An Overview of Safe Handling and Storage Practices
Proper chemical storage refers to the systematic placement and containment of chemical substances in accordance with their specific storage requirements. Inadequate handling or storage practices can lead to quality degradation, health hazards, and serious safety incidents in both the workplace and storage environments.
Effective chemical storage management is crucial for preventing accidents, ensuring regulatory compliance, and safeguarding the environment. By following best practices, organizations can minimize waste, maintain product integrity, and improve inventory control and supply chain efficiency.
Safe chemical handling also requires trained personnel who receive regular updates on safety protocols. Infrastructure such as storage containers, shelving, cabinets, and buildings must be purpose-built from high-quality, chemically resistant materials. Industrial-scale chemical storage involves a regular chemical inventory audit and compliance with the safety data sheet. Designated zones are set up to store incompatible flammable and corrosive chemicals separately.
Chemicals that cannot be stored together?
Storing incompatible chemicals together is extremely dangerous and can result in fires, toxic reactions, or even explosions. Certain chemicals must never be stored in the same cabinet or on the same shelf. Their categorization should be done according to hazard classifications of the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).
Chemical Incompatibilities classes
- Flammables
- Corrosives
- Oxidizers
- Toxics
- Explosives
- Compressed gases
- Cryogens
Types of Chemical Storage
Chemicals in industry come in various sizes and in various types of containers according to their demand and chemical specifications. In the stockroom, it is essential to store chemicals in sequence with a clear label of chemical name, date received/opened, and their hazard symbols. In the storage area, there are mainly four types of storage units and placement, each serving a specific purpose based on the nature of the substances being stored.
1. Shelving
Shelving used for storing industrial chemicals must be strong, stable, and made of materials compatible with the chemicals in use. Overloading shelves beyond their weight capacity should be strictly avoided, as it can lead to dangerous accidents. Heavy containers should always be placed on lower shelves to reduce the risk of falling. Chemical lockers may also be used in combination with shelving to provide added containment for smaller quantities of hazardous substances.
Proper Way to Arrange Chemicals on Shelves
- Prefer to use chemical-resistant shelves made of epoxy-coated metal or HDPE.
- Label shelves by chemical class
- Never store chemicals above eye level
- Separate chemicals by their chemical nature to avoid incompatibility
2. Cabinetry
Storage cabinets are specifically designed for safely housing different categories of hazardous or regulated chemicals that require isolated or environmentally controlled storage. Each cabinet type is color-coded and clearly labeled to prevent improper storage and chemical incompatibilities. Yellow chemical cabinets are commonly used in labs and industries to store flammable or combustible substances safely. As per OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.106, the maximum allowable volume for a single storage cabinet is typically 60 gallons.
Classification of Chemical Storage Cabinets
| Cabinet Type | Cabinet Image |
|---|---|
| Flammable Storage Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Acetone, Methanol, Toluene, Ether, Ethanol, Hexane, Xylene |
 |
| Corrosive Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Sodium hydroxide, Ammonium hydroxide, General acids and bases |
 |
| Acid Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Nitric acid (HNO₃), Sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), Acetic acid |
 |
| Base Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Potassium hydroxide (KOH), Ammonium hydroxide |
 |
| Oxidizer Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Hydrogen peroxide (≥30%), Potassium permanganate, Sodium hypochlorite, Nitrates |
 |
| Pesticide Storage Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Insecticides (e.g., DDT), Herbicides (e.g., Glyphosate), Fungicides |
 |
| Hazardous Substances Cabinet
Examples of chemical stores: Cyanides, Phenol, Formaldehyde, Mercury salts |
 |
3. Cold Storage
Refrigerators and freezers can be used to store temperature-sensitive hazardous chemicals, but household units are not suitable due to the risk of internal sparking. Explosion-proof or laboratory-grade refrigerators are required for storing flammable chemicals to keep them below their flash point and prevent accidental ignition.
Cold storage in the chemical storage area refers to the practice of storing chemicals at a low temperature to maintain their quality and shelf life, prevent degradation, and reduce the risk of evaporation or hazardous reactions in temperature-sensitive substances.
