Flammable Goods

Businesses and private individuals who handle flammable goods may need to apply for a permit for their handling. The starting point in the law is that all handling of flammable goods requires a permit, but the Swedish Authority for Civil Defence and Preparedness (MCF) has prescribed exceptions from the permit requirement.

Flammable goods include flammable liquids, flammable gases, and certain related substances called fire-reactive goods. Examples include diesel oil, gasoline, windshield washer fluid, propane, acetylene, and hydrogen peroxide. Handling means manufacturing, processing, treatment, packaging, storage, internal transport, use, disposal, recycling, destruction, and sale. The municipality is the permit authority and exercises supervision.

Requirements

  • Risk assessment: The operation must show that all risks due to the handling are addressed so that the operation can be conducted safely.
  • Manager: A manager (föreståndare) must be appointed who is well-versed in the risks and has good knowledge of the flammable goods and applicable legislation.
  • Safe facility: The facility must meet the legislation's safety requirements.
  • Inspection: Before the facility may be put into operation, the municipality may need to inspect it on site.

Application Procedure

  • Application: The application is submitted to the municipality where the handling will take place (usually to the rescue service).
  • Documents: Application form and documents needed for assessment of the operation according to the handbook for MCFFS 2013:3.
  • Fee: The application fee varies depending on the municipality and shall cover the cost of processing.
  • Construction start: A new facility can begin construction after the permit is granted.

Exceptions from Permit Requirement

  • Exceptions: MCF has prescribed exceptions from the permit requirement in MCFFS 2013:3.
  • Assessment: Check whether your handling is covered by exceptions or requires a permit.
  • Guidance: The handbook for MCFFS 2013:3 provides guidance on what documents should be attached to the application.