SAFE STORAGE OF CHEMICALS

### **Safe Storage of Chemicals**

Storing chemicals properly is critical to maintaining safety in workplaces, laboratories, and industrial settings. Improper storage can lead to spills, fires, explosions, or toxic exposures. Below are the guidelines for the **safe storage of chemicals**:

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### **1. General Guidelines**
- **Labeling**: Ensure all chemical containers are clearly labeled with the chemical name, hazard class, and date of storage.
- **Ventilation**: Store chemicals in well-ventilated areas to prevent the accumulation of fumes.
- **Accessibility**: Chemicals should be stored at eye level or below to prevent spills when retrieving them.
- **Segregation**: Store chemicals by compatibility groups, not alphabetically, to avoid reactions between incompatible substances.
- **Inspection**: Regularly inspect storage areas for leaks, corrosion, or damage.

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### **2. Segregation of Chemicals**
- **Flammables and Combustibles**:
- Store in approved, fire-rated cabinets away from heat sources.
- Examples: Gasoline, ethanol, and acetone.

- **Acids and Bases**:
- Store separately to prevent neutralization reactions.
- Acids like sulfuric acid should not be stored near bases like sodium hydroxide.

- **Oxidizers**:
- Keep oxidizers away from flammable or combustible materials.
- Examples: Hydrogen peroxide, sodium nitrate.

- **Toxics**:
- Store in secure, labeled cabinets to prevent accidental exposure.
- Examples: Arsenic compounds, cyanides.

- **Water-reactive Chemicals**:
- Store in dry areas, away from moisture or water sources.
- Examples: Sodium metal, calcium carbide.

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### **3. Special Storage Areas**
- **Flammable Storage Cabinets**:
- Use for flammable liquids and gases.
- Ground cabinets to prevent static electricity.

- **Acid Cabinets**:
- Use corrosion-resistant materials like polypropylene for storing acids.

- **Refrigeration**:
- Only store chemicals in explosion-proof refrigerators.
- Do not store food in chemical refrigerators.

- **Spill Containment**:
- Use secondary containment trays to catch leaks or spills.

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### **4. Handling and Safety Measures**
- **Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)**: Always wear gloves, goggles, and lab coats when handling chemicals.
- **Emergency Equipment**: Ensure spill kits, eyewash stations, and fire extinguishers are readily available.
- **Storage Instructions**: Follow the guidance provided in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each chemical.

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### **5. Common Mistakes to Avoid**
- **Mixing Incompatibles**: Storing oxidizers and flammables together.
- **Overcrowding**: Overfilling storage cabinets, reducing ventilation.
- **Improper Labeling**: Storing unlabeled containers, leading to misuse.
- **Neglecting Expiry Dates**: Not discarding chemicals that degrade over time, increasing risk.

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### **6. Regulatory Compliance**
- **OSHA**: Follow guidelines for chemical storage under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.
- **NFPA**: Adhere to fire safety codes from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 30 and NFPA 45).
- **EPA**: Ensure compliance with environmental protection regulations for hazardous materials.

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