Category: Legal

Posted on by

2-Hour Fire-Rated Steel Stores

2-hour fire-rated steel storesWhat Is a 2-Hour Fire-Rated Steel Store – And Do You Need One?

When working with flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, acetone, or solvents, fire safety isn’t just best practice — it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re operating a warehouse, workshop, or production facility, safely storing hazardous materials is essential to protect your staff, comply with legislation, and maintain business continuity.

One of the most effective safety measures for flammable liquid storage is a 2-hour fire-rated steel store. But what exactly does “2-hour fire-rated” mean — and when is such a store necessary for your site?

What Does “2-Hour Fire-Rated” Actually Mean?

A 2-hour fire rating refers to how long a structure can resist fire exposure while maintaining its structural integrity and preventing internal temperature spikes. In this case, it means the steel store has been tested and certified to withstand fire conditions for 120 minutes.

This endurance is measured under standard fire test conditions, often simulating the heat curve of a structural blaze. During that time, the internal contents are protected against the full force of fire — giving emergency services time to respond and providing a crucial safety buffer for personnel evacuation.

In practical terms, it’s about containing the danger long enough to prevent disaster.

Legal Compliance: What South African Law Says:

In South Africa, the safe storage of flammable liquids is enforced under the General Safety Regulations (GSR) of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. Specifically, GSR 4(2) states:

“No employer shall require or permit a flammable liquid to be used or applied other than in a room, cabinet or other enclosure specially constructed for this purpose of fire-resisting material or in a place which, owing to its situation or construction or any other feature or circumstance, is of such a nature that-
(a) no fire or explosion hazard is, can or may be created thereat…”

You can view the full legislation: here.

This means that if you’re storing more than minimal quantities of flammable liquids, especially indoors or near structures, a fire-rated store is likely required to meet compliance.
Failure to comply can not only result in penalties and shutdowns, but also puts your staff and assets at serious risk.

When Do You Need a 2-Hour Fire-Rated Store?

Not every situation demands a 2-hour fire-rated store, but many do. Here are typical scenarios where one is either strongly recommended or legally required:

  • You’re storing bulk quantities of Class I or II flammable liquids (e.g., petrol, ethanol, acetone).
  • The store is placed inside a building, rather than outdoors or in an isolated zone.
  • There’s insufficient separation distance between the store and other structures, walkways, roads, or personnel.
  • Your site is under strict insurance requirements or subject to a fire safety audit by local authorities or compliance officers.

In all these cases, a certified 2-hour fire-rated store offers peace of mind and may be the only acceptable solution under legal and insurance frameworks.

Features of a Compliant Fire-Rated Steel Store

A properly engineered fire-rated store isn’t just a steel box with thick walls. It incorporates a range of safety features that are essential for risk mitigation:

  • Third-party certified 2-hour fire rating
  • Built-in ventilation to prevent flammable vapour buildup
  • Compliant sump to catch leaks or spills
  • Reinforced, fire-resistant doors with secure locking

These stores are designed with both passive and active fire safety principles in mind — meaning they don’t just resist fire but actively help reduce the spread of flammable vapours and liquids.

Optional Add-Ons for Enhanced Safety

Depending on your application or risk profile, you may want to include custom options, such as:

  • Zone 1 internal lighting
  • Temperature control system
  • Pushback racking systems for drums and IBCs
  • Sprinkler system
  • Extraction system for fumes

Why It Matters

Ultimately, fire-rated storage is about more than just ticking compliance boxes. It’s about:

  • Protecting your people
  • Preventing catastrophic damage
  • Maintaining operational uptime
  • Ensures long-term legal and insurance compliance

Even a small fire can escalate quickly when flammable liquids are involved. A 2-hour fire-rated steel store ensures that, in the worst-case scenario, your risk is contained, controlled, and mitigated. Often times an insurance company will not honor a claim in the event of a fire if flammable liquids were not properly stored.

Why Choose Spill Doctor?

At Spill Doctor, we supply fully compliant, third-party certified 2-hour fire-rated steel stores, designed for South African conditions and legislation. We offer:

  • Full consultation and advice
  • Customizable configurations
  • Drawings and approvals assistance
  • Turn-key solution from drawings to delivery

Whether you need a standard unit or a fully customized fire-rated enclosure, we’ve got a solution for you.