Chemicals that require cold storage
- Organic peroxide and aldehydes – Formaldehyde, benzoyl peroxide
- Biological buffer and enzymes – DNA/RNA reagents, proteins
- Light-sensitive chemicals – Silver nitrate
4. Desiccation
Desiccation storage involves maintaining a low-humidity environment for chemicals with having hygroscopic nature or chemicals sensitive to moisture. Desiccators and dry boxes are used for this purpose, helping prevent chemical degradation, clumping, or reactions caused by exposure to atmospheric humidity.
Chemicals stored under desiccation conditions
- Anhydrous salts
- Metal powers
- Dry indicators
- Organic compounds
General Chemical Handling & Storage Guidelines
Chemicals Handling Guidelines
Before Handling
- Read the safety Data sheet for chemicals carefully before handling any chemicals.
- Wear the chemical-resistant gloves and PPE kits before working with the chemical.
- Also, check the related area ventilation, Fire alarms, safety showers, and spill kits
During Handling
- Use chemical handling tools like IBC tote handlers, Drum lifters, chemical absorbent pads, and chemical fume hoods where required
- Never try to pipette or siphon through the mouth, wear goggles to protect your eyes from chemical splashes, and avoid direct smelling and testing
- Handle all containers with steady hands, and pour slowly to prevent splashes or sudden reactions.
After Handling
- Properly seal, label, and store chemicals in appropriate containers
- Clean up the area immediately.
- Always follow the guidelines to dispose of chemicals.
- Always ensure chemical containers’ safety labels after handling, and update Chemical inventory records
Storage Guidelines for Chemicals
Storage of chemicals in the laboratory
- Store chemicals in designated cabinets based on their hazard class, separate flammables, corrosives, and oxidizers.
- Never store chemicals above eye level or near heat sources, sinks, or direct sunlight.
- Keep incompatible chemicals apart. Use a compatibility chart to organize them correctly.
- Ensure all containers are tightly closed, properly labeled, and stored with secondary containment where needed.
- Use vented storage cabinets for volatile chemicals and explosion-proof refrigerators for flammables.
- Limit the quantity of hazardous chemicals to the minimum required for daily use.
- Regularly check for expired, leaking, or corroded containers and dispose of them as per lab protocol.
Storage of chemicals in the Industry
- Bulk chemicals must be stored in clearly marked, corrosion-resistant drums or tanks in designated storage areas.
- Segregate storage zones by hazard type and ensure proper ventilation and fire suppression systems are in place.
- Follow secondary containment rules for liquids. Use spill pallets or bund walls to contain accidental leaks.
- Avoid stacking drums too high. Use drum racks or cradles for stability and easy access.
- Ensure outdoor storage is sheltered from rain and direct sunlight; temperature-sensitive chemicals must be stored accordingly.
- Routine inspections of chemical warehouses should include label checks, physical condition of containers, and emergency preparedness.
- Access should be restricted to trained personnel only, and safety signage must be visible.
Government Regulatory Bodies’ Chemical Storage Guidelines
OSHA Guidelines for Chemical Storage
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that storage and fulfillment areas must be free from explosives, clutter, and debris. It also sets requirements for proper chemical labeling, employee training, and safe storage based on hazard classification. Under OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.1200, employers are required to maintain a chemical inventory, ensure the availability of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and provide training to employees on chemical hazards and related safety procedures.
NFPA Guidelines for Chemical Storage
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides detailed safety standards for storing flammable and combustible liquids through its NFPA 30 code. According to these guidelines, fuel cylinders must be stored at least 20 feet apart to minimize fire risk. Indoors, you can store up to 60 gallons of flammable liquids or 120 gallons of combustible liquids, but only within a UL-listed safety cabinet. Additionally, dip tanks must have automatic-closing covers to prevent the spread of fire in emergency situations. These guidelines are essential for ensuring safe storage practices in both industrial and laboratory environments.
