Searching for the perfect chemical for your industry or job opportunity seems like the most important part of stocking chemicals. However, an even more important part of chemical ownership is their safe storage. Industrial chemical supplier Bell Chem’s expansive inventory proves chemicals can be stored and maintained without incident, but this does not come about accidentally. Our decades of expertise help you answer your chemical storage questions.

Storing acids

• Use storage cabinets specifically designed to house acidic chemicals.

• Dedicate cabinets solely to acids. Ensure the cabinet doors are labeled “corrosives.” 

• Ensure like acids are stored together. Do not mix flammable and inflammable acids, and separate oxidizing acids from organic and inorganic acids. 

• Store spill control chemicals and neutralizers in close proximity to acids. 

Storing bases

• Use storage cabinets specifically designed to house basic chemicals.

• Dedicate cabinets solely to bases. Ensure the cabinet doors are labeled “corrosives.” 

• Use proper containers for bases. For instance, inorganic hydroxides require polyethylene containers. 

• Store spill control chemicals and neutralizers in close proximity to acids. 

Storing compressed gasses

• Secure cylinders upright with chains, 8” to 10” off the floor.

• Replace the valve cap when not in use.

• Tag the cylinder’s status as “full,” “empty,” or “in use.”

Storing flammables

• Flammable liquids must be stored in an appropriate refrigerator or specifically designed cabinet.

• Store flammables far from combustible materials.

• Store spill control chemicals and Class D fire extinguishers in close proximity to acids. 

Storing oxidizers/explosive chemicals

• Maintain a cool temperature with low moisture around oxidizers. 

• Store oxidizers away from flammable and combustible materials, such as Bunsen burners, paper, cardboard, et cetera.

Storing peroxide-forming chemicals

• Ensure the chemicals are used within one year of opening by dating containers with the day of first use or by the expiration date.

• Store peroxide-forming chemicals in a cool, dark, dry area, but never refrigerate.

• Only store in airtight containers.

Storage guidelines for all chemicals

• For any chemical, check your inventory frequently and dispose of any chemicals that experience unwanted cloudiness, color or odor change, change in state of matter, pressure variation, or deterioration of the container. Use SDS guidelines for any chemical disposal.

• Heavy bottles of chemicals should be stored closer to ground level, but not directly on the ground, with light bottles stored higher. No corrosive or liquid chemicals should be stored above eye level.

• Lock all potentially dangerous chemicals when not in use. 

• Tightly cap refrigerated chemicals. Wrap in Parafilm if in doubt. 

• Volatile chemicals should be stored in ventilated cabinets.

• Do not store any chemicals in fume hoods since it may interfere with the performance of the hood. Likewise, do not store chemicals on a workbench. Return all chemicals to their proper storage areas when not in use.

Bell Chem is an industrial chemical supplier based in Longwood, FL (just north of Orlando) with hundreds of products stocked in their 50,000+ square-foot warehouse. You can expect the highest quality products, expedited shipping options for maximum efficiency, and unrivaled personalized customer service. Let our knowledgeable and friendly customer service representatives and accounting staff personalize all your needs by either calling 407-339-BELL (2355) or by sending us an online message.