Businesses can handle Class 3 flammable liquids in the following ways: while refueling, workers should not be on equipment, a fire extinguisher should be nearby, and spill kits should be available for faster cleanup.
FREMONT, CA: Fuel is handled, stored, and transported every day by many industries. As gasoline and other types of fuel are extremely flammable, certain safety measures must be followed to ensure workers' safety and prevent catastrophic accidents.
A Class 3 Flammable Liquid: OSHA defines class 3 flammable liquids as having a flash point between 73.4 °F (23 °C) and 140 °F (60 °C).
According to OSHA, the flashpoint is the temperature at which a liquid emits enough vapor to ignite in the air. It's not the liquid itself that catches on fire, but rather the vapors these liquids release when they come into contact with air. Thus, the term "flammable liquid" is a bit misnomer.
The following are examples of class 3 flammable liquids:
Chlorine ethyl
Gasoline
The acetaldehyde chemical.
Petroleum ether.
Flashbacks are explosions or fires that occur even if the source of the flammable liquid is several hundred feet or multiple floors away. Vapors can escape from fuel containers and pool in poorly ventilated areas like basements, sewers, and trenches, causing this dangerous phenomenon. These residual vapors can trigger fire when they come in contact with an ignition source, which will follow their trail back to the flammable liquid sources.
Fuel handling, storing, and transporting best practices: If a company is involved in receiving fuel, fueling vehicles and equipment, filling portable containers, or other related tasks, it is imperative that the entire team is aware of the proper standards and protocols for handling, storing, and transporting class 3 flammable liquids. In OSHA standards 1917.156 and 1926.152, OSHA provides detailed guidance on this matter.
The ways to store Class 3 Flammable liquids are:
For storage and handling, the use of approved containers and portable tanks is recommended.
Liquids that are flammable should never be stored near stairs, exits, or other areas that are normally used for safe passages.
Flammable liquids should be stored away from heat and in well-ventilated areas.
The flammable liquid should not be stored until it is needed.
When transporting fuel from one vehicle to another, it is necessary to ensure that dispensing hoses are not longer than 50 feet.
The maximum amount of flammable liquids that can be stored in a room without an approved metal or wood cabinet is 25 gallons.
The label on approved storage cabinets should clearly state: "Flammable: Keep Away From Open Flames."
Receiving and handling Class 3 Flammable Liquids:
While refueling, workers should not be on equipment, and equipment should be turned off.
If a spill occurs, keeping spill kits handy is vital for quicker cleanup.
Keeping a working fire extinguisher nearby is mandatory.
Whenever workers are not filling or gauging fuel, it is necessary to make sure the fuel caps remain closed.
