Flammable Liquid Risks

Hazardous Materials 2

Flammable liquidsĀ areĀ one of the largest groups of hazardous materials.Ā Vapours are invisible, they spread quickly and ignite easily, causing anĀ explosion/fireĀ that includesĀ rapid flame spreadĀ andĀ is extremely difficult to extinguish.Ā 

While substituting with non-flammable alternatives is the only way toĀ eliminateĀ this risk, there are steps you can take to manage it.Ā 

Contain your flammable liquid risksĀ 

Where possible,Ā it isĀ best toĀ substitute with non-flammable alternatives. If this is not an option,Ā it’s important toĀ reduce the volumes of flammable liquids used in production areas and store themĀ in isolated and protected storage.Ā Ā 

Flammable liquid hazardsĀ 

Some commonly used flammable liquids include acetone, ethanol, diesel, kerosene and vegetable oil.Ā They have a lowĀ flashpoint, aroundĀ 60.5 degrees CelsiusĀ andĀ pose a severe fire and explosion hazard.Ā 

Sealed away in vessels, pipes, drums, containers or tanks, flammable liquidsĀ can be controlled.Ā However, theĀ risk isĀ significant ifĀ flammable liquids spill or are accidentally released, exposing them to air and potential ignition sources. While explosions normally require a confined space for vapours to reach sufficient concentration, some more volatile flammable liquids can form a vapour cloud in open spaces if the spill is large enough.Ā Ā 

Who’s at riskĀ 

Any business that uses flammable liquids is potentially at riskĀ of a fire/explosion.Ā Risk control measures include:Ā Ā 

  • KeepĀ theĀ minimum working amount of flammable liquids in process/production areas. Store this supply in small 20L containers in approved fire-rated cabinets. Store bulk quantitiesĀ in an isolated and protected storageĀ as far away as possible.Ā 
  • Periodically check: (a)Ā pipes, tanks and vessels for signs of cracks and holes; and (b) containment bunds and drainage areas/sump pits.Ā The frequencyĀ and type ofĀ tests should be governed by theĀ type andĀ age of the plant/equipment.Ā Ā 
  • Don’t store drums and containers at a height greater than two pallets to prevent the potential for toppling and spilling.Ā Ā 
  • Training:Ā Reduce human errorĀ by establishingĀ work procedures and training programs for all staff, including casuals and contractors.Ā 
  • Ensure easy access to shut off switches and spill kits, for fast response to a spill. Install automatic isolation and shut-down systems where possible.Ā Ā 
  • Identify potential hot spots caused by mechanical friction, chemical reactions or other sources with thermo-graphic equipment. Introduce a formalised Hot Work Management and Permit System.Ā Ā 
  • Ensure that confined areas are adequately ventilated.Ā 
  • InstallĀ appropriate protection systems, such asĀ automatic foam systems to supress flammable liquid fireĀ andĀ automatic gas extinguishing system.Ā Ā 

Barrack Broking is here to assistĀ 

If youĀ have any queries regarding riskĀ management,Ā contact us for a confidential discussion: PhoneĀ 02 9191 7320 or email mail@barrackbroking.com.Ā 

General advice warningĀ 

The information providedĀ in this insightĀ is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the general information provided, please consider the appropriateness of the information provided by having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.Ā 

Before you make any decision about whether to acquire any insurance product you should review our disclosure documents, including our Financial Services Guide (FSG) and the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) relevant to that insurance product.Ā 

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In 1849, an Australian insurance company and mutual society was founded. It opened its doors in a small office above a fruit shop in Sydney, opposite Barrack Gate… and rose to become the largest insurer in the British Empire. Today, Barrack Broking is opening its doors. 170 years later, albeit embracing those same values and insuring Australian greatness.

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