5 Best Practices for Safer Chemical Storage

Working with chemicals in your facility demands a strategic approach to safe storage and handling. It’s no secret that improperly stored hazardous materials are accidents waiting to happen. Transform your facility into a fortress of safety by adopting comprehensive chemical storage protocols. According to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard, any substance that poses a physical or health threat—whether it’s explosives, oxidizers, corrosives, or flammable liquids—must be carefully controlled in compliance with OSHA’s rigorous chemical storage regulations.

Ensure your facility is a safe haven by following these top 5 best practices for safer chemical storage:

1. Store Chemicals in a Secure Location

Keep hazardous materials in a designated, secure location, safeguarding your operations from potential hazards. It’s essential to strategically separate chemicals that could react dangerously if combined, creating enhanced safety within your stockroom. Moreover, flammable chemicals should be positioned far from any potential ignition sources, ensuring peace of mind and a worry-free environment. By prioritizing these safety measures, you not only protect your assets but also enhance the trust and confidence of your team.

2. Label all Hazardous Materials

Guaranteeing the safety and organization of your hazardous materials is paramount, and it all begins with meticulous labeling. But why stop there? Upgrade your chemical storage strategy by incorporating our innovative, color-coded containment trays. Designed with precision and available in five vibrant, OSHA-approved colors, SPC’s Containment Trays not only enhance safety but also streamline your storage process.

3. Lift Materials off The Ground

Elevating all hazardous materials above the ground is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity. This proactive measure helps prevent unfortunate accidents, such as staff inadvertently bumping into or tripping over these potentially dangerous items. Raising these materials is the most effective strategy to mitigate such risks. This is where our SPC Industrial shelving system comes into play. Durashelf® is a heavy-duty system that effortlessly lifts, contains, and organizes industrial materials. Transform your storage practices, providing peace of mind and increased workplace safety by adding Durashelf to your lineup this year.

4. Consider Using Secondary Containment

Imagine this scenario: you have a valuable chemical solution securely stored in a safe location, but suddenly, a crack appears. The solution begins to seep through, cascading onto other materials below, creating a potential catastrophe. This is a nightmare no industrial professional wants to face. To prevent such costly and hazardous incidents, especially when dealing with liquids, it’s essential to invest in high-quality secondary containment trays. These trays act as an additional safeguard, ensuring that your operations remain smooth and your valuable resources are protected. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike—fortify your defenses today with our reliable containment solutions.

5. Train Employees on Safety Protocols

While cutting-edge shelving infrastructure and containment strategies are essential, they alone cannot eliminate the risk of human error. To truly safeguard your business, every team member must be thoroughly trained in essential safety protocols, including proper containment procedures, emergency response drills, and meticulous chemical handling techniques. Investing in comprehensive employee training not only fortifies your facility against potential hazards but also shields your organization from costly liabilities and financial setbacks. Empower your workforce with the knowledge and skills they need to maintain a safe and efficient environment, ensuring peace of mind and operational excellence.

Start Here, Start Now

Navigating the complexities of chemical storage can feel overwhelming. With numerous precise requirements to meet, a small misstep can lead to significant issues. If you’re feeling uncertain, there’s no need to face this challenge alone.

SPC Industrial is here to equip you with the perfect containment strategy tailored for your team. Reach out to our seasoned experts at 800-523-6899 x212 or explore our website for more information. Together, we’ll transform chemical storage into a seamless experience!