What are the guidelines for hazardous storage?

How to store hazardous materials safely and meet legal regulations

Ensuring proper hazardous storage is an important part of workplace safety, and using specialised storage units can ensure that businesses meet stringent compliance standards. Beyond protecting employees and the environment, compliance with legal regulations is essential to avoid serious penalties and reputational damage. Hazchem has a complete range of hazardous storage solutions to ensure that your workplace is safe and secure.

Understanding hazardous substances

Hazardous materials include chemicals, flammable liquids, corrosives, and other dangerous substances. Improper storage can lead to fires, toxic exposure, or environmental damage – safe handling should be a top priority.

Legal requirements for hazardous storage

UK businesses must comply with strict regulations governing hazardous substances. These include:

• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations – Risk assessments and proper storage protocols.
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Employer responsibility for worker safety.
• Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 2002 – Guidance on flammable and explosive materials.
• Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Regulations for hazardous waste disposal.

Failure to comply can result in hefty fines, legal actions, and severe workplace hazards. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) (gov. UK) provides more guidance.

Best practices for safe hazardous storage

To ensure safety and compliance, businesses should implement the following storage measures:

• Proper labelling and classification – Clearly label all hazardous substances with hazard symbols and handling instructions.
• Ventilation and fire safety – Store flammable materials in well-ventilated areas and away from ignition sources.
• Segregation of incompatible substances – Keep oxidisers, acids, and flammables separated to prevent chemical reactions.
• Secure containment and spill management – Use bunded storage solutions to prevent leaks and contamination.

Industry example: Chemical manufacturing plant

A chemical manufacturing plant produces and stores large volumes of hazardous substances, including flammable solvents, corrosive acids, and toxic chemicals. To comply with COSHH and DSEAR regulations, the plant implements the following measures:

• Storage segregation: Flammable solvents are stored in bunded safety stores away from oxidisers to prevent combustion risks.
• Ventilation and fire protection: Specialised storage areas have forced ventilation systems to prevent vapour buildup, alongside fire suppression systems.
• Spill containment: Bunded flooring and spill kits are strategically placed to contain leaks and prevent environmental contamination.
• Regular inspections: Weekly checks ensure compliance with HSE standards, with documentation for audit purposes.
• Employee training: Workers handling hazardous substances undergo mandatory PPE training, including proper use of respirators and chemical-resistant gloves.

By following these best practices and investing in specialised storage units from Hazchem, the plant ensures compliance while protecting workers and the surrounding environment.

Choosing the right hazardous storage units

Businesses must select appropriate storage units that meet compliance standards. Hazchem Safety offers a range of robust storage solutions, including:

• External petroleum store – Securely stores 25-litre drums and small containers with ventilated shelving and corrosion-resistant materials.
• General purpose bunded safety store – Provides fire-safe, leakproof containment for flammable and chemical substances.
• Storage cabinets – Fire-resistant, bunded cabinets with rear ventilation to reduce fume build-up.

Regular inspections and risk assessments

To maintain workplace safety, businesses should:

• Conduct regular workplace safety audits to identify potential hazards.
• Train employees on safe hazardous material handling and emergency procedures.
• Develop an emergency response plan for spills, leaks, and fires.

Choose safe storage for a safer workplace

Proper hazardous storage is essential for workplace safety and legal compliance. Businesses must follow regulations, use secure storage units, and conduct regular risk assessments to prevent accidents.

For high-quality hazardous storage solutions that meet UK safety regulations, explore Hazchem’s range of compliant storage units today.