Store Hazardous Liquids the Safe Way
From OSHA compliance to types, colors, and construction, learn everything you need to know about safety cans and how they protect your workplace.
The handling of hazardous liquids is regulated by strict safety and health requirements. Employees working with flammable, combustible, and explosive liquids must be protected with approved safety cans. These containers are considered the first line of defense, helping prevent fires by:
Safely containing hazardous liquids and liquid-soaked materials
Controlling vapor release
Meeting federal, state, and local fire codes
Complying with OSHA regulations
Compliance and Regulatory Requirements
NFPA 30 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106(a)(29) define a safety can as an approved container (≤ 5 gallons) with a spring-closing lid and spout cover that safely relieves internal pressure when exposed to fire.
Types of Safety Cans
Type I Safety Cans
- Single spout for filling and dispensing
- Include leak-tight, spring-closing lids with gaskets designed to relieve internal pressure
- Fixed or free-swinging handles
- Warning labels in three languages and flame arresters in the spout opening
- Available in lab cans, disposal cans, and faucet can styles
Type II Safety Cans
- Two spouts: one for filling and one with a flexible metal spout for safer controlled dispensing
- Actuated pour valve for reduced spill risk
- Include leak-tight, spring-closing lids with gaskets designed to relieve internal pressure
- Fixed or free-swinging handles
- Warning labels in three languages and flame arresters in all spout openings
Safety Can Colors & Identification
Colors help separate, organize, and identify chemicals, and assist first responders in emergencies.
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.144 states, “Safety cans or other portable containers of flammable liquids having a flash point at or below 80° F, shall be painted red with some additional clearly visible identification either in the form of a yellow band around the can or the name of the contents conspicuously marked on the can in yellow.
Industry-accepted safety can colors are as follows:
Red: Gasoline or other flammable liquids
Yellow: Diesel fuel
Blue: Kerosene
Safety Can Construction Materials
Laboratory Safety Cans
Laboratory safety cans reduce the risk of explosions from vapor ignition in industrial, hospital, and scientific labs. They are designed to:
• Meet OSHA requirements
• Provide pressure relief
• Contain vapors safely in high-risk environments