In high-risk industrial environments that are prone to explosions and flammable materials are stored, the smallest technical defect can cause explosions and fires. To prevent explosions and fires in industrial environments, explosion-proof equipment must be used and safety tips must be taught to employees. In the following, we will learn about safety tips for storing flammable liquids in the workplace.
Safety measures for the storage of flammable liquids in the workplace
Compliance with safety and storage of materials
Observe precautions for safe storage and continuous handling of flammable liquids. Ensure all flammable liquids are securely packed, storage containers and barrels are in good condition and properly labelled. Proper labeling ensures that workers can identify hazards associated with materials and keep them away from incompatible materials and sources of ignition.
Containers damaged during storage should be replaced immediately. Employees should be instructed to keep container lids closed at all times when flammable liquids are not in use, to actively minimize the amount of vapor released into the environment.
Store flammable liquids in a well-ventilated area
The air in the workshops must be periodically tested and controlled at necessary intervals so that the concentration of dust and toxic substances, as well as fiber particles or smoke and water does not exceed the permissible limit.
Flammable liquids emit large amounts of flammable vapors. Note that the smallest spark in the presence of these vapors can cause an explosion, they are also harmful to the human body. Inhalation of excessive amounts of these vapors can lead to suffocation, poisoning and nausea. As a result, it is very important to store these flammable liquids in a well-ventilated environment.
Measures to contain material spillage
Employees must be adequately trained in the proper methods of responding to flammable spills and have access to appropriate absorbents, spill kits, and personal protective equipment to minimize spills and releases of flammable liquids. Quick and effective actions in such incidents are very important and necessary in preventing a catastrophic incident.
Use of explosion-proof lights
Employees spend a lot of time transporting and handling flammable liquids, so adequate lighting is essential to facilitate a safe work environment and prevent accidents. Note that normal lights cannot be used in explosive environments.
Explosion-proof lights are a good option for use in industrial environments, because they create a closed and non-sparking enclosure and prevent flammable gases or vapors from coming into contact with the light source, thus reducing the risk of fire.
Use of anti-explosion equipment in industrial environments
The presence of flammable vapors requires that any electrical equipment used in the vicinity must have explosion-proof capabilities and standards to minimize the risk of explosion.
Contractors must consider intrinsically safe junction boxes (explosion-proof boxes) for making electrical connections and protecting electrical circuits in hazardous environments with flammable vapors. Intrinsically safe junction boxes limit the electrical energy in the circuit to the point where it cannot ignite flammable materials, reducing the potential for sparks or arcs that could cause an explosion.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with potentially hazardous materials such as flammable liquids
The use of anti-explosion equipment is one of the most important safety measures for Storage of flammable liquids in the workplace. If you are looking for flame resistant equipment for your workplace, you can visit theexproof.com website and contact expert consultants.
No smoking
Using tobacco and carrying matches, unsafe lighting devices, fire and spark objects and any other materials that cause explosions and fires are strictly prohibited in such workshops and its privacy. Prohibited points must be marked by signs or other easily visible signs.
Dispose of flammable waste properly
When disposing of flammable waste and combustible liquids, you must observe several points:
- Flammable liquid wastes must be stored in clean drums of compatible, ventilated, grounded, and bonded materials similar to their dispensing drums.
- Garbage containers and their contents must be clearly labeled and separated and stored according to regulations.
- Cloth, paper and other solid materials soaked in flammable liquids should be placed in approved metal waste disposal containers with self-closing lids. These containers should be emptied daily to reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion.
- Never pour waste flammable liquids down the drain. Dispose of them through hazardous waste disposal companies and in accordance with environmental laws, as recommended by local authorities.
- Be careful with “empty” flammable liquid containers, as vapor from even 14ml of flammable liquid is sufficient to create an explosive atmosphere in a typical 180 liter drum.
Compliance with safety tips for storing flammable liquids in the workplace is the first and most important issue. Compliance with safety tips for storing flammable liquids in the workplace is the first and most important issue. Tips such as proper ventilation, use of explosion-proof lights, compliance with safety tips and maintenance of materials, etc. are very important. We hope this article on the storage of flammable liquids in the workplace is useful for you.