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2 Hour Fire-Rated Prefabricated Steel Stores

Groundbreaking 2 Hour Fire-Rated Prefabricated Steel Stores

Spill Doctor South Africa has made a pioneering move by proudly introducing our latest innovation: the first ever portable prefabricated 2-hour fire rated chemical and flammable stores in the South African market. After years of meticulous research, development and rigorous testing, these cutting-edge, non-combustible storage solutions are set to remodel the way companies handle hazardous materials. These prefabricated flammable stores ensure compliance with local and international standards while prioritizing worker and environmental safety.

The journey to bring these revolutionary stores to life wasn’t without its challenges. Negotiating the maze of local by-laws throughout South African provinces proved to be a complex and time-consuming process. Each province presented its own regulations, and in some cases, the by-laws varied within the province itself. Through this battle, Spill Doctor’s commitment to excellence prevailed, leading to the manufacture of panels that can withstand the demanding 2-hour fire test.

This endeavour resulted in a new range of prefabricated portable flammable stores that not only meet strict safety standards but also accommodate the diverse needs of businesses throughout the nation. These prefabricated non-combustible stores provide a practical solution for companies renting premises and eliminates the need to construct permanent structures at their own cost. The flexibility of these stores ensures room for adaptability to site requirements and allows for easy relocation, whether by forklift, crane or cherry picker and with local authority approval.

We are proud to share our recent collaboration with DSV South Africa, a global leader in logistics. Spill Doctor was commissioned by DSV Solutions, a division of DSV, to supply a 2-hour fire-rated 12m walk-in premanufactured liquid storage facility for their fragrance and perfume client within their warehouse. This store was successfully delivered. The supply and delivery of these stores, followed by all necessary legal approvals from relevant authorities, marked a significant milestone. The outcome of this accomplishment, Spill Doctor has been entrusted with a similar project for another fragrance and perfume manufacturer in Gauteng, with delivery and commissioning scheduled for February 2024.

We at Spill Doctor look forward to taking a holistic approach to offer a comprehensive turnkey solution. The process involves professional compilation of drawings and submission to local municipalities for approval from environmental, planning, and local departments. This will ensure the seamless supply and installation of our prefabricated 2-hour fire rated stores. This full-service package emphasizes our commitment to providing hassle-free, compliant solutions for businesses dealing with hazardous materials.

As Spill Doctor South Africa unveils these ground-breaking prefabricated 2-hour fire rated stores, it indicates not just a product launch but our commitment to pioneering the flammable liquid storage industry by setting new standards in safety, compliance, and innovation. Stay tuned for a safer, more secure future as we continue to redefine the landscape of hazardous material storage in South Africa and beyond.

 

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The Crucial Role of Drum Management and Safe Handling Procedures

The Crucial Role of Drum Management and Safe Handling Procedures 

The proper management of drums containing hazardous materials and liquids is paramount to safeguarding both employees and the environment. From storage to transportation, every step in drum management process requires strict adherence to safety protocols and OHSA requirements to prevent spills, injuries or environmental damage. In this article, we will explore the importance of safe handling and management procedures when using drums in the workplace. We will focus on the critical need for proactive safety measures and products that can also streamline productivity in industrial settings. 

Understanding the Risks: 

Industrial drums often house flammable or hazardous materials that pose potential risks to both employees and the environment if not managed with care. This makes their safe handling a top priority. Before implementing effective safety measures, it is important to understand the nature of the materials in the drum first. Once the required handling regulations of the materials are known, a proactive safety plan can be developed and implemented. 

Storage Solutions for Safety: 

Proper storage is a key element of drum management. Using storage solutions that were specifically designed to store hazardous materials, like spill pallets, can be the difference between a secure workplace and a potential disaster waiting to happen. Spill Doctor’s drum management spill pallets, for example, are crafted from medium-density polyethylene, ensuring durability and chemical resistance. These spill pallets are designed to hold drums horizontally above a 400 litre sump, providing a secure containment area in case of spills. 

Additionally, the stackable add-ons for these spill pallets allow for increased storage capacity without compromising safety. These are innovative solutions to maximize space while maintaining a commitment to safety. 

Safe Transportation with Drum Caddies: 

It is important to transport drums safely within a facility using specialized equipment, however, many companies ask staff to manually move drums, which exposes them to the risk or injury or exposure to the liquids stored. A full drum can often weigh around 220kg which means alternative transportation options are imperative. Spill Doctor’s drum caddy is equipped with wheels and a 230-litre sump. This spill pallet offers a secure means of moving drums, even when fully loaded. Drum caddies not only ensure the safety of personnel but also prevents spills during transit, contributing to a safer work environment. 

