Navigating the Complexities of Hazmat Storage: How G10 Excels Where Others Don’t

Warehousing is a service many 3PLs provide. Outsourcing inventory frees up space and reduces overhead costs — but chemicals and other hazardous materials pose unique challenges few 3PLs are equipped to handle. 

G10 is well-versed in hazmat storage requirements and equipped to offer hazmat storage solutions for a wide variety of chemicals and dangerous materials.

Hazard Communication Standard Compliance

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is a regulation enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States. It aims to ensure that employees who work with hazardous chemicals are aware of the associated dangers and how to protect themselves. The standard covers a wide range of chemicals, from common cleaning products to industrial solvents and laboratory reagents.

Key HCS components for hazmat storage include:

• Chemical classification: Chemicals must be classified according to their physical and health hazards, using a standardized system aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).

• Labels: Chemical containers must be labeled with specific hazard information, including pictograms, signal words (e.g., “Danger,” “Warning”), and hazard statements.

• Safety Data Sheets (SDSs): Detailed documents providing comprehensive information about the chemical’s hazards, safe handling procedures, and emergency response measures must be readily available to employees.

• Employee training: Employers must train employees on the HCS, including how to identify hazards, read labels and SDSs, and use personal protective equipment (PPE).

To comply with HCS standards, specific precautions must be taken when storing hazardous materials. G10 follows recommended HCS guidelines, including segregating different hazardous chemicals to prevent dangerous reactions, storing containers in trays or basins to capture leaks or spills, providing adequate ventilation to prevent hazardous vapor buildup, displaying clear signage identifying the hazards associated with stored chemicals, and performing regular inventory checks to help ensure proper storage and prevent unused chemicals from accumulating.

Chemical Warehousing Regulations

The safe storage of hazardous materials is crucial for protecting personnel and preventing accidents. Different chemical classes require specific storage conditions to minimize risks and ensure compliance with HCS regulations.

G10 complies with the following chemical warehousing regulations:

Explosives

Explosives must be stored far away from any heat, sparks, or flames, including electrical equipment and machinery like forklifts. Maintaining a cool, dry environment is crucial to prevent destabilization. Keep only the minimum amount necessary onsite, and use blast-resistant bunkers for larger quantities.

Flammable Liquids

Flammable liquids should be stored in properly labeled and ventilated safety cabinets inside designated classified rooms away from ignition sources. Maintain temperatures below their flash points, use spill trays to contain leaks, and ground containers and dispensing equipment to prevent static sparks.

Gases

Secure gas cylinders upright with chains or brackets to prevent tipping, which could cause rapid release of the gas and propel the cylinder forward. Store in a well-ventilated area to prevent gas buildup and keep cylinder valves protected from damage. Incompatible gases must be segregated, e.g., separate flammable gases from oxidizers and other incompatible materials.

Oxidizers

Oxidizers should be kept in their own room and separated from flammable materials, reducing agents, and organic materials. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated environment away from sunlight to prevent decomposition, reduce odors, and allow airflow. Use non-sparking tools when handling oxidizers.

Poisons

Poisons require a separate room with plenty of ventilation. Store poisons in locked cabinets with limited access, using spill trays or leakproof containers to prevent contamination. Label containers clearly with “Poison” and hazard pictograms. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling poisons.

Corrosives

Corrosives must be kept in their own room and handled very carefully. Separate acids and bases to prevent violent reactions and use shelves and containers made of corrosion-resistant materials. Provide readily accessible eye wash stations in case of splashes. Have procedures in place for safely cleaning up spills.

By following these specific storage requirements and best practices, we help ensure the safe handling and storage of hazardous chemicals. Our expertise and advanced capabilities in handling complex hazmat storage sets apart from other 3PL providers. You can be confident your hazardous materials are in good hands with the G10 team!