For portable containers, this usually means self-closing or sealed spouts. Initial consideration and planning of the storage location should include the types of materials being stored, the amounts stored, the chemical properties of the materials, the area in which storage will occur, and the activities or potential activities in the area. To eliminate the potential for a static charge to become an ignition source, it is important that the storage container is properly bonded or grounded. Bonded is installing a conductor between two or more conductive objects so that the objects may jointly share static charges, such as between 55 gallon drums or portable metal containers. Grounding is a form of bonding in which objects are connected to the ground, thereby reducing static charges.
Grounding is especially important when the storage container is an above ground storage tank.
Return to Top Fire Prevention Construction and Inspections Storage tanks, buildings and structures that will contain flammables must be constructed with fire-resistant materials and be of such design that fire hazards are eliminated, or limited to protect employees and property loss. Storage areas must be designed to account for worst-case emergency situations. The storage room must be leak-proof, have appropriate floor level ventilation with six air changes per hour, have adequate aisle clearance, be equipped with a fire suppression system, and contain approved fire doors and exits. All ignition sources must be eliminated and potential ignition sources, such as electrical equipment and wiring, must be approved for use around flammable materials. Outside storage areas should be located away from occupied buildings and employee work areas so that, in the event of a release, the liquid will not flow toward the building, or else it should be contained by a dike.