About Aerosols
Warehouse Storage
Storage of filled aerosols requires careful consideration because of the risks associated with flammable propellants and liquids. Several instances of very destructive warehouse fires have been reported, and as a result it is important to take safety very seriously. BAMA recommends that suppliers of aerosols ensure that their contractors store aerosols safely.
Regulations, such as Management of Health and Safety at Work (MHSW), Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres (DSEAR), mean that it is important to be able to demonstrate that all of the hazards that could arise from a warehousing operation have been considered and that all steps have been taken to ensure that the risk of those hazards occurring is reduced to an acceptable level.
A good risk assessment will enable the warehouse to be designed effectively and for controls to address any risks of storing aerosols to be defined, documented, resourced and communicated to staff. The documentation of the risk assessment should identify the individual roles, responsibilities and authorities needed for the implementation of the health and safety management system.
Organisations storing aerosols should also establish access (either on site or immediately available off site) to a source of competent expert advice who can provide training on aerosol safety and advice in case of an incident. All relevant staff including temporary staff should have induction and follow-up training about the hazards of the products stored, correct handling techniques, good housekeeping, emergency procedures and procedures for dealing with damaged or leaking stock. Engineering staff should also be instructed in the correct maintenance procedures and written permit systems. Contractors should be informed of the person with accountability for their safety.
Detailed advice on maximising safety levels in aerosol warehouses can be found in the BAMA Standard; covering the whole range of aerosol warehousing.
Separate but related advice on retail storage of aerosols is available, free of charge, from BAMA in the 'Guide to Retail Storage Display of Aerosols'.
Warehouse Safety Posters (set of 6)
A set of 6 posters which visually illustrate dos and don'ts in an aerosol warehouse. 3 posters cover what to do and 3 what not to do. A3 size.
Warehouse posters are supplied FREE of charge to BAMA members.
Non-members can purchase a set of posters for £30.
