To know what chemicals are present in the lab and how hazardous they are, the lab must have a detailed and updated chemical inventory (CI). The PI is ultimately responsible for maintaining the chemical inventory for the laboratories under their scope of authority.
Storage by Hazards
Proper storage of chemicals is essential to prevent accidents. Chemicals should be stored according to their compatibility groups, with clear labeling and secure containment. Regular inspections and maintenance of storage areas help ensure that chemicals are stored correctly and safely. Although storing chemicals in alphabetical order may seem convenient, it increases the possibility of incompatible materials will mix in the event of leaks, spills, breakage, floods or fires. However, segregation of chemicals into mutually exclusive compatible groups for separate storage is ideal, it is difficult to reach a consensus of what those groups should be.
