Safety and Health Services

Chemical storage guidance

Document control information

Published document name: / chemical-storage-gn.docx
Date issued: / Draft 2015
Version: / 2.2
Previous review dates: / 2010
Next review date: / January 2018
Related documents:
Governing policy: / Hazardous Chemical Management Policy
Legislation or related information: / Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
Classification, Labelling and packaging Regulation EC 1272/2008
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002
Explosives Regulations 2014
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
Health and Safety (Signs & Signals) Regulations 1996
Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order) 2005
The Poisons Act 1972
The Poisons List Order 1982
The Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005
The Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) Regulations 2001.
Document owner: / University Chemical Safety Adviser
Document approved by: / Director Safety and Health Services
Lead contact: / Dr Claire Wienburg
Document change history / Date / Reason
Scope / January 2015 / Scope of document extended and definitions of hazardous substances included.
Responsibilities / January 2015 / Roles and Responsibilities of the Head of School/Service, Line Manager, Staff and dedicated Chemical Store responsible persons outlined.
Hazard Signage / January 2015 / Images and definitions included as defined by Health and Safety (Signs & Signals) Regulations 1996
Chemical Incompatibility / January 2015 / Summary look up table of common chemical incompatibilities included.
Energetic and reactive chemical storage / January 2015 / New section included to provide additional guidance specific to these substances.
Regulated Substances / January 2015 / New section included to provide additional guidance specific to these substances - including explosive and desensitised explosive substances, drug precursor chemicals, controlled drugs, biocides and pesticides.

Contents

1.Scope

2.Responsibilities

3.General chemical storage principles.

4.Hazard classification and signage for storage.

4.1Chemical hazard information.

4.2Hazard warning signs.

4.2.1Flammable materials

4.2.2Explosive substances

4.2.3Oxidising substances

4.2.4Corrosive substances

4.2.5Toxic substances

4.2.6Harmful or irritant substances

4.2.7Cryogenic liquids

4.2.8Potentially Explosive atmosphere

5.Chemical incompatibility and instability

5.1Chemical incompatibility

5.2Energetic and air/water reactive chemicals

6.Types of store

6.1Flammable cabinet

6.2Acid storage within laboratories or workshops

6.3General work bench storage

6.4Cold storage

6.5External bulk storage

6.6Workshop storage

6.7Waste storage

6.8Regulated substances

6.8.1Additional requirements for controlled drugs and drug precursors.

6.8.2Additional regulatory requirements for explosive substances.

6.8.3Biocides/pesticides/fertilisers

7.Ventilation

8.Monitoring

9.Inspection

10.Emergency

10.1Fire

10.2First aid

10.3Spills

  1. Scope

This document provides guidance on the safe storage of hazardous chemicals within the University both to ensure the health and safety of staff, students and other individuals who may be affected by the storage of hazardous substances within the University and compliance with current regulatory requirements.

The guidance is appropriate for all individuals who may handle or are responsible for the use and storage of hazardous substances. It applies to all areas where such substances may be stored including delivery stores, laboratories, workshops, site services cleaning cupboards and external compounds.

Hazardous substances are defined as any substance classified as hazardous by the following regulations:

  • EC regulation 1272/2008 Classification, labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixtures.
  • The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2004
  • Highly Flammable Liquids and Liquefied Petroleum gases Regulations 1972
  • The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2005 (as amended0
  • Dangerous Substances and Explosive atmospheres Regulations 2002
  1. Responsibilities

Heads of Schools/Services must ensure

  • Staff and students are aware of the provisions of the University Hazardous Chemical Management Policy and the requirements relating to hazardous chemical storage.
  • Arrangements are in place to assess the physical and health risks posed by the storage of hazardous substances within the School/Service.
  • Arrangements are in place to prevent or control the risks posed by the storage of hazardous substances.
  • Arrangements are in place to manage foreseeable incidents that may arise as a result of the storage of hazardous substances.
  • Appropriate security arrangements are in place to prevent unauthorised access to regulated substances.
  • Hazard warning signs are displayed where appropriate.
  • They monitor the effectiveness of the above arrangements and ensure action is taken to resolve problems where there is evidence to suggest chemical storage measures are unsatisfactory.
  • A responsible person is appointed to manage any dedicated chemical stores (including waste stores); the individual must have an understanding of the hazards present and be provided with adequate information, training and instruction to competently manage the facility.

