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Chemical Storage

1. Store hazardous chemicals in an area that is accessible only to authorized laboratory workers .
2. Minimize quantities and container sizes kept in the lab.
3. Do not store chemicals in aisles, under sinks or on floors, desks or bench tops
4. Store chemicals away from sources of heat (e.g., ovens or steam pipes) and direct sunlight.
5. Never stack bottles on top of each other.
6. Do not store chemicals above eye level/shoulder height .
7. Store larger containers on lower shelves .
8. Store liquids inside chemically-resistant secondary containers (such as trays or tubs) that are large enough to hold spills .
9. Store chemicals inside closable cabinets or on sturdy shelving that has 12.7 mm-19 mm (½ – ¾ inch) edge guards to prevent containers from falling
10. Ensure that chemicals cannot fall off the rear of shelves
11. Store chemicals based on compatibility and not in alphabetical order If a chemical presents more than one hazard, segregate according to the primary hazard
12. Designate specific storage areas for each class of chemical, and return reagents to those locations after each use
13. Store volatile toxic and odorous chemicals in a way that prevents release of vapors (e.g., inside closed secondary containers, ventilated cabinets, paraffin sealing)
14. Store flammables requiring refrigeration in explosion-safe or lab-safe refrigerators
15. Label reactive or unstable chemicals (e.g., ethers) with the date of receipt and the date opened
16. Inspect chemicals weekly for signs of deterioration and for label integrity
17. Dispose of unwanted chemicals promptly through the Waste Management Program
18. Keep inventory records of chemicals, and update annually