At first glance, a safety can may look similar to a standard fuel container, but every component has been engineered with one purpose in mind: to improve the safe handling of flammable liquids.

From self-closing lids to flame arresters and pressure relief systems, each feature is designed to help reduce the risk of spills, vapour release and ignition during everyday use. Understanding how these components work can help you select the right safety can for your application and use it more effectively.

This guide explains the purpose of the key design features found on safety cans and why they play an important role in industrial, laboratory and maintenance environments.

A safety can is a purpose-designed container used for storing, transporting and dispensing flammable or combustible liquids safely.

Unlike standard containers, safety cans incorporate engineered safety features that help minimise fire risks while improving the safe handling of hazardous liquids.

Safety cans are commonly used for:

• Petrol (gasoline)
• Diesel
• Kerosene
• Industrial solvents
• Cleaning chemicals
• Laboratory liquids
• Waste solvents

Every feature on a safety can has been developed to solve a specific workplace hazard.

Rather than simply storing liquid, safety cans help to:

• Reduce vapour release
• Prevent accidental spills
• Minimise ignition risks
• Improve dispensing control
• Protect the container from damage
• Support safer handling during transport

These design elements work together to provide multiple layers of protection throughout the life of the container.

Unlike standard containers, safety cans are specifically engineered to improve the safe handling of hazardous liquids.

Typical features include:

• Self-closing lids to reduce vapour release
• Flame arresters that help prevent flashback ignition
• Automatic pressure relief during extreme heat
• Leak-resistant construction
• Durable materials suited to demanding industrial environments

Together, these features help minimise fire risks while supporting safer handling practices throughout the workplace.

Self-Closing Lid

The self-closing lid automatically seals the container after dispensing.

This simple but important feature helps prevent flammable vapours from escaping while also reducing the chance of dirt, sparks or other ignition sources entering the container.

Benefits

• Reduces vapour emissions
• Helps prevent spills
• Automatically closes after use
• Improves workplace safety

Flame Arrester

A flame arrester is one of the most important safety components inside a safety can.

Located within the spout, it is designed to absorb and dissipate heat should an external flame reach the opening of the container. This helps prevent flames from travelling into the vapour space inside the can.

Benefits

• Helps reduce flashback ignition
• Protects flammable vapours
• Stainless steel construction
• Long service life

Automatic Pressure Relief

Flammable liquids expand as temperatures increase.

Without a safe method of releasing pressure, excessive internal pressure could damage the container.

Safety cans incorporate pressure relief mechanisms that safely vent pressure before dangerous levels are reached.

Benefits

• Helps prevent pressure build-up
• Reduces stress on the container
• Improves safety in high-temperature environments

Ergonomic Handle

The handle is designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip during lifting and pouring.

Depending on the type of safety can, handles may also assist in opening the lid or controlling the dispensing mechanism.

Benefits

• Comfortable handling
• Improved pouring control
• Reduced user fatigue
• Better balance during transport

Reinforced Construction

Industrial environments can be demanding.

Many steel safety cans feature reinforced side walls and strengthened construction that help maintain the integrity of the container during everyday handling.

Benefits

• Improved durability
• Increased impact resistance
• Longer service life
• Reliable performance in industrial settings

Raised Base

A raised base helps protect the bottom of the container from wear and abrasion when placed on rough surfaces.

This small design feature can help extend the working life of the container while making it easier to grip during pouring.

Benefits

• Reduces wear
• Protects against surface damage
• Improves stability
• Easier handling

Powder-Coated Finish

Steel safety cans are finished with a durable powder coating that helps protect against corrosion and everyday wear.

Colour coding also allows different fuels or chemicals to be identified quickly.

Standard Colour Coding

• Red – Petrol (Gasoline)
• Yellow – Diesel
• Blue – Kerosene
• Green – Oils

Although both designs provide the same core safety features, they are intended for slightly different applications.

Type I Safety Cans

Type I safety cans use a single opening for filling and dispensing.

They are ideal for:

• General fuel storage
• Maintenance
• Manufacturing
• Workshops

Type II Safety Cans

Type II safety cans feature separate filling and dispensing openings.

Many models include a flexible metal hose that allows more accurate pouring while reducing splashing.

These are ideal for:

• Precision dispensing
• Equipment refuelling
• Frequent liquid transfer
• Industrial maintenance

The material of the safety can should always be compatible with the liquid being stored.

Steel

Suitable for many fuels and industrial solvents.

Polyethylene

Excellent for many corrosive chemicals.

Stainless Steel

Ideal for highly aggressive chemicals and high-purity laboratory applications.

Always verify compatibility using the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Why do safety cans have flame arresters?

Flame arresters help prevent flames from entering the container by dissipating heat before ignition can reach the flammable vapours inside.

Why do safety cans have self-closing lids?

Self-closing lids reduce vapour release, minimise spills and help prevent external ignition sources from entering the container.

What is the purpose of the pressure relief mechanism?

Pressure relief systems allow internal pressure to vent safely if temperatures rise, helping protect the container from excessive pressure.

Why are safety cans colour coded?

Colour coding helps users quickly identify fuels and chemicals, reducing the likelihood of accidental misuse.

Do all safety cans have the same features?

While most safety cans include core safety components such as self-closing lids and flame arresters, features may vary depending on the type of can and its intended application.

Every detail of a safety can is designed to improve the safe storage, transfer and dispensing of flammable liquids. Features such as self-closing lids, flame arresters, pressure relief systems and durable construction work together to help reduce fire risks and improve everyday handling.

Whether you're working in manufacturing, laboratories, maintenance or chemical processing, understanding how these features function can help you select the right safety can for your application and use it with greater confidence.

Related Resources

• Safety Can Buying Guide
• Safety Can Application Guide
• Safety Cans & Containers
• Chemical Compatibility Guide
• HPLC Waste Disposal Guide