Controlled Decanting with Drum Funnels: 

Transferring materials from drums introduces the risk of spills. Using polyethylene drum funnels allows for safe handling and addresses this concern. Spill Doctor offers a specially crafted drum funnel, fitted with a debris strainer and spill-free design. This funnel facilitates controlled decanting, minimizing the risk of spills and promoting a safer working environment. 

Implementing Safe Handling Procedures: 

Creating a safer working environment goes beyond using specialized equipment; it is crucial to establish and enforce a comprehensive safe handling procedure to ensure the utmost protection of staff and people working with hazardous materials. This includes proper training for employees who are involved in the drum management process, regular inspections of equipment and storage practices, and clear communication and practice of emergency response protocols. Implementing all these procedures will ensure that every step of the drum management process is conducted with the highest regard for safety. 

In conclusion, the safe handling of industrial drums is a multifaceted endeavour that demands attention to detail and a commitment to safety. Spill Doctor South Africa’s range of products, including spill pallets, drum caddies, and drum funnels, provides comprehensive solutions to enhance workplace safety. By integrating these products into your drum management protocols, you not only minimize risks but also contribute to a productive and secure working environment. Prioritizing safety is not just a responsibility; it’s an investment in the well-being of your personnel and the sustainability of your operations. 

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Best Practices for Flammable Liquid Storage Safety

Best Practices for Flammable Liquid Storage Safety: A Comprehensive Guide

Flammable liquids pose inherent risks in various industrial settings, making proper storage crucial for workplace safety. This article will look at best practices regarding flammable liquid storage and will emphasize the significance of compliance of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) in South Africa. In particular, we will discuss the contributions of flammable cabinets and corrosive cabinets to reducing such hazards.

What are Flammable Liquids?

Flammable liquids are substances that can easily ignite and burn before reaching their boiling point. These liquids have lower flash points, which are defined as the lowest temperature at which they can vaporize and form a combustible mixture with air. When such a mixture gets in touch with open flames, sparks, or other igniters, it can result in fire.

Some common examples of flammable liquids include:

Gasoline: Used as a fuel widely for internal combustion motors.

Diesel fuel: Another common fuel for diesel engines

Alcohols: Examples of flammable alcohols include ethanol and methanol.

Kerosene: It is utilized as a fuel for heating and making lamps.

Acetone: The solvent is very common in nail polish remover and paint thinner.

Ether: A laboratory solvent is a volatile one.

Petroleum-based solvents: For instance, xylene, toluene, and mineral spirits.

Some paints and varnishes: Particularly those containing volatile solvents.

Adhering to OHSA Regulations

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) outlines the entire framework for workplace safety and also includes requirements for the safe storage of dangerous chemicals and liquids. Adherence to these requirements minimizes risk and prevents legal actions as a result of harmful fires or exposure to hazardous materials.

Storage Containers and Cabinets for Flammable Liquids

Flammable Cabinets

Safety cabinets, fire cabinets, or flammable cabinets are special cabinets intended for keeping flammable liquids in safe conditions. These engineered cabinets are designed to reduce the occurrence of fire and also shield contents against outside ignition. They help keep the workplace safe by keeping hazardous materials locked up and under control.

For more information on how to choose the right flammable cabinets, read our latest SHEQ feature article: Click Here

Corrosive Cabinets

A corrosive cabinet, sometimes referred to as an acid cabinet, is a specially constructed storage structure designed to protect corrosive solvents like acids and alkalines. Such cabinets are made from corrosion resistant materials and have features that shield the stored chemicals and the environment.

Why Should Flammable Cabinets Be Well Ventilated?

It is important for flammable cabinets to be well ventilated in order to ensure workplace safety. Flammable liquids release vapours which can create an explosive atmosphere within the cabinet. Proper ventilation of flammable cabinets is essential for ensuring workplace safety by addressing the inherent risks associated with the storage of flammable liquids. Apart from reducing the possibility of fire, efficient ventilation improves on emergency response, increases total employee safety as well as adheres to legal requirements. Ventilation forms an important part of the comprehensive safety measures in places where flammable cabinets are used, promoting a healthier and safer working environment for all personnel involved.

Why is it Important to Separate Flammable Liquids?

Separating flammable liquids away from incompatible materials is one of the key safety measures. Flammable Cabinets aid this process by providing a segregated area to store flammable liquids. In addition, corrosive cabinets help in the promotion of safe storage practices by separating corrosive materials and avoiding any unwanted chemical combinations that may lead to unfortunate circumstances.

Why Should Flammable Cabinets Be Grounded?

