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If your business handles and stores hazardous chemicals for manufacturing, cleaning, testing and operating applications, it is imperative to be familiar with each chemical’s classification and comply with environmental health, safety, and risk management standards. As HSE states, chemicals are a part of life, however there are risks from the manufacture, use, transportation and disposal of chemicals.
Hazardous substances can affect your employees’ internal and external health, ranging from minor skin irritations to fatal consequences, therefore it is the responsibility of the business owner or duty holder to ensure that any quantities of hazardous chemicals are stored correctly in the workplace. Below you will find a list of things look out for for the correct storage of these dangerous substances.
1. Some chemicals are incompatible to be beside each other
In most organisational systems, an alphabetical classification works just fine. However, when it comes to storing hazardous chemicals, this could create a hazardous reaction such as the production of toxic gas, accelerated corrosion, or an exothermic reaction (a chemical reaction that releases heat), which could result in an explosion and/or fire.
Here are some examples of incompatible chemicals:
Please research and follow all precautions regarding storage of incompatible chemicals.
2. Compliance with laws & regulations
There are regulatory standards that are in place for you to go about with your business. An example would be that businesses are required to keep records of the specific chemicals they have in their workplace. Absence of such records means that the business has failed to comply with the laws and regulations concerning proper chemical storage and will most likely result in the suspension or revocation of their license to operate as a business. Therefore, to keep your business running and avoid falling into trouble with the law, make sure to have your chemicals and other substances stored safely and properly. Take a look at Strip Curtains Direct’s wide range of COSSH storage cabinets which are specifically designed to hold hazardous materials and will assist you in complying with strict health and safety regulations.
3. Chemical Inventory Management
Implementing an excellent storage system for your hazardous chemicals could prove to be very beneficial for your business. When a storage system is not in place, it could lead to unnecessary costs which you could have otherwise saved on. For example, storing only the minimal supply of chemicals will help you avoid expiration and having appropriate stock rotation will ensure that you replace the oldest stock first. Through an inventory system you will be more aware of your stock and that you are buying only what is necessary.
In addition, it is very important to note that adequately labeled chemicals can provide a safe and secure workplace environment for your employees. By safely storing your chemicals, you can avoid the possibility of getting them contaminated and put your business and everyone’s life in danger. You wouldn’t want to pose a danger to anyone in your workplace, especially when risks can be severe and fatal.
Proper chemical storage is important to your company and the environment. One single mistake in your storage system could cause a harmful accident to both. By following the correct procedures around the storage of such dangerous substances, it is possible to minimise the amount of fires and explosions that can be costly to both business and human life.
We hope you found this article both useful and informative. Visit our website www.stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk and check out our wide range of COSSH storage cabinets which are specifically designed to hold hazardous materials. For more information on any of our products feel free to call us on 0333 999 7171 or send us an email at sales@stripcurtainsdirect.co.uk.
