Safe Storage of Chemicals: What Every Business Needs to Know
Essential guidance for preventing risks and ensuring compliance
Most businesses, regardless of size, use or store chemical substances — from small containers of cleaning agents to large volumes of hazardous materials. The way these chemicals are stored is critical to preventing fires, explosions, and health risks.
If your workplace holds chemicals that are flammable or highly flammable, you have additional legal responsibilities to ensure safe storage and handling. Failure to comply with these standards can result in serious incidents and HSE enforcement action.
Why Chemical Storage Matters
Incorrect storage of chemicals can lead to:
- Fire and explosion hazards
- Toxic exposure to employees and the public
- Environmental contamination from spills and leaks
- Criminal liability for company directors and managers under UK health and safety law
HSE Guidance for Chemical Storage
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear, detailed guidance for anyone responsible for the storage and handling of dangerous substances. Here are three essential resources:
1. HSG71 – Chemical Warehousing
HSG71: The storage of packaged dangerous substances
- For all sizes of storage facilities
- Covers warehouses, open-air storage compounds, and chemical production sites
- Focuses on control measures to eliminate or reduce risks to people and the environment
2. HSG51 – Storage of Flammable Liquids in Containers
HSG51: Safe storage of flammable liquids
- Applies to workplaces storing flammable liquids up to 1,000 litres
- Provides practical guidance on container safety, ventilation, and segregation
3. HSG140 – Safe Use and Handling of Flammable Liquids
HSG140: Safe use and handling
- For workplaces handling flammable liquids during processing and spraying operations
- Explains fire and explosion hazards and how to manage risks effectively
Key Principles for Safe Chemical Storage
No matter the size of your operation, these five rules are essential:
- Keep incompatible substances apart
- Provide spill containment (bunds, drip trays, etc.)
- Remove ignition sources from storage areas
- Ensure good ventilation to prevent vapor build-up
- Carry out a risk assessment under COSHH and DSEAR regulations
Are You Compliant with COSHH and DSEAR?
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) impose strict requirements on chemical storage and use. Non-compliance can lead to HSE improvement or prohibition notices, fines, and in serious cases, prosecution.
Is Your Chemical Storage Safe and Compliant?
Compass HSC can help you assess your chemical storage arrangements, ensure compliance with COSHH and DSEAR, and protect your people and property from serious risks.
Book a Chemical Storage AuditAbout Brian Lambert
Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS), the founder of Compass Health & Safety Consultancy (HSC), is a Chartered Member of IOSH and an accomplished IMaPS professional. With decades of industry experience, Brian is dedicated to guiding businesses of all sizes through the complexities of health and safety management.
His approach is built on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to raising the standard in health and safety. As a trusted advisor, Brian’s insights help organisations enhance compliance, reduce risk, and boost operational efficiency.