Handling flammable liquids and hazardous chemicals safely requires more than selecting a robust container. Across Europe and the UK, employers have a responsibility to assess risks, store hazardous substances appropriately and ensure that containers are suitable for the chemicals being handled.

Whether you're managing fuels in a maintenance workshop, dispensing solvents in a laboratory or transporting hazardous liquids between facilities, choosing the right safety can forms an important part of an effective workplace safety programme.

This guide explains the key regulations, standards and best practices that should be considered when selecting safety cans for flammable and corrosive liquids across Europe, the UK and EMEA.

A compliant safety can should:

• Be suitable for the chemical being stored.
• Incorporate recognised safety features such as a self-closing lid, flame arrester and pressure relief mechanism.
• Be manufactured from a chemically compatible material.
• Be correctly labelled and colour coded where appropriate.
• Be used as part of a documented workplace risk assessment.
• Meet any transport requirements if hazardous goods are moved by road.

Compliance is not determined by the container alone—it also depends on how hazardous substances are identified, handled, stored and transported within your organisation.

Unlike some regions that rely primarily on a single workplace regulation, Europe and the UK operate under several complementary regulations covering chemical classification, workplace safety and the transport of dangerous goods.

Although specific national requirements vary, organisations handling hazardous liquids should understand the following frameworks.

CLP – Classification, Labelling and Packaging

The CLP Regulation implements the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) for classifying and labelling hazardous substances throughout the European Union. It establishes how chemicals should be classified, labelled and packaged to communicate hazards consistently.

Before selecting a safety can, always review the chemical's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to understand:

• Hazard classification
• Physical hazards
• Storage recommendations
• Container compatibility
• Required precautionary measures

REACH

REACH governs the registration, evaluation and safe use of chemicals placed on the European market.

While REACH does not specify which safety can to purchase, it reinforces the importance of understanding the hazards associated with chemicals and implementing appropriate risk management measures throughout their lifecycle.

UK Requirements

In Great Britain, hazardous substances are managed under GB CLP, while employers handling dangerous substances should also consider the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR), which require risks from flammable substances to be assessed and controlled. Northern Ireland continues to follow EU CLP requirements.

ADR Transport Requirements

If flammable or hazardous liquids are transported by road, additional requirements may apply under ADR (the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road).

Organisations transporting dangerous goods should ensure containers, packaging, labelling and documentation meet the relevant transport requirements.

While legal requirements focus on safe handling and risk reduction, high-quality safety cans incorporate engineering features that support these objectives.

Self-Closing Lid

Automatically seals after dispensing to reduce vapour release and minimise the risk of accidental spills.

• Helps contain flammable vapours
• Reduces spill risks
• Prevents debris entering the container

Flame Arrester

A flame arrester helps prevent flames from travelling into the container by dissipating heat before ignition reaches the vapour space.

• Reduces flashback risk
• Improves fire protection
• Supports safer handling of flammable liquids

Automatic Pressure Relief

Pressure relief mechanisms allow internal pressure to vent safely if the container is exposed to excessive heat, reducing the likelihood of container failure.

Durable Construction

Depending on the application, safety cans may be manufactured from:

• Galvanised steel
• Polyethylene
• Stainless steel

Selecting the correct material is essential for long-term chemical compatibility.

Not every hazardous liquid should be stored in the same type of container.

Always confirm compatibility using the chemical's SDS before selecting a container.

Best Practices for Safer Chemical Handling

Selecting the right safety can is only one part of an effective chemical safety programme.

Employers should also:

• Carry out documented risk assessments.
• Store incompatible chemicals separately.
• Clearly label all containers.
• Use recognised colour coding where appropriate.
• Inspect safety cans regularly for damage or wear.
• Train employees in safe chemical handling procedures.
• Replace damaged containers immediately.
• Keep containers closed when not in use.

These simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of spills, vapour release and workplace incidents.

Independent Product Approvals

Many organisations choose safety cans that have been independently tested and certified by recognised organisations such as FM Approvals or Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Although these approvals do not replace legal obligations under European or UK legislation, they provide confidence that products have been evaluated against recognised performance and safety criteria. They can also support procurement decisions where independently verified product performance is important.

Are UL or FM approved safety cans required in Europe?

European legislation does not generally require UL or FM approvals. However, independently certified products can provide additional assurance that key safety features have been tested against recognised performance standards.

How do I know which safety can to choose?

Start by reviewing the chemical's Safety Data Sheet (SDS), assessing the intended application and selecting a container with compatible materials and appropriate safety features.

Can I store corrosive chemicals in a steel safety can?

Not always. Some corrosive chemicals require polyethylene or stainless steel containers. Always verify chemical compatibility before use.

Does ADR apply to every safety can?

ADR requirements apply when dangerous goods are transported by road under circumstances covered by the regulations. Organisations should determine whether their transport activities fall within ADR and ensure compliance where required.

How often should safety cans be inspected?

Safety cans should be inspected regularly for dents, corrosion, damaged seals, blocked flame arresters and other signs of wear. Damaged containers should be removed from service.

Safe handling of flammable liquids and hazardous chemicals relies on a combination of appropriate equipment, effective procedures and compliance with applicable regulations.

By selecting safety cans that are compatible with the chemicals being handled, incorporate recognised safety features and support your workplace risk assessments, organisations can reduce fire risks, improve chemical handling practices and create safer working environments across industrial, laboratory and commercial applications.

Explore Justrite's range of safety cans and containers to find solutions designed to support safer storage, dispensing and transport of hazardous liquids across Europe, the UK and the wider EMEA region.