Flammable product storage: how efficient and compliant is the handling process.

Within the logistics sector, ensuring safe and compliant handling in the storage of flammable products is crucial. 

Maintaining an efficient warehouse is essential to minimise the risks associated with potentially hazardous materials. From taking fire safety measures to optimising operational procedures, an environment that is not only safe, but also fully compliant with regulations must be maintained. This approach aims to ensure the safety of goods and preserve environmental integrity, thus contributing to responsible and reliable warehouse management.

 

Regulations governing the storage of flammable materials

 

In Italy, the storage of flammable products is regulated by several regulations, some of which are issued at the national level, while others are established at the regional or local level. Among these regulatory dispositions, some fundamental ones stand out, such as Legislative Decree No. 150 of 14 August 2015, known as the Consolidated Safety Act. This decree aims to regulate measures to protect health and safety in the workplace. Within this text, there are specific provisions for the handling of hazardous substances and preparations, including flammable ones.

Another important reference is Ministerial Decree No 216 of 9 May 2001, which establishes a regulation dedicated to fire prevention. This regulation provides specific provisions to prevent fires, including those caused by flammable materials. 

Standard UNI EN 14470-1 dictates safety requirements for chemical storage cabinets, including flammable ones. It provides guidelines on the construction characteristics and performance of safety cabinets.

In parallel with national regulations, the impact of regional and local regulations should be considered, which may introduce additional or detailed requirements regarding the storage of flammable materials. 

 

Safety requirements for safe storage of flammable products

 

To ensure safe storage of flammable products, it is essential to follow specific regulations and guidelines. Some general safety requirements that can be applied for the safe storage of flammable products are:

1. appropriate location - storage facilities for flammable products should be located away from residential areas, critical buildings and other critical facilities, and it is important to avoid proximity to heat sources, such as industrial plants or railway lines;
2. storage facilities - must be fire-resistant and specially designed;
3. classification and labelling - it is important to clearly classify and label all flammable products indicating the necessary precautions for safe handling
4. stock control - it is essential to maintain an accurate inventory of stored products and their quantities;
5. electrical safety - explosion-proof or intrinsically safe electrical equipment must be used;
6. protection against electrostatic discharge - it is important to take measures to prevent and dissipate electrostatic charges, which can be a source of ignition.

In order to ensure the proper storage of flammable products, it is also mandatory that the personnel in charge are trained and informed about emergency procedures and the correct use of safety equipment.

 

Fire safety measures

 

In a logistics warehouse dedicated to the storage of flammable products, the implementation of appropriate fire safety measures is of paramount importance to preserve the safety of operators and the protection of goods. In accordance with current regulations, it is essential to equip the environment with devices to prevent and control fire risks.

Storage areas should be designed with careful consideration of fire criteria. This may include the division of the warehouse into zones with specific fire resistance requirements and the presence of adequate ventilation systems to minimise the concentration of flammable vapours. In addition, the strategic arrangement of fire extinguishers and automatic extinguishing systems, such as sprinklers, is crucial to enable rapid response in the event of an emergency.

Careful planning and consistent adherence to safe practices help mitigate the risks associated with storing flammable products, promoting a safe environment and efficient logistics.

 

Why choose a compliant logistics warehouse

 

Relying on a regulatory-compliant logistics warehouse is important to ensure safe and responsible handling of goods. 

A compliant warehouse adopts optimised operational practices, helping to ensure efficient inventory management and reducing the risk of logistical errors.

Choosing compliant logistics also reduces the long-term risks associated with accidents, damage to goods or legal issues, ensuring a more stable and predictable control.

Discover Corsini's logistics service for storing flammable products and contact us for information.