The following sections give guidelines for the storage of chemicals, petrol and gas, with information on statutory regulations where relevant. In all cases try to store only the minimum amount needed, and for the shortest possible time.

Chemicals

All conservation groups will be trying to reduce the use of chemicals of all sorts, but some use is likely to be needed in the short term. Chemicals used may include herbicides, wood preservatives, masonry treatment products, paints, solvents and cleaning fluids. Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), employers and employees have to take various measures to remove any risk to health through use or exposure to such substances. Where removal is not possible, reducing or controlling exposure must be done. Voluntary groups should take similar measures to control risk. Substances hazardous to health include those labelled as very toxic, toxic, harmful, irritant or corrosive, agricultural pesticides (including herbicides) and substances with occupational exposure limits. COSHH leaflets, available free from all Health and Safety Executive Area Offices, give further details.

Few conservation groups use any of the range of approved pesticides for farmers and other professional users, partly because of the training in their use which is necessary under the Control of Pesticides Regulations 1986 (COPR). Instead, pesticides approved for amateur use, which are not subject to these regulations, can be substituted in most cases.

If using any chemical, amateur or professional, an assessment of the hazards and necessary precautions arising from them should be made available to all users. Only competent persons can use chemicals and the appropriate level of instruction in their use must be given.

The following guidelines are suggested for voluntary conservation groups:

  1. Store only the minimum amount of chemicals needed, and for the shortest possible time.
  2. Store chemicals in a metal cabinet or bin, which is strong enough to resist any likely accidental damage, and gives some resistance to fire.
  3. Keep the cabinet or bin locked, and display warning signs on the outside.
  4. The cabinet or bin should be ventilated, and should include within it a sump capable of containing any leakage up to the total capacity of the contents stored.
  5. The cabinet or bin would normally be kept in the workshop. It should not be positioned in a staff room, office, human or animal food store, dwelling house or building adjoining and directly accessible from a dwelling house.

Special cabinets and bins are available from manufacturers of safety equipment. Otherwise, metal office filing cupboards should be suitable, with the addition of a sump and ventilation holes.

Petrol

Always store the minimal quantity possible for the requirements. Petrol must always be stored in containers designed for the purpose. No container must hold more than 5 litres.

Keep the petrol containers in a non-ventilated metal cabinet or box, clearly labelled, and positioned away from an exit and possible sources of combustion, for safety reasons. keep a suitable fire extinguisher (dry powder or carbon dioxide) nearby.

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