If you handle hazardous substances that could pose a risk to health and safety in your workplace, it is vital that your storage and handling methods comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH). This legislation is in place to control exposure and protect human health.
Some common hazardous substances found in the workplace might include:
- Asbestos
- Batteries
- Chemicals
- Disinfectants
- Gases
- Viruses
- Glues
- Solvents
Each of these substances and materials requires a specialist form of storage, and at Storage N Stuff we specialise in industry-grade solutions to keep your workplace safe and compliant with COSHH guidelines.
Different Ways to Store Hazardous Substances at Work
There are multiple ways to store dangerous substances in the workplace, as well as streamline the handling process. Using our complete range as an example, the most important types of storage include:
Gas Storage & Handling
With our HSE-approved gas cylinder handling, pallets, and cages, you can safely secure various hazardous substances, from propane and butane to LPG (Liquified Petroleum Gas) and oxygen bottles, and ensure safety whether in or out of use.
Bunded Storage
These storage units are large in scale and incredibly robust. Designed to efficiently store IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) and 205-litre drums in and around the workplace.
Our IBC storage solutions are fully welded and engineered to be leakproof and contain any spills. External Petrol Storage Units are a brilliant way to store petrol drums of up to 25 litres, and their steel exteriors come in a wide range of colours. Economy Galvanised Stores are made to store liquids, with a generous 1140-litre capacity. And our Relocatable Safety Stores allow for the safe storage of flammables and paints, as well as industrial equipment.
We also offer a range of bespoke bunded storage units, made to suit you and your workplace. The custom range includes General, Dual and Multi-Purpose Storage Units.
Storage Cabinets
We have plenty of hazardous storage cabinets to choose from, including standard Acid Storage Cabinets for dangerous chemicals and fumes, as well as the Chemcube, Transbank Chem, and Chembank from Armorgard.
With the Flammable Liquid Storage Containers and Cabinets, as well as the Flambank and Flamstor from Armorgard, you can maintain optimal fire safety at work.
And if COSHH compliance is under question, we also offer specially crafted COSHH Storage Cabinets for keeping hazardous substances safely contained and compliant with DSEAR and HSG51 regulations.
Safety Cans
Flammable liquids and other volatile waste are found in a multitude of workplaces, and tailored storage solutions are vital. Our Justrite steel cans are completely leakproof and their simple design allows for easy usage and dispensability, whilst remaining heavy-duty enough to suit industrial environments.
Spill Control
Even when stored in the sturdiest of containers, hazardous substances can still spill (usually as a result of accidental misuse). When this happens, you may need specialist equipment to deal with the spill safely.
Our range of spill control equipment and response kits is fully stocked and there to manage all spills, whether large or small.
Drum Spill Containment
As an added layer of protection against spills, we offer various drum spill containers, perfect for storing large volumes of liquid substances and fit for use both indoors and outdoors. You’ll find everything from External Drum Storage Units for all-around protection to Drum and IBC Spill Pallets for elevated and robust protection.
Additional Storage Considerations
There are a whole host of risks related to the handling of hazardous substances, and alongside quality, purpose-built storage solutions, there are a few extra essentials you’ll need to comply with health & safety standards and COSHH regulations.
When handling and storing hazardous substances, you can better control risks by:
- Always following manufacturers’ guidance
- Keeping reactive substances separately
- Never exceeding the maximum storage capacity
- Implementing leak-prevention measures
- Training all workers on correct usage and storage
- Making sure all containers are properly labelled
- Keeping flammable substances away from ignition sources
- Storing substances above ground level (where possible)
- Conducting quality maintenance on pipework and valves
- Investing in leak control equipment and spill kits
How to Dispose of Hazardous Substances in the Workplace
Certain substances can have a devastating effect on the environment when disposed of incorrectly. Most manufacturers will provide instructions on how to suitably dispose of the substance in question, but when in doubt you should rely on expert waste removal companies, who are trained in the best ways to dispose of hazardous substances safely.
There are also times when a substance or material can be stored for reuse another time, or recycled by a reputable recycling centre. From procurement to storage to disposal, all hazardous substances should be carefully dealt with in line with COSHH and HSE guidance.