How to Store Hazmat

Hazmat Storage is critical for safety both at home and on the job. Hazmat is any discarded material that is a hazardous material. Some examples of Hazmat are toxic and poisonous materials, flammables, and combustibles, and corrosives. Proper Hazmat Storage is important to prevent hazard to human health and the environment.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hazmat Storage
• Impervious and leather gloves
• Goggles or other eye protection
• Other protective gear, as needed
• Permission to store Hazmat

1. 
    
   Hazmat Label

   Hazmat Storage procedures will vary depending on the type of hazardous material one is storing. Separate the materials into separate piles depending on their characteristics. Use EPA guidelines on Hazmat Storage (provided in the resources link below).

2. 
    
   Use a Hazmat Storage locker

   Once separated, lock up the Hazmat into a Hazmat Storage locker that is made specifically for Hazmat Storage. Ensure that Hazardous Wastes do not get stored together if there is a potential for a reaction to occur. Use several lockers if necessary.

3. 
    
   Hazmat Labels

   Maintain the Hazmat labels on each container. These Hazmat labels help emergency personnel easily identify the materials should there be a fire, leak or other disaster.

4. 
    
   Use Safer Alternatives

   Minimize the amount of Hazmat in use. The less you use, the fewer opportunities for human health or damage to the environment. There are many Hazardous Materials used in the home and businesses that can be replaced with safer non-toxic alternatives.

5. 
    
   Less Hazardous Waste

   When the amount of Hazmat used is minimized, Less Hazarous waste is produced.

6. 
    
   Safety First

   Always maintain the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that comes with Hazardous materials. These sheets provide the characteristics, hazards, reactivity, route of entry into the body, first aid procedures for exposure and more.

7. Always maintain a plan for proper Hazmat disposal. Know who is picking up your hazardous waste and where it is going. Ensure proper procedures are being used when the Hazmat is being transferred from your Hazmat storage to the disposal truck.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear protective gear when handling Hazmat. Beware of splash-ups and spills.
• There are cleaner and safer alternatives many times! Seek them out! They will save you money and prevent accidents.
• Hazmat storage is extremely dangerous. Always follow the state laws and regulations to maintain safety.
• If you have concerns, call in a professional.
• If you think there is a leak, call the fire department.

Resources

• EPA Hazarouds Waste Guidlines