Aerosol storage cages - safe aerosol storage in the workplace

Aerosol cans are commonly used items in the workplace and are most often in the form of paints, lubricants, adhesives or degreasers. Although not thought of as dangerous goods they pose several safety hazards in the workplace. In this guide we will discuss appropriate aerosol can storage in the workplace and discuss the benefits of using aerosol storage cages. 

What are Aerosol Cans? An aerosol can is a self-contained dispensing system where a substance is stored inside a canister and released as a mist, spray, or foam using a pressurized propellant.

Dangers of Aerosol Cans: Although aerosol cans are commonly used every day at home and in the workplace they are in fact classed as Class 2 dangerous goods by the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG code). Using aerosol cans at work can pose several dangers, including:

1. Fire and Explosion Hazards: Aerosol cans are classed as Class2 flammable gas due to the flammable propellants they use. If these cans are exposed to heat or sparks, they can ignite or explode, leading to fires and serious injuries. Common ways cans explode in the workplace as from: being left too close to a heat source such as a BBQ or hot equipment, being left inside hot vehicles, being ruptured or pierced from machinery or equipment; or being dropped, impacting the structural integrity of the can.

2. Projectile Hazards: Aerosol cans are pressurized containers. Puncturing or improperly handling them can cause them to burst, leading to injuries from cans being turned into a projectile due to the release of the pressure.

3. Ventilation risks: Using aerosol cans in poorly ventilated areas can lead to the accumulation of fumes, which can cause asphyxiation or increase the risk of fire and explosion.

4. Chemical Exposure: The substances dispensed from aerosol cans, such as paints, lubricants, and adhesives, can contain harmful chemicals. Inhalation of these chemicals can cause respiratory issues, dizziness, headaches, and long-term health problems like lung damage or central nervous system effects.  

Storage Recommendations: Aerosol cans should be treated as dangerous goods in the workplace. Australian Standards outline that aerosol cans should be stored in dedicated aerosol cages with perforated walls to ensure ventilation and prevent overheating. Proper storage helps minimize the risk of fire and explosions.

Aerosol Cages vs. Flammable Liquids Cabinets: While flammable liquids cabinets are commonly used for storage, dedicated aerosol cages are considered safer. Aerosol cages, with open-air perforations, allow gases to safely disperse into the atmosphere, reducing the risk of ignition. In contrast, the tight-fitting doors of flammable liquids cabinets can trap aerosol gas vapors, potentially creating a hazard.

Titan Safety's Aerosol Cages Overview: Titan Safety offers a range of aerosol storage cabinets designed to comply with Australian Standard AS/NZS 3833-2007. 

Key features:

• Constructed from heavy duty, powder-coated steel for durability.
• Cages store between 12 and 960 aerosol cans.
• They feature high open area perforations, to deliver natural ventilation in accordance with Australian Standards.
• Doors are fitted with a magnetic latch for easy closure and can be locked using padlock lugs.
• Bolt down plates allow them to be permanently fixed for added security.
• All appropriate warning and safety signage is included.
• Made in Australia

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