- Segregate Chemicals by Hazard Class and Industrial Category
What to do
- Segregate chemicals based on hazard class (e.g., flammables, oxidisers, corrosives) and by any categorisation banding defined by the 2025 Industrial Chemicals Categorisation Guidelines (e.g., high concern vs low concern).
- Use compatibility charts and priority lists from both WHS Regulations and the IChCG framework.
Why it matters
- Prevents reaction hazards and supports compliant risk profiles for high-use materials.
E.g., store Category 2 oxidisers separately from Category 3 flammables; keep corrosives away from organics.
- Use Compliant, Labelled, and Traceable Containers
What to do
- Store chemicals in original containers where possible.
- Ensure labelling meets GHS criteria and contains:
- Complete chemical ID
- Category/HS code
- Unique importer/manufacturer identifier
- Date received, batch, and quantity
- For decanted stock, include a traceability barcode/QR linking to your SDS and inventory system.
Why it matters
- Supports compliance with:
- WHS Labelling & SDS requirements
- Customs and industrial reporting
- Internal quality and audit traceability
- Implement Temperature, Ventilation & Monitoring Controls
What to do
- Follow SDS and IChCG storage limits (e.g., auto-ignition thresholds, pressure limits).
- For large-scale manufacturing, install:
- Automated temperature & humidity monitoring
- Explosion-proof ventilation for volatile processing/storage zones
- Continuous gas/vapour detectors in bulk storage areas
Why it matters
- Protects product integrity and prevents:
- Heat-induced decomposition
- Pressure buildup
- Uncontrolled vapour release
- Require Secondary Containment, Spill Preparedness & Environmental Controls
What to do
- Use bunded and impervious trays under all liquid stocks.
- For drums and IBCs:
- ≥110 % bund volume
- Spill pallets with automatic isolation valves
- Stock appropriate spill response kits and trained responders.
- Ensure waste disposal pathways align with EPA and WHS hazardous waste rules.
Why it matters
- Reduces:
- Environmental release risks
- Pollution incidents
- Regulatory breaches (EPA and WHS)
- Maintain Registers, Categorisation Records & Competent Worker Access
What to do
- Maintain a live chemical register linking:
- SDS
- GHS class
- Quantities on hand
- Use risk-tiered access control:
- Only competent, trained workers access certain hazard categories
- Training records tied to chemical categories
- Review and update registers each quarter
Why it matters
- Supports:
- WHS compliance
- Safe work method statements
- Internal audit and external inspection readiness