Question

You are working with gasoline. Its LFL or LEL is 1.4%; its UFL or UEL is 7.6%. What precautions will you take?

a) Work in a well-ventilated area, away from potential ignition sources.
b) Avoid using personal protective equipment.
c) Increase the concentration of gasoline for better efficiency.
d) Work without any precautions; gasoline is not hazardous.

Answer 1

The correct safety precaution when working with gasoline is option a) Working in a well-ventilated area, away from potential ignition sources, along with using personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhering to safe handling practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

When working with gasoline, it is crucial to adhere to certain safety precautions due to its flammable nature. The Lower Flammable Limit (LFL) or Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) is at 1.4%, and the Upper Flammable Limit (UFL) or Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) is at 7.6%.

These values give you an indication of the gasoline concentration in air that can ignite or explode if an ignition source is present.

The correct precaution to take includes: a) Working in a well-ventilated area, away from potential ignition sources.

This is to ensure that if any gasoline vapors are present, they are diluted with air to reduce the risk of reaching the LFL or LEL concentration where it might combust. Precautions must include avoiding leaving open flames unattended, wearing goggles, and not smelling, tasting, or touching chemicals unless instructed.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is also essential when handling flammable liquids like gasoline to protect yourself from potential splashes or accidental exposure to the skin and eyes.