Warehouses that store flammable liquids are inherently high-risk environments. A single spark, careless mistake, or equipment failure could result in a devastating fire or explosion.
In the US, between 2018 and 2022, around 1,508 warehouse fires were reported annually. Research also shows that, on average, more than four warehouse fires occur each day in the country.
Warehouses are facilities that must be treated with a heightened level of caution, foresight, and preparation. After all, fires involving flammable liquids spread quickly and burn intensely. And once they’re out of control, the consequences can be both deadly and financially catastrophic.
For those who own such warehouses or oversee their operations, here’s how you can ensure their safety.
Warehouses storing flammable liquids must be equipped with the right type of fire extinguishers and fire suppression foams. Not all extinguishers are built the same, and using the wrong kind in an emergency could make things worse.
For flammable liquids, you particularly want Class B fire extinguishers. These are designed specifically to handle fires involving gasoline, oil, paint, and similar substances.
However, not all firefighting foams are created equal. In fact, some of the very foams that have been used for decades to fight chemical fires are now under serious scrutiny. AFFF, for instance, has become the subject of numerous legal and health concerns. As TruLaw reports, these foams contain PFAS which can cause cancer.
There are rising numbers of AFFF foam lawsuits filed by individuals who were exposed to these substances and later developed cancer. Apart from regular firefighters’ involvement in the AFFF lawsuit, navy and army personnel are also known to be involved. The AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit landscape has grown rapidly as more evidence surfaces about the link between AFFF exposure and serious health outcomes.
Because of this, many companies are now re-evaluating their fire suppression materials.
Having all the best equipment in the world won’t matter if your team doesn’t know what to do when something goes wrong. Training is the most underrated part of warehouse safety.
Employees should know how to identify a fire hazard before it becomes an issue and what steps to take if a fire starts. This includes understanding evacuation routes, how to use fire extinguishers correctly, and how to shut down machinery that could worsen the situation.
Emergency drills should be conducted regularly. It’s not enough to go over procedures once during orientation. The pressure and confusion of a real emergency can cause panic, so frequent practice ensures your team reacts quickly and confidently.
Everyone, from temporary workers to warehouse supervisors, should feel comfortable reporting hazards and taking action when needed. A culture of safety only works if everyone is on the same page and feels responsible for the space and each other.
In 2024, improperly stored hazardous chemicals led to a fire at a facility in Conyers, Georgia. Now the question: What exactly does safe and proper storage look like for these chemicals?
Safe storage begins with understanding the chemicals you’re working with. Each flammable liquid has a flash point, storage requirement, and level of volatility that must be accounted for.
Containers should be clearly labeled, sealed tightly, and stored on non-reactive surfaces. Temperature control is also important. Excessive heat can increase the chances of combustion. Therefore, warehouses should be climate-controlled and equipped with alarms that alert staff when temperatures exceed safe thresholds.
Spacing is another critical factor. Flammable liquids shouldn’t be stored too close together, especially in large volumes. Use flame-retardant shelving units and install fire barriers when possible. Even the floors and walls should be made of non-combustible materials.
Internal diligence is, of course, essential. External inspections by fire safety professionals provide an unbiased view of your warehouse’s readiness. These experts can spot issues that might go unnoticed and can help ensure your operation complies with local and federal fire safety regulations.
Inspections also give you a chance to ask questions and update your practices based on the latest safety innovations. As fire safety technologies evolve, you might discover more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally safe options to replace outdated systems. An annual or semi-annual review with professionals can prevent the kind of oversights that often lead to accidents or lawsuits.
Storing chemicals in ordinary containers is unsafe and often illegal. Many chemicals react with common materials like plastic or metal, leading to leaks or dangerous reactions. Specialized, clearly labeled containers are designed to handle specific substances and prevent contamination or accidents. Proper storage is essential for safety.
Using just water to control chemical fires is not always effective and can even be dangerous. Some chemicals react violently with water, spreading the fire or releasing toxic gases. Chemical fires often require specific fire suppressants like foam, dry powder, or CO2, depending on the nature of the substance involved.
Yes, uncovered industrial chemicals can release harmful fumes, react with air or moisture, or spill and cause burns or contamination. Exposure can harm people’s health and damage the environment. Proper sealing, labeling, and storage are crucial to prevent accidental exposure and chemical hazards.
Ensuring the safety of a warehouse filled with flammable liquids is not a one-time task. It’s a constant process of vigilance, education, and adaptation. It requires a deep understanding of the materials you store, the tools you use, and the people who work around them every day. With the right approach, they can be safe, efficient, and sustainable workplaces that never put anyone in unnecessary danger.
