Storage of chemical products and complementary instructions

Back in 2017, the Chemical Products Storage Regulations and Complementary Technical Instructions were established to ensure absolute safety across all chemical product facilities and warehouses. As chemical suppliers, we aim to shed light on some crucial considerations that must always be kept in mind when managing a chemical warehouse. Many workplaces, whether directly or indirectly, rely on these kinds of products. Let’s explore what conditions are necessary, as explained by DC Fine Chemicals.

Enhancing Safety, Minimizing Risk

We understand that our industry is inherently complex, demanding rigorous and stringent techniques. Depending on the type of storage, the facility must adhere to specific technical requirements primarily aimed at preventing accidents and safeguarding both materials and people. A common practice in all types of chemical product storage is regular inspections to ensure the items remain in optimal condition. If any issues arise, they must be promptly addressed to minimize the risk of accidents. To maximize safety, the first step involves assessing the hazards associated with storing chemical products. Next, the technical integrity of the storage facilities must be confirmed and certified. Substances should also be grouped based on their compatibility. Lastly, an emergency plan tailored to the facility must be put in place. Let’s delve deeper into some of these aspects below.

Hazard Assessment

Hazard assessment is a broad topic, largely defined by the quantity and level of risk each chemical product presents. Identifying the degree of hazard is essential, which is why a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is mandatory for every substance. The information in the SDS is invaluable, offering detailed insights such as classification, packaging, and labeling. This helps in categorizing the substances while understanding the associated risks and safety recommendations.

Facility Compliance

The Regulation on the Storage of Chemical Products and Supplementary Technical Instructions provides general guidelines for safety conditions. The 2017 reforms introduced stricter standards, including the requirement for authorized inspection bodies to issue certificates every five years after the facility begins operations. The facility owner assumes responsibility for any civil liabilities arising from storage activities. Regular inspections do not absolve the owner of regulatory obligations regarding maintenance and adherence to safety standards. In the event of an accident causing significant damage, the owner must report it to the relevant authorities in the corresponding autonomous community. It’s worth noting that the trustworthiness, safety, and security of a chemical warehouse hinge on the level of risk, as discussed earlier.

Safe Handling Practices

The process of loading and unloading chemical products, or transporting them within the warehouse, demands meticulous execution, making it another critical aspect of storage safety. Staff must undergo proper training, wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, and be aware of potential hazards, tools, and safety protocols. According to Article 11 of Royal Decree 656/2017, facilities must implement a Self-Protection Plan. This requires personnel to actively engage in maintenance and updates aligned with occupational risk prevention guidelines. The facility must also be equipped with emergency response gear, such as individual protection and first aid supplies, accessible to emergency responders. Additionally, if the distance between any point in the area and the nearest exit exceeds 30 meters, there must be two clear escape routes.

For further insights into our sector, we encourage you to explore our website. At DC Fine Chemicals, we prioritize every product and chemical in our extensive catalog, providing them the attention they deserve. Discover our services and experience a fresh approach to chemistry—what we like to call "A Different Kind of Chemistry."