Storing of Dangerous Goods (DGs)

Dangerous Goods (DGs) are substances that may be corrosive, flammable, explosive, spontaneously combustible, toxic, oxidising, or water-reactive. These goods can be deadly and can seriously damage property and the environment. Therefore, it is important that they are stored and handled safely.

The area where DGs are stored, a DG warehouse should be:

• Well ventilated and well lit;
• Separated from ignition sources;
• Secured from the public;
• Protected from temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight; and
• Shelving and cupboards should:
  - Be contructed of chemically resistant materials; amd
  - Provide a lip at the front of the shelf.

Also, at the warehouse, secondary containment such as spill trays should be considered for liquid dangerous goods stored outside of a chemical storage cabinet.

For storage of DGs of quantities below a certain level, requirements are less stringent as the risks posed are lower. This means that storage of low level of DGs in the laboratory can exist without the need to purchase an Australian Standard approved cabinet. However, for storage of DGs exceeding the specific quantities, there is a need for consideration to purchase Australian Standard approved shelving or cabinets for their storage.