Which of the listed substances is...

🔍 Key Concepts

• Spontaneous combustion occurs when a material generates enough internal heat (often from oxidation) to ignite without an external flame • Some organic cargoes can self-heat when stored in bulk with limited ventilation • Consider which listed materials are commonly regulated for fire risk in storage or transport

💭 Think About

• Which of these materials, when stored in a large pile or mass, might trap heat and allow internal temperatures to build up over time? • Think about what happens to certain cargoes like coal when they are damp and stored in bulk in ship’s holds or stockpiles. • Are all the materials listed equally known for self-heating and requiring special fire precautions under maritime or industrial safety guidance?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which material is specifically noted in maritime safety guidance as self-heating or prone to spontaneous combustion when carried in bulk. • Consider whether each cargo on the list would realistically be found in large bulk stowage on ships or in terminals. • Double-check if exam prep materials have highlighted any of these as requiring special ventilation and temperature monitoring.

Which of the listed substances is susceptible to spontaneous combustion?

Coal

Scrap rubber

Leather

All of the above