If you use chemical products, you want to read this. Within our homes, we typically have an array of chemical products whether used for cleaning surfaces, painting surfaces, lubricating surfaces, killing pests, or killing weeds, just to name a few. All these chemical products have very specific directions for use, disposal and storage. Often times, we neglect to read the complete directions, specifically the storage of chemical products.
Within a home, its very typical to store all chemical products in a couple of places, under the sink or in the garage. And there’s very little organization other than the containers are usually sitting upright. For example, the manufacturer may state, “do not store this product with pool chemicals”. Why not? Chemical products are composed of various chemical compounds whereby the atoms within the compound are stable. If a chemical product comes into contact with another chemical product, and the atoms within each chemical product react, energy is released. This energy may be good or bad. Good energy is controlled, like the mixing of a catalyst with resin during fiberglass production. There is a reaction between the catalyst and resin, generating heat, as the two compounds join together. Bad energy is the uncontrolled energy that is given off. This energy can be in the form of heat, fire, or an explosion. For example, the mixing of a carbon-based fuel and a nitrate fertilizer can generate an explosion. This explosive type of reaction, between two chemical products, occurred at the Federal Building in Oklahoma City on April 19, 1995.
The improper storage of chemical products can yield unwanted results. Therefore, it’s very important to read the directions and follow the directions for storage. If the directions are not clear, you can review the Safety Data Sheet. To obtain a Safety Data Sheet, you can conduct an internet search or contact the store where you purchased the chemical product. With an internet search you can type the name of the product including Safety Data Sheet. If all else fails, contact the manufacturer directly for the Safety Data Sheet.
It’s all about you, your family, your friends and neighbors safety and health. Do what’s right, store your chemical products properly to eliminate any unwanted results.