Many substances we use every day, such as gasoline, kerosene, alcohol, chemicals and solvents, are flammable or combustible.  Even though these substances are common, they can be very dangerous, causing fires or explosions that can result in property damage, injuries, and death.

Make sure you know the liquid’s flashpoint:

The flashpoint is the lowest temperature at which the vapors from a liquid are concentrated enough to ignite.

  • Flammable liquids have a flash point below 100 degrees F.
  • Combustible liquids have a flash point at 100 degrees F or higher.
  • The lower the flash point, the more hazardous the liquid.
  • It’s the vapors from the liquid the can catch fire, even at low temperatures.
  • Consult the MSDS to find out what the flash point of a liquid is.
Follow these safety rules for working with flammable and combustible liquids:
  • Keep all ignition sources away (open flames, cigarettes, sparks, etc.)
  • Use only approved fireproof containers for storage or transfer.
  • Take only the amount of liquid you need for the job.
  • Keep containers closed when not in use.
  • Follow all warning signs, instructions on labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), as well as company rules, for working with flammable liquids.