How to Store Chemicals Safely in Australia: A Practical Guide

Storing chemicals safely is crucial to ensuring the health and safety of workers,
the public, and the environment.

In Australia, chemical storage is governed by
strict regulations and guidelines to prevent accidents, fires, spills, and exposure
to hazardous substances. Employers and businesses must follow these
guidelines to comply with Australian law and create a safe workplace.

In this blog, we will break down the key elements of safely storing chemicals
in Australia, covering everything from choosing the right storage facilities to proper labeling and record-keeping.

Why Safe Chemical Storage Matters

Chemical storage in the workplace comes with several risks, including leaks,
fires, explosions, and exposure to toxic substances. Inadequate storage practices
can result in dangerous chemical reactions, property damage, and serious
health hazards. Proper chemical storage minimizes these risks, ensures a safe
working environment, and helps businesses comply with Australian health and
safety regulations.

In Australia, managing chemical storage is primarily regulated by Safe Work
Australia, which sets standards and provides guidance on handling hazardous
substances safely. Additionally, each state and territory may have specific
legislation that must be followed. The Work Health and Safety (WHS)
Regulations outline general requirements for chemical storage, emphasizing
the importance of effective management, training, and risk assessment.

1. Understand the Chemical Properties and Hazards

Before storing any chemical, it is vital to understand its properties and potential
hazards. Each chemical comes with a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), which provides
detailed information about its health, safety, handling, and storage
requirements. An SDS includes:

 Chemical identification
 Hazards and health effects
 Safe handling practices
 Storage recommendations
 Emergency and first-aid procedures

By reviewing the SDS, you can identify how to store chemicals safely, taking
into account their reactivity, flammability, corrosiveness, toxicity, and other
properties.

2. Choosing the Right Storage Facilities and Containers

The choice of storage facilities and containers is a fundamental part of safe
chemical storage. Different chemicals have specific requirements that must be
met to ensure safety. Here’s how to choose the appropriate storage methods:
a. Approved Storage Containers

 Use the Right Material: Chemicals must be stored in containers
made of materials that are compatible with the chemical’s properties.
For instance, corrosive chemicals like acids should be stored in plastic
containers (e.g., high-density polyethylene) to prevent corrosion.
Flammable liquids are best kept in metal safety cans that are designed
to contain vapors and prevent ignition.
 Sealed and Secure: Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent
leaks, spills, and evaporation of harmful vapors. Ensure that lids and
caps are properly secured after each use.

b. Chemical Storage Cabinets and Areas
 Flammable Liquids: Store flammable chemicals in fire-resistant
cabinets designed for flammable liquids. These cabinets must comply
with Australian Standards (e.g., AS1940) for storing flammable and
combustible liquids, which include features like self-closing doors and
built-in ventilation.
 Corrosive Substances: For corrosive chemicals, use specially designed
corrosion-resistant cabinets. These cabinets are often made of
polyethylene or lined with resistant coatings to protect against
chemical reactions.
 Gas Cylinders: Compressed gas cylinders should be stored upright,
securely fastened to prevent tipping, and in a well-ventilated area to
avoid gas accumulation.
 Separate Storage Areas: Some chemicals need to be stored in separate
areas to prevent dangerous reactions. For example, oxidizers should
not be stored with flammable liquids, and acids should be kept away
from bases. Use dedicated storage cabinets for different types of
chemicals to avoid cross-contamination and accidental mixing.

c. Ventilation and Temperature Control
 Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent the buildup of
toxic or flammable vapors, especially for chemicals stored indoors.
Storage areas should have adequate airflow, either through natural
ventilation (e.g., windows, vents) or mechanical systems (e.g., exhaust
fans).
 Temperature Control: Some chemicals require temperature-controlled
environments to remain stable. For example, organic peroxides and
certain pesticides should be kept in cool, dry conditions. Avoid storing
chemicals in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can increase
the risk of degradation or fire.

3. Labeling and Signage: Clear Identification is Key

All chemical containers must be clearly labeled according to the Globally
Harmonized System (GHS) of classification and labeling. Labels should include:

 Chemical name
 Hazard warnings (e.g., flammable, corrosive, toxic)
 Instructions for safe handling and storage

Storage areas and cabinets must also be marked with appropriate hazard signs.
For example, storage areas containing flammable liquids should have a sign
that reads “Flammable Liquids – No Smoking or Open Flames.” This signage
is essential to inform workers of the potential dangers and promote safe
practices.

