Proper and Safe Chemical Storage Guidelines in the Laboratory

A scientific laboratory is filled with various chemicals, which serve as essential raw materials for innovation and research. However, if these chemicals are not stored properly, they can become ticking time bombs that may cause serious accidents at any time, including fires, explosions, or toxic leaks. Therefore, implementing a proper chemical storage system is not just about organization—it is a crucial aspect of laboratory safety.

Many people may still misunderstand and store chemicals alphabetically for easy retrieval, which is a “very dangerous” practice. This article will introduce the correct and safe principles for chemical storage to ensure that your laboratory is truly a safe working environment.

Golden Rule 1: Never store chemicals alphabetically!

Arranging chemicals in alphabetical order is one of the most serious mistakes because chemicals with conflicting properties may be placed close to each other. Imagine acetic acid (an acid) stored next to acetaldehyde (a highly flammable substance). If a container leaks, these two chemicals could react and cause a fire. Therefore, The correct principle is to store chemicals according to their compatibility, categorized by their hazard classes.

Principles of Chemical Segregation for Storage

Chemicals should be separated into groups and stored in clearly designated areas or cabinets. The main groups that must always be kept apart include:

1. Flammable Liquids
   • Example: Acetone, Ethanol, Methanol
   • Storage Method: They must be stored in a standard “flammable storage cabinet” designed to be fire-resistant and well-ventilated. They should be kept away from heat sources or sparks, and the quantity stored must not exceed the cabinet’s capacity.
2. Corrosive Chemicals This group must be stored separately by separating acids and bases (alkalis).
   • Acids: Examples include hydrochloric acid (HCl) and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). They should be stored in a “corrosive storage cabinet” lined with acid-resistant materials such as polypropylene, and placed on trays to contain any leaks. Additionally, Strong oxidizing acids must be stored separately. (e.g., nitric acid) from organic acids (e.g., acetic acid).
   • Bases: Examples include sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and ammonium hydroxide (NH₄OH). They must be strictly stored separately from acids because if they leak and come into contact, a violent exothermic reaction may occur.
3. Oxidizing Agents
   • Example: Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), potassium permanganate (KMnO₄)
   • Storage Method: This group acts as combustion accelerators and must be stored separately, away from flammable liquids and easily combustible materials such as paper and wood.
4. Toxic Chemicals
   • Example: Formaldehyde, Phenol, Sodium cyanide (NaCN)
   • Storage Method: They should be stored in a separate area with good ventilation, clear hazard warning signs, and kept in a securely closed and lockable cabinet.

Selection of Storage Areas and Containers

• Shelving: Shelves must be sturdy, made from chemically resistant materials, and have lips or barriers to prevent bottles from falling.
• Labels: All containers must have clear labels indicating the chemical name, concentration, hazard symbols (GHS pictograms), and the date received or date opened.
• Chemical Inventory: Maintain an inventory of all chemicals in the laboratory, including their storage locations. This facilitates easier management and is especially useful in emergencies.

Summary

Implementing a good chemical storage system is not complicated; it is a systematic process based on understanding the properties of each chemical, segregating them according to compatibility, clear labeling, and choosing appropriate storage cabinets. This is the most worthwhile investment in safety for everyone in the laboratory.

We not only sell high-quality chemicals, but we also provide basic advice on chemical management according to international standards so that you can work confidently and safely. MIT Trade We not only sell high-quality chemicals, but we also provide basic advice on chemical management according to international standards so that you can work confidently and safely.