Type I vs. Type II Safety Cans: What's the Difference?
When storing and dispensing gasoline, solvents, and other flammable liquids, using an appropriate safety can will help reduce the risks associated with spills, vapors, and fire. But when shopping for safety cans, you'll often encounter two options: Type I and Type II.
The biggest difference is simple: Type I safety cans have one opening, while Type II safety cans have two. That design difference affects how the cans are filled, how liquids are dispensed, and which applications they're best suited for.
What Is a Type I Safety Can?
A Type I safety can has a single opening that is used for both filling and dispensing. The straightforward design makes Type I cans a popular choice for general flammable-liquid storage and handling.
Quality Type I safety cans typically incorporate important safety features such as a spring-loaded cap, pressure relief, and flame arrester. The spring-loaded cap helps keep the container sealed when not in use and can automatically vent if internal pressure builds. The flame arrester is designed to help prevent an outside ignition source from reaching flammable vapors inside the container.
Because the same opening is used for filling and pouring, Type I cans are particularly convenient when dispensing into containers or tanks with larger openings. A funnel can also make it easier to pour into smaller openings.
What Is a Type II Safety Can?
A Type II safety can has two openings, with one used for filling and another dedicated to dispensing. The dispensing opening typically incorporates a flexible metal hose that makes it easier to direct liquid into smaller or difficult-to-reach openings.
Some safety cans allow the operator to regulate the rate at which liquid is dispensed through the designated opening. The separate openings also support smoother liquid flow during pouring.
Type II designs can therefore be particularly useful when precision and controlled dispensing are priorities.
The Key Differences
The major differences can be summarized simply:
Type I Safety Cans
- One opening for both filling and dispensing
- Simple, straightforward design
- Well suited to general storage and routine handling
- Convenient for pouring into larger openings
- May be used with a compatible funnel for smaller openings
Type II Safety Cans
- Two separate openings for filling and dispensing
- Flexible hose for more precise pouring
- Better suited to smaller or harder-to-reach openings
- Allows greater control over liquid flow
- Often preferable when flammable liquids are dispensed frequently
Which Safety Can Should You Choose?
Choosing between Type I and Type II largely comes down to how you plan to dispense the liquid. If you're primarily looking for a straightforward option for storing, transporting, and occasionally pouring a flammable liquid, a Type I safety can is likely sufficient for your needs. If you frequently transfer liquids into equipment or containers with small openings, a Type II safety can may offer better control and convenience thanks to its dedicated dispensing opening and flexible hose.
Regardless of type, facilities should select a safety can that is compatible with the liquid, appropriately approved for its intended use, and compliant with the requirements that apply to the workplace.
Type I or Type II: Both Are Designed with Safety in Mind
The choice between Type I and Type II doesn't necessarily come down to one being "safer" than the other. Instead, each design is intended for a different style of handling and dispensing.
Remember the difference this way:
Type I = One opening and simple dispensing
Type II = Two openings and greater pouring control
Selecting the right design for the job can make handling flammable liquids easier while supporting safer storage and dispensing practices throughout your facility.