A major hazard involved with the transfer of non-conductive flammable liquids is the build-up of static electricity with the potential for discharge resulting in fire and subsequent loss of primary containment, an LOPC event. Certain non-polar liquids can be charged (e.g., while flowing through pipes and hoses). Detectable and hazardous charges must be expected if the specific resistance of the liquid exceeds 108 ohms (Ω.m).
The potential for accumulation of static charges can vastly increase if the liquid contains a non-miscible component or a suspended solid. For example: