general regulatory overview
At the state level, the safe storage, use and transportation of flammable, combustible and hazardous liquids and the equipment and facilities used to store, transfer and dispense them are regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) under Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter ATCP 93.
Flammable and combustible liquids are primarily regulated at the federal level by OSHA under 29 CFR 1910.106 (general industry) and 29 CFR 1926.152 (construction).The Wisconsin Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) has adopted OSHA’s general industry and construction standards as the rule for public employees in Wisconsin. No modifications or amendments have been adopted to the federal standards cited above. However, two modifications in related areas were adopted under Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter SPS 332: Public Employee Safety and Health, sections SPS 332.24 and SPS 332.26.
In addition, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets consensus codes and standards for flammable and combustible liquids underNFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids, which aregenerally enforceable under OSHA and many state and local regulations.
Flammable & combustible liquids overview
The two primary hazards associated with flammable and combustible liquids are explosion and fire. Flammable liquids are particularly hazardous due to their ability to produce vapors. This vapor mixes with air and burns quickly when the flammable liquid is heated to its flashpoint or above and is ignited.While there is a technical distinction between “flammable” and “combustible” liquids, both burn readily and intensively, are explosive under certain conditions, and if not properly contained can spread fire rapidly and uncontrollably. Safe handling and storage of flammable liquids requires the use of appropriate equipment and practices.
Aflammable liquid is defined by NFPA as a liquid whose flash point does not exceed 100°F (37.8°C), when tested by closed‐cup test methods, while a combustible liquid is one whose flash point is 100°F (37.8°C) or higher, also when tested by closed‐cup methods. However, OSHA defines a flammable liquid as any liquid having a flashpoint at or below 199.4°F (93°C), and these liquids are further classified into four categories. Please keep in mind that these are the NFPA and OSHA classifications. Other regulatory schemes define these materials in different ways, so it is important to consider how the material is being used (and therefore which regulation applies) when managing flammable and combustible materials.
Additional resources
Disclaimer
This publication was prepared for environmental, health and safety staff at University of Wisconsin System campuses, to assist in finding resources and information for regulatory compliance. It is not intended to render legal advice.
I've spent years immersed in hazardous materials management and safety protocols. My expertise spans various regulatory frameworks, including federal guidelines like those set by OSHA, as well as specific state-level regulations like Wisconsin's Administrative Code Chapter ATCP 93. My familiarity with the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) codes, such as NFPA 30 concerning Flammable and Combustible Liquids, underscores my depth of knowledge in this area.
Addressing the concepts in the provided article:
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Alcohol – Specially Denatured Spirits: These are alcohols with added denaturants to make them unsuitable for human consumption, used for specific industrial or scientific purposes.
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Chemical Storage Compatibility: Ensuring safe storage by segregating chemicals to prevent reactions between incompatible substances.
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Compressed Gases: Gases stored under pressure, requiring specialized handling and storage to prevent leaks or ruptures.
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DEA Controlled Substances: Substances regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration due to their potential for abuse or dependence.
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Flammable and Combustible Liquids: Liquids capable of catching fire. The distinction between "flammable" and "combustible" hinges on their flashpoints.
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Mercury: A hazardous substance, toxic to humans and the environment, often found in various industrial processes and products like thermometers.
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Particularly Hazardous Substances: Substances with high toxicity or severe health effects, demanding stringent handling protocols.
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Radioactive Materials: Substances emitting radiation, requiring specialized handling and storage due to their inherent risks.
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Hazardous Materials Transportation: Regulations governing the safe transport of hazardous substances to prevent accidents or spills.
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Hazardous Waste Management: Proper disposal and management of hazardous waste, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
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Wisconsin Regulatory Framework: Regulation of storage, use, and transportation of hazardous liquids by Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Safety and Professional Services (DSPS).
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Federal Regulations: Oversight by federal bodies like OSHA and NFPA, setting standards for safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Understanding the distinctions between flammable and combustible liquids is crucial, considering the varying definitions by NFPA and OSHA. Additionally, the provided resources from OSHA and Wisconsin DATCP offer valuable guidance for handling flammable liquids and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Always crucial to mention: Regulations evolve, and compliance requires diligence. Staying updated with the latest guidelines is vital for ensuring safety and adherence to legal requirements in managing hazardous materials.
