Making Chemical Storage Safe at Your Business

Making Chemical Storage Safe at Your Business

One of the most common risks in any business is chemical storage. From cleaning chemicals to products for your equipment, these products are dangerous. While your insurance may help cover some risks associated with this, it is always best to minimize them when possible. To keep your chemicals safe, learn proper storage methods based on the chemical type as well as the type of business you operate in. It can make all of the difference in the long term.

OSHA Guidelines Are Essential

There are thousands of different chemicals. Each business uses them in different ways, too. For this reason, it is important to turn to OSHA for guidance on proper usage and storage. Still, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Keep Chemicals Away from Customers At All Times

There is no benefit to placing chemicals anywhere near customers. Remove them from any area customers have access to as well. For example, do not store chemicals for cleaning a public restroom in the restroom. This creates a safety risk. A child could easily pick up the chemical and spray it into their eyes, for example. You may be liable for any damage to the individual. While the general liability component of your insurance may cover this, it is not worth the risk.

Teach Employees Proper Usage and Storage

Designate a specific location for chemical storage within your organization. Some organizations will need to lock these products up. Use a closet or storage location to do so. This helps to ensure the chemicals are not accessible by an untrained employee. Here are a few tips to help:

Label sections of the storage area for specific chemicals.
For specific hazardous materials you have concerns about, track when chemicals become accessible. Know who has the items, where they use them, and when they put them back.

Invest in training courses for your employees. Teach them proper use and storage of all items.

It is also important to ensure chemicals not recognized by OSHA are not present at your location. This includes storage sheds and other locations on your property. You want to make sure you meet with the local health inspector if you have concerns.

Your goal is to keep your employees and customers safe. You do not want to have to file a business insurance claim for losses. You should not have to if you monitor usage and storage of hazardous materials no your property or job site.

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