EPA Guidelines for Chemical Storage
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) outlines chemical storage requirements through the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and hazardous waste management regulations. These guidelines apply to chemicals that may harm the environment and include rules for proper storage, safe handling, and the prevention of hazardous substance releases.
HACCP Storage Guidelines
Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) guidelines apply to the storage of food-related chemicals and focus on preventing contamination. The system includes hazard analysis, identification of Critical Control Points (CCPs), setting critical limits, monitoring, corrective actions, verification procedures, and proper documentation.
Best Practices for Chemical Storage
Effective chemical storage is essential for ensuring workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection. These practices prevent accidental hazards associated with chemicals. In chemical storage warehouses, laboratories, or industrial facilities, implementing proper protocols is essential to prevent accidents, contamination, and product degradation.
1. Maintain a Centralized Chemical Inventory
Implement Chemical Inventory Management systems to track the location, quantity, and hazard classification of each chemical. This reduces duplication, ensures timely disposal of expired chemicals, and supports emergency response.
2. Use Proper Storage Structures
Choose appropriate chemical storage buildings, chemical storage tanks, or chemical storage containers based on the type and quantity of chemicals being stored. Ensure these structures are built with fire-resistant materials, proper ventilation, and spill containment systems.
3. Segregate Chemicals by Compatibility
Store chemicals according to their compatibility groups: acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, etc. Incompatible substances should be kept apart to prevent a dangerous reaction. If incompatible chemicals are stored together, secondary containment is necessary to prevent in case of primary containers fail.
4. Store chemicals in safe amounts
Storing too many chemicals in one place can increase the risk of fire, spills, or dangerous reactions. That’s why chemical quantity limits are important; they help reduce these risks and make emergencies easier to manage. These limits are regulated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Building Code (IBC).
5. Proper Labelling
Every chemical container must be clearly labeled with its identity, hazard symbols, and handling instructions. Always use durable, smudge-proof labels, and replace damaged or faded labels.
6. Train Personnel Regularly
Regular training is essential to ensure safe chemical handling and storage practices. It helps improve emergency response and reduces the risk of accidents. Employees involved in chemical handling must be trained in proper storage techniques, emergency procedures, hazard communication, the use of Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and correct disposal methods.
FAQs
Q. What is the recommended initial treatment for a chemical splash in the eye?
In case of a chemical splash in the eye, rinse the eye with clean water for 15-20 minutes. Avoid rubbing the eye and immediately consult a doctor.
Q. What is the NFPA 30 standard?
NFPA 30 standard provides safety guidelines for storing flammable and combustible liquids, including cabinet requirements, storage limits, and facility layout to prevent fire risks.
Q. What are the OSHA rules for chemical storage?
OSHA requires proper labeling, up-to-date chemical inventories, accessible SDS, and employee training. Chemicals must also be stored by compatibility and away from hazards.
Q. What are the four guidelines for properly storing chemicals?
Proper storage of chemicals requires the separation of incompatible substances, use of appropriate cabinets, clear labeling of containers, and good ventilation and containment.
Q. How to organize a chemical storage room?
Organizing chemical storage involves inventory management, clearly labelled shelves with a standard format, and, for explosive and dangerous chemicals, use designated areas. Use the FIFO system to ensure older chemicals are used first, and keep records updated.
Q. Which feature is most important for a chemical storage area?
The most important feature of a chemical storage area is safety through proper segregation and containment. There should be adequate ventilation, an emergency shower system, and a spill containment system.
Disclaimer:
This blog, “Handling and Storage of Chemicals | Guidelines for a US Distributor”, is for general informational purposes only. It is based on publicly available sources and does not constitute legal, regulatory, or safety advice. Readers should consult qualified professionals and relevant authorities to ensure compliance with applicable U.S. chemical handling and storage regulations.
Resources
Regulations for Importing Hazardous Materials into the U.S.
TSCA Compliance in Chemical Import: A Complete Guide
Importing Chemicals into the US: Things to keep in mind