(101a) Reactivity Issues in Storage: a Simplified Approach

Reactivity issues, with their potential for generation of heat, overpressure and/or harmful chemical reaction products, continue to present a significant threat for many aspects of commerce. While reactivity concerns routinely exist in areas where chemicals are intentionally mixed and processed, these same concerns often occur in simple storage as well. However in storage areas, reactivity issues aren't recognized as often as in other areas.

This paper will discuss simplified reactivity evaluation guidance that is primarily intended for those who store chemicals. Using DOT/UN Shipping Classifications and supplemental material from the NOAA Chemical Reactivity Worksheet and Health & Safety Executive HSG71 ?Chemical Warehousing ? the storage of packaged dangerous substances?, separation recommendations to mitigate or eliminate reactivity issues are suggested.

Although this guidance is targeted for companies whose primary business is chemical storage, this information could also be useful to those businesses where the storage activities also occur as a part of a more extensive manufacturing operation, which could include both physical processing of materials (i.e., distillation, blending, drying, etc.) as well as intentional reactive chemistry operations (manufacturers, toll converters, etc.)