• External storage is preferable to internal • Keep storage areas well ventilated
• Ideally store containers of flammable materials in a bund, drip tray or other spill containment • Prevent container from external damage, for example, impact damage from forklift trucks. • Isolate leaking or damaged containers • Lighting for storage areas for flammable liquids must be 'flameproof' or similar • Prevent unauthorised access to flammable materials • Display hazard warning signs on storage areas • Any person storing flammable materials must be trained
Materials in Transport: • If large quantities of flammable materials need to be transported in the workplace a piped system should be considered. • Ensure lids, pallets, etc are all secured before transportation of flammable materials. • Purpose designed metal flameproof containers should be used to transport small quantities of flammable liquids, with lids and anti-spill features. • Any person transporting flammable materials must be trained. Control of sources of oxygen As previously discussed, one of the elements for a fire to proceed is 'Oxygen'. Without this element fire cannot survive. Areas where there are sufficient oxygen levels in the air enable us to breathe and help the fire to survive. Combustion cannot take place if there is not enough oxygen. If the oxygen content in the protected area is reduced, then flammability of the materials in that area is reduced. Where there is insufficient oxygen, fire can neither break out nor sustain itself. Natural ventilation can come in the form of open windows or doors, it uses outdoor air flow caused by pressure differences between the building and its surrounding to provide ventilation. It does not use fans or mechanical aids. Forced ventilation or air-conditioning systems are used to control indoor air quality and are used to enhance natural ventilation. These systems provide a fire with a ready source of oxygen, which will help in the fire growth. Oxidising materials may also be kept within the workplace in small or large quantities. They can supply combustible substances with oxygen and support a fire even when air is not present. Oxidising materials can: • Speed up the development of a fire and make it burn more intensely • Cause substances to burn rapidly that do not normally burn readily in the air • Cause combustible materials to burn spontaneously without the presence of an ignition source such as a spark or flame Safe Systems of Work
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