At Ecwamix, we're passionate about providing high-quality chemical solutions for various industries in South Africa. But, just as important as the innovation behind our products, is ensuring our clients know how to safely handle and store these chemicals. Whether you're using chemicals at home or in a professional setting, prioritising safety at each stage of handling is paramount. This blog post will go into why it’s important to pay attention to how you are storing chemicals as well as some tips for how to do so safely.
Why Storing Chemicals Correctly Is Important
Chemicals contain dangerous and/or toxic ingredients that range from slightly harmful to deadly. Therefore, they need to be handled with caution and the correct protocol must be followed according to the specific chemical’s properties. If chemicals are mishandled or not stored correctly, there could be disastrous consequences – contamination, fires, spills, gas releases and toxic exposure. At Ecwamix, we not only do regular training with our staff to ensure they know exactly how to deal with the chemicals at our plant, but we ensure our clients know how to handle them too.
Specific Guidelines to Storing Chemicals
Designated Storage Area: Store chemicals in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Containment and Separation: Incompatible chemicals need to be stored separately to prevent reactions and potential hazards. Keep flammable liquids, acids, and bases far away from each other to avoid accidental reactions. Flammable liquids should be stored in a designated flammable storage cabinet.
Clear Labelling and Date: Some chemicals have a limited shelf life and become unstable once they have expired, so make sure there is a clear date written on the product. Any containers with hazards or specific ingredients need to be clearly marked.
Good Ventilation: Chemicals should be stored in well-ventilated areas to reduce the build-up of fumes and vapours.
Security Measures: Chemicals should be stored in a safe place, away from children or pets. Storage areas and cabinets containing dangerous chemicals should also be locked so as to prevent unauthorised access and also to minimise the risk of theft or tampering.
Alarms: When dealing with different chemicals and hazardous products, it is best to install alarms that can alert you if there is smoke or a gas leak. Fire extinguishers are also a must.
Emergency Guidelines: Have proper procedures in place for dealing with spills, leaks or other emergencies.
Safe Handling Practices:
There are also some simple but essential tips to help you handle chemicals responsibly:
Read the Label, Every Time: It might seem obvious, but never underestimate the importance of the label. It contains crucial information about the chemical's hazards, precautionary measures, and first-aid instructions. Employees should familiarise themselves with these details before using the product.
Know Your PPE: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) acts as a barrier between you and potential hazards. Identify the recommended PPE for the specific chemical you're using. This could include gloves, goggles, respirators, or protective clothing.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Many chemicals release fumes or vapours that can be harmful if inhaled. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors, or using an exhaust fan, whenever you are working with chemicals.
Minimise Contact: Avoid direct skin contact with chemicals. Wear appropriate gloves and protective clothing as recommended on the label.
Never Mix Chemicals Unless Instructed: Mixing certain chemicals can lead to dangerous reactions. Only combine chemicals when specifically directed on the label or by a qualified professional.
Never Use Damaged Containers: Cracked, leaking, or unlabelled containers pose a safety risk. Always store chemicals in their original containers and dispose of damaged ones responsibly according to local regulations.
Label Everything Clearly: If you transfer chemicals to secondary containers, ensure they are properly labelled and include any relevant hazard information.
Clean Up Spills Immediately: If a chemical spill occurs, contain the spill and clean it up according to the instructions on the label. If the spill is significant or involves hazardous materials, seek professional assistance.
Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling chemicals, even if you wore gloves.
By following these safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries when handling and storing chemicals. At Ecwamix, we prioritise safety in everything we do. If you have any questions or require further information about specific chemicals, don't hesitate to contact our team of experts. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility – let's work together to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
