When transferring an extremely flammable liquid, what provides the best protection?

The best protection when transferring an extremely flammable liquid lies in grounding each container to a single low resistance ground. This practice is crucial because static electricity can accumulate during the transfer process, especially when liquids are poured or pumped. If sufficient static charge builds up, it can discharge and ignite the flammable vapors present, leading to a fire or explosion.

Grounding serves to safely dissipate any static electricity that might accumulate, thereby minimizing the risk of ignition. By ensuring that both the source and receiving containers are connected to a low resistance ground, the likelihood of a static discharge occurring is significantly reduced. Proper grounding creates a path for the electricity to flow safely into the ground rather than allowing it to build up and create a dangerous situation.

Other options, while they may contribute to safety in different ways, do not address this specific risk effectively. For instance, using a pour spout may help to manage the flow of the liquid, but it does not mitigate the risk of static electricity. Sealing all openings tightly might prevent spills and reduce vapor release, but it doesn't tackle the danger of static charge. Similarly, using a non-metallic pump could reduce the risk of sparking because it does not conduct electricity, yet it does not address the fundamental issue of