DOE-HDBK-1015/2-93
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
Hazards of Chemicals and Gases
CH-05
Rev. 0
Page 30
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
One of the most devastating industrial accidents is an explosion resulting in fire.
Carelessness is often the root cause. Improper handling and storage can also
lead to disastrous results. This chapter introduces precautions taken to avoid
accidents with flammable and combustible liquids.
EO 1.12
DEFINE the following terms:
a.
Flammable liquid
b.
Combustible liquid
EO 1.13
STATE general safety precautions regarding the use,
handling, and storage of flammable and combustible liquids.
EO 1.14
STATE the reasons for and techniques used in bonding and
grounding of flammable liquid containers.
EO 1.15
LIST four sources of ignition of flammable liquids.
EO 1.16
STATE the health hazards associated with flammable and/or
combustible liquids.
Flammable And Combustible Liquids Definitions
As defined by OSHA, DOT, and the National Fire Protection Association Standard, Flammable
and Combustible Liquids Code, NFPA 30, a 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
those with flash points at or above 100 F, but below 200 F. Although combustible liquids do
not ignite as easily as flammable liquids, they must be handled with caution because of their
ability to ignite under certain conditions. Flammable and combustible liquids are further
subdivided by NFPA 30 into classes as follows.
Class I
-
Those liquids having flash points below 100 F.
IA
-
Those liquids having flash points below 73 F and having a boiling point
below 100 F.
IB
-
Those liquids having flash points below 73 F and having a boiling point at
or above 100 F.
