Flammable Liquid Storage Safety

You are protected by regulations requiring your employer to safely store and handle flammable liquids to prevent fire and explosion hazards. The standard defines specific categories of liquids based on their flashpoints and boiling points, mandating that your containers and tanks meet rigorous design and construction standards to ensure stability and prevent leaks.

Under 1910.106(b), your employer must use approved tanks and containers that withstand internal pressure and prevent vapor accumulation. The standard requires adequate ventilation to keep vapor-air mixtures below dangerous levels and mandates emergency relief venting to prevent tank rupture during fire exposure. An attorney can help you determine if your employer failed to meet these standards.

This standard applies to you if you work in general industry settings that store or use flammable liquids, including manufacturing plants, chemical processing facilities, and automotive service stations. It covers the design of storage tanks, the use of safety cans, and the spacing requirements for aboveground storage to protect you from fire risks.

Your employer may be cited for failing to provide adequate emergency relief venting or using improper storage containers that do not meet the design requirements of 1910.106(b). Violations often involve the improper spacing of tanks or the failure to install flame arresters on vents for liquids with low flashpoints.

In practice, these violations often look like a manager storing flammable solvents in unapproved plastic containers or failing to maintain proper ventilation in a room where you dispense chemicals. You may also encounter situations where emergency vents are obstructed or missing, leaving the tank vulnerable to rupture during a fire. An attorney can help you if you were injured due to these violations.

Violations of 1910.106 are often classified as serious, as they directly expose you to the risk of fire, explosion, and severe burns. OSHA inspections are frequently triggered by reports of chemical spills, fires, or your complaints regarding unsafe storage practices. Fines for serious violations can reach thousands of dollars per instance, and repeat violations often lead to significantly higher penalties. An attorney can help you understand how these enforcement actions impact your claim.

You have the right to a workplace free from recognized fire and explosion hazards. If you believe your employer is storing chemicals in an unsafe manner, you can file an anonymous complaint with OSHA. You are protected from retaliation for reporting these safety concerns under Section 11(c) of the OSH Act.

If you are injured in a fire or chemical incident, document the storage conditions immediately, including any missing labels or damaged containers. Preserve any evidence of the incident and report the injury to your supervisor right away. An attorney can help you ensure your rights are protected and your benefits are calculated correctly.