Need help choosing a compliant fire-rated store that suits your needs?

📞 Get in touch with us: here.
🛒 Explore our full range of 2-hour fire-rated stores: here.

Posted on by

Can You Store Petrol or Diesel in a Warehouse?

Can you store petrol or diesel in a warehouse?

Storing petrol or diesel in a warehouse is possible, but it comes with strict safety requirements. Both national legislation and municipal bylaws regulate how these high-risk fuels can be stored, and using compliant equipment isn’t optional – it’s the law.

Why Petrol and Diesel Are High-Risk Fuels

Petrol has a flash point of around -43°C, meaning it releases flammable vapour even at very low temperatures. Diesel’s flash point is higher, but it can still ignite under the right conditions. Improper storage of these fuels can lead to:

  • Fires or explosions

  • Chemical burns or inhalation hazards

  • Damage to equipment or property

  • Legal penalties and rejected insurance claims

South African Law on Flammable Liquid Storage

The General Safety Regulations (GSR 4(2)) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act state:

“(2) No employer shall require or permit a flammable liquid to be used or applied other than in a room, cabinet, or other enclosure specially constructed for this purpose of fire-resisting material…”

This means that flammable liquids like petrol and diesel must be stored in fire-resistant cabinets or rooms/stores with proper ventilation, away from other workplaces, and with clear signage.

How Much Petrol and Diesel Can You Store?

The exact limit for storing petrol or diesel depends on your municipality, as local by-laws define maximum quantities without requiring special storage and approvals. Some examples include:

Ekurhuleni Municipality:

  • Flammable liquids with flash point ≤ 18°C, i.e Petrol: up to 100 L

  • Flammable liquids with flash point 18–23°C, i.e 1-Butanol: up to 420 L

  • Flammable liquids with flash point 23–61°C i.e Diesel: up to 1 100 L

eThekweni Municipality:

  • Class I flammable liquids, i.e petrol: 200 L

  • Classes II and III flammable liquids, i.e diesel: 400 L

  • Quantities above these limits require approval and a certificate of registration from the municipal fire department

Note: While a distinction is generally made between flammable liquids and combustible liquids, most municipal by-laws don’t. These limits written above serve only as a guide. Always consult your local municipal by-laws before storing any flammable liquid.

Best Practices for Safe Storage

Even if you’re under the municipal limit, always follow these safety measures:

  • Use approved flammable liquid cabinets or stores

  • Ensure compliant storage containers are used

  • Clearly label all containers with appropriate signage

  • Keep the storage area away from ignition sources

You can view our range of flammable cabinets: here
You can view our range of steels stores: here

If you are unsure of what you require, get in touch with us: here

Posted on by

Navigating South African Spill Containment Regulations

Navigating South African Spill Containment Regulations Graphic

 

Navigating South African Spill Containment Regulations especially when it comes to hazardous liquids and chemical storage, South African businesses have a clear legal obligation: managing spills effectively is not optional. Proper spill containment is critical not only for environmental protection but also for workplace safety and regulatory compliance. This article breaks down the key regulations, compliance requirements, and practical steps you can take to ensure your business stays on the right side of the law.

Key Regulations Governing Spill Containment in South Africa
South Africa’s legal framework addresses spill containment through a combination of environmental laws and occupational health and safety standards:

 

National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) specifically Chapter 7, Section 28, businesses have a “duty of care” to prevent environmental harm. This includes taking reasonable measures to contain hazardous spills.

The National Environmental Management: Waste Act (NEM:WA) chapter 2, provides the overarching framework for waste management in South Africa, requiring businesses to comply with waste containment and handling standards as specified by national strategies and regulations developed under this Act.

Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) section 8(1)(2): Employers must provide a safe workplace, minimizing workers’ exposure to hazardous substances through appropriate containment and spill management systems.

Common Compliance Requirements:

 

To meet these legal obligations, businesses typically need to implement:

Secondary containment systems such as spill pallets, and bunded flooring are designed to hold at least 110% of the largest container’s volume or 25% of the total volume of all containers being stored, whichever is greater as outlined in the National Environmental Management: Waste Act: NORMS AND STANDARDS FOR THE STORAGE OF WASTE. As well as routine inspections and maintenance of storage areas and containment equipment to identify and address risks proactively.

