You are probably aware of how crucial it is to handle and store chemicals safely, regardless if you work in a manufacturing facility, a mechanical workshop, or in a laboratory. As a class of Dangerous Goods, flammable liquids are essential products and are widely used across a broad range of Australian industries – but they are hazardous.
Using and storing flammable liquids indoors improperly might result in serious risks. Maintaining workplace safety depends on knowing what qualifies as an indoor flammable liquid in Australia.
To help your organisation stay compliant and safe. In this blog post, we will be addressing the question, “What is an indoor flammable liquid?” We will provide advice on how to identify the risks, prevent risks and dangers from these chemicals.
We will also discuss Wholesale Safety Australia’s (WSSA) role in providing safety solutions and identifying hazards associated with handling these liquids. We will also share tips you can implement in your workplace in handling these liquids in order to remain safe and compliant.
What is an Indoor Flammable Liquid?
Flammable liquids are categorised in Australia as liquids that give off vapour, with a low flash point, and can rapidly catch fire when exposed to an ignition source. Typical examples of liquids that emit vapour when mixed with air are: gasoline, kerosene, ethanol, oil-based paints, varnishes, solvents, and resins.
If a flammable liquid’s vapour meets an ignition source, they can easily ignite and burn fast. Due to its volatile nature, fires or even an explosion can occur, it is therefore vital for anyone handling or storing flammable liquids to be well-versed in identifying and isolating ignition sources from flammable liquids.
Each flammable liquid has different levels of flammability, therefore it’s important to consult the Safety Data Sheet for each chemical to learn how to use it safely and how to store it properly. Presence of mind is needed when dealing with flammable liquids with very low flash points.
Australian Classification of Flammable Liquids.
Indoor flammable liquids are regulated substances by various regulating bodies and authorities in Australia to ensure safety for individuals, the environment, and workplaces. The aim of these regulations is to minimise the risks associated with the handling, storage, and use of flammable liquids.
The Australian Dangerous Code (ADG Code) classifies indoor flammable liquids into categories based on their flash points:
Class 3 Liquids.
► Category One: Flash point < 23°C and initial boiling point ≤ 35°C
○ Carbon disulphide
○ Crude oil
○ Diethyl ether
○ Isopropylamine
► Category Two: Flash point < 23°C and initial boiling point ≤ 35°C
○ Acetone
○ Adhesives
○ Benzene
○ Ethanol
○ Isopropyl alcohol
○ Methanol
► Category Three: Flash point ≥ 23°C and ≤ 60°C
○ Jet fuel
○ Kerosene
○ Xylene
► Category Four: Flash point > 60°C and ≤ 93°C
○ Diesel fuel
○ Fuel oil
○ Heating oil
○ Waste oil
Remember that you are exposed to a great risk of fire and explosion when handling flammable liquids. It is therefore important that you have control measures in place to minimise risks in your workplace.
WSSA Indoor Flammable Storage Cabinets.
WSSA is a leading provider of high-quality safety storage solutions for hazardous materials, products, including Class 3 Flammable Liquids, to meet your specific storage needs. We cater to various industries and workplaces across Australia. With our expertise and commitment to quality, WSSA has become a trusted name in the field of safety storage.
Storing flammable liquids, for instance, in just any Dangerous Goods safety cabinet is not sufficient. It is imperative to choose a safety cabinet that’s been constructed to meet the requirements of AS1940-2017.
Our indoor flammable liquids safety cabinets come in various sizes and configurations, giving you the perfect safety cabinet to choose from that will fit your workplace requirements. We have sizes that range from 30 litres, that’s ideal for the top or under workbenches and up to 850 litres capacity.
The superstructure of our indoor flammable liquid storage cabinets are made up of robust components that won’t melt at temperatures below 850 °C. Obviously excluding the gaskets and seals on the cabinet, of course.
