Technical Foundation
What Is a Type I & II Safety Can?
A safety can is a portable metal or approved polyethylene container built to OSHA and NFPA 30 requirements for storing and dispensing flammable and combustible liquids, incorporating a spring-loaded, self-closing lid and a flame arrestor screen that prevents external ignition from flashing back into the stored liquid. Type I cans have a single opening used for both filling and pouring, requiring the can to be tipped to dispense; Type II cans add a second, separate pour spout with a self-venting mechanism that allows one-handed pouring with automatic air intake, reducing glugging and spillage.
Capacity is selected based on storage and handling needs, commonly from 1 to 5 gallons for portable use, with OSHA 1910.106 limiting the quantities of flammable liquids that may be stored outside of an approved cabinet in most occupancies. UL and FM approval marks indicate the can has been tested to relevant safety standards for construction, flame arrestor performance and pressure relief under fire exposure.
Prefer a quick quote?
Get Type I & II Safety Cans Pricing in Your Inbox
Skip the search — tell us the capacity, liquid type and spout style needed and we will come back with pricing.
| Spec | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Can Type | Type I (single spout) vs. Type II (self-venting dual spout) | Type II allows one-handed, controlled pouring; Type I requires tipping to dispense |
| Capacity | Typically 1, 2.5, 5 gallon | Sized to storage/handling needs; OSHA limits total flammable liquid storage outside approved cabinets |
| Flame Arrestor | Fine mesh screen at the spout opening | Prevents external flame or spark from igniting vapor inside the can |
| Approval Standard | UL listed, FM approved, meets OSHA 1910.106/NFPA 30 | Confirms the can has been tested for safe flammable liquid storage and handling |
| Material | Galvanized steel, stainless steel, approved polyethylene | Material choice affects chemical compatibility with the specific liquid being stored |
Shop Type I & II Safety Cans
Browse Type I & II Safety Cans Sub-Categories
Organised by can type and capacity. Pick a sub-category, or tell ChatMRO the liquid type and volume you need to store and let it match the right can.
How it works
From Half-Remembered Part Number to PO, in Three Steps.
Ask
Type an MPN, paste a spec sheet, or describe the part in plain English. ChatMRO understands engineer-speak.
Compare
Side-by-side specs, cross-references, and equivalents from multiple sources — without the clutter of endless browser tabs.
Quote & Buy
Request a quote or add to cart. Volume discounts, VAT-aware pricing, and consolidated procurement — all in one place.
Applications
Where Type I & II Safety Cans Get Used
Type I and Type II safety cans are specified anywhere flammable or combustible liquids need to be stored and dispensed safely in compliance with fire and workplace safety codes.
Automotive & Fleet Maintenance
Safety cans store gasoline and diesel for refueling small engines, equipment and generators on-site.
Construction Sites
Type II safety cans provide compliant, portable fuel storage for powering generators, saws and compactors.
Manufacturing & Industrial Facilities
Safety cans store solvents and flammable process liquids in compliance with workplace fire and safety codes.
Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance
Safety cans store gasoline for mowers, trimmers and other small gas-powered equipment.
Marine & Boat Maintenance
Safety cans store fuel and solvents for engine service and maintenance in marina and boatyard settings.
Laboratories & Paint Shops
Safety cans store flammable solvents used in coating, cleaning and sample preparation processes.
FAQ
Type I & II Safety Cans Questions, Answered
What's the difference between a Type I and Type II safety can?
A Type I safety can has a single opening used for both filling and pouring, so the can must be tilted to dispense liquid. A Type II safety can adds a second, dedicated pour spout with a self-venting design that draws in air as liquid pours out, enabling a smoother, more controlled one-handed pour with reduced risk of splashing or spilling.
How much flammable liquid can I store without a safety cabinet?
OSHA 1910.106 sets specific limits on flammable liquid quantities that may be stored outside of an approved flammable storage cabinet, varying by liquid class and container type — consult the current OSHA regulation and your facility's fire code for the applicable limit, as ChatMRO cannot confirm compliance for your specific site.
What does the flame arrestor on a safety can actually do?
The flame arrestor is a fine mesh screen fitted at the spout opening that dissipates heat and prevents an external flame or spark from traveling back into the can and igniting the flammable vapor inside. It's a key safety feature distinguishing an approved safety can from an ordinary fuel container.
Can I use the same safety can for gasoline and diesel?
Some safety cans are labeled and approved for multiple flammable and combustible liquid types, but many manufacturers offer diesel-specific or non-gasoline cans with spout and labeling differences to prevent misfueling. Check the can's labeling and manufacturer specification before using it interchangeably between fuel types.
Why does my safety can need UL listing or FM approval?
UL listing and FM approval indicate the can has been independently tested against recognized safety standards for construction, flame arrestor performance, and pressure relief under fire exposure. Many workplace fire codes and insurance requirements specifically call for UL-listed or FM-approved safety cans rather than any metal container.
Keep browsing
Related Categories
Explore More
Find Your Next Part Now.
Describe a part number, spec or what it does.