AS 1940
The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids

This Standard provides requirements and recommendations for the design, construction and operation of installations where flammable or combustible liquids are stored and handled. Separate sections provide requirements for minor storage, package storage, and storage of liquids in tanks, as well as, fire protection and emergency management. Requirements for the bulk storage of potable alcohols, recommendations for blending plants and requirements for the conditional use of non-flameproof fork-lift trucks and vehicles in flammable package stores, are provided among other useful guidance material in the appendices.

Implications for Owners of Facilities Which Store or Use Flammable or Combustible Liquids

Storage and handling of dangerous goods in accordance with standards such as AS 1940 is accepted as being an important part of having a compliant solution for meeting legislative requirements in relation to the goods. If you store dangerous goods, even in minor quantities (in some cases less than the contents of a 205 litre drum), there is an obligation to do so in accordance with the principles and guidelines set down in this Standard. Even relatively small quantities of flammable & combustible liquids (e.g. paints and thinners, certain inks and even alcohol) should be stored in approved flammable liquids cabinets. Additionally, there are restrictions on how many cabinets can be located within a room, school, warehouse or factory.

To ensure your storage facilities comply with the requirements of AS 1940 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids you need to seek the advice of an accredited AIDGC consultant.

Refer to the list of dangerous goods consultants

For the responsible authority in each state for workplace safety, and further information on storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.