You may not know it, but several industries work with chemicals on a regular basis. Many companies have laboratories that work in product and pharmaceutical development.
Working with chemicals can be an
exciting process. However, as any high school chemistry student can tell you,
chemicals can also prove dangerous. As such, companies must use caution in
every aspect of their chemical work to prevent workplace hazards.
This caution extends all the way to
storing chemicals. Proper chemical storage can prevent spills and
exposures.
However, companies may struggle with
the best storage options. If that describes you, you've come to the right
place! We'll explore several tips to make storing chemicals a breeze for your
company.
The
Basics for Storing Chemicals
Safe chemical storage requires
careful deliberation and diligence. Following these processes can ensure your
chemicals remain safe in your facilities.
First, label all of your chemical
containers. It often helps to include the user's name and the date you received
the chemical.
Next, provide a specific storage
space for all the types of chemicals in your facility. As soon as your workers
finish using them, ensure they place the chemicals back in their chemical
storage space.
Then, separate all chemicals,
especially liquids, into groups based on compatibility. It helps to post a
compatibility chart for workers' reference. You can post these charts in the
lab and next to chemical storage spaces.
These are just a few ways to store
chemicals safely. You can find other methods, such as IFS ERP for chemical manufacturing, online.
Storing
Chemicals During Chemical Transportation
When doing industrial work, you may
have to transport chemicals to another location. Doing so poses several risks
for workplace hazards.
Fortunately, there are many tips you
can follow to protect chemicals during transportation. First, never move
degrading chemicals or their storage containers. Instead, report these problems
to the lab supervisor or primary investigator.
Next, place all bottles in
leak-proof secondary containers. This step protects containers from breaking or
spilling.
Sometimes, you may have to move
several containers at one time. If so, make sure you use sturdy carts. These
carts need wheels large enough to not catch on sidewalk curbs and other uneven
spots.
Also, avoid transporting chemicals
during busy times like breaks or lunch periods. Doing so risks exposing many
non-lab personnel to harmful chemicals.
It's also best to use freight
elevators when moving hazardous chemicals. Whenever possible, avoid entering a
passenger elevator with these items.
Storing
Chemicals Outside
Another storage possibility is
storing chemicals outside. Many storage tanks for chemicals stay outside
because of their size. Since it's hard to fit them into a building, companies
use these outside containers for storage.
You can keep these chemicals safe by
ensuring proper maintenance for the tanks. However, please note that outdoor
tanks fall under SPCC Regulations.
Find
Safe Chemical Storage Today!
Following these tips for storing
chemicals can go a long way to preventing workplace hazards. So, start
implementing these strategies for all your chemical needs!
We hope you enjoyed this article! If so, check out our other content today.
