Flammable materials are a necessary part of many industrial and manufacturing processes. While precautions ensure the containment of these materials, there is always some risk of ignition. Procedures for hot work and maintenance tasks lower the risk of heat and sparks from reaching flammable vapors. But, what about the electrical equipment we use every day? […]
A catastrophic explosion rocked the island country of Cyprus in 2011. Approximately 100 containers holding explosives ignited. The results were devastating – 12 people lost their lives. It also took out a local power station and injured another 60 people. As this incident demonstrates, improper storage of ammunition and explosives can be detrimental. What is […]
Working with flammable, combustible or corrosive liquids can be confusing. There are many regulations that apply to their storage, handling and dispensing, designed to protect employees from injury and prevent fires and explosions. Failing to meet the requirements carries the potential for large penalties and fines. You can help avoid these penalties by storing chemicals […]
Municipal waste collection services and landfill sites have restrictions on acceptable waste. But, household owners use hazardous materials as part of their normal daily lives. Landfills won’t accept products like paints, cleaners, oils, batteries and pesticides. Most hazardous products feature clear warning labels such as CAUTION, FLAMMABLE, TOXIC, etc. Educating communities about reducing their use […]
Paint falls under the coatings industry. It is one of many different types of coatings made and used. The American Coatings Association (ACA) categorizes coatings depending on their use: Architectural coatings (like paint) make buildings beautiful. Industrial coatings finish products during manufacture at the factory. Companies use special purpose coatings after goods leave the factory. […]
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) is a clear and colorless liquid. It gives off a sweet, pungent odor like that of acetone. It has a flash point of approximately 21 degrees F and its vapors are heavier than air, causing them to settle near the floor when a container of MEK is open to the atmosphere. […]
Flammable Liquid Flavoring Liquid flavorings are specialized chemicals used in food industry manufacturing processes. Natural flavorants are extracted from plants as essential oils, while synthetic flavorants are made from chemicals where alcohol, glycerol, propylene and glycol are used as solvents. Even though the food industry is not normally associated with fire risk and flammable substances, […]
What are Lithium Batteries? Lithium ion batteries are the most commonly used rechargeable batteries in the world today. The high energy density of Lithium ions enables a compact battery to pack a lot of power, while their ability to handle a high number of cycles makes them suitable for recharging. Lithium ions settle on the […]
Anhydrous hydrogen chloride (AHCI) is a clear, colorless gas with a very strong odor. Anhydrous HCI is extremely attracted to water and when exposed to air, it quickly reacts with the moisture in the air forming corrosive fumes, commonly known as aqueous hydrochloric acid. This type of acid emits a pungent odor and strong fumes, […]
Outdoor Chemical Storage Lockers & NFPA Regulations The use of hazardous materials in industries, universities and medical facilities has seen an increase in growth and a growing concern among the safety community. First responders, safety officials and fire Marshalls face hazardous situations that sometimes can or could be avoided. The use of prefabricated chemical storage […]