Handling dangerous chemicals

Storage of chemicals

THE STORE ROOM OR STORAGE CABINET

Picture of a storage room with shelves containing bottles and flasks

Organic solvent store room

The store room and storage cabinets are used for the long-term storage of chemicals. They are generally equipped with the necessary ventilation for organic solvents or corrosion prevention for acids. In a store room or cabinet, chemicals must be stored separately, in accordance with the compatibility table shown below.

Never store chemicals in an unsuitable storage space (cupboard, under the bench) for a long time!

IN THE ROOM

The refrigerator or freezer for chemicals

Chemicals that need to be kept refrigerated (at 4°C, -20°C or -80°C) can be stored in a refrigerator or freezer intended especially for chemicals. Some devices are equipped for specific use in a laboratory, particularly with regard to the setpoint temperature and explosion-proof standards.

It is important to never store chemicals in a refrigerator containing food – likewise, never put food in a chemical refrigerator.

UNDER A FUME HOOD

Chemicals that do not require refrigeration (solvents, acids) can be stored, during the experiments, under the hood to avoid toxic vapours. If a bottle needs to be taken out of the hood, ensure it is tightly closed and never open it before placing it under another fume hood.

Laboratory refrigerator
Picture of vials under a laboratory hood

Temporary storage under the hood

Storage compatibility chart showing the different hazard pictograms in abscissa and ordinate, to indicate if they can be stored together or not

The chemicals can be stored together

The chemicals can be stored together under certain conditions

The chemicals cannot be stored together