☣️ DOT HAZMAT CLASS 3
Flammable Liquids
Ignitable vapors, rapid fire spread, and runoff—control ignition and protect exposures.
🧯☣️
⚠️ Training/quick-reference only. For real incidents, follow your SOP/SOG and the current ERG.
Advertisement
Common hazards (high level)
- Vapor ignition and flash fire potential
- Runoff spread and secondary fires
- Toxic combustion products
How to recognize
- Liquid spills with strong odor or sheen
- Placard 'Flammable Liquid'
- Vapor accumulation in low areas
First actions (before Hazmat team)
- Eliminate ignition sources and control access
- Approach from upwind; establish isolation
- Protect exposures; consider vapor suppression per SOP
- Request Hazmat if unknown/large release
- Consult ERG and coordinate foam/water strategy
What NOT to do
- Do not walk through unknown liquids
- Do not create ignition sources (sparks) near vapors
- Do not assume diesel behaves like gasoline
Common examples
GasolineDiesel (varies)EthanolPaintAcetone
Advertisement
Explore more
FAQ
Many flammable liquids burn from vapor above the liquid surface; vapors can travel to ignition sources.
It depends on product and tactics. Use SOP/SOG and Hazmat guidance; foam may be indicated for many flammable liquids.
Life safety: isolate, control ignition, protect exposures, request Hazmat early.
Sources (high level): DOT/PHMSA class & marking concepts, NFPA 704 overview concepts, and ERG usage principles. This guide does not reproduce ERG guide text—always consult the current ERG for incident-specific protective actions.