Flammable/Combustible Liquids 191

acetone

A solvent used in cleaning products and paints. Acetone is considered a Category 2 flammable liquid by OSHA.

American Petroleum Institute

API. A non-profit organization that regulates industrial standards for the oil and natural gas industry. The American Petroleum Institute is one organization that develops standards for flammable liquid storage tank construction.

approved containers

A storage device for flammable and combustible liquids that is deemed safe by a standards organization. Approved containers can be regulated by OSHA, NFPA, DOT, or a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL).

aqueous film-forming foam extinguishers

A fire extinguisher filled with a foaming compound that mixes with water to extinguish fires. Aqueous film-forming foam extinguishers can be used on flammable liquid fires.

benzene

An organic compound used in the manufacture of many plastics, lubricants, and dyes. Benzene is a Category 2 flammable liquid according to OSHA.

boiling point

The temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas below its surface, producing bubbles. Boiling points that are lower can create a larger fire hazard than liquids with high boiling points.

bond wire

A metal wire that connects two objects to reduce the buildup of electrical charges between them. Bond wires are used when transferring flammable and combustible liquids from one container to another.

bonding

A means of physically connecting two electrically conductive objects with a bond wire. Bonding is one common method used to prevent the discharge of static electricity during flammable liquids handling.

butane

A type of petroleum fuel commonly used in torches and lighters. Butane is a Category 1 flammable liquid according to OSHA.

carbon dioxide extinguishers

A fire extinguisher filled with carbon dioxide under extreme pressure. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are used to extinguish electrical (Class C) fires, as well as some flammable liquid (Class B) fires.

Category 1 liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point below 73.4°F (23°C) and a boiling point at or below 95°F (35°C). Category 1 liquids are the most hazardous flammable liquids in OSHA’s category system.

Category 2 liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point below 73.4°F (23°C) and a boiling point above 95°F (35°C). Category 2 liquids are the second most hazardous flammable liquids in OSHA’s category system.

Category 3 liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point at or above 73.4°F (23°C) and at or below 140°F (60°C). Category 3 liquids are less hazardous than Category 1 or 2 liquids in OSHA's category system.

Category 4 liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point above 140°F (60°C) and at or below 199.4°F (93°C). Category 4 liquids are the least hazardous flammable liquids in OSHA’s category system.

chemical instability

The tendency of a substance to undergo chemical reactions. Chemical instability makes a substance more hazardous.

Class B fire extinguishers

A fire extinguisher filled with carbon dioxide or another chemical compound under extreme pressure. Class B fire extinguishers are rated to extinguish flammable liquid (Class B) fires by interrupting the reaction between flammable liquids without spreading them around.

Class I, Division 1

The OSHA designation for a hazardous location where the atmosphere is hazardous during normal operation. An ignition source can cause an explosion in Class I, Division 1 hazards caused by combustible substances.

Class IA liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point below 73°F (22.8°C) and a boiling point below 100°F (37.8°C). Most Class IA liquids are also OSHA Category 1 liquids.

Class IB liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point below 73°F (22.8°C) and a boiling point above 100°F (37.8°C). Most Class IB liquids are also OSHA Category 2 liquids.

Class IC liquids

A flammable liquid with a flash point at or above 73°F (22.8°C) but below 100°F (37.8°C). Most Class IC liquids are also OSHA Category 3 liquids.

Class II liquids

A combustible liquid with a flash point at or above 100°F (37.8°C) but below 140°F (60°C). Most Class II liquids are also OSHA Category 3 liquids.

Class IIIA liquids

A combustible liquid with a flash point at or above 140°F (60°C) but below 200°F (93°C). Most Class IIIA liquids are also OSHA Category 3 liquids.

Class IIIB liquids

A combustible liquid with a flash point at or above 200°F (93°C). Most Class IIIB liquids are regulated by NFPA but are not regulated by OSHA unless they are heated within 30°F (16.7°C) of their flash point.

closed piping systems

A piping system used to transport liquids that is sealed to prevent vapor generation. Closed piping systems help prevent fires from flammable or combustible liquids.

combustible

Able to easily catch fire and burn. The NFPA considers liquids to be combustible if they have a flash point at or above 100°F (37.8°C).

conductor

A material or element that allows free movement of electrons and, therefore, the easy flow of electricity. Conductors are typically metals.

cutting

A machining process that uses a tool to create chips and remove metal from a workpiece. Cutting is a hot work process that creates sparks, which can be a fire hazard near flammable materials.

