Quantities of chemical
The Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling)
Regulations outlines the quantities of chemicals stored that trigger the enforcement of placcarding and manifest requirements. The prescribed quantities may depend on the packaging class.
How Close Together Should Chemicals be Stored?
Separation Distances
Many chemicals can be dangerous if stored too close to other dangerous goods, or near public places. There may be interactions and hazards involved. For information on appropriate separation distances, refer to the Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations and Workcover. A risk assessment approach is prescribed by the Regulations.
SafetyMAP
The Victorian WorkCover Authority has developed SafetyMAP as an audit tool designed to assist organisations of all sizes and functions improve their management of health and safety.
The audit criteria within SafetyMAP enable an organisation to:
– Measure the performance of its health and safety program
– Implement a cycle of continuous improvement
– Benchmark its health and safety performance
– Gain recognition for the standards achieved by its health and safety management system.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are a key to working safely with chemicals. MSDS are prepared by manufacturers and importers for the chemicals they produce or supply and are the key to protecting the health and safety of employees working with hazardous chemicals.
An MSDS describes the chemical, and any health hazards and precautions for safe handling and use. The purpose of the data sheet is to provide information needed to safely use the substance in the workplace. If the chemical is also a dangerous good, an MSDS also provides information about its classification, United Nations numbers, packaging group, chemical and physical properties, storage, incompatible substances and procedures for handling leaks or spills.
Pool managers and operators should ensure that all appropriate dangerous goods signage is displayed. It is recommended that signage be inspected by a qualified Auditor to determine its compliance.
Are MSDS Compulsory?
Occupational Health and Safety (Hazardous Substances) Regulations require manufacturers and importers of hazardous substances to ensure that an MSDS is prepared for the substance before it is first supplied for use at a workplace. A supplier and manufacture is also required to supply an MSDS on request.
Employers must obtain an MSDS for each hazardous substance they use. The MSDS can be used to develop ways of minimising exposure when using the substance in workplace.
Pool managers are encouraged to develop and monitor systems of operation which provide quality management involving water quality and plant operation.
