In 2023, the OECD released the third version of its guiding principles for chemical accident prevention. One of its key messages is both common sense but also striking: it says, “Chemical accidents continue to happen that have great similarity to past events, which indicates that the necessary learning is not taking place.”

At Safety Storage Systems, our consultants work with businesses of all types with the same goal: to design a chemical storage solution that fits their unique operational needs. To do that, we need to ensure it supports them in meeting the best practices for the handling and transport of hazardous chemicals.

Here, we look at practical ways to manage those risks, drawing on our experience and guidance from Ireland’s Health and Safety Authority (HSA).

Safe Chemical Handling Protocols: The Must Do’s

Even familiar chemicals can cause harm when they are handled or stored incorrectly. The HSA advises employers to assess the risks of hazardous chemical agents and use the safety data sheet (SDS) to identify hazards, safe handling and storage conditions, and emergency measures. Incident and near-miss reports can also reveal where everyday procedures need attention.

Every control matters, but two areas deserve particular attention:

• Store chemicals properly: Keep chemicals in suitable, correctly labelled containers and storage areas, and segregate incompatible substances according to the label, SDS and site risk assessment. Avoid overfilling containers, and take damaged or leaking containers out of use. These routine checks help reduce the risks that arise when chemicals are stored, handled or moved.
• Make PPE part of day-to-day practice: Select personal protective equipment (PPE) based on the chemical risk assessment and provide training in its correct use. PPE is one control within a wider approach to risk management. Supervisors and managers should make sure appropriate equipment is available, worn when required and replaced when necessary.

If you can make headway on these two practices, you’re going to set yourself up for much more success and a lower recordable injury rate.

Transport of Hazardous Chemicals: Tips to Use

The precautions depend on whether chemicals are being moved within a workplace or carried on a public road. For road journeys in Ireland, check the applicable ADR requirements before dispatch. The following practical checks can also help reduce the chance of spills and exposure.

Preparing for Transport: Chemical Loading Tips

Before moving chemicals, consider the route, the equipment and the compatibility of the load:

• For carriage by road, confirm that the goods are correctly classified, packaged, labelled and documented under the applicable ADR requirements, and use a carrier equipped and trained for the consignment.
• Check the SDS and the site risk assessment before placing chemicals together. Keep incompatible substances apart using suitable segregation and containment arrangements.
• Use a suitable trolley, drum handler or other handling equipment to keep containers upright and stable.
• Use suitable secondary containment where the risk assessment calls for it, particularly when moving containers that could leak or spill.
• Limit manual loads to what staff can safely control; use mechanical aids for larger or heavier containers.

Transporting Chemicals

Once the load is ready, choose a route and timing that limit the risk to other people:

• Where practical, avoid moving chemicals through busy areas at shift changes or lunch breaks.
• Plan routes around pedestrian traffic and keep access clear.
• Make sure suitable spill response materials and emergency equipment are accessible, and that staff know how to use them.
• Avoid contaminating shared surfaces such as lift buttons and door handles; follow site procedures for glove removal and hand hygiene.

Training Employees for Proper Chemical Management

A risk assessment is only useful when the people handling chemicals understand what it means for their work. Regular training and short refreshers help make safe handling part of everyday practice, particularly when materials, processes or work areas change.

• Engage with your safety representative or safety committee: Ask the people closest to the work where procedures are difficult to follow and what could improve them.
• Observe the task: Watch how chemicals are received, stored and moved on site. This can reveal practical gaps that may not appear in a written procedure.
• Provide regular toolbox talks: Short sessions can refresh key points on labels, SDSs, segregation, PPE and spill response. They are also useful when a new chemical or task is introduced.
• Practise emergency response: Run realistic exercises so staff know how to raise the alarm, isolate an area and follow the site spill procedure.

How Chemical Storage Supports Site Safety

Safe chemical management extends beyond the size of a storage cabinet. With over 20 years of experience, the Safety Storage Systems team designs storage solutions around each site’s chemical inventory, operations and risk assessment.

Need a storage solution for your site? Get in touch with our Irish team to discuss your requirements.