Basic H&S Guidelines

The MSDS for each chemical at the factory should include basic information and instructions
related to the proper storage of that material. If the MSDS is inadequate, then additional resources
should be consulted.

As a general rule, only a single day’s supply of a chemical should be present and available for use
on production floors. Otherwise, all hazardous chemicals should be stored in designated locations
that are segregated from production areas, office areas, dormitories, kitchens, etc. The following
table provides recommendations for such chemical storage areas.

5.5 Chemical Storage Guidelines

Chemical Storage Rooms (see Figure 5.4): Large Storage Vessels:

• All electrical installations (lights,
switches, ventilation equipment, wiring,
junction boxes, other equipment) should
be explosion-proof or protected.
• Lightning protection should be installed.
• The facility should be kept in a general
state of cleanliness.
• There should be an appropriate water
supply for eye or body cleaning within a
distance of 30 metres.
• This water supply should be tested
regularly.
• Containers should be inspected upon
receipt to ensure that the contents,
concentrations and quality comply with
purchasing specifications.
• There should be legible and durable
labels on all containers.
• Containers should be kept closed or
capped when not in use.
• Secondary containment should be
available for hazardous liquid storage to
prevent ground and water
contamination.
• Secondary containment should be
available.
• Warning signs for chemical and fire
hazards.
• Flammable and combustible materials
should be segregated from oxidising
agents, reactive materials, etc.
• Adsorbent materials and cleaners
should be available for use in the event
of minor spills or releases.
• Warning signs should be clearly visible.
• Adequate ventilation is required.
• No floor drains are permitted.
• Doors should have a fire-resistance
rating of 30 minutes (T 30).
• For fire extinguishers, refer to Section 3.
Storage areas of >2000 square meters
should have an additional 50kg
extinguisher on wheels (also: see note
below).
• Metal containers should be transported
in a manner that avoids sparking.
• There should be regular inspection of
storage areas for leakage, container
conditions, and expired products.
• An updated list of the chemical materials
in inventory should be available (see
Table 5.1).
• MSDS and CSDS should be available.
• Vessels should be protected from direct
sunlight.
• Appropriate temperatures should be
maintained (extreme heat and cold
should be avoided).

Note: All flammable chemical storage areas should be equipped with automatic fire extinguishing
systems. Consult your SEA representative for additional guidance.

Social & Environmental Affairs Page 33 of 127 Feburary 2010