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How To Store Flammable/Combustible Chemicals

By March 8, 2017Fire Safety News
Store Flammable Chemicals

If you have flammable or combustible liquids in your home, industrial plant, shop or any other commercial space, it is important to ensure proper storage. Storing these items properly will not only protect you against fire hazards but is also important for your health and safety. Below are some basic tips on how to store flammable and combustible chemicals:

Have An Inventory

Always have an inventory of all the hazardous chemicals in the building. Make sure you have a copy of the inventory sheet at an accessible area. This inventory can quickly come in handy whenever there is an appraisal that needs to be done on your chemical storage as well as during a fire hazard to help combat fire based on the chemicals present.

Store Chemicals In Labelled Containers

When doing an inventory of all hazardous chemicals, it is important to ensure that they are all stored in labelled containers. Look for properly labelled approved containers for storing hazardous chemicals. Make sure they are stored in secure shelves and out of direct sunlight. Don’t store chemicals that could interact, such as acids and bases, close to each other.

Proper Ventilation Is Key

Flammable and combustible chemicals should be stored in an area with proper ventilation. This will help to avoid health issues or even fires. The type of ventilation that is most suitable for the storage area will depend on the type and number of hazardous chemicals stored in the area. You may need to add ducts and hoods in the room in order to ensure there is adequate ventilation.

Store Chemicals As Recommended

Chemicals that are very toxic need to be stored in a fume hood or a gas cabinet. Making sure the area is well-ventilated helps to prevent fire hazards and health concerns that may be caused by toxic fumes. Make sure you check the manufacturer’s instructions on how the chemicals should be stored and the ventilation required.

Protect Your Building By Installing A Fire Protection Toronto System

The tips above are preventative measures for flammable liquid fires. You still need to have a fire protection equipment that will prevent occupants of the building from a blaze that could ignite when you least expect it. Proper fire protection systems can help to save lives and minimize property damage. Below are a few options you may want to consider:

– Foam fire protection systems: In buildings with flammable liquids, you’ll need to put out the fire using more powerful materials like foam as opposed to water. Pouring water on flammable liquid fires could worsen the situation. Rather than investing in fire sprinklers, consider having an automatic foam fire suppression system installed in the area where you store the hazardous liquids.

– Fire extinguishers: Class B fire extinguishers are designed to put out flammable liquid fires. Consider having them on your chemical storage area for extra protection during fire hazards.

– Fire alarm systems: This will ensure that the building occupants are quickly alerted when there is a fire for safe evacuation. Remember that flammable and combustible liquid fires spread fast so you need to get help as soon as possible.