5.1 Storage and transport
Chemical storage guidelines
Reduce quantity and optimize storage:
- Begin by minimizing the number and quantity of chemicals that require storage.
- Classify chemicals based on their hazards and group them accordingly.
Security measures:
- Ensure that security procedures are adequate to prevent unauthorized access to chemicals
- Be aware that over time, several chemicals undergo deterioration during storage.
- It is recommended to record the date of receipt and the initial opening of each chemical container on the container label.
- Sort out old chemical bottles, especially those affected by chemical or no longer needed.
Storage considerations:
- Store chemicals in ventilated chemical cupboards or designated chemical storage rooms.
- Consider compatibility when storing different chemicals. For instance, keep oxidizing chemicals separate from flammable liquids or other flammable substances.
- Flammable liquids must be kept in ventilated cupboards.
- Toxic substances should be stored in locked cupboards separated from flammable substances. If a chemical is both flammable and toxic, store it as a flammable chemical.
- Clearly mark chemical storage rooms and ventilated cupboards containing flammable or poisonous chemicals with the appropriate pictograms (danger symbols).
Acid storage:
- Store acids in ventilated cupboards.
- Do not store acids and bases together in the same cupboard. For small volumes of acids and bases (less than 1 L), separate shelves within a cupboard are acceptable for storage.
- Place acids and bases below eye level to prevent accidental injuries.
Secondary containment:
- Use trays with raised rims for containers of liquids to provide secondary containment in case of spills or leaks.
Avoid floor storage:
- Never store chemical containers on the floor, even temporarily. Always use shelves, benches, or delivery carts.
Evacuation areas – no storage:
- Do not store anything in designated evacuation areas.
Workspace restrictions:
- Storing chemicals or laboratory samples in office workspaces is forbidden, regardless of their harmlessness.
Refrigerator and freezer used for storing flammable substances:
- Storing flammable substances in a standard refrigerator or freezer is prohibited. Use approved refrigerators/freezers designed for chemical storage.
Transportation of chemicals
When transporting chemicals outside the laboratory or between stockrooms and laboratories, ensure that you use secondary containment that is breakresistant.
Always prioritize security when transporting volumes exceeding 1 liter of highly flammable solvents or gases in areas outside the laboratory.
Follow these guidelines:
- Choose the right equipment: Use a trolley with soft rubber wheels and protective fencing to transport the goods safely.
- Transporting single bottles: Single bottles can be transported in an upright position in a plastic bucket or similar container
- Transport in elevators: When transporting liquid hazardous chemicals in an elevator, ensure that there are no passengers in the elevator. Place the hazardous chemicals in the elevator with a sign “do not enter the elevator” and take the stairs.
Transport of gas cylinders
- When transporting cylinders of compressed gases, ensure that the cylinder is securely strapped to a cylinder cart, and protect the valve with a cover cap.
- When transporting cylinders between floors, ensure that passengers are not in the elevator.
Select the appropriate cart
Use a transport cart designed for the gas cylinder’s size:
- Large cart: For 50 L cylinders.
- Small cart: For cylinders up to 20 L.
If an accident occurs during transport of solvents, toxic or corrosive substances
- If you are unsure or if the situation is critical, immediately call for assistance.
- Cordon off the affected area to prevent further exposure or harm.
- Put on appropriate protective gear: mask with an approved filter, protective lab coat, protective glasses and approved protective gloves.
If there is a solvent spill or leak:
- Sprinkle vermiculite or another suitable absorbent material to contain and absorb the spilled substance.
- Once everything has been absorbed, collect it in a double plastic bag and place the bag in a designated container for chemical waste.
- If the original container or canister is deformed, transfer the contents into another suitable container. This task should be performed by professionals with good knowledge of chemistry.
In case of fire, explosion, or gas evolution alert emergency services immediately by calling 112. Provide information about the incident, including your name and the building where the incident occurred.
