Flammable liquids
Highly flammable liquids present a particularly high fire risk. For example, a leak from a container of flammable solvents, such as methylated spirit, will produce large quantities of heavier-than-air flammable vapours. These can travel large distances, increasing the likelihood of their reaching a source of ignition well away from the original leak, such as a basement containing heating plant and/or electrical equipment on automatic timers.
The risk is reduced by ensuring the storage and use of highly flammable liquids is carefully managed, that materials contaminated with solvent are properly disposed of and when not in use, they are safely stored. Up to 50 litres may be stored in a fire-resisting cabinet or bin that will contain any leaks.
In retail premises the quantity of flammable liquids on display should be kept to the minimum to meet business needs. There should be no potential ignition sources in areas where flammable liquids are used or stored and flammable concentrations of vapours may be present. Any electrical equipment used in these areas, including fire alarm and emergency lighting systems, needs to be suitable for use in flammable atmospheres. In such situations, it is recommended that you should seek advice from a competent person.
LPG storage
Where LPG in cylinders or cartridges is present, you need to take particular care to minimise the possibility of its involvement in a fire. The total amount of LPG for display or demonstration in retail areas should be kept to the minimum necessary to meet business needs. In no circumstances should it exceed 70kg and this should be reduced to 15kg if the retail premises are under residential accommodation or part of a multi-use building, unless the two are separated by a substantial partition that is imperforate and provides at least 60 minutes fire resistance.
Locate cylinders and cartridges in a safe and secure place where they:
- cannot be interfered with;
- can be kept upright (with valve protection fitted);
- are away from sources of ignition and/or readily ignitable materials;
- are away from any corrosive, toxic or oxidant materials; and;
- are away from stairways, exit doors and places where they may obstruct the means of escape.
Quantities of LPG in excess of the amounts indicated for retail areas should be stored in a properly designed and located storage area that is dedicated for LPG. Bulk storage tanks for LPG should be designed, installed and located in accordance with industry guidance.
Further guidance on the safe storage of LPG is available from your supplier or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Association’s Code of Practice 9.
Fireworks
Fireworks can cause fires and explosions in shops. They have the potential for a violent release of pressure and heat that can cause severe harm to people and damage to a building. Fireworks can be ignited or detonated by contact with ignition sources or by contamination, where other chemicals or water cause the material to become unstable.
If you sell fireworks you have certain obligations to the public and your staff. You must:
- be ‘registered’ or obtain a licence to store fireworks;
- obtain a ‘licence to sell fireworks’ if you intend to sell outside the usual fireworks period;
- store fireworks safely;
- not sell fireworks to under 18s; and
- review your risk assessment and, where necessary, take additional measures.
Preventative measures include:
- store and display fireworks in appropriate containers, display cabinets;
- keep all fireworks in a dry place;
- do not store an excessive amount of fireworks either in the shop or stockroom and do not store more than your licence permits;
- do not store the fireworks near other articles that could spread the fire;
- do not store fireworks near an escape route;
- exclude sources of ignition and in particular, stop people smoking anywhere near the fireworks; and
- avoid all unnecessary handling of fireworks;
