Overview
One technique to reduce the hazards associated with flammables is the use of safety cans. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines a safety can as an approved container, of not more than 5 gallons capacity, having a spring-closing lid and spout cover and so designed that it will safely relieve internal pressure when subjected to fire exposure.
This definition allows a wide variety of containers to be considered safety cans. However, safety cans should be Underwriter Laboratory (UL) approved. This organization is a nationally recognized, independent testing laboratory to which manufacturers submit products for evaluation of their ability to meet safety requirements under their intended use. Products that meet the requirements are given an UL product approval. A single safety can is limited to 5 gallons in size for Category 2, 3 or 4 flammable liquids and to 2 gallons for Category 1 flammable liquids.