29 CFR 1910.106(d)(2)(iii) specifies the maximum container size depending upon the category of flammable liquid and the type of material from which the container is made. However, it is not uncommon to see flammable liquids in plastic and glass containers that are larger than allowed by the standard. In many cases the chemical is in the container in which it was shipped to the facility.
Nationally recognized testing laboratories approve some plastic and glass containers on the market that are larger than the sizes listed in Table H-12 (see Appendix A) and the exception in 29 CFR 1910.106 (d)(2)(iii). Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) exemptions permit the use of USDOT specification and non-specification polyethylene containers and non-regulated containers for transporting specifically identified Class B poisonous liquids and combustible and flammable liquids in motor vehicles, rail freight, and cargo vessels.
NFPA 30 (2012 edition) states in paragraphs 9.4.1 – “Only the following approved containers, intermediate bulk containers, and portable tanks shall be used in Class I, Class II, and Class IIIA liquids:
9.4.1(2) - Plastic or metal containers meeting the requirements of, and used for petroleum products within the scope of one or more of the following specifications: (a) ASTM F 852, Standard Specification for Portable Gasoline Containers for Consumer Use (b) ASTM F 976, Standard Specification for Portable Kerosene and Diesel Containers for Consumer Use (c) UL 1313, Nonmetallic Safety Cans for Petroleum Products (d) UL 30, Standard for Metal Safety Cans (e) UL 1314, Standard for Special Purpose Metal Containers (f) FM Global, Approved Standard for Safety Containers and Filling, Supply, and Disposal Containers – Class Number 6051 and 6052.
9.4.1(3) - Plastic containers that meet requirements set by the USDOT Hazardous Materials Regulations in Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Parts 100-199, and the National Motor Freight Classification for liquids that are not classified as hazardous by the USDOT.
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9.4.1(6) - Glass containers up to the capacity limits stated in Table 9.4.3 and in accordance with USDOT Hazardous Materials Regulations in 49 CFR Parts 100-199.
Source: NC OSHA