Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) have shown an experiment on Twitter demonstrating how a spillage of hand sanitiser can burn invisibly and unnoticed.
The DFB spokesperson explained: “It’s because of the alcohol content. Alcohol/ethanol burns with an almost invisible flame.”
“Dispensers should have an integrated drip tray, or tray underneath to catch spillages. Any spillages should be cleaned up immediately. Never install a dispenser above carpet.”
“Hand sanitiser has a flash point as low as 23 degrees Celsius.”
Businesses are storing huge quantities of hand sanitiser on their premises and not realising that it is a flammable liquid and has to be treated in an appropriate way. We would recommend that you have your health and safety representative carry out a risk assessment on your use and storage of hand sanitiser.
If we can assist you with any of the above please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01 8774608 or [email protected]
Stay healthy and wash your hands!