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Safe chemical handling requires routine inspections of chemical storage areas and maintenance of stringent inventory control. The inherent hazards of chemicals can be reduced by minimizing the quantity of chemicals on hand. However, when chemicals must be used, proper storage and handling can reduce or eliminate associated risks. All chemical storage areas and cabinets should be inspected at least annually and any unwanted or expired chemicals should be removed.

Typical storage considerations may include temperature, ignition control, ventilation, segregation and identification. Proper segregation is necessary to prevent incompatible materials from inadvertently coming into contact. A physical barrier and/or distance is effective for proper segregation.

Proper storage information can usually be obtained from the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), label, or other chemical reference material. As required by 29 CFR 1910.1200, an MSDS must be on hand for every hazardous chemical in your workplace. MSDSs must be provided by the manufacturer or distributor of chemicals purchased. MSDSs are also available through the LINDEN system, CDC's Chemical Tracking System. This system tracks CDC's chemical inventory and includes MSDSs for most chemicals in the inventory. The Internet can also be used to find MSDSs. For a fast search for an MSDS on the Internet, go to the CDC Intranet, select "Databases", then select "Scientific Information", and then "Material Safety Datasheets". This site provides specific manufacturer information as well as generic information.

Considerations for proper storage:

• Ensure all containers of hazardous chemicals are properly labeled with the identity of the hazardous chemical(s) and appropriate hazard warnings.

 

• Segregate all incompatible chemicals for proper storage of chemicals by hazard class. In other words, store like chemicals together and away from other groups of chemicals that might cause reactions if mixed.

 

• Do not store chemicals alphabetically except within a grouping of compatible chemicals.

 

• Flammable materials should be stored in an approved, dedicated flammable materials storage cabinet or storage room if the volume exceeds ten gallons. Keep cabinet doors closed.

 

• 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.

 

• Liquids should be stored in unbreakable or double-contained packaging, or the storage cabinet should have the capacity to hold the contents if the container breaks.

 

• Store acids in a dedicated acid cabinet. Nitric acid may be stored there also but only if it is kept isolated from all other acids.

 

• Store highly toxic or controlled materials in a locked, dedicated poison cabinet.

 

• Volatile or highly odorous chemical shall be stored in a ventilated cabinet. Chemical fume hoods shall not be used for storage as containers block proper air flow in the hood and reduce available work space.

 

• All chemicals should be labeled and dated upon receipt in the lab and on opening. This is especially important for peroxide-forming chemicals such as ethers, dioxane, isopropanol, and tetrahydrofuran. Solutions should be labeled and dated when prepared.

 

• Look for unusual conditions in chemical storage areas, such as:

• Improper storage of chemicals
• Leaking or deteriorating containers
• Spilled chemicals
• Temperature extremes (too hot or cold in storage area)
• Lack of or low lighting levels
• Blocked exits or aisles
• Doors blocked open, lack of security
• Trash accumulation
• Open lights or matches
• Fire equipment blocked, broken or missing
• Lack of information or warning signs ("Flammable liquids", "Acids", "Corrosives", "Poisons", etc.)

• First aid supplies, emergency phone numbers, eyewash and emergency shower equipment, fire extinguishers, spill cleanup supplies and personal protective equipment should be readily available and personnel trained in their use.

 

• Chemicals stored in explosion-proof refrigerators or cold rooms shall be sealed and labeled with the name of the person who stored the material in addition to all other required hazard warnings.

 

• Only compressed gas cylinders that are in use and secured in place shall be kept in the laboratory. All others, including empties, shall be sent to the compressed gas cylinder storage area for the particular facility.

 

• Keep all stored chemicals, especially flammable liquids, away from heat and direct sunlight.

Table 1. Examples of Incompatible Chemicals

The following list is not a complete listing of incompatible materials. It contains some of the more common incompatible materials. Always research materials you work with in order to work safely in the lab.

Chemicals listed in Column A should not be stored with or used near items in Column B.

Adapted from Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals, National Research Council, 1995, with additions from OHS.

Table 3. Suggested Storage Time Limits for Common Peroxidizable Compounds

Under proper conditions, these chemicals will form explosive peroxides which can be detonated by shock or heat.

Safety Hints:

• Do not purchase these compounds in quantities greater than can be used in the specified storage time period.
• Label containers with receiving, opening and disposal dates.
• Ethers should be stored in the dark and under nitrogen if possible.
• Always check for the presence of peroxides before distilling any peroxide-former.
• Consult safety references (i.e., MSDSs) before working with peroxidizable compounds.
• If old containers of peroxide-forming chemicals are found, do not move them. Contact the Office of Health and Safety for assistance in disposing of the container.

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