Checklist: storing goods and materials safely
Ways of reducing storage risks - from clearing exit routes and checking shelving to clearing up spillages quickly and providing any appropriate equipment.
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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