Chemical Inventory & Storage
An accurate chemical inventory must be maintained for each laboratory. Chemicals should be dated when they arrive or are prepared. If prepared, the concentrations of all ingredients should be noted on the label.
Chemicals should be stored by hazard class, not alphabetically. The MSDS or a chemical compatibility can help you determine storage hazards. Each hazard class should be stored separately. Chemicals should be stored on lipped shelves or cabinets with doors to prevent breakage in the event of an earthquake. Shelves and cabinets should not be overcrowded. Hazardous chemicals should not be stored above eye level.
Flammable chemicals should be stored in a flammable cabinet. Corrosive chemicals should be stored in chemical resistant secondary containers.
You should consult the MSDS for special storage issues such as peroxide forming chemicals like ether.