Introduction

The majority of laboratories will contain several types of chemicals. The types and the amount of chemicals used in the laboratory may vary according to the practices done there. It is very important that a proper storage method is taken as chemicals are corrosive and often sensitive towards direct light and other substances. Hence in order for accidents and mishaps to take place, it is crucial to take adequate steps in storing and handling those chemicals. Here I have listed the before, during and after care that every lab technician and practitioner can practice in handling chemicals. 

Main principles in storing chemicals 

• Ventilation 

Ventilation is a crucial component of safe chemical storage because it allows for the dispersion and extraction of any gases or vapours that may accidentally escape from containers. It is also important to handle and put the chemicals into use in a space or area that has ample ventilation. The airing system would prevent congestion. Sometime the srong semll that comes from chemical can bring hanful effect to our brain hence handling it in a place with proper ventilation is essentially important. 

• Separation 

Due to its properties like toxicity, flammability, or reactivity, hazardous chemical substances should be kept away from unsuitable environments. This can be done by placing them in separate cabinets designated especially for it. Some of the cabinets used are ppr cabinet malaysia. This would help in storing chemicals the right way so that they don’t mix with one another. This cabinet also helps in the contamination and prevents leakage within the chemicals stored. 

• Segregation 

It is crucial that strong substances should be kept far away from all types of organic or flammable material. This is due to the indifferences in the component and ingredient. It just won’t work when you tend to put it together. Substances with strong bases should also be kept away from strong acid. To put things in a simple note, the segregation of the substance in labs should be done according to its content and its flammability. 

• Labelling

Try labeling all chemical containers accordingly, this would not only give an indication to the lab practitioners but it would also avoid confusion from taking place. Refrigerators and cabinets with specific labels are the best for storing chemicals properly. A refrigerator should never be used to hold flammable liquids unless it has been properly created and approved for the purpose. Only store flammables in spark- and explosion-proof refrigerators.

Risk factors if chemicals are not stored properly 

If chemicals are not stored and handled properly, it would create an unsafe atmosphere for staff members like lab workers, cleaners, and the maintenance employees involved. Besides, there is a high tendency for accidents to take place. Small events that were previously manageable would become far more dangerous if chemicals are kept nearby to one another or are exposed in direct sun. Unwanted reactions can also occur in this process. Heat, fumes, gases, or vapours may be produced as a result of this, which could lead to fires or explosions. Hence proper handling of chemicals is so important that needs to be taken into consideration.