SafeWork SA warns workplaces against using flammable liquids to ignite fires

SafeWork SA Warns Workplaces Against Using Flammable Liquids to Ignite Fires

SafeWork SA is warning businesses against using flammable liquids to ignite fires, after a serious workplace incident left a farm worker with significant burns. Employers must recognise the risk that petrol and other flammable liquid pose when used near open flame or heat sources.

The safety regulator says a recent incident that left a farm worker nursing serious burn injuries prompted this safety warning. According to SafeWork SA, the man who was burning large stockpiles of grape vine prunings lit a fire after dowsing the stockpile with petrol.

What Happened

Shortly afterwards, the fire stopped burning and the worker tried to pour petrol onto the fire. "The petrol ignited and engulfed him in flames, causing serious burns to his face, both arms and his left leg," SafeWork SA said.

This incident highlights hazards that arise whenever flammable liquid comes into contact with residual heat. Even a fire that appears extinguished can retain enough heat to reignite fuel vapours instantly, putting workers at serious risk of harm.

SafeWork SA's Safety Recommendations

SafeWork SA says employers should advise workers against using flammable liquids to light fires. Businesses are being warned to review current practices around outdoor burning, particularly on agricultural sites where stockpiles of dry vegetation, timber or plant matter are common.

The safety agency states that flammable liquid should always be kept away from a heat source. This applies equally to storage areas, worksites and any location where hazardous materials are present. Correct handling and storage reduce the chance of accidental ignition and protect worker health across all industries.

Key Safety Guidance for Employers

• Never use flammable liquids to start or accelerate fires, including when burning plant material or vegetation waste.
• Keep flammable liquid storage well away from any heat source, including embers, hot ash or smouldering piles.
• Train workers to recognise the dangers associated with incorrect use of petrol or similar accelerants.
• Ensure supervisors reinforce safety expectations before any burning activity begins on site.
• Report near-misses and injuries promptly to support ongoing risk management and continuous improvement.

Employers carry a duty to identify hazards, assess risk and put controls in place that protect health and safety across their operations. Businesses handling hazardous substances, including flammable liquids, should also consult guidance from work health and safety regulators such as SafeWork SA and Safe Work Australia to ensure compliance with current codes of practice.

For further context on how regulators respond to serious incidents, read our article on SafeWork warns workplaces following two serious incidents, as well as our coverage of SafeWork SA's warning on vehicle roll-away risks in workplaces.

Reducing Risk Around Outdoor Burning and Plant Waste

Businesses managing vegetation, grape vine prunings or other plant waste should treat outdoor burning as a task requiring formal risk assessment. Establishing clear procedures helps prevent workers from resorting to unsafe shortcuts, such as pouring more fuel onto an existing fire.

Organisations working with heavy machinery near combustible material may also find our Tree Felling Using a Dozer SWMS useful for managing related hazards on rural or agricultural sites.

For businesses seeking to strengthen procedures around related outdoor maintenance tasks, our Gutter Cleaning using a Ladder SOP offers a useful example of documented safe work practices that support broader workplace safety obligations.

The Bottom Line

Flammable liquids and fire are a dangerous combination that no worker should manage without proper training and controls. SafeWork SA's warning serves as a timely reminder that safety comes first, whether on a farm, construction site or industrial plant.

Employers should be aware of these dangers and take proactive steps to eliminate unsafe practices before they cause harm. Reviewing safety procedures, providing clear guidance and maintaining open communication about hazardous tasks all contribute to a safer workplace.

Learn more here.