Every day, workplaces across manufacturing, maintenance, laboratories, automotive and chemical processing industries handle flammable liquids as part of routine operations. While these substances are essential to many processes, they also present significant fire and explosion risks if not managed correctly.

Safe handling involves more than simply choosing the right container. It requires suitable equipment, well-defined procedures and regular inspections to minimize hazards such as vapour release, static electricity and accidental spills.

This guide outlines six practical steps that can help improve the safe storage and transfer of flammable liquids in industrial and laboratory environments.

When storing or dispensing flammable liquids, follow these six best practices:

• Understand the properties of the liquid you are handling.
• Use an approved safety can suitable for the application.
• Inspect safety features regularly.
• Choose the correct material for the chemical.
• Prevent static electricity during liquid transfer.
• Maintain and inspect containers throughout their service life.

Together, these measures help reduce workplace risks while supporting safer handling procedures.

Every flammable liquid behaves differently. Flash point, vapour pressure, volatility and chemical compatibility all influence how the substance should be stored and transferred.

Before handling any fuel, solvent or chemical:

• Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
• Confirm the chemical classification.
• Identify ignition hazards.
• Understand recommended storage conditions.
• Verify compatibility with the intended container.

Carrying out a suitable risk assessment before introducing new chemicals into the workplace is an important part of safe chemical management.

Using an appropriate safety can helps reduce the risk of spills, vapour release and accidental ignition.

When selecting a safety can, consider:

• The type of liquid being stored.
• The volume required.
• Steel, polyethylene or stainless steel construction.
• Whether a Type I or Type II safety can is more appropriate.
• The dispensing method required.

Purpose-designed safety cans include engineered safety features such as self-closing lids, flame arresters and pressure relief mechanisms that support safer handling of flammable liquids.

3. Inspect Safety Features Before Every Use

Even high-quality safety cans should be inspected regularly to ensure they continue to perform as intended.

Before use, check:

• The self-closing lid operates correctly.
• The flame arrester is clean and undamaged.
• Seals and gaskets are intact.
• The container shows no signs of corrosion, dents or cracks.
• Labels remain clearly visible.

Damaged containers should be removed from service and replaced where necessary.

Routine inspections help reduce the likelihood of equipment failure during everyday operations.

4. Select the Right Material for the Chemical

The safest container is not always the same for every liquid. 

5. Reduce Static Electricity During Liquid Transfer

One of the most overlooked hazards when dispensing flammable liquids is static electricity.

As liquids move between containers, static charge can accumulate. If discharged near flammable vapours, a spark may provide an ignition source.

Where appropriate for the operation, bonding and grounding conductive containers and dispensing systems can help dissipate static electricity and reduce this risk. The need for bonding and grounding should be determined as part of your workplace risk assessment and in accordance with applicable guidance and procedures.

Additional good practices include:

• Avoiding unnecessary splashing during filling.
• Using appropriate dispensing equipment.
• Keeping containers closed when not in use.
• Ensuring employees are trained in safe transfer procedures.

6. Store and Maintain Safety Cans Correctly

The performance of a safety can depends not only on its design but also on how it is used and maintained.

Good housekeeping practices include:

• Storing containers in designated areas.
• Keeping them away from heat and ignition sources.
• Clearly identifying contents.
• Inspecting containers regularly.
• Replacing damaged components where applicable.
• Removing damaged containers from service immediately.

Regular maintenance helps extend product life while supporting safer workplace operations.

Alongside selecting suitable safety cans, organizations should:

• Segregate incompatible chemicals.
• Minimize the quantities of flammable liquids kept at workstations.
• Use appropriate flammable storage cabinets where required.
• Train employees in emergency response procedures.
• Review storage arrangements periodically as part of workplace risk assessments.

Combining suitable equipment with good operating procedures creates multiple layers of protection against fire and chemical hazards.

Why should flammable liquids be stored in safety cans?

Safety cans are designed to reduce the risk of spills, vapour release and accidental ignition through features such as self-closing lids, flame arresters and pressure relief mechanisms.

How often should safety cans be inspected?

Containers should be inspected before use and as part of routine workplace maintenance programmes. Damaged or defective containers should be removed from service.

When should safety cans be bonded and grounded?

Bonding and grounding may be appropriate when transferring flammable liquids between conductive containers where static electricity could create an ignition hazard. The specific requirements depend on the application and should form part of your site's risk assessment.

Can corrosive chemicals be stored in steel safety cans?

Not always. Some corrosive chemicals require polyethylene or stainless steel containers. Always check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and verify material compatibility.

What is the difference between a Type I and Type II safety can?

Type I safety cans use a single opening for filling and dispensing, while Type II safety cans feature separate filling and dispensing openings for greater control during liquid transfer.

Safe storage and transfer of flammable liquids relies on a combination of suitable equipment, effective procedures and regular maintenance.

By understanding the hazards associated with the liquids you handle, selecting the right safety can for the application and following good workplace practices, organisations can reduce fire risks, improve chemical handling and create safer working environments across industrial, commercial and laboratory settings.

Explore Justrite's range of safety cans and containers to find solutions designed to support the safe storage, dispensing and transfer of flammable liquids.