SOP for Receiving and Storing Hazardous Materials

Standard Operating Procedure for Receiving and Safe Storage of Hazardous Materials

1) Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to define the systematic process for receiving and storing hazardous materials to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and prevention of accidents or exposure.

2) Scope

This SOP applies to all personnel involved in receiving, inspecting, handling, and storing hazardous materials within the facility.

3) Responsibilities

Operators: Inspect and handle hazardous materials as per guidelines.
Inventory Managers: Maintain accurate records and storage segregation.
Quality Assurance (QA): Verify compliance with labeling, documentation, and safety standards.
Safety Officers: Oversee safe handling and storage practices.

4) Procedure

4.1 Receiving Hazardous Materials

Prior to Receipt:
1. Ensure receiving personnel are trained to handle hazardous materials safely.
2. Verify that proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is available and functional (e.g., gloves, goggles, protective suits).
3. Confirm the designated receiving area is clean, well-ventilated, and free from obstructions.
Material Inspection:
1. Inspect the shipment for any of the following:
  - Damaged containers (cracks, leaks, bulges)
  - Missing or illegible labels
  - Unidentified substances
2. If any discrepancy is found:
  - Isolate the material and label it as “Quarantined – Pending Inspection.”
  - Notify the Quality Assurance (QA) team for further evaluation.
Verification of Documentation:
1. Cross-check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and shipping manifest to confirm:
  - Material name and quantity
  - Hazard classification
  - Supplier details
2. Record the material in

the Hazardous Material Receiving Log (Annexure 1).

Safe Handling During Receipt:

Use appropriate equipment (e.g., forklifts, trolleys) to move containers safely.
Handle containers carefully to prevent spills, leaks, or breakage.

4.2 Storing Hazardous Materials

Segregation of Materials:
1. Store hazardous materials based on their hazard classification:
  - Flammable materials: Store in fire-resistant cabinets away from ignition sources.
  - Corrosive materials: Use acid-resistant storage units and segregate from incompatible chemicals.
  - Reactive materials: Store in isolation with proper ventilation.
  - Toxic substances: Use tightly sealed containers in a well-ventilated area.
2. Never store incompatible chemicals together to avoid hazardous reactions. Refer to SDS for compatibility charts.
Labeling:
1. Ensure each container is clearly labeled with the following:
  - Material name
  - Hazard classification (e.g., flammable, toxic, corrosive)
  - Precautionary symbols
  - Storage requirements
2. Replace any missing or illegible labels immediately.
Storage Conditions:
1. Ensure storage rooms meet the following criteria:
  - Ventilation: Maintain airflow to prevent vapor build-up.
  - Temperature: Store materials within recommended temperature ranges.
  - Fire Protection: Install fire extinguishers and sprinklers as required.
  - Spill Containment: Place spill trays or secondary containment under liquid containers.
Storage Inventory:
1. Maintain a Hazardous Material Storage Log (Annexure 2) with the following details:
  - Material name
  - Quantity
  - Storage location
  - Expiration date
2. Conduct weekly inspections to verify inventory and storage conditions.

4.3 Emergency Protocols During Receipt or Storage

In Case of Spills or Leaks:
1. Evacuate the area and notify the Safety Officer.
2. Use spill kits to contain and clean the spill following safety guidelines.
3. Dispose of spill residues as hazardous waste.
Fire or Explosion:
1. Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the facility.
2. Use fire extinguishers only if trained and safe to do so.
3. Notify the local fire department and follow the emergency response plan.

5) Abbreviations, if any

SDS: Safety Data Sheet
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
QA: Quality Assurance

6) Documents, if any

Hazardous Material Receiving Log
Hazardous Material Storage Log
Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

7) Reference, if any

OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)
NFPA Guidelines for Storage of Hazardous Chemicals

8) SOP Version

Version: 1.0

Annexure

Template 1: Hazardous Material Receiving Log

   Date  Material Name  Supplier  Quantity  Inspected By  
  DD/MM/YYYY  Chemical Name  Supplier Name  Amount  Employee Name

Date	Material Name	Supplier	Quantity	Inspected By
DD/MM/YYYY	Chemical Name	Supplier Name	Amount	Employee Name

Template 2: Hazardous Material Storage Log

   Material Name  Storage Location  Quantity  Expiration Date  Last Inspected  
  Chemical Name  Storage Room/Cabinet  Amount  DD/MM/YYYY  DD/MM/YYYY