Department of Transportation

DOT. A department of the U.S. government concerned with the movement of people and goods from one location to another. The Department of Transportation regulates its own system of hazard communication labels.

diesel

A petroleum-based liquid used as fuel for internal combustion engines. Diesel fuel is considered a Category 3 flammable liquid by OSHA.

discharges

Producing current when two objects having a static charge are brought close enough together. Discharge from static electricity can ignite flammable and combustible liquids.

drums

A large metal storage container used for storing substances such as flammable and combustible liquids. Drums for flammable liquid storage must be equipped with safety features such as safety vents.

electric arc

The area in which electricity jumps from one conductor to another. Electric arcs produce extreme heat and light and can ignite flammable and combustible liquids.

electrostatic discharge

ESD. A current produced when two objects having a static charge are brought close enough together to produce an arc or discharge. Electrostatic discharges can ignite flammable and combustible liquids.

ether

An organic compound widely used as a fuel and solvent. Ether is a Category 1 flammable liquid according to OSHA.

evaporate

To turn from a solid or liquid to a gas. Evaporation of flammable or combustible liquids creates an ignitable mixture.

explode

To combust violently and rapidly. Explosions can occur when vapors from flammable or combustible liquids ignite.

fire doors

An approved door that closes automatically and remains closed during a fire emergency. Fire doors, doorframes, and hardware like hinges must be approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

fire flashback

The explosion of a container caused by a fire that occurs outside the container. Fire flashback occurs when flames enter the container by travelling through the flammable or combustible liquid's vapors.

fire prevention plan

FPP. A plan of proactive procedures implemented to avoid fires in the workplace. Fire prevention plans include a list of all major fire hazards, ignition sources, types of fire protection equipment needed, and procedures to keep flammable materials away from ignition sources.

fire protection equipment

A safety device used to put out fires or prevent them from spreading. Fire protection equipment includes fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and hoses.

fire suppression systems

An automatic system used for preventing or extinguishing fires. Fire suppression systems include sprinkler and chemical systems.

flame arrester screen

A mechanical device designed to prevent the buildup of flammable vapors and quickly extinguish a fire in a flammable liquids container. Flame arrester screens are made of double mesh wire and extend inside the container from its nozzle.

flammable

Able to easily catch fire if exposed to an ignition source. Flammable liquids include gasoline, turpentine, and acetone.

flash point

The lowest temperature at which a the surface of a liquid produces enough vapor to form an ignitable mixture. Flash points that are lower pose greater fire hazards than higher flash points.

formaldehyde

A colorless, strong-smelling liquid used to make many plastics and adhesives. Formaldehyde is a Category 4 flammable liquid according to OSHA.

FPP

Fire Prevention Plan. A plan of proactive procedures implemented to avoid fires in the workplace. FPPs include a list of all major fire hazards, ignition sources, types of fire protection equipment needed, and procedures to keep flammable materials away from ignition sources.

friction

A force that resists motion between two components that are in contact with each other. Friction creates a static charge.

fuels

One of a variety substances with the ability to store potential energy released as thermal energy or that can be used to perform work. Fuel gases include methane, propane, acetylene, and natural gas.

glycerin

A colorless, odorless liquid used in soaps, medicines, and lubricants. According to OSHA, glycerin is a Category 4 flammable liquid.

grinding

A finishing process that uses an abrasive tool to remove material from a workpiece surface and achieve highly accurate measurements. Grinding is a hot work process creates sparks and heat, which can be a hazard near flammable materials.

ground wire

A metal wire that connects two objects with the ground to safely dissipate electricity. The ground wire attaches to the containers and the ground to prevent electrostatic discharge during flammable liquids handling.

grounding

A means of providing a safe, alternate path for electricity in case it strays from its intended path. Grounding carries electrical charges away from objects to prevent the buildup of static electricity.

health hazards

A chemical that is capable of causing an acute reaction, a chronic effect, or both. Health hazards can affect the whole body or a particular organ.

hot work

A process that creates a source of ignition, such as flames, heat, or sparks. Hot work includes welding, metal cutting, and grinding.

ignitable mixture

A combination of air and flammable gas or vapor that will catch fire if exposed to an ignition source. Ignitable mixtures form in the air around flammable liquids that are heated above their flash or boiling points.

ignite

To catch on fire. Flammable liquids ignite when an ignition source comes in contact with the vapors released by the liquid.

ignition source

Any process or event capable of causing a fire or explosion. Ignition sources include open flames, sparks, static electricity, and hot surfaces.

incipient stage fires

A fire in its beginning stage. Incipient stage fires can be controlled with portable fire extinguishers and small hose systems without the need for protective clothing or a breathing apparatus.

liquid

A fluid with a fixed volume. Liquids become gasses at their boiling points and solids at their freezing points.

lubricants

A substance, such as oil or grease, used to reduce friction between moving components. Many lubricants are flammable.

multipurpose dry chemical extinguishers

A fire extinguisher used for extinguishing Class A, B, and C fires. Multipurpose extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate or Halotron I as the extinguishing agent and can be used on flammable liquid fires.

National Fire Protection Association

NFPA. A non-profit organization that maintains standards for public safety and fire prevention. The National Fire Protection Association publishes safety standards for flammable and combustible liquids that are often used in conjunction with federal OSHA standards .

