Working with Dangerous Goods – Safe Storage Stats and Facts

FACTS

  1. Leakage & Spill Risks: Containers can degrade over time, leading to leaks or catastrophic spills if not inspected.
  2. Incompatible Segregation: Storing oxidizers next to flammables without barriers can trigger severe chemical reactions.
  3. Temperature Extremes & Pressure Buildup: Fluctuating temperatures may increase internal pressure or cause container failure.
  4. Inadequate Ventilation: Turmoil of toxic fumes in poorly ventilated areas can poison workers and contaminate environments.
  5. Improper Marking or Labelling: Unlabeled containers make it impossible to apply correct storage and handling protocols.
  6. Structural Load Errors: Overloading shelves or storage racks with heavy goods increases the risk of collapses.
  7. Fire & Explosion Hazards: Flammable gases or chemicals can ignite from heat, static, or sparks if stored unsafely.

STATS

  • In 2024, OSHA recorded 5,190 workplace fatalities, with transportation and warehousing accounting for 14% (726 cases). Hazardous materials storage incidents (e.g., fires, gas leaks) contributed to 4% of fatalities, highlighting the need for chemical-resistant PPE and respirators.
  • In 2024, PPE violations (29 CFR 1910.132) ranked 6th across industries (1,876 citations), including inadequate chemical-resistant gloves or suits in storage areas. Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134) violations ranked 4th (2,800 citations), often due to improper respirator use during inspections.
  • A 2022 NIOSH study found that 28% of workers in hazardous materials storage lacked proper PPE, increasing risks of burns, dermatitis, or respiratory issues from leaks or poor ventilation.
  • WorkSafeBC reported 10–15 annual fatalities in transportation and warehousing in British Columbia (2020–2023), with 8% involving hazardous materials storage (e.g., gas leaks, fires). Proper PPE and training could mitigate these risks.
  • CCOHS 2023 data showed that workplaces enforcing chemical-resistant PPE and respirators reduced storage-related injuries by 20%, particularly during inspections or spill response.
  • In 2024, Ontario introduced fines up to $500,000 for repeat OHS violations, including PPE non-compliance, impacting firms storing dangerous goods without proper safety gear.