QUESTION - An inspection of our premises has identified that a large number of hazardous and dangerous substances are being purchased by individuals and stored incorrectly. Please outline the measures we should take to prevent this from happening.
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substances being stored in an inappropriate state, condition and/or place, without adequate warning of the hazards and potential for unwanted chemical reactions
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fire and explosion risks from unwanted reactions, eg from incompatible substances becoming mixed, which may result in the generation of heat, fumes, gases and vapours
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incorrect storage leading to the emergency services not being able to ascertain substances involved in incidents, therefore delaying mitigating actions.
To effectively manage your situation the following principles are recommended.
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Minimise or restrict the quantities stored and avoid over-ordering.
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Introduce an authorisation process for purchases and maintain records of location, responsible party and quantities.
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Obtain and keep centrally available hazard information on the substances purchased and check existing information is up to date.
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Utilise containers that are appropriate and well sealed or, where necessary, allow venting.
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Use secondary containment to minimise the consequences of spillage, leakage or breakage.
In terms of the actual storage facilities, the general principles are based upon segregation, separation and ventilation. The principles are: to segregate incompatible substances from each other; to separate hazardous substances from unsuitable conditions for reasons of their toxicity, flammability or reactivity (by distance or physical means); and to provide adequate ventilation that will remove or dilute malodorous, noxious, toxic or flammable vapours and prevent their build up.
The separation principle can be achieved through use of storage cupboards or by having separate storage facilities. The design and materials of construction are important factors, as is prevention of unauthorised access.
Other factors can be taken into consideration when storing substances, including prevention of over-storage so as to eliminate breakages and spillages. Stock control with rotation of substances and regular disposal of waste or unwanted/unused substances will reduce the quantities stored and release valuable storage space.
Your system should be regularly reviewed, particularly the creation or maintenance of an inventory that can be provided to the emergency services where required. Ensure the use of suitable signage on storage facilities, and the provision of information and instruction to staff on the appropriate use of storage facilities and the management system adopted.
