Managing CoSHH - Storing Chemical Products Safely
Posted: Monday, December 07, 2009
by Dale
Ethos Solution Ltd
This article is about compliance with CoSHH regulations and introduces measures for employers to adhere to in the workplace, where chemicals are being utilised. It is a useful guide which will help employers protect their workers health and safety when using and storing chemicals.
There are certain simple procedures which need to be adhered to in order to prevent an adverse reaction. For example, exposing your hands to water for long periods can lead to dermatitis. There are also certain cleaning products which can cause skin allergies and asthma. Some corrosive cleaning products can cause skin burns and eye damage.
Another important point is to ensure that the store area is kept well ventilated at all times. The storage area must also be kept clean and organised. Any spillages must be cleaned up immediately and any liquids must be absorbed in granules. Any spillages should then be moved to a marked secure container with a lid. Hazardous waste should then be disposed of by a specialist contractor.
Only workers who have been trained in the use of chemical products should have access to them and they must ensure that the storage container remains locked. A first aid plan must be in place for workers who have contact with products that can cause skin or eye damage. Good hand washing facilities should be available on site. It is vital that hands are kept clean to avoid cross contamination. Hands must be washed and dried thoroughly, and then cream applied.
Employees should have easy access to personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include items such as protective gloves, aprons and eye protection. Follow any instructions given on product labels and if necessary ask your Safety Clothing Supplier to help you get the right PPE. Your respiratory protective equipment (RPE) supplier ought to be contacted should RPE be required as a result of a spillage. It is preferred that when using chemicals, single use nitrile protective gloves are worn and discarded after use. If latex gloves are used, they must only be 'low protein, powder free' gloves.
It is imperative that certain chemicals are segregated to prevent a reaction. Always separate solid and liquid products, flammable and non flammable liquids, acids and alkalis and wastes. Chemical products should be kept to a minimum and stored in a cool dark place where spills can be contained. All chemicals should be stored in containers with lids. All containers in storage should have labels which face frontwards, and the containers should be easy to pour from so as to prevent spills or liquid being trapped in the rim. Any heavy items and corrosive chemicals should be stored on lower shelves. Solid chemicals should preferably be bought in tablet form, or alternatively stored in a container with a wide neck which makes it easier to spoon out granules.
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Dale Allen develops online software for compliant CoSHH assessment. Find out more about COSHH365 and their online CoSHH assessment tool which includes managed Safety Data Sheets with the UK's leading CoSHH compliance authority.
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