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FIRE SERVICE AND GENERAL FIRE SAFETY TOPICS => Fire Safety => Topic started by: Allen Higginson on November 29, 2007, 04:05:46 PM

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: Allen Higginson on November 29, 2007, 04:05:46 PM

Just wondering if anyone could give me a rough idea what is required in relation to acetone storage.I maintain a CO2 protected store and the client is relocating it to another store which had previously been used to store inks.
The new store is stand alone but is within 20 metres of their factory,is single skin brick,ventilated and has a wooden door.

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: kurnal on November 30, 2007, 09:37:06 AM

Acetone has a flash point of -20C, is much heavier than air and an explosive range of 2.5 - 13%.

The external store proposed does not sound too wide of the mark but it it essential that a risk assessment under DSEAR is carried out to identify the necessary risk control measures against explosion and fire.

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: jasper on November 30, 2007, 10:24:14 AM

HSE do a very good book on the storage of flammable liquids

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: William 29 on November 30, 2007, 01:55:04 PM

Have a look on the HSE web site you may find a free down load booklet as jasper has mentioned, the Qu below is taken from the site.


Q3     We inspect service-industry sites (e.g. nail technicians) which handle flammable solvents like acetone. What can we say about the amounts in the customer area, or precautions against spillage, or zoning?

A3      Highly flammable solvents such as acetone release vapours, which are easily ignited. Where possible less flammable solvents should be used in preference. Where highly flammable solvents are used and the public are present, it is difficult to maintain constantly an effective control over all sources of ignition, such as smoking, or portable electronic equipment. Consequently hazardous area classification is not appropriate. Instead, it is better to limit the amounts present, to use containers that minimise the risk of spills during transfer, and in particular to avoid containers that will break if knocked over.  The quantity held in the workroom should be limited to the amount used in half a day’s work.

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: kurnal on December 01, 2007, 08:55:55 AM

Heres  two relevant links to the HSE which explains the issues involved

http://www.hse.gov.uk/fireandexplosion/atex.htm
http://www.hse.gov.uk/fireandexplosion/zoning.pdf

The storeroom will need to be assessed in accordance with the advice given- this has to be carried out by a competent person under the DSEAR  regs.

Title: Acetone Storage
Post by: Allen Higginson on December 04, 2007, 10:48:50 AM

Thanks for all the info.
I'll pass it on to the client (who I have advised to contact his insurer in the first instance).