5 Considerations for Transferring Harsh Chemicals Safely

If your business deals with harsh chemicals, you understand the importance of taking necessary precautions when transferring these substances. Below are five essential considerations to ensure the safety of your employees and the smooth operation of your business. 

Make sure you label your fluids correctly!

Correct labeling is critical to avoid mix-ups. If an error occurs, especially one that risks human exposure, accurate labeling enables medical professionals to identify the substance and respond quickly. 

Manufacturers and suppliers should label each barrel or drum clearly. These details also save time when searching for relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDSs). 

Ensure Correct Fluid Temperatures During Transfer.

Temperature plays a vital role in transferring chemicals. Before starting, check that the liquid temperature is below 10°C (50°F). If the fluid is too hot, use a heat exchanger or provide external cooling before transferring. 

For guidance on temperature requirements, consult your chemical manufacturer or distributor. 

Handle Chemicals with Precision: Get the Right Chemical Concentration.

The chemical concentration in the solution, air, and skin is crucial when transferring harsh chemicals: 

• Solution Concentration: This can be determined using titration or other analytical techniques. 

• Airborne Concentration: Typically measured in parts per million (ppm). 

• Skin Concentration: Measured through controlled patch tests under regulated conditions. 

Example: A common chemical concentration in cosmetics is 0.5% (50 ppm). This means 1 gram of the chemical dissolved in 1 litre of water would yield a concentration of 50 ppm. 

Monitor Fluid Temperature to Ensure Safe Handling

Fluid temperature affects properties such as viscosity and vapour pressure, which are critical for safe handling. For example: 

• Viscosity: Fluids become more viscous as they cool, making them flow more slowly. 

• Vapour Pressure: Temperature changes can increase volatility, posing safety risks. 

Always monitor and adjust temperatures to maintain safe handling conditions. 

Check Flammability: How Easily Will Your Chemicals Ignite?

Understanding a chemical’s flash point—the temperature at which it ignites—is essential for safety. Examples include: 

• Propane: Flash point of -40°C (-40°F). 

• Petrol: Flash point of -45°C (-49°F). 

Proper storage and handling are crucial. For example, propane gas requires secure storage and ventilation to prevent explosion risks. 

Transferring harsh chemicals can be dangerous if not done correctly. Following these five tips can help keep your employees safe and ensure smooth operations. 

Discover the Many Benefits of Safety Data Sheets!

Check out our other blog posts about Safety Data Sheets if you find this interesting. We’ve got a wealth of information about SDSs and want to keep showing you new ways they can help. If you have any questions or concerns about this post or anything related to Safety Data Sheets, feel free to reach out. 

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SDSs: The Key To A Safe Workplace

Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are essential for businesses to communicate the hazards of chemicals to employees. At SDS Inventory, we provide information about chemical exposure, safety recommendations, and emergency handling procedures through our International Safety Data Sheet Service (ISDSS). 

Get the answers you need on Safety Data Sheets!

What are Safety Data Sheets?

A Safety Data Sheet, or SDS, is a document containing information on a chemical product’s potential hazards (chemical, physical, and environmental) and measures to protect against those hazards. 

What should a Safety Data Sheet contain?

An SDS provides data on a product’s physical and chemical properties, toxicity, flammability, and environmental hazards. Note: Not all products require an SDS—only those classified as hazardous.

Who prepares a Safety Data Sheet?

SDSs are typically prepared by chemists or chemical engineers employed by the manufacturer.

Why are Safety Data Sheets essential?

SDSs are vital for identifying chemical hazards, preventing accidents, and ensuring safe handling in the workplace. 

How can I get free Safety Data Sheets?

Many manufacturers provide free SDSs on their websites. Alternatively, search online databases like OSHA’s Chemical Safety Data Sheets or visit trusted third-party sites like SDS Inventory, which hosts a comprehensive database through ISDSS.

Finally, you can search for your chemical's MSDS through your local library or by contacting your region's environmental agency.