Flammable liquids are a unique type of hazardous material. Most companies go to great lengths to protect themselves from other hazardous materials, such as those which are toxic or corrosive, but are often inadequately prepared for the storage, maintenance, and use of flammable liquids. And so, should OSHA come for an inspection, they will immediately be in violation of OSHA Standard 1910.106, which covers the proper handling of flammable liquids.

The standard discusses the tanks used to store flammable liquids. This includes both small cylinders, such as those used for compressed gas like propane, and large ones, such as those which are permanently built inside or outside of a building. It discusses where tanks can be stored, under what circumstances the tanks can be stored, and how often the facility where they are being stored must be audited. Finally, it discusses the actual tanks, including how big they are, what materials they are made of, and what safeguards they must have to be considered up to code.

The standard also discusses the piping, valves, and fittings which are used in conjunction with storage tanks and flammable liquids. OSHA has set rigid guidelines pertaining to what is and is not an acceptable version of each of these items. These guidelines include the designs of these items, materials used for these items, the lining of these items, supports utilized, and testing for these items. One outdated valve on a propane tank, for instance, can lead to a serious problem with OSHA, and an unsafe work environment.

If you have any further questions about flammable liquids or what you can do to ensure you are up to code, please contact us. And if you have anything to add about flammable liquids, please leave a comment.