Potential Physical Hazard

Crude oil can also pose a physical hazard because it is highly flammable. Vapors can collect in low or confined areas, and create a hazardous atmosphere that poses fire and respiratory threats.

If ignited, a fire and or explosion could occur. Ignition can be caused by heat, sparks, or flames. Ignition sources include:

• Open flames
• Hot lights
• Faulty electrical equipment that generates sparks
• Hot, powered equipment (such as vehicle engines, generators, and power tools)
• Metal contacts that generate sparks
• Static electricity (built up on people, through the turbulent flow of pouring crude oil and its products, and other means)
• Lightning
• Sunlight (for example, by heating up a storage container)

To learn more about Crude Oil Hazards visit our Crude Oil Hazards Online Training web page.