HAZARD:
Hand sanitizers contain 50% to 90% ethyl alcohol, which readily evaporates at room temperature into an ignitable vapor, and is considered a flammable liquid. Although the incidence of fires related to hand sanitizer is very low, it is vital that they are stored safely and that bulk dispensers are installed and maintained correctly. The liquid and vapors of alcohol can ignite when in contact with an ignition source before the liquid has dried and evaporated. While the fire hazard is low and injuries are uncommon, they can
result in second and third degree burns.
The evaporation and drying of the liquid or gel is quick, but so is a flash fire, which can
quickly spread when in contact with other accelerants such as CPVC glue, gasoline or other
flammable liquids.
Ignition sources:
- Open flame.
- Sparks from cutting or grinding metal.
- Welding or cutting hot work.
- Static electricity or electrical spark of an open circuit.
- Smoking or lighting a cigarette.
Storing the container of hand sanitizer near an ignition source, in direct sunlight or not fully closing the cap increases the chance of flash fire.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:
- Allow the sanitizer to dry/evaporate before resuming work activity.
- Avoid touching any surface until the gel has completely dried.
- Stay away from any potential ignition source while sanitizer is still wet and follow the directions and warning labels on the sanitizer container or review the Safety Data Sheets.
- Do not apply hand sanitizer while smoking.
- Secure lid or cap and store away from heat sources.
- Do not store sanitizer with other flammables.
- If you are not sure about the use of alcohol‐based disinfectants, please use warm water and soap to wash your hands if available rather than using alcohol‐based hand sanitizer.