4. Segregate Chemicals Based on Compatibility

Not all chemicals play nicely together. Some can react violently when mixed,
leading to fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases. Safe Work Australia
emphasizes the importance of segregating incompatible chemicals to minimize
the risk of such incidents.

 Incompatible Pairs: Examples of chemicals that should not be stored
together include:
o Acids with bases (e.g., sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide)
o Flammable liquids with oxidizers (e.g., gasoline and hydrogen
peroxide)
o Reactive metals with water (e.g., sodium metal and water)
 Storage Methods: Use separate cabinets or clearly defined sections
within storage areas to segregate incompatible chemicals. Some storage
cabinets come with built-in compartments for this purpose.

5. Spill Control and Emergency Preparedness

Accidents can happen, even with the best precautions in place. Being prepared
for spills and leaks is an integral part of chemical storage safety:

a. Secondary Containment

 Spill Trays: Place chemical containers in spill trays or on containment
pallets to catch leaks and spills. This secondary containment is a
requirement for many chemicals, especially hazardous liquids.
 Bund Walls: For larger storage areas, consider installing bund walls
(raised barriers) to contain spills. The area within the bund should be
large enough to hold the entire volume of the stored chemicals, plus an
additional buffer.
b. Spill Kits and Cleanup Equipment

 Spill Kits: Equip storage areas with spill kits containing absorbent
materials, neutralizing agents, gloves, and other protective equipment.
Different chemicals require different spill control measures—make
sure the kit is appropriate for the types of chemicals you store.
 Emergency Procedures: Develop and display clear procedures for
dealing with chemical spills, including evacuation routes, emergency
contact numbers, and first-aid instructions.

6. Implementing Access Control

Access to chemical storage areas should be limited to trained and authorized
personnel. Consider implementing the following access control measures:

 Lockable Cabinets and Storage Areas: Secure chemical cabinets with
locks to prevent unauthorized access. Storage rooms should be
equipped with secure access points, such as key card systems or coded
locks.
 Training and Awareness: Only employees who have received proper
training in handling and storing hazardous chemicals should have
access to the storage areas. Regular training sessions should be
conducted to ensure everyone is up-to-date on safety procedures.

7. Maintain an Inventory and Conduct Regular Inspections

Keeping track of what chemicals you have, where they’re stored, and in what
quantities is crucial for safety and compliance.

a. Chemical Inventory

 Inventory Records: Maintain a detailed inventory of all chemicals,
including the product name, quantity, location, and date of receipt.
This helps in monitoring stock levels, preventing overstocking, and
identifying when items need to be disposed of safely.
 Review SDS: Regularly review the Safety Data Sheets for each
chemical to ensure storage practices remain aligned with safety
guidelines.

b. Routine Inspections

 Check for Leaks or Damage: Inspect containers regularly for signs of
corrosion, leaks, or damage. Replace any compromised containers
immediately to prevent spills.
 Inspect Storage Areas: Ensure that storage areas are clean, wellorganized,
and free from ignition sources (for flammable materials).
Verify that ventilation systems and spill containment measures are in
good working condition.

8. Stay Compliant with Australian Regulations

In Australia, businesses must comply with the Work Health and Safety (WHS)
Regulations and specific standards such as AS1940 for flammable liquids and
AS3780 for corrosive substances. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines,
legal consequences, and serious safety incidents.

 Licenses and Notifications: Some chemicals require licenses for storage,
and certain quantities may need to be reported to local authorities. Check
with state or territory regulations to understand your obligations.
Final Thoughts: Safety First with Chemical Storage
Storing chemicals safely in Australia requires a mix of the right equipment,
careful planning, and strict adherence to regulations. By understanding the
hazards of each chemical, using appropriate storage containers and cabinets,
implementing segregation, and being prepared for emergencies, you can create
a safer workplace for everyone involved.

Remember, safe chemical storage isn’t just about compliance—it’s about
protecting your employees, your business, and the environment. Always stay
informed and regularly review your storage practices to keep up with the latest
safety standards.