Providing all you need to know when it comes to storing hazardous substances safely.
Where health and safety is concerned; there is nothing worse than entering a lab, workshop, warehouse etc. and seeing a dangerous chemical left on the side unattended. Construction workers specifically, are at an increased risk of exposure, due to the amount of materials they’re surrounded by on a daily basis. It’s therefore important that all staff members are educated properly when it comes to storing hazardous substances.
Why Should A Cabinet Be Used To Store Chemicals?
Simply put; to avoid exposure. However, there is more to it than just finding the nearest empty cupboard/cabinet in the warehouse to store toxic, corrosive, irritant or harmful chemicals. As you will already be aware; storing hazardous substances is considered a ‘big deal’ because chemicals are a fire risk. It’s vital that they are kept in cabinets especially manufactured to a fire-resistant construction – this will help to avoid health and safety incidents in the workplace. In addition to this, the majority of hazardous cabinets also contain a liquid sump to retain any spills before they have the chance to escape, thus limiting exposure.
What Type Of Cabinet Do I Need?
When on the market for a cabinet to store substances hazardous to health; you need to ask yourself a few questions:
- What exactly am I storing? e.g. flammable, irritants, corrosives etc.
- How much room do I have?
- Does my cabinet need to be mobile?
Once you have the answers, you can take a look at what’s available.
It’s important that guidelines are closely followed…
Please note: don’t mix chemicals that don’t go together, as they could react. These should be stored away separately due to health and safety. Examples of this below:
As outlined by the HSE (Health and Safety Executive): “oxidising agents and flammable substances areas should not overlap. Strong acids and cyanide compound areas should not overlap. Peroxides should not be stored near any metallic compounds that could cause decomposition and the liberation of oxygen”
There are different types of hazardous storage to choose from; CoSHH, Chemical, Hazardous and Flammable. Storage types include a standard floor unit, a wall-mounted option designed to save space, stackable to utilise room or mobile (on wheels) to effortlessly transport materials from A to B without the worry.
Features/Terms Explained
Sloping Top – some models will offer the option of a sloping top. The purpose of this is to avoid others leaving items on top of the cabinet which can cause trouble when trying to gain access. Instead, the item(s) will just slide off.
Liquid Sump – an integral sump will collect any liquid drips or spills and retain them to avoid unnecessary maintenance whilst eliminating exposure.
CoSHH – the abbreviated term CoSHH stands for ‘control of substances harmful to health’. CoSHH is the law in place to set out the appropriate guidelines which should be followed with regards to harmful substances.
Now you know what you’re looking for, view our range of cabinets here. If you still have a few questions, don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to assist you!
