Safety and Hazard Precautions in Biodiesel Production

Biodiesel is a nonflammable and biodegradable product used by consumers, but the production process poses significant health and safety risks for individuals and the environment. Proper precautions include adherence to federal and state safety standards and taking personal precautions against the chemical toxins included in the process. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides material safety data sheets to educate chemical suppliers and their employees on safety measures and precautions. The National Research Council offers a comprehensive safety publication to assist with safe chemical handling and processing.

Tank Safety

• The reaction tank used in processing biodiesel creates safety hazards when too much pressure or vacuum is applied to the system, causing critical damage to the tanks. Tank safety is compromised when temperatures exceed recommended limits. Therefore, always adhere to prescribed temperature and pressure limits and replace tanks after long-term use.

Electrical Equipment

• Electrically powered pumps create safety issues when over-heated, over-pressurized and improperly installed. Maintain electrical equipment according to the National Electric Code issued by the U.S. Department of Labor Occupation and Health Administration. Use an explosion-proof motor for safety to avoid explosions from leaving the motor and only engage qualified professionals to install pumps.

Chemical Toxins

• Biodiesel production uses toxic chemicals that can be lethal if not handled properly. OSHA provides a Material Safety Data Sheet for use by all biodiesel producers and their employees. The MSDS includes comprehensive educational information on hazards and safety issues. Always wear personal safety equipment that includes protective gloves, an apron and eye protection. Wear a protective mouth cover to reduce the risk of inhaling poisonous vapors. Always keep children and pets away from the work area, keep the area well-ventilated and utilize a fume hood to help contain risks.

Fire Hazards

• Methanol is used in biodiesel production and is highly flammable. Explosion-proof induction pumps and tightly secured methanol containers reduce the fire risks. Keep all flames or sparks away from methanol chemicals and follow the safety guidelines provided by equipment manufacturers, OSHA and the MSDS.

Fuel Quality

• Fuel-quality testing poses potential safety hazards and only certified laboratories are legally permitted to conduct testing. Never attempt to test fuel quality outside a certified laboratory.

Waste Stream Disposal

• Waste stream disposal creates additional health and safety risks to individuals and the environment. Glycerol and wastewater are two of the most prevalent waste streams derived from the biodiesel process. Dispose of wastewater according to state and federal hazardous waste disposal standards. Wastewater released to the surface water requires a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit obtained through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Follow all state and federal standards to dispose of biodiesel processing waste.