Storing chemicals
Fires, spills, accidental inhalation or ingestion can occur with stored chemicals.
When storing chemicals:
- Assess what quantity and duration of the chemical to be stored and the toxicity and stability.
- Consult with local authorities on the storage of fuel.
- Store in a well ventilated, well lit lockable shed that has an impervious floor and shelving and in a flood free area.
- Check the label for advice about storage.
- Store away from respirators, protective clothing and equipment.
- Store chemicals in a depot with a bund or some other spill containment system where possible.
- Ensure appropriate materials (chemical gloves, boots, apron and respirators) are kept close by to clean up any spills including soil, water, absorbent pillows, lime or sand.
- Store the chemical in the original containers, with labels intact. If labels come off always relabel the container.
- Never store chemicals in drink or food containers.
- Secure chemicals from unauthorised access.
- Reduce combustible debris in and around a chemical storage depot. Keep grass mowed for about 3 m around.
- Ensure fire-fighting equipment is available and accessible to the depot (supplies of water, sand or extinguishers may be required).
More information is provided in Section 6.2 - Reducing the consequences or probability of an incident of the Rural Chemicals Industry Code of Practice.
More information about emergency procedures is provided in Section 6.3 Controlling incidents of the Rural Chemicals Industry Code of Practice.
More information on placarding, labelling, material safety data sheets and training for hazardous materials is available from hazardous materials.
More information on the design and construction of storage areas for agricultural and veterinary chemicals is provided in AS 2507 - The storage and handling of agricultural and veterinary chemicals.
Last updated 21 August 2008