10 Safety Tips While working with Methanol?

Methanol as we all know is a poisonous substance that can in the worst cases even cause death and even in small doses result in serious ailments. One thing that we should understand is that any poisonous substance can be handled safely if we maintain some safety code. Here are 10 important things that you should observe when using methanol.

1. Methanol should be handled only in a heavily ventilated area. It can be an enclosed area but it should be cross ventilated with exhaust fans has a CFM rating of more than 1500. (This is will vary according to room size.This is rating recommended for a 20 * 20 *15 feet room)
2. The containers contain methanol should be 100% leak proof if leak is suspected change container immediately
3. The containers containing methanol should be kept in well ventilated areas at all time. This is to avoid dangers of inflaming and concentrated inhaling in case of leakage.
4. The area where methanol is stored should be fitted with Industry grade non spark and low heat electrical equipment. These are not very expensive contrary to popular belief, in some countries they are even subsidised.
5. Clear sings indicating no smoking and other enforcement tools like smoke detectors etc should be installed near methanol storage. Even home brewers should follow this because many people might come to see your home brewing equipment and so the danger level is high.
6. Use gloves , masks , aprons etc while handling methanol as studies have shown that methanol can be assimilated into the blood stream through ones skin.
7. Have fire extinguishers in handy locations, if budget allows install a fire detection and auto extinguisher, in case of a fire when you are not around. These are relatively expensive but if you look around you could get something that fits your budget.
8. The containers should be clearly marked as to be containing methanol, as accidental intake can cause even death. so keep in distinguishable containers. Preferably coloured ones so that they cant be mistaken for water. Never keep methanol in containers that resemble you house hold water bottle. SUCH INCIDENTS OF ACCIDENTAL INTAKE ARE FREQUENTLY REPORTED.
9. Methanol vapour is equally dangerous, so as soon as the required methanol is taken close and keep back the methanol bottle to storage area.
10. Finally buy as little methanol as possible, this might not be economicall but this is the safest solution. As accidents can happen however careful you are.

NEVER ALLOW CHILDREN INTO WORK AREA.