INCIDENT SHARING – FLASH FIRES INVOLVING INTERMEDIATE BULK CONTAINERS
CASE ONE: FLASH FIRE DURING TRANSFER OF FLAMMABLE LIQUID
A worker was using a flexible metallic hose to transfer flammable liquid into a plastic Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC), when a flash fire broke out at the top. The fire spread to the floor and subsequently into the drains, causing large drain fires around the workplace.
Electrostatic discharge, or the release of static electricity buildup, is believed to have ignited the flammable vapours which had accumulated at the top of the IBC during the liquid transfer process.
Further investigations revealed that the plastic IBC used by the company was not suitable for handling flammable liquids as it could not dissipate the electrostatic charges generated during the liquid transfer process.
CASE TWO: FLASH FIRE WHILE CLEANING AN IBC
A worker was cleaning an IBC using flammable solvent and a high-pressure water spray when a flash fire occurred, causing burn injuries on the worker.
In general, when working with an IBC and a flammable substance, you should:
• Be familiar with the hazards posed by the flammable substance;
• Be aware that plastic IBCs cannot dissipate the electrostatic charges that may be generated and thus should eliminate the use of the flammable substance where possible e.g., by replacing it with a non-flammable substance;
• Work in an area away from heat and ignition sources;
• Work in well-ventilated area or under a local exhaust ventilation system that can remove flammable vapours effectively;
• Equip yourself with a personal flammable gas detector;
• Wear suitable personal protection equipment such as a face shield, fire-retardant coveralls,respirator, gloves, and safety boots, to protect yourself against fire and contact with the flammable substance; and
• Be familiar with the emergency procedures, including firefighting procedure, and escape routes.
For transfer of flammable liquid, it is important to:
• Confirm with your supervisor that a suitable container (for example metal IBC) will be used for transferring the flammable liquid before you proceed with the work;
• Use only conductive hoses for transferring flammable liquids;
• Ground and bond all conductive components, the source container as well as the hose before transferring the flammable liquid;
• Ensure that firefighting equipment are readily available around the vicinity where flammable liquid transfers are being carried out;
• Ensure that warning labels on the IBC, such as GHS labels, are clearly visible. Report any missing, damaged, or difficult-to-read labels; and
• Be trained on spill clean-up procedures and clean up any spill immediately.
