The following basic storage requirements apply to all hazardous chemicals. Refer to the “Chemical Storage Guide” sections of this website for additional requirements that apply to chemicals in a specific hazard class (e.g., flammables and corrosives).
Storage Area Requirements
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Label storage areas according to the type of chemical family or hazard classification found there.
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Use secondary containment to segregate incompatible hazard classes & to contain leaks or spills.
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Inspect storage areas at least annually, as required by Cal/ OSHA.
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Keep aisles, hallways, doorways, exits, and entryways clear.
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Keep storage areas well lit, appropriately ventilated, and at a consistent, cool temperature.
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Eliminate ignition sources such as open flames, heat sources, or direct sunlight.
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Keep emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers handy and in good working order.
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Confine chemical storage areas so that leaks or spills are controlled. Prevent chemicals from running down sink, floor, or storm water drains. Clean up spills and drips immediately.
Storage Don’ts
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Don’t store chemicals in a sink or fume hood, except for certain toxic gases that are so dangerous they can only be stored in a gas cabinet or fume hood.
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Don’t store chemicals on dirt or grass, near a creek or storm drain entrance, where they could contaminate the environment.
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Don’t store chemicals on the floor, window ledges, or balconies.
Storage Cabinets
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Use only approved storage cabinets. Never alter a flammable storage cabinet unless directed to do so by EH&S.
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Label cabinets with the hazard class of the chemicals.
Storage Shelves
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Shelves should be level, stable, and secured to the wall or another stable surface.
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In case of an earthquake, shelves should have raised edges or rim guards (minimum height of 2 inches) to prevent containers from falling. Use bungee cords for added security.
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Shelves should be kept free of chemical contamination and dust.
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Shelves should be located away from direct sun, flame, and heat sources.
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Containers should not protrude over shelf edges.
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Store large bottles/containers no higher than 2 feet from the floor. Store corrosives on lower shelves.
Storage Containers
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Keep containers closed unless you are dispensing a chemical or adding to the container. Never store a container open with a funnel in it.
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Provide secondary containment for liquids in containers larger than 1 gallon in size. Dishpans or polyethylene trays work well.
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Use approved containers for flammable solvents