What are the guidelines for storing cleaning chemicals?

Author: Dr. Jaclyn Dooley V  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Store products in a cool dry place. Store household cleaning products in the contain- ers in which they were purchased. Don't remove products from their original containers or store them in unlabeled containers that lack the caution statements that appear on the original product labels.

What are the 4 general rules for storing chemicals?

General Storage Requirements

All chemicals must be stored in a safe, secure location. Hazardous chemicals must be stored below eye level. Do not store chemicals on the floor, window ledges, or balconies. Keep containers closed unless you are dispensing a chemical or adding to the container.

How should cleaning chemicals be stored?

Store in a clean, cool, dry space. Some cleaning chemicals can have hazardous reactions when they experience extreme temperature fluctuations or high levels of humidity. Store in well-ventilated areas, away from HVAC intake vents. This helps prevent any fumes from spreading to other areas of the facility.

What are the OSHA requirements for storage of chemicals?

Keep storage areas free from clutter, explosives, and flammable conditions. Prevent chemical storage conditions that may encourage rats or pests. Place stored materials at least six feet from hoistways and at least 10 feet from exterior walls. Separate chemicals that cannot be stored together.

What are three procedures for storing chemicals and cleaning agents safely?

Here is a list of 10 tips to help control any risks with cleaning chemical storage:
  • 1 - Store products in a suitable location. ...
  • 2 - Lock chemical storage spaces. ...
  • 3 - Use clear signage. ...
  • 4 - Don't mix incompatible products. ...
  • 5 - Correctly rotate stock. ...
  • 6 - Maintain safety equipment.

The Hazards of Cleaning Chemicals

What are four guidelines for properly storing chemicals do not include?

Among the options A) Labeling containers clearly, B) Storing chemicals in unmarked containers, C) Keeping chemicals in a well-ventilated area, and D) Using appropriate storage containers and cabinets, the one that is NOT a guideline for storage is B) Storing chemicals in unmarked containers.

What are 2 safety rules to follow when storing cleaning agents in the home?

Store household cleaning products in secure overhead cupboards. Use cupboard safety locks. Keep products in their original containers with the labels on. Always replace lids on products after you've used them.

What is the first principle of good storage practice for chemicals?

STEP 1. Identify the substances you are using. The first step in storing hazardous chemicals safely is to correctly identify each substance you have onsite. This step is crucial as identifying the chemicals you're carrying will provide you with the knowledge to understand their properties and hazards.

What are the OSHA guidelines for shelving?

OSHA suggests that companies install all shelving for hand-picking between average waist and shoulder height. This avoids muscle strains by reaching too low or too high. Stack heavier items on the bottom shelves and lighter items on shelves above.

How must chemicals be stored in the workplace?

It is often best to have more than one storage area, so that incompatible chemicals can be kept separate. If incompatible chemicals share the same storage area they should be separated within the store (known as segregation) to ensure they cannot come into contact with one another.

What should you never do when storing cleaning products?

When it comes to using and storing these products safely, consider the following tips:
  1. Store products in their original containers. ...
  2. Never remove product labels. ...
  3. Read and follow the directions on the label. ...
  4. Store products away. ...
  5. Close packaging securely. ...
  6. Don't mix products. ...
  7. Schedule cleaning with kids in mind.

Where is the safest place to store cleaning chemicals?

The Best Place to Store Cleaning Supplies in Your Home
  • Keep Supplies Off the Floor.
  • Use a Separate Closet.
  • Utilize the Garage (the Safest Place)
  • Avoid Rooms With High Humidity.
  • Group Products Under the Sink.
  • Designate a Cabinet.

What cleaning chemicals Cannot be stored together?

The following demonstrates the potential lethal effects of combining commonly found household cleaning products:
  • Bleach + Vinegar = Chlorine gas. ...
  • Bleach + Ammonia = Chloramine. ...
  • Bleach + Rubbing alcohol = Chloroform. ...
  • Hydrogen peroxide + Vinegar = peracetic/ peroxyacetic acid.

Which of the following is a correct practice for chemical storage?

Chemicals should be stored in a well-ventilated area, free of heat and direct sunlight. Storage containers must be clearly labeled with chemical name, its concentration, received date, used date and expiration date. Provide adequate laboratory space for chemical storage.

How should chemicals be stored in ServSafe?

Store chemicals in the original containers (labeled with instructions and common name) in designated areas separate from food, equipment, linens, and utensils. Space chemicals apart from other items or partition them from other items, and always keep them under food, equipment, utensils, linens, etc., never above.

What is the storage code white for chemicals?

W storage code White Corrosive. These chemicals may harm skin, eyes, mucous membranes. They should be stored away from red, yellow, and blue-coded reagents.

What are the OSHA requirements for chemical storage?

Storage of containers (not more than 60 gallons each) shall not exceed 1,100 gallons in any one pile or area. Piles or groups of containers shall be separated by a 5-foot clearance. Piles or groups of containers shall not be nearer than 20 feet to a building.

What is the OSHA 1910 standard for housekeeping?

Per 29 CFR 1910.22(a)(1) all places of employment, passageways, storerooms and service rooms must be kept clean and orderly and in a sanitary condition. The floor of every workroom must be maintained in a clean and so far as possible, a dry condition.

What is the minimum space between shelves?

A common rule of thumb is to leave about 12 inches between shelves. However, depending on your space and what you plan to store, you might choose to go up to 18 to 24 inches for a more open look and easy access.

What is a requirement for storing chemicals?

Chemical labels must include the contents of the container, potential hazards, and usage instructions. Also, chemicals must be stored in a suitable container and a secure location away from direct sunlight and heat.

What is required by OSHA for all hazardous chemicals?

Labels for a hazardous chemical must contain:

Name, Address and Telephone Number • Product Identifier • Signal Word • Hazard Statement(s) • Precautionary Statement(s) • Pictogram(s) Page 3 3 above, the label could state, “Do not breathe vapors or spray. Get medical attention if you feel unwell.

What guidelines for properly storing chemicals do not include?

Explanation: Guidelines for properly storing chemicals do not include the directive to 'never dispose of chemicals in their original containers. ' Keeping chemicals in their original containers is one of the fundamental rules of chemical storage for safety and identification purposes.

How to properly store cleaning chemicals?

Store products in a cool dry place. Store household cleaning products in the contain- ers in which they were purchased. Don't remove products from their original containers or store them in unlabeled containers that lack the caution statements that appear on the original product labels.

What are some healthy rules about storing chemicals in your home?

Store all products out of reach of children and pets. Lock poisons and medicines out of reach and sight of small children. Return hazardous household products to safe storage immediately after use. Always keep products in their original containers.

How should you store your cleaning products when not in use?

And remember these 3 golden rules when it comes to cleaning product storage:
  1. Use a cool, dry place. Moisture or heat can have negative impacts.
  2. If your storage area has ventilation that's a bonus as it will prevent a build-up of fumes.
  3. NEVER mix different cleaning brands or products. You could create toxic chemicals.

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