When working with hazardous materials, proper storage is needed so as to minimize the risks associated with accidentally sorting and mixing incompatible chemicals. Chemical storage containers must be strong enough to withstand the elements and they must be customized to suit the chemical properties of the chemicals to be stored.
Most chemical substances are sensitive to light so they have to be stored in non-reactive, dark colored containers. Other substances cannot be exposed to the air for long periods of time as they can react with moisture and other foreign substances. Some substances even have to be stored in desiccators.
Chemical containers used must be made so as to limit contamination of the pure substances they carry. They also have to meet the safety standards. They must be clean before use, and properly disposed of after use.
Proper labeling is important too. Chemicals should not be stored alphabetically unless they have been sorted and separated into hazard classes. Label containers wherein hazardous materials are transferred should be properly identified by putting the name of the substance and its hazards on a label outside the container.
Generally, chemicals should be separated according into the following categories: solvents; inorganic mineral acids; bases; oxidizers; poisons; and explosives or unstable reactives. You have to ensure that the caps and lids on all chemical containers are tightly closed to prevent the contents from evaporating.
Avoid storing chemicals on counter tops except for those currently used. Make sure that you evaluate and test the stored chemicals first to check if it forms peroxides crystals, and whether it deteriorates. Also follow the minimum amount required in storing chemicals to avoid accidents.
Avoid mixing incompatible waste materials to avoid any adverse reaction. Serious accidents can occur when incompatible waste materials are mixed inside hazardous waste containers. So be sure to separately store chemicals that are incompatible and do not mix.
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