Biodiesel is a relatively safe product. It is considered non-flammable and biodegradable. However, the components to make biodiesel can be hazardous in some situations. Biodiesel is made by reacting vegetable oil or animal fat with an alcohol (methanol or ethanol), and a catalyst (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide). Sulfuric and hydrochloric acids are also used in biodiesel production. Methanol, the catalysts, and the acids are toxic chemicals. Methanol is also extremely flammable. Explosions have occurred when tanks containing methanol vapors have been exposed to welding, flames, or sparks.
For more information, see Safe Chemical Handling in Biodiesel Production.
A Biodiesel Safety Video is available on YouTube.
