Hazardous Materials

In the UK, warehouse storage of hazardous materials is regulated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or local government. Storage of materials listed under Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations is managed by the relevant “Competent Authority”.

Hazardous goods are best stored in purpose-built chemical warehouses, their handling performed only by trained operatives who are fully conversant with all the associated risks and handling processes.  

All hazardous goods are accompanied by a material safety data sheet (MSDS) that stipulates the safe method of storage. Operatives and managers must follow these instructions carefully, while also considering any other risks in the storage environment, such as equipment collision, seepage, and interaction hazards.

The “Carriage Regulations” is a global classification system that categorizes most hazardous goods and specifies proper packaging and storing. Packaging must be marked according to this classification system. Chemical warehouses and carriers use this system to classify hazardous goods and store and move them accordingly.

Storage conditions more ensure the following: buildings are purposefully designed for the housing hazardous materials; storage is according to manufacturer guidelines; appropriate handling equipment is used; correct PPE is worn by anyone handling the materials; the warehouse is well ventilated; there is no unexpected exposure to heat from outside; employees performing handling are properly trained; the warehouse and its environment are free of smoke, electrical equipment, welding activity, or any other heat-creating processes or devices; all steps are taken to prevent unauthorised access; incompatible substances are stored in isolation from each other;

• ensuring spill kits are available near storage areas
• ensuring employees are trained in spill procedures
• ensuring spills are cleaned up immediately.