Hazardous Material Storage Audit

Inspection template for auditing hazardous material storage conditions, including segregation, containment, labeling, spill response readiness, and ventilation.

Storage Area Condition and Access

• Storage area is restricted to authorized personnel
  Access to hazardous material storage is controlled and limited to trained or authorized personnel only.
• Aisles, exits, and access paths are unobstructed
  No blocked exits, blocked access to stored materials, or trip hazards in the storage area.
• Containers are stored upright and stable
  Drums, bottles, and other containers are positioned to prevent tipping, falling, or rolling.
• Storage area is free of ignition sources where required
  Flammables and other ignition-sensitive materials are not stored near open flames, hot surfaces, sparking equipment, or unapproved electrical devices.
• Housekeeping prevents accumulation of residues or debris
  Spills, residues, dust, and debris are cleaned promptly and do not accumulate in or around storage containers.

Segregation and Compatibility

• Incompatible chemicals are segregated
  Acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, toxics, and reactive materials are separated according to compatibility requirements.
• Flammables are stored in approved cabinets or approved locations
  Flammable liquids are stored in approved flammable storage cabinets or other compliant locations as applicable.
• Oxidizers are separated from combustibles and flammables
  Oxidizing materials are not stored with combustible materials, paper products, or flammable liquids.
• Acids and bases are stored separately with compatible containment
  Corrosive acids and bases are separated to reduce the risk of violent reactions and container degradation.
• Reactive or water-reactive materials are isolated from moisture sources
  Materials that react with water or air are stored in conditions that prevent exposure to moisture or incompatible atmospheres.

Containment and Container Integrity

• Containers show no visible leaks, bulging, or corrosion
  Inspect drums, bottles, cans, and totes for signs of leakage, swelling, rust, cracks, or deterioration.
• Secondary containment is present where required
  Containment trays, berms, or spill pallets are used where needed to capture leaks or releases from stored materials.
• Secondary containment is clean and free of standing liquid
  Containment systems are maintained so they can function as intended and are not filled with incompatible liquids or debris.
• Containers are closed when not actively in use
  Lids, caps, bungs, and dispensing closures are secured except during active transfer or use.
• Storage racks, shelving, and pallets are in good condition
  Racks and shelving are structurally sound, appropriately rated, and not visibly damaged or overloaded.

Labeling, SDS, and Identification

• All containers are labeled with identity and hazard information
  Primary and secondary containers are labeled so the contents and hazards can be readily identified.
• Labels are legible and not damaged or missing
  Labels remain readable, securely attached, and free from fading, peeling, or chemical damage.
• Safety Data Sheets are accessible for stored materials
  Current SDS are available to employees and responders for the hazardous materials stored in the area.
• Storage inventory matches labeled containers
  The inventory or storage list corresponds to the materials physically present in the area.
• Hazard communication signs are posted where required
  Area signage, NFPA diamond postings, or other required warnings are visible and appropriate for the storage location.

Spill Response Readiness and Ventilation

• Spill kit is present and appropriate for stored hazards
  Spill absorbents, neutralizers, disposal bags, and tools are available for the types and quantities of materials stored.
• Spill kit is fully stocked and within expiration dates
  Consumables are present in usable quantities and any date-sensitive items are current.
• Emergency contact and spill response instructions are posted
  Emergency phone numbers, reporting steps, and response instructions are visible in or near the storage area.
• Ventilation is adequate for the materials stored
  Mechanical or natural ventilation is present where needed to prevent accumulation of vapors, fumes, or dust.
• No strong chemical odors or visible vapor accumulation are present
  There is no observable buildup of fumes or odors indicating inadequate ventilation or a release condition.