Storage and chemical safety tips
Some chemicals can be extremely dangerous if they are not properly stored or used. Our Bisley Chemicals products have revolutionized agriculture and food production. We’ve put together some tips to help you safely spray chemicals and handle them properly as part of our February safety focus.
Chemical Storage Tip
Keep chemicals in the original packaging. Be clear about what chemical it contains. Keep in mind that containers and labels may look identical but contain different chemicals. Labels can also fade or fall off. It can lead to serious health and environmental consequences if you mix them up.
You should store chemicals according to their type and toxicity. Also, you should follow chemical storage guidelines (i.e. Keep flammables separate from materials that can burn easily. Don’t store liquids higher than granules/dry products.
Chemicals should always be kept in a locked, ventilated area with adequate lighting. Proper signage should be displayed outside.
Do not place chemicals in small containers. The liquid can look like a drink, especially for families with young children. It is easy to misinterpret chemicals.
Make sure that the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), is stored properly and used. Maintain a list and update it as necessary.
Make sure you have a spill kit and a current fire extinguisher on hand.
A shower and a washbasin with clean water should be easily accessible.
Keep track of all chemicals that you use or store.
Standard operating procedures for safety at a laboratory or factory should include all stages of chemical handling. These SOPs should cover the handling of raw materials, storage, transportation, and disposal.
Stay current with staff training, especially if you are handling the hazardous chemical. Handling hazardous chemicals requires specific knowledge of the chemical. Even if you aren’t handling the chemical directly, it is important to learn safety protocols and what you can do in the event of an accident.
Carbon monoxide detectors as well as other types of gas sensors and detections are recommended for every building. Some chemicals, like carbon monoxide, are extremely toxic but have no odour and are colourless.
If you store chemicals, ensure that they are stored properly and that your storage area is regularly inspected. Different chemicals need different containers or to be stored at a specific temperature or pressure. Avoid storing volatile and flammable materials, such as paint thinners, in hot, poorly ventilated areas.
Tips for Chemical Transport
Make sure you and your employees are trained in the safe transport of hazardous substances. Also, ensure that proper load securing is done.
Tips for Chemical Disposal
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to dispose of containers.
DrumMusterTM or ChemClearTM can be used to dispose of unwanted chemicals.
Tips for Chemical Mixing and Spraying
Make sure you have the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and that it is in good condition. Wear gloves, safety glasses, goggles, or face shields. When mixing chemicals, wear an apron and chemical-resistant full-body overalls. Do not let your guard down, even when you are spraying around the house. Wearing PPE is good for your health.
Use chemicals and hazardous substances only according to the manufacturer’s instructions label and SDS.
Learn to read and review labels. It will contain useful information.
The Product Identifier
Identification and proportion of active ingredients
Hazard pictogram, hazard statement, sign work, and statement of precaution consistent in the correct classification
Instructions, limitations, and expiry dates (if applicable).
Period of withholding
First aid and emergency procedures.
These tips should be a reminder to everyone. We’ll be seeing you soon, so please stay safe.
