Your Essential Guide
Storing hazardous materials safely is so important, but far too many people make mistakes that can put everyone in danger. From not taking advantage of bunded storage to not investing in proper training, here are some of the most common errors seen in the workplace – along with how you can avoid them.
Not Labelling Materials Properly
One of the most common mistakes that people make is failing to label hazardous materials correctly. Clear labelling ensures that employees know exactly what they are handling and how to store it safely. You should always use standard hazard symbols and warnings on your labels, so that everyone can see at a glance what dangers they pose. Don’t forget to check labels for fading or damage from time to time too!
Not Using Bunded Storage Properly
Bunded storage is one of the most effective ways to contain spills and leaks, yet many companies fail to use it correctly or at all. You should always use it when storing hazardous liquids, and you should make sure that the container gives you the capacity you need without any danger of being overfilled. Always source your bunded storage from a trusted supplier, and regularly inspect it for cracks or any signs of improper use.
Storing Incompatible Materials Together
Placing incompatible chemicals near each other can result in dangerous reactions such as fires or explosions. You should make sure that materials are separated according to their hazard class, so that acids are not stored with bases, for example. You should also make sure that your employees know which materials can interact dangerously with each other, so you can count on them to store them appropriately, too.
Not Securing Containers Properly
Containers that are not sealed properly can lead to all kinds of problems, from spillages to contamination. That’s why you need to ensure that lids and seals are properly tightened every time. For extra peace of mind, you could also have trays of something similar underneath containers to catch any spills. If you have noticed leaks despite securing containers properly, you should inspect them for any signs of damage.
Overcrowding Storage Areas
Overfilled storage areas increase the likelihood of accidents and make it difficult to access emergency equipment when needed. You should keep them organised and free of clutter, so that your team can move around them easily and you aren’t restricted by a lack of space if you need to respond to an emergency. You should also pay attention to the storage capacity limits for any hazardous materials too.
Not Training Employees Properly
Lack of training increases the risk of your team handling hazardous materials incorrectly, which can raise the risk of accidents and see you fall foul of UK regulations. You should therefore provide up-to-date safety training on hazardous material handling and storage. This training should be given to new members of the team when they join and also to long-term employees to refresh their knowledge.
You’re All Set
Avoiding these common mistakes can help you to store hazardous materials safely and avoid any mishaps. So why not look at the system you have in place and begin making the changes you need today?