The School/Service Responsible person must

  • Ensure the designated chemical stores they manage are recorded in the building fire risk assessment and have been brought to the attention of the Facilities Manager.
  • Ensure a risk assessment of the chemical store has been completed which considers the physical and health hazards posed by the storage of hazardous substances within the store.
  • Ensure suitable emergency provisions are in place, including ready access to first aid kits and eyewashes, any specialist provisions identified by the storage area risk assessment, monitoring equipment is installed where required (e.g. low oxygen alarm) and suitable spill kits are easily accessible.
  • Appropriate signage is displayed as designated by the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996. To avoid confusion, signage may be used to identify the primary hazard within the store.
  • Chemical storage areas are included in the regular workplace inspection schedule. The inspection must account for the nature of materials stored, the impact on and current condition of the structure and fittings within the store and the condition of chemical containers.

Line Managers must

  • Ensure all hazardous chemical storage for which they are responsible, is assessed with regards the risks posed by the hazards present, the physical and chemical properties and the quantities stored. The assessment should consider the type of storage that is required, the impact should a fire occur and whether the location presents any increased risk to the health and safety of persons working within or near to the storage area.
  • Ensure the risk assessment informs the development of a risk control strategy to ensure the store area is fit for purpose, provides suitable segregation of incompatible chemicals, is adequately ventilated, has suitable proximity to fore detection systems and fire-fighting equipment and that appropriate access restrictions are in place.
  • Ensure that specific storage arrangements for substances that are potentially unstable or may degrade during prolonged storage are identified and put in place. This must include establishing designated shelf lives for these substances, ensuring a robust system for stock control and a suitable, documented inspection regime is in place.
  • Chemical stocks should be formally audited with respect to a locally held chemical inventory at least annually to ensure chemical inventories reflect the substances held. Records of the audit should be kept for 3 years.

Staff and students must

  • Comply withcontrol and security measures that apply to the storage of hazardous chemicals within their workplace.
  • Use equipment and personal protective equipment in accordance with instruction.
  • Report unintentional exposure to hazardous substances.
  • Report defects in equipment, personal protective equipment and chemical storage facilities.
  1. General chemical storage principles.
  • Minimise the quantities stored and limit the amounts purchased to that required for foreseeable work. The disposal of unused chemicals can cost significantly more than any perceived savings made when buying in bulk quantities.
  • Separate substances based on hazard classification and segregate incompatible chemicals.
  • Avoid exposing chemicals to heat or direct sunlight as this may lead to deterioration of the containers as well as degradation of the contents.
  • Use secondary containment to minimise the consequences of spills, leaks or breakages. Containment should account for 110% the volume of the largest container held. For certain substances e.g. oils and solvents, this is a legal requirement.
  • Ensure appropriate storage position - avoid storing bottles on the floor where they may be damaged or knocked over, locate large containers on lower shelves and avoid stacking containers on top of each other.
  • If storing decanted solutions, ensure the containers are appropriate for the chemicals stored and are well sealed. Do not over fill containers, allow enough free head space to account for expansion of the contents and to prevent over pressurising of the container.
  • Use appropriate carriers or trolleys to transfer items between the storage and point of use.
  • Ensure storage areas are kept tidy, organised and well maintained in a safe condition.
  • Maintain records of location, responsible person, date of acquisition, storage and disposal requirements (e.g. shelf life).
  • Ensure safety data sheets are kept up to date and readily available.
  • Ensure container labels are intact, clear and indicate the chemical hazard.
  • Implement suitable stock rotation to ensure oldest containers are removed from the store first.
  • Audit stocks regularly and ensure disposal of unwanted or out of date substances.
  1. Hazard classification and signage for storage.
  2. Chemical hazard information.

Information about the hazards of chemical materials is available from a number of sources:

  • Safety Data Sheet- suppliers are required by law to provide up to date hazard information for their products which have been classified as hazardous to supply.Safety data sheets must include information about the properties of a substance, the hazards posed, handling, storage, disposal and transport instructions and emergency information including exposure control measures.
  • Container labels- Suppliers must label a substance according to Classification, Labelling and packaging Regulation EC 1272/2008. Container labels shouldcontain the supplier contact information, the approved or trade name of the substance, the nominal quantity supplied and all relevant hazard statements, pictograms, signal words and precautionary statements relating to the hazards posed.
  • Trade and supplier websites
  • European Chemical Agency (ECHA) Classification and labelling online inventory ( ).
  • Hazard warning signs.

