Static ignition hazards with plastic containers

Abstract Plastic containers present unique challenges in flammable liquid service, as most plastics are highly electrically insulating, cannot be grounded, and can easily accumulate electrostatic charges. These electrostatic charges result in elevated risks of electrostatic ignitions where the potential for ignitable mixtures exists, including unique and different exposures on the inside and outside surfaces of plastic containers. In this primer, four specific ignition risks are overviewed: (1) flow electrification, (2) splash filling, (3) triboelectrification, and (4) charge accumulation on workers.