Keep storage areas cool and dry. Store flammable and combustible liquids away from incompatible materials (e.g., oxidizers). Use approved containers for disposal of rags and other work. Store, handle and use flammable and combustible liquids in well-ventilated areas.
To minimise the risk of fire, all flammable materials should be stored in a separate, metal container used solely for the purpose of storing oily rags and the lid should be kept secure at all times. Chemical storage areas should display signs to indicate the nature of the hazard present.
Do not store combustible materials (e.g., paper, cardboard) inside flammable liquid storage cabinets. Flammable liquids that will be routinely transported out of a storage cabinet should be kept in listed and approved safety cans.
Only flammable and combustible liquids should be stored in the cabinet. Acids, caustics, and other non-flammable hazardous materials should not be stored in the cabinet. Not more than three cabinets may be located in a fire area.
Housekeeping and Storage
- not storing combustible materials in plant rooms, boiler rooms, attics, service voids and shafts, electrical main or sub‑switch rooms;
- control and frequent disposal of packaging, waste and other combustible rubbish;
Flammable liquids and corrosive substances are incompatible and if they are mixed or brought into contact with each other, there is a possibility that they will react and produce a combination of dangerous by-products which will increase the risk that they pose upon people, property and the environment.
No combustible material shall be stored outdoors within 10 feet of a building or structure.
Combustible material must never be stored any closer than 36" from a heating appliance or electrical light.
Substances that aren't classified as a Class 3 Flammable Liquids can't be stored in a flammable liquids storage cabinet. These substances include the following dangerous goods classes: Class 1 - Explosives. Class 2 - Gases (other than aerosols)
The most obvious reason for properly storing flammable liquids is to reduce the likelihood of fire. Highly flammable chemicals should be stored, transported and used in a safe manner which reduces the risk of fire and reduces the likelihood of them adding fuel to any fire on site.
Generally speaking, flammable liquids will ignite (catch on fire) and burn easily at normal working temperatures. Combustible liquids have the ability to burn at temperatures that are usually above working temperatures. Combustible liquids have a flashpoint at or above 37.8°C (100°F) and below 93.3°C (200°F).
Place heavier loads on lower or middle shelves. Store long, tall or top-heavy items on their side or secure them to prevent tipover. Place ladders on stable, level surfaces, and use stair platforms to access materials in higher locations. Lift materials properly.
If you need to store flammable liquids inside your building, you must not store any more than 850L in a single flammable liquids storage cabinet. On ground floors, no more than 850L of flammable liquids can be stored per 250 m2 of floor space.
Where is a suitable storage location for flammable liquids? Regular laboratory refrigerator.
Acids and bases need to be stored in their own dedicated storage cabinets, separate from flammable storage. Oxidizers must be stored separately from flammables. And any potential source of ignition should never be stored inside a flammable storage cabinet.
To store chemicals safely, DO the following;
- Label all chemical containers fully.
- Provide a specific storage space for each chemical, and ensure return after each use.
- Store volatile toxics and odoriferous chemicals in ventilated cabinets.
- Store flammable liquids in approved flammable liquid storage cabinets.
Store flammable liquids in clearly labeled containers – and only in small amounts. Keep the containers away from heaters, appliances, pilot lights, direct sunlight and other sources of heat or flame. NEVER store propane tanks indoors. They have the potential to explode when exposed to high heat.
Store your household products in a dry, well-ventilated cupboard that meets your eye level. This will not only keep them away from curious children and pets, but you can see what chemicals you have and reduce the risk of any problems such as unscrewed tops and leakages.
Chemicals should be stored no higher than eye level and never on the top shelf of a storage unit. Do not overcrowd shelves. Each shelf should have an anti-roll lip. Avoid storing chemicals on the floor (even temporarily) or extending into traffic aisles.
