Ethanol is a common building block in our modern world. Although this organic chemical compound is extremely volatile, much of our infrastructure would grind to a halt without this powerful additive. Human civilization owes a great deal of gratitude to this behind-the-scenes player. Despite its potential for abuse, ethanol is a front-line warrior in combating dangerous bacteria and can be found in most hand sanitizers. Our unwavering reliance on ethanol was highlighted during the ongoing hand sanitizer shortage brought on by the COVID19 pandemic. Ethanol is also a powerful medical solvent and can even be found in many cosmetic products as it as a powerful preservative. It’s binding properties continue to play an important role in the manufacturing of products we use everyday. That’s why it’s important to invest in compliant ethanol storage and give this chemical the respect it deserves.
Despite its growing prevalence in industrial manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, ethanol is most commonly used in engine fuel and fuel additive. Did you know that more than 97 percent of U.S. gasoline contains ethanol? As the western world continues to rely heavily on the consumption of fossil fuels, ethanol will likely continue to play a significant role in heavy industries, transportation and ancillary services that require consistent commuting. Ethanol is also used in the production of rocket fuel, so we expect this powerful precursor will remain by our side well into the Space Age. Despite its seemingly docile nature as a necessary ingredient in our day-to-day lives, ethanol also poses serious risks and hazards that should not be ignored.
Invest in compliant fire rated rentals for short-term projects involving ethanol
As you probably already know, ethanol is extremely flammable and can pose serious health risks if used in non ventilated areas. Ethanol has a relatively low flashpoint of 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Flash point is the lowest temperature that a liquid or solid gives off sufficient vapor to form a flammable mixture. Due to its flammable nature, it’s vital that project engineers invest in compliant and adequate chemical storage. U.S Hazmat Rentals has engineered a superior line of fire-rated storage lockers that can safely and secure ethanol and other fuels from vulnerable assets and personnel. Comprised from heavy gauge steel plating, our chemical storage lockers and economical storage container rentals are federally compliant in safely storing ethanol and other flammable materials. For jobsites that require storage within 10 feet of vulnerable property and assets, we recommend our four-hour fire rated storage lockers. For jobs that require storage 10 to 30 feet, our engineers recommend a 2-hour fire rated building.
Drum and pallet ethanol storage capable lockers protect employees
Most authorities having jurisdiction and other regulatory bodies have strongly advised against storing ethanol and other solvents in IBC tote containers due to their plastic composition. For this reason, we highly recommend drum and pallet storage options for safeguarding ethanol and other flammable materials. Easy-to-access roll-up doors and innovative push-back shelving enables employees to easily access drums of ethanol by forklift or hand-truck.
Explosion proof components and added safety features will help your company stay compliant so you can focus on the job at hand
Our engineers have considered every danger and potential risk in designing hazmat containers for storing ethanol fuels. From errant sparks to the threat of theft, we have met every potential dilemma with a vetted metal solution that won’t compromise the integrity of your company’s prestigious reputation. Each four-hour fire-rated hazmat storage locker comes outfitted with a continuous steel grated sump system. If chemical spills or accidents were to occur during the handling of hazardous materials, the liquid would simply pass through the grated flooring where it will be safely collected without posing harm to your employees or the environment. Explosion proof lighting and electrical components complement a wealth of safety features dedicated to mitigating risks associated with storing dangerous fuels and accelerants.
Climate controlled lockers help maintain chemical consistency and saves you money on the jobsite
Each hazardous material or dangerous chemical comes with its own set of risks. In addition to the threat of fire and explosion, job foremen and engineers must also invest in steel protection that protects these necessary fuels and additives. Climate controlled systems found in custom U.S. Hazmat Rentals fire-rated lockers can maintain optimal internal temperatures so the chemical consistency of the stored hazardous materials remains undisturbed. Dry chemical fire suppression systems further mitigates damages from potential fires.