
Kerosene is a combustible hydrocarbon commonly used for temporary heating, lighting, and drying paint. It is also used in aviation fuel. Due to its flammability, it is important to use the proper containers for safe storage. Plastic containers are popular for storing kerosene, but not all plastics are suitable. The type of plastic used for storing kerosene can impact its longevity and safety. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is a commonly suggested plastic for kerosene storage, but some have expressed concerns about its long-term degradation. Other types of plastic, such as HDPP, have also been mentioned as potentially suitable. Additionally, the colour of the container plays a role in identification and safety, with blue being the standard colour for kerosene containers in industrial and commercial settings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic type | HDPP, HDPE, High-Density Polyethylene |
| Container colour | Blue |
| Container type | Bucket, drum, bottle, can |
| Container size | 2-25 gallons |
| Storage conditions | Sealed, out of sunlight, cool place |
| Safety | Flammable, combustible |
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What You'll Learn
- HDPE plastic is generally safe for storing kerosene
- Fire safety cabinets are recommended for storing kerosene
- Blue safety cans are used to store kerosene in industrial and commercial facilities
- Kerosene is considered a Class II or III combustible liquid
- Kerosene should be stored in a sealed container, away from sunlight

HDPE plastic is generally safe for storing kerosene
Kerosene is a combustible hydrocarbon commonly used for temporary heating, lighting, and drying paint and taping mud. It is also used on construction sites and by roofing and asphalt companies. Due to its flammability, it is important to follow proper storage methods.
When it comes to storing kerosene, HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) plastic is generally considered safe. HDPE is a petroleum-based product that is tolerant of various solvents, including kerosene. It is often used for household chemical containers, and its ability to withstand kerosene has been verified by some users who have stored kerosene in HDPE containers for several months without issues. Additionally, Lowes buckets, which are made of HDPE, are commonly used to store kerosene without any reported problems.
However, it is worth noting that while HDPE is generally safe, there are conflicting opinions on its long-term use for kerosene storage. Some sources suggest that sunlight or UV rays can degrade HDPE containers over time, so it is recommended to keep them out of direct sunlight. Additionally, users have reported clumping or gelling in kerosene stored for extended periods, which can block jets and fuel filters.
To ensure safe storage, it is recommended to keep kerosene in sealed containers, out of sunlight, and in a cool place. Marking the container clearly is also important to differentiate the substance, especially in industrial or commercial settings.
In summary, HDPE plastic is generally safe for storing kerosene, but following proper storage procedures and regularly inspecting the containers for any signs of degradation is essential to minimize potential risks.
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Fire safety cabinets are recommended for storing kerosene
Kerosene is a highly useful chemical that is used across a vast range of industries. It is a hydrocarbon liquid obtained from the fractional distillation of petroleum. Due to its flammable nature, it is important to be aware of its chemical properties to ensure safe storage and handling.
Kerosene has a flashpoint between 100-162°F (38-72°C), classifying it as a combustible liquid. As such, it must be stored and handled in a way that minimises the risk of fire. Fire safety cabinets are designed to store flammable liquids and can help achieve regulatory compliance. These cabinets are constructed with fire-resisting materials and are often manufactured to store specific types of hazardous chemicals. They are typically selected based on local fire code requirements and manufacturer specifications, ensuring compatibility with the hazardous substance in case of spills.
Fire safety cabinets from Eagle, for example, feature welded steel construction to protect flammable and combustible materials from ignition sources. They offer self-latching doors for maximum storage protection during a fire, as well as FM-approved safety cans for easy identification of kerosene. Additionally, these cabinets are designed to meet OSHA regulations and NFPA code 30 requirements, providing assurance that they adhere to the highest safety standards.
To summarise, fire safety cabinets are recommended for storing kerosene due to their ability to minimise fire risks, comply with regulations, and ensure the safety of personnel and property. By choosing reputable suppliers like Eagle and adhering to local fire codes, facilities can effectively manage the storage of this flammable liquid.
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Blue safety cans are used to store kerosene in industrial and commercial facilities
Kerosene is a combustible liquid with a flashpoint between 100-162°F (38-72°C) and is considered a Class II or III combustible liquid by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It is commonly used in military and commercial aircraft, construction sites, paint and drywall companies, and roofing and asphalt companies.
When storing kerosene, it is important to follow regulatory requirements and safety guidelines to prevent accidents and fires. Blue safety cans are typically used to store kerosene in industrial and commercial facilities. This colour-coding system is an industry standard, helping personnel quickly identify and differentiate kerosene from other types of fuel, such as diesel (stored in yellow cans) and oils (stored in green cans). The colour blue is chosen for kerosene fuel containers to minimize mistakes and potential harm to people or property.
