Fire protection and resistance to spontaneous combustion: the SaCon container reduces risks

Why do high temperatures increase the risk of auto-inflammation?

In workshops, industrial sites, and small businesses, cleaning materials used in contact with oils and greases represent an often underestimated risk. As temperatures rise, the oxidation reactions of certain oils accelerate. The heat produced can then accumulate, potentially leading to spontaneous combustion without a flame, spark, or external heat source.

According to data cited by Mewa, a temperature increase of just 10°C is enough to accelerate these chemical reactions. During periods of intense heat, this phenomenon reduces the time needed to reach the ignition threshold and increases the risk of fire starting within contaminated materials.

Oil-soaked cloths remain a major source of fires.

Rags, used textiles, and dishcloths that have absorbed oils or grease are the main materials involved. Statistics from surveys by the IFS (Institute for Prevention and Research on Public Insurers' Losses), as well as reports from fire departments, indicate that approximately 60% of spontaneous combustion cases are linked to these substances.

The risk arises primarily when these materials are stored in open or unsuitable containers. The lack of heat dissipation then promotes a gradual temperature increase that can trigger a fire.

"Auto-ignition is particularly insidious because it occurs without warning or an external ignition source. In summer, high temperatures greatly accelerate dangerous reactions. Combined with open storage or unsuitable containers, they significantly increase the risk."
— Télesphore Loréal, director of Mewa France.

A container designed to limit conditions favorable to auto-ignition

To address this risk, Mewa offers the SaCon safety container , designed for storing wipes used in its industrial textile management service.

Made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene) and equipped with an airtight seal, the container limits oxygen intake and reduces conditions that promote heat buildup. The aim is to prevent the development of the chemical process that can lead to spontaneous combustion.

“Thanks to our hermetically sealed HDPE (high-density polyethylene) SaCon, we eliminate the conditions conducive to spontaneous combustion by blocking oxygen supply and heat buildup, while also eliminating the risks associated with improper storage. Our comprehensive management system also minimizes the time potentially hazardous materials remain in the workplace, significantly reducing risks.”
— Telesphore Loréal.

A solution designed for workshops and industrial sites

The SaCon container is part of a collection and management service for industrial cleaning cloths offered by Mewa. This system aims to limit the storage time of soiled textiles within companies, a factor that also helps reduce the risks associated with their degradation or overheating.

This approach is particularly relevant to maintenance workshops, industrial companies, garages, mechanical trades, and activities that regularly use oils and lubricants.

A preventative measure already deployed in more than 150,000 companies

According to Mewa, more than 150,000 customers in Europe already use the SaCon safety container. As heat waves become more frequent, managing the risks associated with storing materials impregnated with flammable substances is a real challenge for site managers, operators, and maintenance companies.

Beyond the protection of installations, the prevention of auto-ignition relies above all on appropriate storage practices and equipment designed to limit exposure to this often invisible risk.