Chemical Storage and Handling: It's About Action, Not Reaction
Last edited: 2024-02-05
The proper handling and storage of chemicals is critical in providing a secure and healthy working environment.
The proper handling and storage of chemicals is critical in providing health and safety in the workplace. Chemicals, especially hazardous ones, can pose serious health risks. By safely handling and storing chemicals, you minimize the chances of exposure, protecting both you and your employees from injuries, illnesses or long-term health issues.
Other than for personal safety, why is the safe handling and storage of chemicals so important?
- Safeguarding against chemical spills and leaks is crucial for preventing pollution and ecological damage.
- Some specific chemicals can be corrosive and damage equipment if not stored properly. Ensuring proper storage conditions prolongs the life of equipment and prevents unexpected failures.
- Both OSHA and local regulations mandate safe chemical handling and storage practices. Compliance not only avoids legal consequences, but also ensures responsible and ethical business practices.
- Proper chemical handling and storage helps facilitate faster and more effective emergency response. Minimizing the impact of spills and providing clear information for first response allows for quick and efficient reactions.
- Safe chemical handling and storage practices protect not only yourself, but also your colleagues and anyone who might be affected by the chemical hazards you're working with. It's a collective responsibility to create a secure working environment.
Related: First Aid is important for keeping your workers safe. If you use a service like Cintas to stock your first aid products, check out our first aid guide.
What products do I need to ensure the safe handling and storage of chemicals?
- Chemical Storage Drums: Chemical storage drums keep potentially dangerous substances safely contained. Whether you're dealing with hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or even just storing things for a long time, these drums provide a safe and secure way to handle chemicals in the workplace. Chemical storage drums keep both your employees and the environment safe from potentially hazardous substances.
- Drum Dollies: If you have heavy chemical storage drums, you're also going to need dollies. Drum dollies provide a stable platform with wheels, allowing you to effortlessly roll heavy drums around. They save you from the backbreaking task of lifting and carrying, making it a smooth and convenient way to transport your potentially hazardous cargo.
- Chemical Storage Labels: Chemical storage labels inform you of what chemicals are in your drums and containers, how to handle them, and of any potential risks involved. These labels provide crucial information about not only the chemical contents, but also the safety precautions and emergency procedures involved when handling them. Use chemical labels to ensure that anyone who comes across your chemical drums and containers knows what they're dealing with.
- Chemical Storage Cabinets: These sturdy cabinets are specifically designed to safely store and organize chemicals. They come with features like fire-resistant construction and ventilation systems and materials to ensure the containment of hazardous substances. When combined with proper labeling and organization, these cabinets allow you to easily locate and access your chemicals, while minimizing the risk of accidents or spills.
- Spill Containment Pallets: Use spill containment pallets to safely store and contain hazardous materials, chemicals or liquids in order to prevent spills and leaks. In the event of a spill, spill containment pallets have a built-in secondary containment basin or sump that can hold spilled or leaked liquids. Using these pallets can minimize the risk of costly cleanup efforts, regulatory fines and environmental damage caused by spills and leaks.
Related: Sometimes, chemical spills happen, regardless of your effective storage area. When a spill occurs, spill containment with sorbents becomes the priority.
What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should I use when handling chemicals?
When handling hazardous chemicals, the use of Personal Protective Equipment is imperative. Chemicals can pose various threats, from skin irritation to respiratory issues, and PPE acts as a barrier, preventing direct contact and inhalation.Products you should consider wearing to minimize your risk of exposure to harmful substances include: safety glasses or goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, a lab coat or coveralls, a respirator and chemical-resistant footwear. You can find all of these on our website catalog here.
Remember, the specific PPE you need depends on the types of chemicals you're dealing with. Always refer to safety data sheets (SDS) for each chemical to determine the appropriate protective measures.
Feel free to contact our Safety Support Team to help you select the proper chemical handling and storage products for your workplace. We can offer a wide variety of options that fit your budget and specific needs.