How to Store Industrial Chemicals safely: Types, risks, & tips
Industrial chemical storage is a critical component of the supply chain management companies in India. However, if not managed appropriately, storing hazardous chemicals may endanger individuals, communities, and the environment. Chemical firms confront the problem of keeping their goods in pristine condition while maintaining the highest level of safety throughout the supply chain, particularly during storage.
This article goes through the different types of industrial chemicals that logistics service providers store, the risks of storing these unstable chemicals, and storage tips.
Types of chemicals
The industrial chemical can be classified into eight types:
- Explosives
- Gases
- Flammable liquids
- Flammable solids
- Oxidizing agents and organic peroxides
- Toxic and infectious substances
- Radioactive substances
- Corrosive substances
Supply chain management companies must thoroughly study the chemical compatibility of the items before erecting industrial racking where they will store chemicals. Chemical compatibility refers to how well one chemical may interact with another without producing corrosion or altering its properties.
When two compounds combine and do not change, they are compatible. However, if they alter or do not mix, they are incompatible chemicals that must be separated in the warehouse with extreme care.
Tips to minimize risks while storing industrial chemicals
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Have a robust storage unit
Not all chemicals can indeed be kept in the same way. Some chemicals must be maintained at a low temperature, while others must be kept in a well-ventilated area, in a dry container, or away from flammable materials, while still others must be kept damp. So having a well equipped, robust storage unit is essential. -
Label the containers
Every product should have a label attached to it. The name of the chemical, its hazards, and safety precautions, as well as the manufacturer's name and contact information, should all be included on the labels. It's also a good idea to examine the labels' readability regularly. -
Manage your inventory
To enhance your performance of the supply chains, you must keep an accurate inventory of those you hold in your warehouse. Not only will you save time hunting for certain chemicals, but you'll also be able to keep track of the inputs and outputs, making product management more effortless.
Following these steps will be ineffective if you and the facility's personnel do not know the safety procedures by heart or how to respond in an emergency. Everyone must understand the regulations that must be followed. Providing them with the necessary PPE (personal protective equipment) will allow them to operate and handle chemicals safely.
