2.3.4 Ignition Sources

There are a wide variety of sources of ignition that can be divided into two groups: electrical and non-electrical sources.

Examples of electrical sources are: electrical sparks, electrical arcs (welding), electrical discharges, stray currents and lightning. Non-electrical sources are for instance hot surfaces, flames, adiabatic compression, mechanical sparks (metal cutting or grinding) or glowing particles.

As some of these sources are difficult to avoid, consideration should be given to provide an inert atmosphere as the main measure to minimize the risk of fire or explosion of flammable vapours. It seems more prudent to control the atmosphere rather than the need for non sparking tools. The use of a metal measuring tape for tank gauging is an example of improper use of equipment.

Users of ethylbenzene should be aware that its vapours are heavier than air, i.e. they will sink to the ground accumulating in low-lying areas. These vapours may travel along on the ground to an ignition source and flash back. As a consequence, all ignition sources in the vicinity of storage or handling facilities of ethylbenzene should be eliminated.

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