Originally published by the Australian Institute of Health & Safety

SafeWork SA recently issued a safety alert following an incident in which a farm worker received serious burns when using a flammable liquid to assist in burning off grape vine prunings.

 The worker was required to burn large stockpiles of vine stumps and prunings, and he dowsed the stockpile with petrol and lit the initial fire. After a short period, the flames died down and the worker attempted to pour more petrol onto the fire.

The petrol ignited and engulfed him in flames, causing serious burns to his face, both arms and his left leg.

The regulator said the incorrect use of flammable liquids can be a serious risk to the safety of workers, and other persons if used incorrectly.
Employers and workers need to be aware of the dangers of using flammable liquids to start, or assist, in the burning of farm-related debris.

To reduce the risk of incidents and injuries occurring when burning farm debris, the alert said to consider:

· alternative methods to burning, such as mulching

· the use of “Fire Lighters” designed specifically to initiate a fire if there is no alternative

· ensure workers are trained, supervised, and informed of the dangers of flammable liquids and are advised not to use these products for the lighting of fires.

· under no circumstances should flammable liquid be thrown onto a heat source, such as a naked flame or burning ember.