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Dangerous substances should be handled and stored under the supervision of competent person who is familiar with the risks and the precautions to be taken. In case of doubt as to the nature of the risk ad the precautions to be taken, the necessary instructions should be obtained from the competent authority.
When dangerous substances are to be handled or stored, the workers concerned should be given adequate information concerning their nature and the special precautions to be observed in handling them. Special precautions,such as the provision of mats, sling nets, boxes and high sided pallets, should be taken to prevent breakage of or damage to containers of dangerous substances.
If containers of dangerous substances are broken or damaged to a dangerous extent work should be stopped and the workers concerned removed to a safe place until the danger has been eliminated.
When highly flammable materials is being handled, special measures should be taken to ensure that an incipient fire can be controlled immediately.When necessary , non-sparking tools should be provided and used in explosive atmosphere.
Where corrosive substances are handled or stored, special precautions should be taken to prevent damage to the containers and to render any spillage harmless.
Workers handling harmful substances should thoroughly wash their hands and face with soap and water before taking any food or drink.
Depending on the hazardous material and the amount, hazards can range from moderate to deadly. Employer and Employees also need to realize that hazardous substances can be hazardous in different ways. They can be:
- Corrosive (burn skin or eyes on contact)
- Flammable or combustible (catch fire and burn)
- Explosive (rapid expansion of gases)
- Reactive (burn, explode, or release hazardous vapors on contact with air, water, or other chemicals)
- Toxic (poisonous)
Minimize the Potential for Accidents: Before, During, and After
Before Handling
To prevent accidents and injuries, teach workers to take the right steps before handling a hazardous material. Before handling, employees should:
- Read labels and MSDS to learn about hazards and required safety precautions.
- Assemble and inspect PPE recommended by the label and MSDS.
- Check for adequate ventilation.
- Remove any items from the work area that could ignite or react with the hazardous material.
- Know the location of fire extinguishers, alarms, first-aid kits, eyewash stations, emergency showers, etc.
- Understand your emergency procedures in the event of a chemical spill or other accidental release.
- Know the symptoms of exposure and the appropriate first aid.
- Have the proper training and approval from their supervisor to carry out the operation.
During Handling
When employees handle hazardous materials, they need to take the following precautions:
- Work carefully, anticipate anything that might go wrong, and have a plan for safely handling any problems that might occur.
- Make sure hazardous substance containers are properly sealed and in good condition and not leaking.
- Report any spills immediately and follow appropriate rules for activating cleanup procedures (for example, calling in an emergency response team for large spills).
- Check with a supervisor immediately if they experience any problems they don't understand or can't handle.
- Take immediate action in the event of any unprotected exposure (getting appropriate first aid, notifying a supervisor, and getting follow-up medical evaluation and treatment, if necessary).
After Handling
After employees are finished working with hazardous substances, they should:
- Follow required decontamination procedures.
- Remove and dispose of contaminated protective clothing and PPE carefully to avoid skin contact.
- Wash thoroughly after removing PPE and work clothes.
Key Requirements for Storage & Handling of Chemicals
- Material safety data sheets shall be available for all chemicals.
- All chemicals shall be properly stored in a protected and secured area away from other materials storage.
- All toxic substances shall be kept in the specific container with the first aid action clearly explained on container label.
- All personnel handling such chemicals shall be:
- Made aware of potential hazards and emergency first aid action
- Equipped with appropriate protective clothing such as boots, chemical suits, gloves, safety goggles & respiratory protection device as required
- Chemicals, which are reactive such as acids and solvents, shall not be stored close together.
- Gases or chemicals, which give off vapors, shall be stored in well- ventilated room. The suitable respiratory protection will be used in case entering an area where the presence of toxic vapor or gas is possible.
- Safety shower and eye wash station shall be available in a chemical handling or storage area
- Smoking or bringing any source of ignition in chemical storage area is strictly prohibited.
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