Written by: Darren Owens
It’s now a good time of year to see what’s left over in the Chemical store.
The store itself will need an inspection by you to ensure it’s still fit for purpose. Below are some key questions to ask yourself when checking it:
- Is it weatherproof?
- Is it bunded?
- Can you still secure it?
- Is the chemical store sign still visible?
- Is the fire extinguisher due a service?
- Is the spill kit still useable?
- Is the correct PPE available?
- Are chemicals separated and segregated (Never store acids and alkalizes together)?
- Are powders and granules stored above liquids?
- Check that no chemicals are stacked directly on top of one another but are placed on suitable shelving.
- Is the stock ledger/ inventory correct and up to date?
- Do you have the relevant SDS sheets available?
- Is any refresher training required?
Chemicals, like food have a use by date. It is there for a reason; over time as the chemicals age, they can degrade and become more dangerous than when they were in their original state. You need to consider how to dispose of the left-over chemicals safely.
A local licenced waste carrier should be able to take away the majority of your unused chemicals, and many water companies now offer ‘pesticide amnesties’; schemes designed to encourage you to dispose of old sprays anonymously, and often free of charge. You could also contact your supplier to see if they will dispose of them for you.
Always ensure your documentation is correct for any future inspection. Inventories should be completed every quarter, with a copy kept in the spray store. They should include (amongst other items) the chemical product name, quantity in storage, and the MAPP number (a 5 digit number listed on the side of the container).
