Solvents such as IPA, ethyl acetate and acetone, and glycols such as MEG, DEG and MPG, are raw materials that many production facilities use daily. Storing and transporting these products correctly matters both for the protection of employees and for the orderly running of the facility. In this article we have compiled general points to consider in storing and transporting industrial solvents. These notes are for general information; for each product, the relevant safety data sheet (SDS) and the applicable legislation take precedence.
The SDS is where everything starts
The safety data sheet (SDS) contains a product’s hazards, storage conditions, transport information, personal protective equipment requirements and emergency measures. Having a current SDS for every product entering the warehouse, and making sure the relevant employees can access it, is a basic practice.
Flammable liquids
IPA, ethyl acetate and acetone are flammable liquids. In storing these products, the following general points stand out:
- Products should be kept in their original, closed and labelled packaging.
- The storage area should be well ventilated.
- They should be kept away from heat sources, open flames, sparks and other ignition sources.
- Electrical equipment suited to the environment and measures against static electricity should be considered.
- They should be protected from direct sunlight.
Glycols
Glycols such as MEG, DEG and MPG have different properties from solvents and usually evaporate more slowly. Even so, they too should be stored in closed, labelled packaging under the conditions stated in the SDS. For moisture-retaining glycols such as DEG, keeping the packaging closed helps prevent the product from absorbing moisture.
Separate, orderly storage
To keep different products from being mixed up, each product should be stored in its own area, clearly labelled. The risk of confusion is high especially for products with similar names and appearance (for example different glycols). The incompatibility information in the SDS should be taken into account to keep potentially incompatible products apart.
Labelling
Every package must show the product name and the required hazard information legibly. If a product is transferred from one package to another container, the new container must also be labelled correctly. Using unlabelled containers increases the risk of confusion and accidents.
Readiness for spills and leaks
Keeping suitable absorbent materials and collection equipment in the storage area for possible spills and leaks is recommended. The steps to follow in case of a spill are in the SDS. Employees knowing these steps allows a quick and correct response if something happens.
Transport
Solvents should be transported in accordance with the relevant transport legislation. Packaging that is sound, closed and correctly labelled, secured in the vehicle and not carried together with incompatible products are the basic points. In in-plant handling too, protecting packaging against tipping over and moving it with suitable equipment is important.
Personal protective equipment
When working with solvents, the personal protective equipment stated in the SDS must be used. Equipment such as gloves, protective goggles and, where needed, respiratory protection is chosen according to the product and the application.
Choosing packaging
Your facility’s storage area and usage pattern determine which packaging type is suitable. Stating your storage and unloading facilities in your quote request allows the packaging to be chosen accordingly. Packaging, quantity and quality are clarified in the quote.
Staff briefing
It is important to inform staff working with solvents about the products’ properties and the precautions to take. Keeping safety data sheets accessible in the work area and holding regular training help staff adopt the right practices. What to do in situations such as spills or leaks should be planned in advance and shared with staff.
Frequently asked questions
Do you share SDSs for solvents?
Which documents are shared at which stage is clarified during the quote process, depending on the product and the request.
Can solvents and glycols be stored in the same area?
That depends on the compatibility information in the products’ SDSs and the applicable rules. Checking the SDS for each product is recommended.
Conclusion
Correct storage and transport of industrial solvents starts with an orderly, labelled storage arrangement in line with the SDS. For our solvent and glycol group, see our Solvents page, and send your needs via the quote form.