access, waste and residue, and clear zones
• Transfer requirements including grounding and bonding
• Recordkeeping requirements for certain operations, such as for Class I liquid storage tanks at service stations

Tomorrow, we’ll tell you about a disastrous fire at a solvent factory where the safety recommendations outlined in today’s Advisor were apparently not heeded—or perhaps not known—by the people at the plant who should have known how to handle flammable liquids safely.

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