Blue Type I and Type II safety cans are commonly used for kerosene storage. These cans are made of steel and are designed to prevent spills, leaks, and explosions. They have self-closing, leak-tested lids, flame arresters, and optional funnels for easy and safe pouring. The Type II safety cans feature an additional opening with an actuated pouring valve for more controlled pouring. Both types of cans are FM-approved and comply with OSHA, NFPA, and CARB regulations.
While kerosene is considered safe to store in plastic containers, the specific type of plastic is essential. High-density polyethene (HDPE) plastic buckets, for example, are generally suitable for storing kerosene. However, it is recommended to test the compatibility of the plastic with a small amount of kerosene before filling the container.
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Kerosene is considered a Class II or III combustible liquid
Kerosene is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid with a flashpoint between 100-162°F (38-72°C). Due to its flashpoint, it is considered a Class II or III combustible liquid by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).
The NFPA categorises flammable liquids into two types: flammable and combustible. A flammable liquid has a closed-cup flashpoint of less than 100°F (38°C), while a combustible liquid's flashpoint is greater than or equal to 100°F (38°C). As kerosene has a flashpoint above 100°F, it is considered combustible.
NFPA further categorises combustible liquids into three classes: Class II, Class IIIA, and Class IIIB. Class II liquids have a flashpoint between 100-140°F (37.8-60°C), while Class IIIA liquids have a flashpoint between 140-200°F (60-93°C). Any liquid with a flashpoint above 200°F (93°C) is considered Class IIIB.
Kerosene's flashpoint falls within the range for both Class II and Class IIIA liquids. Therefore, it is considered a Class II or III combustible liquid.
When storing kerosene, it is important to follow regulatory requirements to ensure safety. Kerosene is often stored in blue safety cans to differentiate it from other fuels. These safety cans feature flame arresters for flashback protection and controlled pouring mechanisms to prevent spills. Additionally, fire safety cabinets made of welded steel are used to store flammable and combustible liquids, providing maximum protection in the event of a fire.
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Kerosene should be stored in a sealed container, away from sunlight
Kerosene is a commonly used fuel that is extremely valuable in survival situations. It is important to store it properly to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Kerosene has a flashpoint between 100-162°F (38-72°C), making it a Class II or III combustible liquid. This means that it should be stored in a sealed container, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources. Extreme temperatures and humidity can accelerate its degradation, so it must be kept in a controlled environment.
When storing kerosene, it is essential to use a container that is designed for flammable liquids. In many districts across the US, kerosene must be stored in blue safety cans to differentiate it from other types of fuel. These safety cans are typically made of metal with good seals and feature flame arresters for flashback protection. They also have self-closing doors and latches to secure the contents in the event of a fire. It is also important to place these drums in a secondary container to prevent leaks or spills.
For larger quantities of kerosene, it is safer to store them outdoors in a chemical storage container that complies with the Australian Standard AS 1940:2017. This standard outlines specific requirements for the design and construction of flammable chemical storage containers, including the need for double walls with fixed louvers and a spill containment sump. Additionally, indoor flammable storage cabinets must have the correct dangerous goods signage, such as a "No Smoking No Ignition Sources Within 3 Metres" sign.
Proper maintenance of kerosene appliances, such as heaters or stoves, is also crucial for safety and efficiency. This includes cleaning, inspecting fuel lines, and replacing filters as per the manufacturer's guidelines. By following these recommended practices, you can maximise the lifespan of your kerosene and reduce the risk of equipment issues.
In summary, kerosene should always be stored in a sealed container, away from sunlight, to maintain its quality and safety. By using the appropriate storage methods and containers, you can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your kerosene supply.
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Frequently asked questions
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) is generally tolerant of a number of solvents and is used for many household chemical containers. It is also used for "approved" kerosene containers, which are blue plastic cans.
The purpose of an approved container is for the identification of the substance. For example, red is for gasoline. This helps firefighters easily recognise hazards from a distance.
Kerosene should be stored in a sealed container, out of sunlight, and in a cool place. It should also be kept away from other fuels such as diesel, gasoline, and heating oil.
Metal containers, such as steel cabinets, are also suitable for storing kerosene. These containers can provide maximum storage protection in the event of a fire.
No, kerosene should not be stored in just any plastic container. While kerosene is generally safe on plastics, it is important to use a container that is specifically designed for storing flammable liquids, such as the approved HDPE containers mentioned earlier.








































