Dangerous Goods Storage Checklist

In order to ensure that your warehouse or work area is safe for your employees it is important that the storage of your dangerous goods is done correctly.

Incorrect handling of dangerous goods can lead to exposure to dangerous chemicals. This can either cause an immediate or long-term injury or sickness to workers. Bear in mind there are a number of chemicals that present both health and physical hazards. These include:

Health – the exposure of a hazardous chemical that affects the health is through inhalation, skin contact or ingestion. For example – toxic chemicals.
Physical – this hazard related to the handling of a dangerous chemical that results in injury or damage. An example is flammable, corrosive or explosive chemicals.

So, with the hazards in mind make sure to follow our checklist to ensure that the storage of your dangerous goods is safe.

Dangerous Chemical Storage Checklist

Get rid of unnecessary chemicals; safely dispose of any expired and unwanted chemicals within your warehouse.

Update your dangerous goods register; hazardous chemicals used or kept in your warehouse or on your property need to be recorded. This is in addition to their current SDS.

Remove items from the area; this includes food, drinks and as well as personal belongings

Fire equipment; ensure all fire-fighting equipment is still usable. Also, that has been tested and all staff are trained in its usage.

Disposal of unused containers; any residue of chemicals in old containers deteriorate this could cause a reaction with an added chemical to the container. With this in mind, it’s best to correctly dispose of unused containers.

Look after the storage area; ensure to keep the area clean and tidy.

Review spill kits; ensure that the necessary spill kits are available. As well as, procedures in place to make sure that the correct action is taken if there is a spill.

Audit dangerous chemical storage; certain hazardous chemicals need to be stored in set conditions such as a temperature controlled environment or ventilation.

Correct storage; ensure to keep separate the incompatible chemicals. It is best to use signage to designate areas for chemical types. Above all – do not to store liquids above solids.

Clear labels; make sure that the labels are easy to read. Also that they are firmly attached to the cabinet.

Inspect the area; check all storage vessels, ensure that the storage tanks and containers are sealed correctly and not leaking or damaged in any way.