If your business operates with hazardous materials, such as acids, pesticides, paint, petroleum products, disinfectants, glues, acetone, heavy metals and so on, you need to observe additional safety measures to protect your employees and the environment. These materials are potentially harmful – they can harm humans and the environment. Thus, you should be careful with how you handle them.
Below are three tips for storing hazardous materials in your warehouse:
1. Use appropriate storage
Hazardous materials should be stored in appropriate containers, those that are specifically designed for them. The type of material will determine the right container. For instance, liquid materials will be stored differently from compressed gases.
You should also ensure that the containers are sealable to prevent the contents from being released. Further, the containers you use should be made of durable, weather- and corrosion-resistant materials to keep them in good condition for a long time.
2. Label containers
It’s crucial for your team to be well-trained and understand the warehouse’s organization. However, in addition to this, all containers with hazardous materials should be labeled. The label should contain the name of the material, hazard class and warnings.
If you are storing the materials in a cabinet, include all the materials inside on the door. This ensures anyone who opens the cabinet does so carefully.
3. Have a designated area
You should designate an area in your warehouse where you store hazardous materials instead of having them in different spots. This location should preferably be a lockable room protected from elements like heat, humidity and flames. Additionally, only authorized personnel should have access to it.
How you store hazardous materials in your company significantly matters. It will be best to obtain more information on protecting the environment while running your business.
