If your business uses Class 3 Flammable Liquids, ensuring their safe and compliant storage is crucial to protect your workplace and team. These hazardous substances release highly flammable vapours even at room temperature. When exposed to ignition sources or incompatible chemicals, these vapours can lead to catastrophic fires or explosions.
This article outlines key storage requirements to help you maintain compliance and safety, including proper storage solutions, segregation of ignition sources, ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and safety data sheet management. Following these guidelines can mean the difference between a safe workplace and a hazardous one.
Store Flammable Liquids in a Compliant Cabinet or Store
Flammable liquids must be stored in facilities designed and manufactured in compliance with Australian Standards AS 1940. This standard specifies requirements for Class 3 storage cabinets and outdoor chemical storage containers, including construction materials, spill containment, ventilation, chemical segregation, and dangerous goods signage.
By choosing compliant storage solutions and ensuring their proper installation and maintenance, you can confidently meet your chemical compliance obligations. Remember, under Section 363 of Australian WHS Regulations, storage systems like flammable liquids cabinets must only be used for their intended purpose—storing Class 3 flammable liquids.
Isolate Ignition Sources from Flammable Liquids
Due to their low flash points, Class 3 flammable liquids can ignite easily, making it essential to keep them separated from ignition sources by at least 3 metres. Ignition sources may not always be obvious, so conducting a thorough dangerous goods risk assessment is essential.
Common Ignition Sources
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Grinding and welding sparks
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Soldering irons
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Power points
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Pilot lights
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Electric motors
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Cigarette lighters
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Arc welding equipment
Segregating flammable liquids from these and other thermal, electrical, mechanical, or chemical ignition sources is critical to minimising fire hazards.
Segregate Flammable Liquids from Incompatible Substances
Flammable liquids must be stored away from incompatible substances to prevent violent chemical reactions, fires, or explosions. These reactions can release toxic or corrosive vapours, causing significant harm.
Using a dangerous goods segregation chart can help determine safe distances, but as a general rule, keep flammable liquids at least 3 to 5 metres away from incompatible chemicals. Proper segregation protects your workplace and the surrounding environment.
Keep Flammable Liquids Away from Protected Places
To further reduce risks, flammable liquid storage facilities should be separated from protected places such as:
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Dwellings or residential buildings
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Schools or colleges
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Hospitals
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Theatres or public buildings
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Any area where people commonly gather
Required separation distances depend on the quantity and packing group of the flammable liquids being stored. Consult Table 4.1 in Section 4 of AS 1940 for specific requirements.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Class 3 flammable liquids emit vapours that can cause health issues, such as headaches, nausea, and even asphyxiation if inhaled in high concentrations. To mitigate these risks, flammable liquids must be stored in well-ventilated areas.
Mechanical ventilation systems can be installed to maintain vapour concentrations below workplace exposure standards, ensuring the safety of your team and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Provide and Maintain Proper PPE
Workers handling or decanting flammable liquids require personal protective equipment (PPE) to shield against splashes and exposure. The specific PPE requirements can be found in the safety data sheets of the flammable liquids on-site and include:
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Protective clothing
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Eye protection
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Safety gloves
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Safety helmets
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Respiratory protection
PPE must be fit-for-purpose, in good condition, and stored in a designated PPE cabinet for quick and safe access. Never store PPE inside flammable liquids cabinets to avoid contamination.
Maintain Current Safety Data Sheets
Safety data sheets (SDS) are essential for understanding the hazards and handling requirements of Class 3 flammable liquids. Ensure SDS are:
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No more than 5 years old
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Easily accessible to staff and emergency responders
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Stored in a clearly marked, waterproof document holder attached to flammable liquids cabinets or storage areas
Keeping current SDS on hand is a critical component of chemical compliance.
Conclusion
Storing Class 3 flammable liquids safely and compliantly involves proper storage solutions, segregation from ignition sources and incompatible substances, adequate ventilation, provision of PPE, and up-to-date safety data sheets. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce risks and maintain a safe, compliant workplace.
For more information on safe chemical storage, explore Thermoline’s range of compliant storage solutions designed to meet Australian Standards.