NFPA

The National Fire Protection Association. A non-profit organization that maintains standards of public safety and fire prevention. NFPA publishes safety standards for flammable and combustible liquids that are often used in conjunction with federal OSHA standards.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration

OSHA. A government agency under the Department of Labor that sets the standards for working conditions in the United States. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets federal safety standards for flammable liquids in the workplace.

oily waste can

A container used for disposing of rags soaked in flammable and combustible liquids. Oily waste cans feature self-closing lids.

OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration. A government agency under the Department of Labor that sets the standards for working conditions in the United States. OSHA sets federal safety standards for flammable liquids in the workplace.

oxygen

O. A colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that naturally exists in the atmosphere. Oxygen combines with flammable vapor to form ignitable mixtures and serves as fuel for fire.

personal protective equipment

PPE. Any clothing or device used to minimize exposure to hazards and prevent injury. Personal protective equipment includes fire-resistant clothing and hazmat suits.

pictogram

A graphic symbol used to communicate specific information about the hazards of a chemical. Pictograms are included on warning labels, transportation placards, and safety data sheets.

placards

A larger version of a label placed on transport vehicles and bulk packages. Placards are durable and large enough to be seen from some distance, depending on their use.

point of use

A location where a substance is implemented in a process. The point of use for flammable liquids can be especially hazardous ignition sources are nearby.

portable tanks

A storage tank that is not permanently installed in a workplace. Portable tanks for flammable liquids must not exceed 660 gallons (2498.4 liters) of capacity.

residue

A substance deposited or left behind by a reaction or event. Residue from flammable materials must be cleaned up to prevent fires.

safety cans

An approved portable container that holds one to five gallons (3.8 to 18.9 liters) of flammable or combustible liquid. Safety cans must include features like a safety vent and spout cover.

Safety Data Sheet

SDS. The mandatory information that must accompany almost every chemical in the workplace, including flammable and combustible liquids. A Safety Data Sheet includes details like the risks, precautions, and first aid procedures associated with the chemical.

safety disposal can

A container used for safely storing and disposing of up to 5 gallons (18.9 liters) of industrial waste. Safety disposal cans are often used for flammable and combustible liquids.

safety pumps

An OSHA-approved device used to transfer liquids from storage drums to portable containers. The safety pump attaches directly to the drum's opening, and is faster and safer than a self-closing faucet.

safety vents

An opening that helps prevent the contents of a container from reaching temperatures that would cause them to explode. Safety vents are found on most OSHA-approved containers for flammable and combustible liquids.

self-closing safety faucets

An OSHA-approved device used to transfer liquids from storage drums to portable containers. Self-closing safety faucets must be used with a bond wire connecting the storage drum and the nozzle of the portable container.

signal word

A word that indicates the level of severity of a hazard. The signal word “Warning” indicates a less severe hazard, while “Danger” indicates a more severe hazard.

solvents

A chemical or combination of chemicals used to dissolve materials. Solvents are flammable liquids and are often used as cleaning fluids.

spring-closing lid

A lid that uses spring action to close automatically after use. Spring-closing lids limit the amount of oxygen exposure and fire risk when storing flammable and combustible liquids.

static electricity

An electrical charge that builds up due to friction between two dissimilar materials. Static electricity is an ignition source for flammable liquids.

storage cabinet

An enclosed container with shelving used to store various industrial materials. OSHA-approved storage cabinets for flammable and combustible liquids must include specific safety features, like a three-point lock and hazard labeling.

tanks

A storage container that contains large quantities of liquids. Tanks must be made of steel or of a material that does not react with the chemical being stored.

three-point lock

A locking mechanism installed on storage cabinet doors that secures doors at the top, bottom, and sides. Three-point locks are required by OSHA to secure storage cabinets containing flammable and combustible liquids.

turpentine

A liquid extracted from pine trees that is used in many paint thinners and varnishes. Turpentine is a Category 3 flammable liquid according to OHSA.

Underwriters’ Laboratories

UL. A nationally recognized testing laboratory that is dedicated to product safety testing and certification. Underwriters’ Laboratories is one organization that develops standards for flammable liquid storage tank construction.

vapor

The gaseous form of a substance that is a liquid or solid at room temperature. Vapors are produced when the surface of a liquid evaporates.

vaporize

To turn into gas or fumes. Vaporization occurs when liquids evaporate or boil.

ventilation

A means of providing fresh air. Ventilation prevents the buildup of flammable vapors.

waste

An unused material or byproduct of production. Waste from flammable and combustible materials must be disposed of properly to avoid fires.

waste drum

A container used for storing and disposing of large amounts of flammable and combustible liquid waste. Waste drums can commonly hold up to 55 gallons (208.2 liters) of liquid.

welding

A joining process that uses heat, pressure, friction, or a combination of methods to fuse two materials together permanently. Welding is a hot work process that creates hot surfaces and usually requires electricity or an open flame.