Winter is brutal on vulnerable chemical stockpiles. Rapid temperature fluctuations can destabilize sensitive molecular compounds, causing liquid amalgamations to congeal and rendering them useless. Although hazmat flashovers from extreme heat demand more sensational media attention, chemical degradation from the cold compounds logistics and product procurement. While protecting employees and optimizing workflow operations is paramount, product inventory specialists are also vested in maximizing shelf-life. Our fire-rated, climatized winterized chemical storage lockers can protect small and large chemical payloads from extreme temperature inversions and degradation.
How Does The Cold Impact Industrial Chemicals?
Colder temperatures cause some chemicals to expand upon freeze, leading to containers rupturing and spilling. Moreover, freezing temperatures might result in chemicals, such as paints and varnishes, separating before turning into a runny mess. Imagine coming into work after a night of subfreezing temperatures to find an oozing, chilly assortment of flammable liquids seeping from their airtight drums or totes. The entire front end of the workweek is instantly dedicated to sopping up the ruined icy puddle, immediately putting operations behind schedule. Colder temperatures can also cause water vapor and condensation to freeze before leading to corrosion near container openings and spouts.
Winterized Chemical Storage Protects Expensive, Vulnerable Stockpiles
Dangerous chemical stockpiles should never be stored outside. In fact, OSHA requires flammable chemicals exceeding 25 gallons to be stored inside a separate chemical storage locker away from personnel and equipment. Exposed metal drums and easy-to-carry chemical totes also make easy targets for opportunistic criminals. Although it’s tempting to leave expensive yet vulnerable liquid chemicals next to other tools of the trade at the end of the workday, the ease of convenience in picking up where you left off the next day is undermined by environmental comprising and wanton theft and destruction. U.S. Hazmat Rentals’ winterized chemical storage solutions offer year-around seasonal protection. Optional climate control and mechanical ventilation will maintain ambient temperatures and air saturated contaminations. Contact us today for a free quote and consultation!