Challenges and Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with spill containment regulations can result in:

  • Significant financial penalties and fines from environmental authorities.
  • Work stoppages or shutdowns imposed by regulators.
  • Damage to your business reputation through negative publicity.
  • Long-term environmental damage with costly remediation efforts.
  • Increased risk of workplace injuries or health issues for employees.

How Spill Doctor Supports Your Compliance Journey:

At Spill Doctor, We believe that proactive behaviour is necessary for the manufacturing, storage and transporting of hazardous materials or products. Should you not be prepared in the event of a spillage, your company may be liable for the environmental damage caused by the spillage which could result in hefty fines or imprisonment if found negligent. It is vitally important that you have both proactive and reactive procedures in place for any small or large spillages.

Understanding and complying with South Africa’s spill containment regulations isn’t just about avoiding fines — it’s about protecting your people, your environment, and your business. With the right knowledge and equipment, you can confidently meet legal requirements and build a safer workplace.

If you’re unsure about your current spill containment measures or need expert advice, contact us today.

Additionally, our full range or Spill Pallets, Drip trays, Drum Trolleys, etc. can be found here.

Posted on by

OSH Act 16.1 Explained

Occupational Health And Safety Act Section 16 explained

 

Most CEO’s and managers have at some time opened their Occupational Health and Safety Act and read Section 16 and then perhaps not given it another thought?

In order to prevent unfortunate incidents which may lead to criminal or civil liability, let’s unpack what the Act says to really understand.

The OHS Act states:

16. Chief Executive Officer charged with certain duties

16.1. Every chief executive officer shall as far as is reasonably practicable ensure that the duties of his employer as contemplated in this Act are properly discharged.

16.2. Without derogating from his responsibility or liability in terms of subsection (1), a chief executive officer may assign any duty contemplated in the said subsection, to any person under his control, which person shall act subject to the control and directions of the chief executive officer.

16.3. The provisions of subsection (1) shall not, subject to the provisions of section 37, relieve an employer of any responsibility or liability under this Act.

16.4. For the purpose of subsection (1), the head of department of any department of State shall be deemed to be the chief executive officer of that department.”

Safety issues in our workplaces are governed by South African legislation which must be complied with.  Regardless how, important the CEO is, even the CEO has to comply with this legislation.

So what if we have a board of directors, or if we have a body corporate? Who will be responsible for the health and safety in the workplace and might have to face the “long arm” of the law should an unfortunate incident occur?

Occupational Health And Safety Act Section 16.1 defines the CEO as the person who is responsible for the overall management and control of the business.

Therefore, if a company has a board of directors, the board must decide who will be the person with the most authority.  The OHS Act will consider this person to be the 16.1 or the CEO as defined in Act.

According to the Act:

• Every chief executive officer shall as far as is reasonably practicable ensure that the duties of his employer as contemplated in this Act are properly discharged.

• Without derogating from his responsibility or liability, a chief executive officer may assign any duty contemplated in the said subsection, to any person under his control, which person shall act subject to the control and directions of the chief executive officer.

• The provisions of this section shall not, subject to the provisions of section 37, relieve an employer of any responsibility or liability under this Act.

Although there is only one CEO, the Act allows this person to appoint another person or persons as a 16.2. (It is impossible to imagine that the 16.1 will have the time to ensure that all the tasks in the workplace and being performed safely.)  Therefore, the 16.2 shall act subject to the control and directions of the chief executive officer.

The responsibility and liability remains with the CEO who must ensure, that the duties imposed by this Act on the employer, are properly discharged. The legislator clearly wants to ensure that these health and safety duties are properly delegated by the CEO.  The CEO can delegate responsibilities to the 16.2 but can not delegate accountability.

Section 16(3) makes provision for the CEO to be relieved of his or her responsibility and liability under certain circumstances as stipulated in section 37. Section 37 basically regulates who is liable in the case where an employee or mandatory (including contractors) does not comply with the requirements of the Act.

It is therefore, advisable to introduce a 37(2) contract if you have contractors on your site and that your employees fully understand the scope of their duties and that everything reasonably practicable has been done to ensure the health and safety of the workers. Section 37(2) will be dealt with in a later issue. In the mean time ……… stay safe!

Here is a question for all CEO’s:

Is your Health and Safety Policy current, documented and communicated to all workers in the workplace as well as available to those who may visit your workplace?  …If not contact Spill Doctor and we will assist you.