How to Guide to Safely Store Chemicals and Fuels in Your Suburban Shed

by Joy Deloso | Oct 9, 2024 | Garden Sheds, Health and Safety, How to, Lifestyle, Shed Homes, Storage | 0 comments

Backyard sheds are often used for more than just gardening tools or outdoor equipment—they also store various household chemicals, fuels, and even pesticides. However, improper storage of these substances can lead to accidents, fires, and environmental hazards. Whether you’re storing pool chemicals, cleaning agents, or petrol for your lawnmower, it’s important to follow safe storage practices. In this guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of storing dangerous substances in your backyard shed, including essential safety measures like fireproof cabinets, proper labelling, and following local regulations. We’ll also discuss how to secure your shed to prevent accidents, particularly in homes with children or pets.

1. Choose the Right Storage Space

The first step to safely storing chemicals and fuels is choosing an appropriate space within your shed. Not all sheds are created equal when it comes to storage—some may lack the ventilation or fire-resistant qualities needed for safe storage of hazardous materials.

Important considerations for backyard shed storage include:

Ventilation: Ensure the shed is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes from chemicals or fuels.
Fireproofing: Store flammable chemicals and fuels in a fireproof cabinet or container to reduce the risk of fire. Installing a fire extinguisher nearby is also a smart move.
Temperature control: Avoid storing chemicals in areas prone to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as high temperatures can cause substances to become unstable.

If your current shed doesn’t meet these basic safety standards, consider upgrading it or purchasing specialized storage cabinets for dangerous goods.

2. Proper Labeling and Containment

One of the easiest ways to prevent accidents in your backyard shed is through proper labelling and containment of chemicals and fuels. Labelling not only helps you identify substances at a glance but also communicates their dangers to others who may come into contact with them.

Labelling tips:

Always keep chemicals in their original containers with intact labels.
If transferring substances to new containers, make sure they are clearly labelled with the chemical name, hazard symbols, and any safety instructions.
Store incompatible chemicals separately. For example, acids and bases should never be stored together as they can react violently if mixed.

For containment, make sure your containers are sealed tightly and placed in secondary containment (like spill trays) to prevent accidental leaks or spills from spreading.

3. Adhere to Local Regulations

In Australia, there are local and national regulations governing the storage of hazardous chemicals, even in suburban homes. These rules are designed to protect not only your household but also the environment and your community.

Key regulatory guidelines include:

Follow your local council’s guidelines on how much fuel or chemicals can be stored on residential properties.
Dispose of old or unused chemicals properly. Don’t let hazardous materials build up in your shed—use local hazardous waste collection services when necessary.
If you store significant quantities of dangerous goods, you may be required to notify local authorities.

Consult your local regulations to ensure you’re safe and compliant with the law.

4. Fire Safety Measures

Fires are one of the biggest risks associated with storing flammable materials like petrol or other fuels in your shed. To minimise the risk, be proactive about fire safety:

Install smoke detectors and keep a fire extinguisher in the shed.
Ensure that flammable substances are stored away from potential heat sources like electrical outlets, lawnmowers, or barbecues.
During fire season, it’s especially important to clear away any dry vegetation around the shed, as this can act as kindling.

For sheds in high-risk fire areas, consider upgrading the materials or purchasing a fire-resistant shed. Check with local fire services for seasonal fire safety tips.

5. Secure Your Shed to Prevent Unauthorized Access

Securing your shed is a top priority if you have children or pets at home. Even small amounts of chemicals can pose significant health risks if accidentally ingested or inhaled.

Tips for securing your shed:

Lock it up: Install a sturdy lock on your shed to prevent unauthorized access. You can also consider childproof locks for cabinets storing dangerous substances.
High shelving: Store chemicals on high shelves, out of the reach of children and pets.
Separate areas: Designate specific areas for dangerous materials, clearly marked with warning signs if necessary.

By securing your shed, you reduce the risk of accidental exposure to hazardous chemicals.

6. Spill Management and Disposal

Accidents happen, but having a plan to manage spills can greatly reduce their impact. Keep spill kits readily available in your shed, including absorbent materials, gloves, and containers to safely handle hazardous substances.

For disposal, never pour chemicals down the drain or into stormwater systems, as this can contaminate local water supplies. Always follow proper disposal procedures for hazardous waste—your local council usually has guidelines or collection services for these substances.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your backyard shed remains a safe and functional storage space, protecting your household and the environment from potential hazards. Proper storage, labelling, and security are the keys to avoiding accidents and keeping dangerous substances out of the wrong hands.