Guidelines for the Storage of Essential Medicines and Other Health ...

FLAMMABLESSome flammable liquids commonly found in health facilitiesinclude acetone, anesthetic ether, alcohols (before dilution),and kerosene.1Store large supplies of f lammables in a separate location awayfrom the main storeroom, preferably outside the mainstoreroom but on the premises and not less than 20 maway from the other buildings. Fire fighting equipmentshould be easily available. Large supplies of flammablesshould never be stored in the same areas as medicines.A small stock of flammables may be kept in a steel cabinet ina well-ventilated area, away from open flames and electricalappliances. Mark the cabinets to indicate that they containhighly flammable liquids, and display the internationalhazard symbol. In addition, the shelves of the cabinetshould be designed to contain and isolate spillage. Alwaysstore flammables in their original container.Flammable liquids each have a f lash point, which is theminimum temperature at which the liquid gives off vaporin sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixturewith air near the surface of the liquid. The f lash pointindicates the susceptibility to ignition.25