c.
Fire hazards include:
(1) Pyrophorics. Pyrophorics ignite easily at temperatures below 130F.
(2) Flammable liquids. Flammable liquids ignite easily at temperatures
below 100F. Turpentine, which ignites at 95F, is a flammable liquid.
(3) Combustible liquids. Combustible liquids ignite easily at or above
100F, but below 200F. Kerosene, which ignites at 100-165F, is a combustible liquid.
(4) Oxidizers. Oxidizers supply the oxygen required to start or support
fire.
d.
Unstable/reactive chemicals include:
(1) Decomposition hazards. Decomposition hazards easily break up into
simpler substances.
(2) Polymerization hazards. Polymerization hazards self-react to form
long molecular chains, releasing heat and/or hazardous chemical in the process.
(3) Water-reactive chemicals. Water-reactive chemicals react violently
with water resulting in physical and/or health hazards.
4-9.
DOs AND DON'Ts OF PHYSICAL HAZARDS
a. Proper disposal of waste containing flammable liquids is essential. Covered
waste containers should be used to reduce the danger of exposure to an ignition source
that could start a fire. Failure to properly dispose of cleaning and paint-covered rags
could also present a spontaneous combustion hazard. Fire extinguishers should be
provided whenever a fire hazard exists.
b. Smoking and electric heaters are potential ignition sources and are not
allowed in areas where flammable liquids are present.
c.
No ashtrays should be provided in the area because no one should smoke
near flammables. Ashtrays should be provided in designated smoking areas so
cigarettes may be disposed of properly before entering the area.
d.
Sparking tools (electric saws, drills, etc.) should not be used near fire
hazards.
e. Compressed gases contain a lot of stored energy. A power wrench could
easily break the valve stem and turn the cylinder into a powerful rocket. Securing
cylinders and handling them properly helps avoid physical damage that could result in a
disaster.
MD0173
4-7