OSHA Chemical Storage and Handling Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing chemical storage and handling practices in facilities to ensure compliance with OSHA standards and enhance safety in managing chemical inventories.

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About This Checklist

Proper storage and handling of chemicals are crucial for maintaining safety and preventing accidents in the chemical industry. This OSHA Chemical Storage and Handling Audit Checklist is designed to ensure compliance with various OSHA standards related to chemical storage, including Flammable Liquids (29 CFR 1910.106) and Hazardous Materials (29 CFR 1910.101-106). By evaluating key areas such as storage compatibility, containment systems, ventilation, labeling, and handling procedures, this checklist helps identify potential hazards, improve storage practices, and enhance overall chemical safety in facilities. Effective chemical storage and handling are essential for preventing spills, fires, explosions, and exposure incidents.

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Industry

Chemicals

Standard

OSHA Hazardous Materials Standards

Workspaces

warehouses
Production Facilities
Chemical Storage Facilities

Occupations

Chemical Safety Officer
Environmental Health and Safety Manager
Warehouse Manager
Chemical Inventory Specialist
Hazardous Materials Technician
1
Is the chemical storage area compliant with OSHA standards?
2
Are all chemicals properly labeled?
3
What is the ventilation rate in the storage area?
Min: 10
Target: 15
Max: 50
4
Are spill prevention measures in place?
5
Is there a system for assessing chemical compatibility?
6
Is there an up-to-date inventory of all hazardous materials?
7
Are flammable liquids stored according to OSHA regulations?
8
What is the maximum storage capacity of the chemical storage area?
Min: 100
Target: 500
Max: 1000
9
Is there an emergency response plan available for chemical spills?
10
Please provide details of safety training records for staff handling chemicals.
11
Is chemical waste disposed of in accordance with regulations?
12
How many safety equipment items are available in the storage area?
Min: 5
Target: 10
Max: 50
13
Is personal protective equipment (PPE) readily available for employees?
14
Are safety signs and labels present in the chemical storage area?
15
Describe the procedures for reporting chemical incidents.
16
Are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) available for all chemicals in the storage area?
17
Is the chemical storage area secured against unauthorized access?
18
How many emergency showers and eye wash stations are available in the facility?
Min: 1
Target: 2
Max: 10
19
Are regular safety drills conducted for chemical spills and emergencies?
20
Describe the training provided to employees on safe chemical handling practices.
21
Is there a regular inspection schedule for the chemical storage area?
22
Is there a maintained log of all chemical incidents and near misses?
23
How many chemical spill kits are available in the facility?
Min: 2
Target: 5
Max: 20
24
Is there a system for monitoring employee exposure to chemicals?
25
Describe the process for reviewing and updating the chemical safety policy.

FAQs

The main objective is to assess compliance with OSHA standards related to chemical storage and handling, and to identify areas for improvement in storage practices to enhance safety in chemical facilities.

While OSHA doesn't specify a frequency, it's recommended to conduct these audits at least quarterly, with more frequent checks for high-risk or frequently changing storage areas.

Key elements include chemical compatibility and segregation, storage container integrity, secondary containment systems, ventilation adequacy, proper labeling and signage, handling procedures, and emergency response equipment for chemical storage areas.

The audit should be conducted by individuals with expertise in chemical safety, such as chemical safety officers, environmental health and safety managers, or qualified third-party auditors familiar with OSHA chemical storage regulations.

Audit results can identify improper storage practices, leading to improved chemical segregation, enhanced storage systems, updated handling procedures, and better-trained personnel, ultimately reducing the risk of chemical incidents and improving overall safety.

Benefits of OSHA Chemical Storage and Handling Audit Checklist

Ensures compliance with OSHA standards for chemical storage and handling

Reduces the risk of chemical spills, fires, and explosions

Improves organization and management of chemical inventories

Enhances worker safety by minimizing exposure risks

Promotes proper segregation and compatibility of stored chemicals