Self-Instruct
Difference Between Flammable And Inflammable
Two words that are commonly misunderstood and often used interchangeably are "flammable" and "inflammable." While they may sound similar and have almost identical meanings, there is a subtle difference between the two that is crucial to understand, especially when dealing with hazardous materials.
The most significant difference between flammable and inflammable lies in their prefixes. The prefix "in" before "inflammable" gives the impression that it means something similar to "non-flammable" or "not easily ignited." However, this is a misconception. In actuality, both words have the same meaning, which is "capable of burning."
To better understand the usage and interpretation of these terms, it is essential to delve into their origins. The term "flammable" originates from the Latin word "flammare," meaning "to ignite" or "to set on fire." On the other hand, "inflammable" traces back to the Latin word "inflammare," which also means "to ignite" or "to set on fire." The key distinction lies in the Latin prefix "in," which was commonly used to indicate emphasis, intensification, or a sense of inside.
The reason behind this confusing contrast in prefixes can be attributed to the difference in language evolution. In the English language, over time, the use of "in" as a negative prefix became more widespread, indicating "non" or "not." However, the term "inflammable" predates this linguistic shift and is still commonly used today in specific contexts, leading to significant misunderstandings.
So, what exactly is the implication of this linguistic discrepancy? The use of "inflammable" instead of "flammable" can cause confusion and potentially dangerous situations. People may mistakenly believe that "inflammable" means something that is not easily ignited or does not burn. Consequently, they fail to take appropriate precautions when handling substances that are highly combustible or explosive.
To prevent any misconceptions and ensure safety, it is crucial to use the term "flammable" instead of "inflammable." Many organizations and regulatory bodies have made deliberate efforts to promote the consistent use of "flammable" to avoid confusion. For example, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) instituted this change in their codes and standards to eliminate any ambiguity that may lead to accidents.
Apart from the difference in meaning, it is also important to note that the terms "flammable" and "inflammable" are not synonymous with "combustible." While all three words refer to the potential of a substance to catch fire, there are slight variations in their definitions. Combustible materials have a higher ignition temperature compared to flammable materials, meaning they are less likely to ignite. However, they can still burn and pose a fire hazard under certain conditions.
The presence of other modifiers and classifications further emphasizes the variations in terms related to flammability. For instance, the terms "highly flammable" or "extremely flammable" are used to describe materials that are exceptionally prone to ignite. These substances often have low flashpoints, meaning they can easily catch fire even at low temperatures. On the other hand, "flammable liquids" and "flammable solids" are classifications based on the physical state of the material.
Understanding the flammability of chemicals and hazardous substances is critical in various industries. For instance, chemical manufacturers, storage facilities, and transportation companies must comply with stringent regulations to ensure the safety of employees, the public, and the environment.
In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines and standards that require establishments to label hazardous materials appropriately. The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) mandates that substances must be labeled with a clear indication of their flammability. This includes using the term "flammable" instead of "inflammable" to avoid any confusion or potential hazards.
In conclusion, the difference between "flammable" and "inflammable" lies in their prefixes. While "inflammable" may give the impression of something that is not easily ignited, both terms have the same meaning, referring to substances that can burn. It is essential to use "flammable" to prevent any confusion that may lead to accidents when handling hazardous materials. The consistent use of terminology and understanding the variations between terms such as "flammable," "inflammable," and "combustible" is crucial to ensure safety in various industries.