Seating and storage solutions

Managing your chemical storage

As well as having appropriate chemical storage cabinets, you will also have to consider how you manage these hazardous substances. Much of this is common sense, but because we understand the importance of adhering to the COSHH legislation, we thought we’d give you a bit of advice.

Stackable haz chem cabinetsUsing your chemical storage cabinets

If you have to store incompatible chemicals, you will need more than one cabinet. Leaks and spills can cause dangerous reactions. Always read your chemical specification data sheets and stick rigidly to their guidelines.

Think carefully about the positioning of your cabinets. Some chemicals are sensitive to heat, so they should be stored in a cool place out of direct sunlight. Don’t forget to ensure your chemical storage area is well ventilated.

Don’t put your cabinets in an awkward-to-reach area. Over-reaching to lift heavy containers can lead to strains and dangerous spills. And remember, the emergency services must be able to get to them easily in event of a major problem.

General tips on safe chemical storage

Don’t put bagged or double-wrapped chemicals straight on to the shelves of your cabinets. Put them in trays first. Bags can tear allowing dangerous chemicals to escape.

If you have a large quantity of flammable chemicals, keep your storage cabinets in a separate, designated room which conforms to the fire safety regulations.

Use the correct cabinets for storing any hazardous materials. Make sure you know what colour cabinet is designated for what substances.

Don’t leave the keys to your chemical storage cabinets lying about. They must be kept secure at all times. Make sure your emergency plans include details of keys and key holders.

Finally, many chemicals cause pollution, particularly pesticides and biocides. Ensure your cabinet is in good condition and meets all the necessary requirements. If your chemical storage cabinets are old and in poor condition, they must be replaced. Don’t take chances – it’s not worth the risk.

Acid storage cabinets – some practical advice

If you have to store acids and other hazardous materials, remember you must comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (CoSHH). You’ll also find the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) makes practical recommendations based on the CoSHH rules. As a supplier of acid storage cabinets, we are often asked for practical… Continue Reading

Poisons’ storage advice

To continue our series of advice on the storage of hazardous materials, this post is looking at the storage of poisons. Like any other hazmat substance, poisons must be stored in a dedicated cabinet and you must comply fully with the CoSHH legislation. Using poisons cabinets Do not cram poisons into your storage cabinet. If… Continue Reading

Storage advice for solvents and flammable liquids

There are few things as terrifying and as dangerous as fire. The risk to life and property is immense. The fire statistics for 2011 speak for themselves. Between April and September, 149 people died in fires in the UK. Another 2,120 people were injured. If you store solvents or any flammable liquids, you must adhere… Continue Reading

Storage advice for solvents and flammable liquids

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