Why must a bin containing oily rags be emptied promptly?

• A. They attract pests
• B. They will rust metal
• C. They are highly combustible
• D. They cause odors

Answer: (C)

Oily rags pose a fire risk because the oil can oxidize and generate heat. In a bin, the heat from many rags can build up, and if it isn’t released, the temperature can reach the point where the rags ignite on their own. Emptying the bin promptly removes the heat source and greatly reduces the chance of spontaneous combustion turning into a fire. Odors or pests can occur as a side effect, but the primary danger is fire risk from self-heating rags.