Storing goods and materials safely
Checklist: storing goods and materials safely
Guide
Statutory requirements cover the storage of certain substances, including oil, pesticides and solvents. There are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risks of storing goods. Make sure you:
- mark all exit routes
- keep exit routes clear to reduce fire risks
- organise storage areas and set up procedures to allow people and vehicles - such as forklift trucks - to manoeuvre, load, unload and move goods safely
- store flammable substances far from any source of ignition such as a heater
- store dangerous substances, such as chemicals, appropriately - see safe storage of dangerous or hazardous materials
- install collision barriers in vulnerable areas
- clear up all spills immediately to reduce the risks of slips, trips and pollution
- ensure you have adequate equipment to clean up spills of the types and quantities of materials you store
- store liquids in areas away from drains to avoid leaks or spills reaching watercourses
- check regularly that shelving and racking units are safe, and ensure they're the most appropriate method of storing the materials in question - see safe use of shelves, racks and pallets
- provide any personal protective equipment (PPE) staff need to store or move materials
- train staff in the use of PPE
- keep the minimum amount of materials necessary in processing and production areas
- take unused materials back to storage areas rather than leaving them lying around
- segregate any materials which could contaminate each other or be dangerous if stored close together, eg avoid storing paint or bleach next to food in a shop stock room
- consider how you'll ensure the security of high-value goods
- use appropriate signage
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