A worker was using methyl hydrate (methanol) to score laminated glass in an auto shop. The methyl hydrate was stored in a plastic jug with a nail hole punched near the top. The worker squirted methyl hydrate onto the cut line and moved the jug a short distance away. After the methyl hydrate on the cut line was ignited, the flame followed the fluid back to the jug, which caught fire and exploded. The worker was severely burned, and the auto shop caught on fire.

• Use methyl hydrate from an approved safety bottle when cutting laminated glass. Safety bottles for methyl hydrate are designed so that fluid or flame cannot be sucked back into the bottle. Never alter the safety bottle.
• Apply only the necessary volume of methyl hydrate in a controlled stream.
• Put the safety bottle on a separate surface before lighting the methyl hydrate on the glass.
• Light only the score line at a time.
• Inspect safety bottles regularly for leaks and defects. Replace bottles if they show signs of wear or damage. Have a spare safety bottle available.
• Keep the original container in a designated storage area away from any ignition source. Decant methyl hydrate into the safety bottle in a well-ventilated area, using a funnel.