Flammable and Combustible Liquids Summary

DOE-HDBK-1015/2-93 FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS Hazards of Chemicals and Gases CH-05 Rev. 0 Page 42 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Summary The following terms are defined: Flammable liquid is one having a flash point below 100 F, and having a vapor pressure not exceeding 40 psia at 100 F. Combustible liquids are liquids with flash points at or above 100 F, but below 200 F. General safety precautions regarding the use, handling, and storage of flammable and combustible liquids include the following: The vapor-air mixture formed from the evaporation of the liquid poses a hazard; therefore, exposures of large liquid surface areas and sources of heat shall be avoided or prevented during handling or storage of these liquids. Accidental mixture of flammable and combustible liquids shall be avoided. Fill and discharge lines and openings, as well as control valves associated with flammable and combustible systems, shall be identified by labels, color coding, or both to prevent mixing different substances. All storage tanks shall be clearly labeled with the name of contents. Transfer lines from different types and classes of flammable products should be kept separate, and preferably, different pumps should be provided for individual products. When handling quantities of flammable liquids up to five gallons, a portable FM (Factory Mutual Engineering Corp.) or UL (Underwriters Laboratory) approved container should be used. The container should be clearly labeled. Smoking, the carrying of strike-anywhere matches, lighters, and other spark-producing devices should not be permitted in a building or area where flammable liquids are stored, handled, or used. Summary The important information from this chapter is summarized below.