Dangerous goods are extensively used in industry. They include substances, mixtures and articles, which represent an immediate hazard to people, property or the environment. That is why exercising caution when using dangerous goods is important. In fact, everyone involved (employer, managers, foremen and employees), should know just how important it is to take precautions when dealing with dangerous goods. Keeping these substances, mixtures and articles in dangerous goods storage cabinets is essential when it comes to ensuring superior workplace safety and reducing the risks of work-related injuries.

But even when hazardous materials are kept in dangerous goods storage cabinets, they should never be forgotten. While when properly stored these materials shouldn’t cause problems, unless everyone knows what safe storage means and how to protect themselves in a storage area, everybody is at the risk of accidents.

Since no one can afford to take that risk, here are some ways to handle dangerous good storage cabinets.

1. Follow the WHS regulations

The Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) has created rules for the construction and location of buildings or rooms that contain these substances, including examples of what can’t be stored with the different types of hazardous materials in a hazardous goods cabinet. Once an individual understands that every aspect of storage room design has a purpose and reason, he/she will be able to help keep the dangerous goods storage cabinets and the substances stored in them safe.

2. Follow the requirements for storage areas.

The requirements for storage areas include:

• All aisles and passageways should be kept clear and in good condition, with no obstructions that could cause hazards.
• The containers should be placed properly in the dangerous goods storage cabinets to avoid sliding or collapse.
• Storage areas should be kept free from accumulation of materials that can lead to an explosion, fire or pest harborage.

3. Identify the hazards.

All dangerous substances are carefully labeled and identified as dangerous. They also come with a material safety data sheet that contains the detailed information about the danger of each substance and measures one can take to protect themselves from these hazards. So before these dangerous materials are stored in hazardous goods cabinet or corrosive storage cabinets, their labels should be ready and understood so they can be used in a job without involving hazards. The person dealing with the product should also wear protective equipment and clothing.

Also avoid smoking near the dangerous goods storage cabinets and don’t use sparking tools or anything that could ignite the dangerous substances. Make sure that the fire extinguishers are available and in good condition for use.