Regardless if you run a small-scale operation or a large industrial facility, WSSA has solutions to accommodate different storage needs. You can rest easy knowing you are investing in high-quality storage solutions that put safety first.
WSSA Indoor Flammable Safety Storage Cabinets offer the best safety for your flammable liquids because they are constructed right here in Australia from sturdy materials, for Australian conditions. They are furnished with reliable locking mechanisms, and intended to withstand fire dangers.
We work closely with our clients and offer expert guidance in selecting the right products. Just get in touch with our knowledgeable team to address any inquiries you might have, provide technical support, and ensure a seamless experience throughout the entire process.
Tips to Identify Flammable Liquid Hazards.
The need to identify hazards in connection with flammable liquids, particularly indoors, is important to prevent untoward accidents from ever occurring and maintain a safe working environment. If correct procedures are not observed by your staff, there are considerable risks involved with handling and storage.
Flammable liquids are the most common source of fuel for fires and explosions due to the vapours they produce and low ignition temperature, which can easily be ignited by sparks or nearby open fires.
Below are some essential tips you can implement to identify potential hazards in your place of business:
1. Take Stock and know the Classifications of Your Flammable Liquids.
The identification of the quantities and types of flammable liquids you have in stock is the first step in managing hazards related to their use. You should have a hazardous chemical registry containing a list of dangerous substances you use, together with their updated safety data sheets.
You must also familiarise yourself with the different classes of flammable liquids based on their flash points, as we have listed above. Understanding which class of flammable liquid belongs to will help you assess the risks involved when handling these liquids.
2. Conduct Risk Assessment.
Make a thorough risk evaluation of your workplace to identify locations that utilise or store flammable liquids. You should also identify potential sources of ignition, ventilation setups, and potential areas where leaks or spills may occur.
During the risk assessment procedure and mitigating the risks and dangers of a fire, flammable and combustible materials should also be taken into account. Paper and wood, for instance, can quickly catch fire, which can increase the intensity of fire. You should also identify other flammable items, such as gas cylinders, spray cans, and certain fertilisers during your risk assessment.
3. Understand Labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
Carefully read and review product labels and their respective SDS to gather information about their flammability. This allows you to make informed decisions about handling precautions, emergency procedures in the event of spillage, and proper storage.
4. Implement Proper Storage Solutions.
Use regulation compliant storage cabinets that are specifically designed for storing flammable liquids. WSSA’s Indoor Flammable Liquids Safety Cabinets provide secure and fire-resistant safety storage solutions that can minimise risks associated with these flammable substances.
Safety Solutions.
WSSA offers a variety of safety storage solutions to accommodate your unique storage needs. You may choose ideal indoor flammable liquids cabinets for your workplace needs from a variety of sizes and configurations we have on offer.
WSSA’s cabinets are constructed of durable materials, have safety lock systems that are designed to withstand fire hazards, providing optimum protection for your indoor flammable liquids. We go beyond just providing safety storage cabinets for businesses and industries dealing and working with hazardous materials.
We also provide spill containment and spill control items that are crucial for preventing and controlling spills that could happen during handling, transferring, or transport. WSSA also offers a choice of spill containment pallets, spill kits, absorbents, and bunding solutions to help you maintain clean and safe operations.
WSSA offers a wide range of safety solutions for businesses and enterprises. We are your dependable partner for companies looking for efficient and Australian safety compliant solutions.
In Conclusion.
It is important for businesses and individuals to stay updated with the latest safety guidelines and regulations provided by authorities to maintain workplace safety compliance and maintain safe working conditions. Understanding what classifies as a flammable liquid and implementing proper practices to maintain safety is prime.
By partnering with WSSA and utilising our reliable safety storage solutions, such as indoor flammable liquids safety cabinets, can mitigate risks associated with them.
Take a proactive step towards ensuring the safety of your employees, guests, and your workplace. Effectively eliminate and/or minimise risks associated with flammable liquids by investing in quality WSSA Indoor Flammable Liquids Safety Cabinets today.