Science, Technology and Engineering

Department of Biochemistry
School of Molecular Sciences Safe Work Procedure

ORGANIC SOLVENTS - FIRE AND TOXIC RISK

Most organic solvents are flammable and / or toxic. Many common solvents can be ignited without a naked flame if their vapours contact a hot electric mantle, an electric light bulb, a room heater, overheated electrical connections, etc.

To reduce the fire risk of toxic solvents the following rules must be observed:

• Flammable solvents must be stored in a laboratory in approved fire-resistant storage cabinets (AS. 1940-1993), sited as far away from sources of ignition as possible. The doors must be closed properly.

• Reduce to the absolute minimum the quantities of flammable and / or toxic solvents used in chemical operations or held in temporary storage. Flammable solvents should be stored so as not to obstruct doorways, passages or escape routes.

• When use of fire-risk solvents is intended, all potential sources of ignition must be kept from the working area.

• Transport fire-risk and toxic solvents carefully in stout glassware and in quantities comfortably within your control. Winchesters (2.5L) should be carried only in special carriers.

• Highly toxic and carcinogenic solvents should be used in fume hoods ONLY, and any spills on skin and clothes washed off immediately.

• Make sure you know where the fire extinguishers and fire blankets are and how to use them.

• Flammable liquids should be stored only in specially modified refrigerators. Ordinary domestic refrigerators should not be located in areas where flammable liquids may be used, as ignition and fire may occur from the normal sparking of ordinary switches and devices in such units.

Common Solvents