The safe storage of hazardous chemicals is a key obligation for operators or persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) under the Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 [WHS General Regulations] and the Work Health and Safety (Mines) Regulations 2022 [WHS Mines Regulations]. Incorrect storage can result in serious incidents, including fires, explosions, chemical spills and workers exposed to toxic substances.
Storing hazardous chemicals safely
Even when not in use, hazardous chemicals can pose a risk. PCBUs must store hazardous chemicals correctly to keep workers and others safe.
Safe storage includes using appropriate storage containers, segregating incompatible chemicals, maintaining clear signs and labels and ensuring adequate ventilation. If hazardous chemicals are stored above certain quantities, a manifest must be kept, and placards must be displayed.
Incompatible chemicals
Some hazardous chemicals are not compatible with one another. When incompatible chemicals come into contact, they may cause an explosion, release toxic, flammable or corrosive gases, or corrode containers. It is important to identify incompatible chemicals and ensure they are stored well apart from each other. This minimises the chance of incidents and reactions and reduces the risk of one chemical contributing to or worsening an incident involving another.
Signs and labels
All areas where hazardous chemicals are stored must be clearly identified with appropriate signs and labels. This helps workers, contractors and emergency services quickly identify what chemicals are present and understand the associated hazards. Accurate labelling must include hazard information, safe handling instructions and emergency response details.
To learn more see Globally harmonised system of classifying and labelling of chemicals (GHS).
Manifests and placards
If hazardous chemicals are stored above the threshold quantities, the PCBU must maintain an up-to-date manifest and display placards. Placards identify the hazardous chemicals stored on site, the dangers they present, and the emergency actions required. They are particularly important for emergency services responding to an incident.
For more information see Working with large quantities of hazardous chemicals.
Using a flammable liquid storage cabinet safely
Whether you need a storage cabinet or a dedicated flammable liquid storage area depends on the type of workplace, the available floor space, and the type of flammable or combustible liquid being stored.
Your cabinet must be built to meet Australian Standard AS 1940 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.
The bottom of the cabinet is designed to hold spills and should not be used for storage.
Only store flammable and combustible liquids in the cabinet. Do not store other types of dangerous goods in it unless you have confirmed they are compatible with flammable and combustible liquids.
The self-closing mechanism of the doors should be in good working order.
The cabinet must be labelled with a Class 3 Flammable Liquid label. It must also show the words ‘No Smoking, No Ignition Sources within 3 m’ and the maximum amount that can be stored.
Containers in the cabinet must be closed.
Ventilation may be required for cabinets storing highly volatile, toxic or corrosive substances.
A risk assessment will help determine whether this is necessary. If the cabinet has an odour, clean it thoroughly and ensure all containers are clean and tightly sealed.
Where ventilation is required, it must discharge to the outside of the building, away from air intake points, and must not reduce the fire protection of the cabinet or create an ignition source. Ventilation outlets must never be opened without directing them to the outside, as this can allow flammable vapours to enter the workplace and reduce fire protection.
The cabinet should be located:
- so as not to impede emergency exits
- 3 m or more from ignition sources other than ceiling lights.
For large quantities of flammable liquids or further guidance on cabinet standards, refer to Australian Standard AS 1940 The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids and the dangerous goods requirements.
Managing an out-of-date safety data sheet (SDS)
If an SDS is out of date, first check whether the chemical is still needed. If it is no longer used, consider disposing of it safely. If the chemical is retained, a current SDS, no more than five years old, must be available at the workplace where practicable.
Begin by requesting an updated SDS from the supplier, manufacturer or importer. If the manufacturer has ceased trading and no updated SDS can be obtained, the old SDS may be kept on the register with a note confirming it is the most recent version available. It should be supplemented with more current information where possible, for example, to ensure workers are aware of any reclassification of hazards. Suitable supplementary sources include a recent SDS from another supplier (where the formulation is the same), a third-party SDS prepared by a consultant or other equivalent information.