CoSHH Management and how to Store Chemicals Safely
Published Date: 4th December 2009
This article will highlight the importance of storing chemical products in compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (CoSHH). It includes information beneficial to employers and the self employed, to help with protecting workers’ health and exposure to chemicals.
There are certain simple procedures which need to be adhered to in order to prevent an adverse reaction. For example, exposing your hands to water for long periods can lead to dermatitis. There are also certain cleaning products which can cause skin allergies and asthma. Some corrosive cleaning products can cause skin burns and eye damage.
In order to avoid ill health, it is necessary to follow good working procedures. This will include minimal contact with harmful substances and the reduction of leaks and spillages. A spill clean-up kit must be provided close by. It is important that all cleaning products are stored safely.
Another important point is to ensure that the store area is kept well ventilated at all times. The storage area must also be kept clean and organised. Any spillages must be cleaned up immediately and any liquids must be absorbed in granules. Any spillages should then be moved to a marked secure container with a lid. Hazardous waste should then be disposed of by a specialist contractor.
Only workers who have been trained in the use of chemical products should have access to them and they must ensure that the storage container remains locked. A first aid plan must be in place for workers who have contact with products that can cause skin or eye damage. Good hand washing facilities should be available on site. It is vital that hands are kept clean to avoid cross contamination. Hands must be washed and dried thoroughly, and then cream applied.
Employees should have easy access to personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include items such as protective gloves, aprons and eye protection. Follow any instructions given on product labels and if necessary ask your Safety Clothing Supplier to help you get the right PPE. In case of a spill, you may require respiratory protective equipment (RPE), so advice should be sought from your RPE supplier. It is advised that single use nitrile protective gloves are used, and are thrown away every time they are taken off. If latex gloves are used, they must only be ‘low protein, powder free’ gloves.
It is imperative that certain chemicals are segregated to prevent a reaction. Always separate solid and liquid products, flammable and non flammable liquids, acids and alkalis and wastes. Chemical products need to be stored at a minimum and in a cool dark place which can contain any spills. Never store chemicals in open containers. The labels on the containers in storage should face forward and be easy to pour from so as they don’t spill or trap liquid in the rim. Any heavy items and corrosive chemicals should be stored on lower shelves. It is ideal if solid chemicals are bought in tablet form, or in a wide necked container which makes it easier to scoop out granules.