Research personnel must attempt to keep the chemical inventory as small as possible. Submit a chemical pickup request for any old, expired or unused chemicals.

Proper storage of chemicals is extremely important to ensure a safe working environment. Storing incompatible chemicals in the same cabinet or shelf may result in adverse reactions. Segregate chemicals into the following hazard classes:

• Flammables
• Acids
  • Organic Acids
  • Inorganic Acids
• Bases
  • Organic Bases
  • Inorganic Bases
• Oxidizers – Separately from all other chemicals.
• Reactive materials – Store separately from all other chemical.
• Poisons (Toxic)
• Non-hazardous or non-regulated chemicals.

The above hazard classes must be separated from each other.  This can be accomplished by 1) placing them in different cabinets, 2) placing them on different shelves, or 3) separating them by placing the different hazard classes into separate secondary containment containers.

Flammable chemicals must be stored in an approved flammable chemical cabinet. All oxidizing and reactive chemicals must be stored separately from all other chemicals.

Other means of separating potentially incompatible chemicals are acceptable, such as the Flinn Scientific Guidelines or Control Banding. Contact the EHRS to discuss options. 

Review the Chemical Hygiene Plan or Laboratory Safety Manual for a detailed discussion on the proper storage of chemicals.