We usually purchase chemicals in stocks for gradually usage. Any one give me how to classification of chemicals and storage? Which chemicals can store each others?
Thanks you very much!
Laboratory Chemical Storage Practices
- Chemicals should be stored according to chemical compatibility so that incompatible materials do not come in contact with each other in the event of
breakage or accidental spill. - The usual approach is to separate chemicals into compatible groups, and segregate these groups from each other by physical barriers or distance.
- Generally, inorganic and organic chemicals are stored separately, and liquid are separated from solids.
- NEVER store chemicals solely alphabetically . This is fine within a hazard group.
- Some recommended compatibility groups for chemicals segregated are:
i. Percholoric Acid, Hydrofluoric Acid and Concentrated Nitric Acid are separated from all other materials.
ii. Inorganic Acids (except mentioned above).
iii. Bases.
iv. Water reactive Chemicals.
v. Strong Oxidizing Agents.
vi. Strong Reducing Agents.
vii. Flammable and Combustible Liquids. - In many cases, it is not practical to store all chemicals in physically separate locations.
- In such cases, segregate chemicals using glass, porcelain or heavy duty gauge Nalgene or similar plastic material that is compatible with the
material being stored. - It is a good laboratory practice to store liquids separate from solids to minimize the possibility of mixing. Liquids are inherently more dangerous
because they are much more mobile and susceptible to mixing if a spill occurs. - Dry Chemicals may be grouped together by compatibility on separate shelves or areas of shelves.
10.Organic solvents, acids and bases should be physically separated from each other by storage in separate area or through the use of secondary
containment.
11.Ideally, acids and bases should be stored in dedicated caustic storage cabinets and flammable in an approved flammable storage cabinets. - Do not store chemicals near exit.
- Ensure bottles are within easy reach of everyone in the lab. and no higher than eye level. In particular, large bottles and containers should be stored
as close to the floor as is practicle. - Do not store chemicals directly on the floor unless they are in safety cans or if the chemicals are still in their shipping container.
- Shelves used to store chemicals should be chemical-resistant, secure and strong enough to support the weight.
- Store chemicals according to instructions on the label or MSDS (i.e. should it be stored in fridge, freezer, away from direct sunlight).
- Do not store chemicals under sinks. This is to prevent corrosion of pipes, any potential problem in the event of a leaking or burst pipe and minimize
chemical exposure of maintenance personnel working below the sink. - Buy smallest quantity of chemicals that will serve the purpose. For commonly used chemicals (i.e. acids, solvents) a good rule of thumb is to keep
quantities in the lab to either a single bottle or a one-week supply. Whichever is less. The rest should be stored in a designated chemical storage room.
Dr.Pradeep Nagalkar