Storage areas, bins, cabinets and cupboards should display appropriate signage to indicate the nature of the hazard present. Signs should conformto the requirements of the Health and Safety (Signs & Signals) Regulations 1996. Where several different chemical hazards are present a general warning sign or signage indicating the primary chemical hazardmay be used.

4.2.1Flammable materials

/ Highly Flammable liquids (flash point<32oC)
Flammable Liquids with flash point of 32 - 55oC
Highly Flammable Solids (readily catch fire after brief contact with a source of ignition)
Spontaneously Combustible Substances
Water sensitive substances (in contact with water or damp air may produce highly flammable or combustible gases)

4.2.2Explosive substances

/ Substances manufactured and supplied for use as explosives
Substances classified under the UN Dangerous Goods List as explosive.
Substances which may explode under the effect of flame or are sensitive to shocks or friction.

4.2.3Oxidising substances

/ Substances that give rise to exothermic reaction in contact with other substances and may cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.

4.2.4Corrosive substances

/ Acidic Substances
Alkaline and related substances
Caustic substances
Substances which may damage or destroy other materials including living tissue, metals and organic compounds.

4.2.5Toxic substances

/ Substances which if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin may cause serious adverse health effects.

4.2.6Harmful or irritant substances

/ Substances which if inhaled, ingested or in contact with skin may cause adverse health effects.
Substances which may cause reversible damage to biological tissue

4.2.7Cryogenic liquids

/ Liquids with normal boiling point below -90oC, which are gases at normal working temperature and pressure.

4.2.8Potentially Explosive atmosphere

/ Area contains a mixture of air and one or more dangerous substances in the form of a gas, vapour, mist or dust in which, after ignition has occurred, combustion spreads to the entire unburned mixture.
  1. Chemical incompatibility and instability
  2. Chemical incompatibility

A wide variety of chemicals react dangerously when mixed with certain other substances. Significant incompatibilities are described on the supplier's safety data sheet. Further information regarding specific chemical incompatibility is available in Bretherick's Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards, Academic Press.

  • Substances should be stored in securely closed containers, specifically designed for the purpose and clearly labelled.
  • Liquids should be stored in corrosion resistant, secondary containment cabinets, trays or containers that can retain spills. In general secondary containment should be able to hold 110% the volume of the largest vessel present.
  • Substances should be separated according to their hazard class and segregated away from incompatible groups by cabinets, secondary containment or distance. In general:

Key: X = NOT compatible. All other combinations consult the MSDS.

5.2Energetic and air/water reactivechemicals

  • Potentially unstable chemicals will have specific storage requirements, details should be highlighted within the supplier's safety data sheet.
  • Avoid storing energetic and reactive substances in areas at risk of elevated temperatures. Store away from direct sunlight.
  • Segregate from combustible materials and other substances that may increase the danger in event of a fire e.g. flammable substances and oxidisers.
  • Where these substances are stored a suitable risk assessment must be carried out and appropriate measures implemented to control the risks posed by use and storage. The risk assessment should inform the development of a safe system of work for managing the storage of these substances.
  • Storage arrangements must consider limiting acquisition of such substances to the minimum quantities required for foreseeable work within the designated shelf life, ensuring a robust stock control system is implemented and carrying out a regular, documented inspection schedule.
  • Potentially unstable chemicals must be identified on a chemical inventory. The designated expiry date and person responsible for their use must be recorded within the inventory and on the container.
  • Containers should be labelled with the receiving, opening and 'use by' dates.
  • Substances that must be kept in a wetted or desensitised form to ensure stability may decompose exothermically if they are allowed to dry out. These substances should be regularly inspected for signs of drying (e.g. around bottle stoppers and caps and within the bottle). Any leaks or spills must be dealt with immediately.
  • Substances requiring an inhibitor or stabiliser to prevent reaction with air or itself should be regularly checked to ensure the concentration of the inhibitor does not fall below an effective level. Information should be obtained from the supplier on recommended methods for control and appropriate shelf life.
  • Substances with a designated shelf life may have the potential to become unsafe after this period e.g. some ethers can form explosive peroxides when stored for prolonged periods.
  • Peroxide forming compoundsshould be stored in airtight containers, in a dark, cool, dry place. Where appropriate, the container head space should be purged with an inert gas. Contents should be periodically tested for the presence of peroxides, disposable test kits are available from most laboratory suppliers (e.g. Quantofix or Merckoquant strips).
  1. Types of store
  2. Flammable cabinet
  • Flammable cabinets must be of metal construction and provide 30 minutes fire resistance. Ideally, new cabinets should be manufactured to conform to BS EN 14470-1:2004 Safety Storage Cabinets for Flammable liquids.
  • Cabinets should contain corrosive resistant trays or lipped shelves to contain spillages and breakages.
  • Within each operational room, a maximum of 50 litres highly flammable/flammable materials may be stored within appropriate flammable cabinets.
  • Cabinets should be positioned away from doors and fire evacuation routes.
  • The presence of flammable storage should be indicated on room hazard plans and recorded in the building fire risk assessment.

