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Storage of hazardous substances, including incompatible chemicals, is a critical aspect of any chemical safety program. Chemical reactions can result in injuries and even death. Prevent dangerous outcomes and reduce the chance of incidents such as explosion, fire and toxic releases with Chemscape’s chemical storage tool, exclusive to CHAMP.
“What I like about the sdsBinders program it is that it does exactly what Chemscape said it would do and that is exactly what I need it to do!”
Nova Scotia Department of Transportation
Chemscape’s Chemical Storage tool will identify by location the chemicals that can be stored together and those that must be stored apart from other products. This tool minimizes the chance of incidents and reactions, providing a safe and secure environment for workers.
Mixing or an accidental spill of incompatible chemicals can cause a fire or explosion, release toxic, flammable, or corrosive gases, or corrode chemical containers. It is basic worksite safety to identify incompatible chemicals and ensure that they are stored well away from each other. Storage is always at a premium, but hazardous materials deserve attention to minimize chemical reactions, worker injury and property damage.
Improperly stored chemicals can cause dangerous reactions such as fires, explosions, or toxic gas releases. Storing by compatibility reduces these risks and ensures regulatory compliance.
Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Sections 7 and 10, for specific storage and incompatibility details. Chemscape also provides Chemical Storage Guidelines and icons that make compatibility easy to identify.
Key categories include:
• Flammable Liquids (e.g., ethanol, acetone)
• Toxics (e.g., triethylene glycol)
• Corrosive Acids (organic & inorganic) (e.g., hydrochloric acid, acetic acid)
• Corrosive Bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide, ammonia)
• Oxidizers (e.g., nitrates)
• Water Reactives (e.g., sodium, lithium)
• Explosives & Compressed Gases
• Flammable Solids
• Flammable liquids: Yellow flammable storage cabinet
• Corrosives: Blue corrosive storage cabinets, marked “ACID” or “BASE”
• Oxidizers: Secondary containment with non-combustible material
• Water-reactive chemicals: Cool, dry area, away from fire suppression systems
• Compressed gases: Secured, ventilated, flat dry area
Incompatibles should be stored at least 20 feet (6 metres) apart, or separated by a non-combustible partition when space is limited.
Secondary containment is an added barrier (like trays or tubs) to capture spills and prevent chemical mixing. It minimizes spill risk and improves workplace safety.
Yes, low-reactivity chemicals can generally be stored between incompatible groups. However, always check the SDS before combining any chemicals in storage.
• Check the SDS for guidance
• Refer to Chemscape’s Chemical Storage Compatibility tools
• Contact your Environmental Health & Safety Advisor for support
