Follow
1.0 OBJECTIVE
To describe the procedure of handling Hazardous Chemicals / solvent.
2.0 SCOPE
This procedure is applicable for handling of Hazardous chemicals /solvents in warehouse.
3.0 RESPONSIBILITY
3.1 Operator shall follow the laid down procedures.
3.2 Warehouse officer shall be responsible to monitor the activity as per procedure.
3.3 Warehouse in-charge shall be responsible for effective implementation and control of procedure.
4.0 ACCOUNTABILITY
4.1 Manager, Warehouse
5.0 PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Store solvents in tightly closed containers in cool dry well ventilated areas away from incompatible substances. Keep away from heat, sparks and sources and ignition.
5.2 Before handling solvents, strictly follow the manufacturers instruction mentioned on the label. Read the MSDS sheets for the solvents to be used prior to its initial.
5.3 Work with hazardous chemicals should be carried out only by users who are properly informed and have been given adequate training.
5.4 Ensure the validity of fire extinguisher and are easily accessible.
5.5 Protect skin, eyes or mucous membrane contact with solvents. In case any Solvent accidentally comes into contact with the skin and eyes, immediately splashes with plenty of cold water. Ensure that an eyewash station is located nearby.
6.0 PROCEDURE
6.1 Hazard Identification
6.1.1 Warehouse officer shall identify hazardous chemicals from warning symbols and warning and precautionary statements of labels (Annexure – I).
6.2 Handling and Storage of hazardous chemicals
6.2.1 Obtain and read MSDS for each chemical to be handled.
6.2.2 Wear PPE, especially safety goggles, nose mask and hand gloves.
6.2.3 Warehouse officer shall unload the solvent, check detail and then transfer to respective storage area. All hazard chemicals should be stored correctly in dedicated flammables/solvent cabinets away from incompatible materials.
6.2.4 Warehouse officer shall ensure the quantities and types of materials stored together are compatible and avoid storing incompatible materials together (e.g., store acids and bases separately, store empty and full gas cylinders separately, store oxidisers separately).
6.2.5 The label is the key to organizing chemical products for storage. Containers provided by a manufacturer must be labeled with the following information: product identifier/chemical name; signal word (danger or warning); Hazard Statement(s); Pictogram(s); Precautionary Statement(s); and name, address, and telephone number of the manufacturer/distributor/other responsible party. Manufacturers’ labels must not be removed or defaced.
6.2.6 For highly hazardous chemicals, warehouse officer assure that the controlled area is conspicuously marked with restricted access and warning signs, such as, “WARNING: Highly-Toxic Substance in Use: Authorized Personnel Only” or “WARNING: Cancer-Suspect Agent: Authorized Personnel only.” All containers of these substances must be appropriately labeled with identity and warning such as, “Warning: High Chronic Toxicity or Cancer Suspect Agent”.
6.2.7 Warehouse officer shall use proper and secure storage containers that are appropriate for the material. Check chemical containers periodically for rust, corrosion, and leakage.
6.2.8 Warehouse officer shall maintain a complete inventory in the room where chemicals are stored, and give a copy to local fire department.