6.2Acid storage within laboratories or workshops

  • It is advisable to keep acids within suitable acid resistant cabinets, in a well-ventilated space.
  • Storage shelves should be acid resistant and be capable of containing spills.
  • Secondary containment (e.g. trays) should be used where reasonably practicable.
  • Acids should not be stored above eye-level.
  • General workbench storage
  • Bench reagent bottles should be limited to minimum required for the day's work.
  • Flammable solvents should be limited to 500ml or less.
  • Low hazard chemicals may be stored on dedicated, lipped shelving within the work area. This must constitute working stocks and not be used as a substitute for dedicated storage areas.
  • Containers should be clearly labelled with the contents, user and chemical hazard.
  • If flammable solvents are kept, ignition sources must be adequately controlled.
  • Cold storage
  • If refrigerators are required for controlled temperature storage, chemicals must be stored in refrigerators dedicated for the purpose and never used to store food or beverages.
  • Refrigerators used to store flammable materials must be intrinsically safe (of non-sparking design) and labelled to indicate this.
  • External bulk storage
  • Dedicated external storage should have a suitable form of spill control, either be constructed with a low bund or impervious sill or ensure containers are stored on appropriate bunded pallets that are capable of holding 110% of the largest container.
  • Stores should be secured against unauthorised entry.
  • Stores should not be located near drains.
  • Stores should be safely accessible to those that need to use them, suitable lighting and access for trolleys and handling of large containers must be provided.
  • Adequate ventilation must be in place to prevent accumulation of fumes and vapours.
  • Sources of ignition must be prohibited and all electrical and light fittings be intrinsically safe and compliant with applicable Dangerous Substance and Explosive Atmosphere Regulation (DSEAR) requirements.
  • Dedicated stores must be risk assessed and the appropriate control measures implemented to prevent or reduce the risks posed by the storage of hazardous substances.
  • If stores are used for bulk storage of flammable or highly flammable liquids or gases, the storage area must be assessed with respect to the Dangerous Substance and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations and classified under the appropriate DSEAR zone.
  • Stores should be equipped with suitable emergency response equipment including an appropriate spill kit, eye wash and fire extinguisher.
  • Workshop storage
  • The quantity of products stored within the workshop should be kept to a minimum, do not use the area for bulk storage of hazardous substances.
  • All toxic chemicals must be kept in a secure, lockable cabinet or cupboard.
  • The total quantity of flammable solvent stored on open bench should be less than 500ml.
  • Do not store flammable solvents in close proximity to sources of ignition including:
  • open flames such as burners, heaters, glass blowing/cutting/welding torches
  • Grinding wheels
  • Electric heaters or heating guns (these must be switched off at the wall socket when not in use).
  • Electrical tools and equipment
  • Sources of static electricity.
  • Larger quantities of solvents should be stored in an appropriate flammables cabinet and the total amount should not exceed 50 litres.
  • Waste storage
  • Waste should be stored according to the same principles as all chemical storage, however waste containers must be clearly labelled as waste and the relevant hazard information displayed.
  • Where practicable, chemical waste should be separated from other chemical stocks.
  • Avoid stockpiling chemical waste and arrange regular collection by the University Waste contractor, chemical waste must be booked for collection through the Sustainability Waste manager.
  • Regulated substances

High risk, regulated substances must be kept in areas subject to secure storage with access limited to authorised users. This includes: