The Basics of Storing and Shipping Hazardous Materials

Some industries and businesses work with materials that can pose either direct or gradual damage when the materials are mishandled or misused. The consequences of poorly-handled hazardous materials can range from mild damage to structures to catastrophic loss of life. And misuse of hazardous materials also exposes the handlers to severe legal repercussions. OctoChem’s experience with hazardous materials storage and hazardous materials transportation can greatly reduce companies’ risks and costs associated with storing and shipping hazardous materials.

Definition of a Hazardous Material

The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) defines hazardous materials as “any item or agent (biological, chemical, radiological, and/or physical) which has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment, either by itself or through interaction with other factors.” Physical hazardous materials include flammable materials which can quickly start fires and corrosive chemicals that erode other materials upon exposure. And many types of hazardous materials cause chronic health problems upon exposure. In the United States of America, multiple agencies – including the Occupational Safety and Health Organization (OSHA) and the Department of Transportation (DoT) — issue laws and regulations restricting the storage and usage of hazardous materials, issuing significant fines for violations.

Basic Guidelines for Storing Hazardous Materials

A warehouse must receive certifications in order to legally store hazardous materials. The certification process requires coordination with several agencies and include in-person inspections, highly-detailed applications, and multiple meetings. Recent counter-terrorism measures also require vetting of warehouse staff and strict limits upon materials commonly associated with terrorist attacks. Hazardous materials of differing types and hazardous materials with known negative interactions must be separated by at least twenty feet and with non-combustible partitions. Some hazardous materials can be stored in the same warehouse as non-hazardous materials, though the warehouse operators must ensure that the hazardous and non-hazardous materials do not overlap. Companies that store and transport hazardous materials must keep their inventories up-to-date and immediately report spills, missing materials, thefts, or any other incident that poses a risk to citizens or the environment.

OctoChem Is Trained and Ready to Safely Handle Your Hazardous Materials

OctoChem provides safe and secure hazardous materials storage services for companies in North America. Our experience with multiple industries have driven us to build and maintain warehouses that can safely store and ship multiple types of hazardous materials. And our knowledge of the laws, regulations, and risks associated with hazardous materials allow us to consult clients about what type of services they need to handle their hazardous materials (or whether or not their materials are even hazardous). Contact us today by filling out our online form, calling us at (618) 283-9360, or emailing us regarding sales, customer service, or employment opportunities.