The Health and Safety Executive in the UK, has issued a bulletin to bodyshops and garages about the risks of cutting up old containers such as oil or thinner drums. It follows two fatal accidents in Scotland, which both involved explosions while disposing of the unwanted drums.  

The UK HSE bulletin warns of the dangers of ‘hot work”, which means any process that generates a source of ignition, such as naked flames, heat or sparks arising from working methods such as welding, flame cutting, grinding and using disc cutters. The use of these techniques is widespread especially in body repair, may sometimes be used to break up and dispose of unwanted containers. The potentially fatal issue is that, although some containers may appear to be empty, sufficient liquid residue can exist in seams, creases or folds in the container to give rise to explosive vapours. Even where the contents of a container may not have been classified as flammable under normal conditions, hot work can generate such extreme temperatures that the contents may ignite.

Edward Marshall, of the HSE says, “This alert is not issuing new guidance, but is to ensure all relevant workers are aware and familiar with the comprehensive advice that already exists. In many cases hot work may not actually be necessary, and those ultimately responsible for the work should consider safer alternatives, such as cold-cutting techniques.” He added “It is essential that all employees have had the right training for the job and know what precautions to take to protect themselves and others.”