Superior National Forest Linseed Oil Rags Close Call 2026

After pre-season tool maintenance including tool handle conditioning on the Kawishiwi Ranger District, Superior National Forest, a number of linseed oil-soaked rags were deposited in a metal oily waste can. Two days later, a burning smell was noticed in the shop. The oily waste can was moved outside into a safe area and opened, revealing at least one smoldering oily rag. Following the incident, research was done to learn more about the unique dangers of linseed oil-soaked rags, and how to properly deal with them in the future.