Individual containers must be clearly marked to indicate their contents and the degree of flammability. Flammable liquids storage areas require means to prevent the uncontrolled spread of any spillages or leaks. This is usually achieved by ensuring that the storage area floor is impervious and is enclosed with an impervious sill or low bund wall to contain a volume that is at least 110% of the capacity of the largest container.
Flammable liquids should be stored separately from incompatible substances. For example, the extremely flammable Acetone should never be stored with concentrated Nitric Acid. Mixing them together has resulted in numerous fires and explosions. Some substances (such as ammonium nitrate) which, although not combustible themselves, can help other materials to burn rapidly even if air is excluded. When heated in a fire, many of these substances decompose and give off oxygen, which can increase the rate of burning with possible catastrophic consequences. Preferable, gas cylinders should be stored outside. If stored in a building, they should be securely stored on a flat dry surface in an adequately ventilated building or part of a building specifically reserved for this purpose. Cylinders should be protected from external heat sources that may affect their mechanical integrity and should be stored such that they are not at risk from vehicle impact. Gas cylinders should also be stored away from sources of ignition and other flammable materials, due to the potential for explosion.
©SHEilds – All rights reserved FCV3 JUN 2021
Page 18 of 24
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software