Hazardous chemical storage regulations have high standards for ensuring the safety of people and the environment. Whether due to negligence or lack of awareness, improper storage can have far-reaching consequences. Explore the risks of improper hazardous chemical storage and discover how quality containers mitigate risks.
Fire and Explosion
Many hazardous chemicals are highly flammable or reactive, making them prone to catching fire or causing explosions if not stored correctly. Chemical reactions triggered by incorrect storage conditions can suddenly release heat, pressure, and gases, potentially leading to a catastrophe.
A fire-rated storage unit will have a passive or mechanical ventilation system to prevent a dangerous accumulation of toxic fumes. Moreover, these units are rated to hold their structural integrity for a specific number of hours, improving fire containment measures.
Health Hazards
Health hazards are another risk of improper hazardous chemical storage. Chemical spills, leaks, and vapors can expose workers and first responders to toxic, corrosive, or flammable materials.
Exposure beyond permissible exposure limits (PELs) can cause various short- and long-term health effects, including the following:
- Headaches
- Eye irritation
- Skin rashes and burns
- Organ damage
- Nervous system disorders
Reduce risk to workers, visitors, and the public by using the appropriate containment measures. Ventilation, drainage, and emergency equipment are key to proper storage.
Environmental Risks
Noncompliant storage could cause environmental damage. Leaks and spills can contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface water, leading to long-term ecological damage. Polluting waterways is harmful to the animals that depend on them and can impact human health as well.
In addition, cleanup activities can be time-consuming, complex, and expensive. Place chemicals in secure storage facilities to contain spills and facilitate efficient cleanup.
Regulatory Violations
Finally, companies in the US must follow regulations created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Failure to comply can result in penalties based on business size, the gravity of the violation, and the employer’s history of previous violations.
Noncompliance can also result in legal action or a shutdown of operations. Facility managers and employers must ensure their storage practices adhere to applicable regulations to avoid these legal and financial repercussions.
American Hazmat Rentals is the premier supplier of chemical storage containers for rent. The hazmat open-side storage container is our most-requested unit.
This locker has four large doors that you can pull to open an entire side for forklift access. Choose between non-fire-rated, 2-hour fire-rated, and 4-hour fire-rated designs to meet the needs of your facility.
