How to choose chemical storage options in the workplace
The storage of chemicals and dangerous goods in Australia is outlined in various Australian standards to ensure workplace personnel safety and environmental protection. The Standards vary depending on the type and quantity of dangerous goods you are handling.
There are several steps that need to be considered to ensure compliance with specific requirements in your location:
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Identify the Class of Dangerous Goods:
- Dangerous goods are classified into different classes based on their properties. The classification helps determine the appropriate storage and handling procedures.
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Compliance with Australian Standards:
- Familiarise yourself with the relevant Australian standards for storing dangerous goods. An example of these standards is AS1940: The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids. Other standards may also apply, depending on the specific nature of the goods.
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Dangerous Goods Storage Cabinets:
- All storage cabinets should be designed to meet all the requirements set out in the Australian Standard.
When selecting a dangerous goods cabinet, it's essential to consider the specific properties and requirements of the substances you intend to store. Cabinets should meet the requirements of Australian standards to ensure the safety of personnel and the environment.
Types of chemical storage cabinets:
Flammable Liquids Storage Cabinets: Flammable liquids cabinets should be manufactured to meet the requirements of AS1940-2017, ensuring the highest level of safety and quality for the storage of flammable liquids. Commonly used Class 3 flammable liquids in the workplace include: oil, fuel, diesel, paints, varnishes and lacquers.
Corrosive substance Storage Cabinets: Corrosive substances cabinets should be manufactured to meet the requirements of AS3780-2008, ensuring the highest level of safety and quality for the storage of corrosive substances. Commonly used Class 8 corrosive substances in the workplace include: Hydrochloric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Sulfuric acid and other acids and bases.Toxic Substance Storage Cabinets:
Toxic substances cabinets should be manufactured to meet the requirements of AS4452-1997, ensuring the highest level of safety and quality for the storage of toxic substances. Commonly used Class 6 toxic substances in the workplace include: Arsenic compounds, cyanide, acids, lead compounds and some pesticides.
Gas Cylinder Storage Cages: Designed for the safe storage of gas cylinders, gas storage cages should be made to meet the requirements of Standard AS/NZS3833-2007. In conjunction with this standard they should be made with high open area perforations to deliver natural ventilation.
Aerosol Storage Cages:
Designed for the safe storage of aerosol cans, aerosol storage cages should be made to meet the requirements of Standard AS/NZS3833-2024. In conjunction with this standard they should be made with high open area perforations to deliver natural ventilation.Always consult the relevant Australian standards and any applicable state or territory regulations for detailed information on the requirements for storing dangerous goods in cabinets.
Australian Made chemical storage solutions
Titan Safety offers a vast range of product of chemical storage solutions to help Australian workers meet the requirements of Australian Standards. Our entire range of flammable cabinets, corrosive cabinets, toxic cabinets, gas cylinder cages and aerosol can storage cages are all built in Australia and meet the requirements of Australian Standards.