Grounding flammable cabinets is a critical safety measure that helps prevent the buildup of static electricity, reducing the risk of sparks that could potentially ignite flammable vapours. Flammable liquids stored in cabinets can generate static electricity through processes like pouring or transferring the liquids, especially when the containers are not properly bonded to the cabinet. Flammable cabinets are often designed with grounding mechanisms to dissipate static charges, reducing the likelihood of sparks that could ignite volatile substances.

Labeling, Signage, and Documentation

Cabinets storing flammable and corrosive products should have legible labels that specify their contents. Appropriate signage for storage areas helps guide employees and emergency responders. This is according to what is demanded by OHSA, and it makes sure that there is an open book record of all safe storage practices followed.

Emergency Preparedness

In case of fire or chemical spills, the flammable cabinets are able to hold and reduce the negative effects of such incidents. The employees should be trained on emergency response procedures, which involves the use of appropriate safety equipment during rescue efforts.

Conclusion

Adhering to best practices for flammable liquid storage is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental aspect of ensuring workplace safety. Flammable and corrosive cabinets provide an easy way of storing flammable and hazardous materials in compliance with OHSA standards in South Africa. Investing in quality storage solutions enhances employee safety and meets regulatory standards.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on flammable liquid storage safety and compliance with the OHSA, refer to the official Occupational Health and Safety Act documentation available here. Additionally, Spill Doctor South Africa offers a range of high-quality flammable and corrosive cabinets designed to meet regulatory standards and enhance workplace safety. Visit our online store for product details and specifications.

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Proactive Safety Measures to Create a Safe Working Environment

Workplace safety is a top priority for any responsible employer. Ensuring the well-being of your staff and protecting the environment go hand in hand. Proactive safety measures not only protect employees but also reduce the risk of accidents and minimize environmental impact. In this article, we will explore three essential products that can significantly improve workplace safety when handling flammable liquids: flammable cabinets, safety cans, and drum funnels. 

Why Proactive Safety Measures Are Important for Creating a Safe Working Environment: 

Preventing Accidents: 

Proactive safety measures are essential to prevent workplace accidents. Flammable liquids can pose severe risks, from fires and explosions to chemical exposure. By implementing safety measures, employers reduce the likelihood of these accidents, protecting both their employees and their property. 

Environmental Protection: 

Safe storage and handling of flammable liquids not only safeguard employees but also protect the environment. Spills and leaks can contaminate soil and water sources, leading to long-term ecological damage. Employers have a responsibility to minimize their environmental footprint by implementing these safety measures. 

Flammable Cabinets: 

What Are Flammable Cabinets? 

Flammable cabinets are specially designed storage units that provide a safe and secure environment for storing flammable and combustible liquids. They are built with fire-resistant materials to contain and suppress fires, should they occur. 

 How Do Flammable Cabinets Work? 

Flammable cabinets work by isolating flammable materials from potential ignition sources, such as open flames or electrical equipment. In the event of a fire, they help to limit the spread and intensity of the blaze, giving employees more time to evacuate safely. 

 How to Choose the Correct Flammable Cabinet: 

When selecting a flammable cabinet, consider the following factors: 

  • Capacity: Choose a cabinet that can accommodate your specific storage needs. 
  • Material: Cabinets are available in metal or polyethylene. Select the material best suited for your environment. 
  • Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation for hazardous fumes and vapours. 
  • Compliance: Make sure the cabinet meets relevant safety regulations and codes. 

Safety Cans: 

What Are Safety Cans? 

Safety cans are containers designed to safely store and transport flammable liquids. They feature several safety mechanisms, including flame arrestors and self-closing lids. 

 How to Select the Right Safety Can: 

To choose the right safety cans for your workplace, follow these steps: 

  • Identify the type of liquid you’ll be storing. 
  • Ensure the can meets safety standards and regulations. 
  • Check for features like flame arrestors, self-closing lids, and spill prevention mechanisms. 
  • Consider the can’s capacity and material to match your needs. 

Drum Funnels: 

What Are Drum Funnels? 

Drum funnels are essential for safely transferring flammable liquids from containers like safety cans into larger storage drums. They prevent spills and contamination, ensuring safe and efficient liquid transfer. 

Different Kinds of Drum Funnels: 

There are various types of drum funnels, including filter funnels, safety drum funnels, and overfill prevention funnels. Choose the one that best suits your specific needs. 

 How to Select the Correct One: 

When selecting a drum funnel, consider the following: 

  • Compatibility with your safety cans and drums. 
  • Flow rate and spill prevention features. 
  • Material and construction quality. 

 At Spill Doctor, we are dedicated to providing businesses with top-notch solutions for workplace safety. We offer a wide range of flammable cabinets, safety cans, and drum funnels to suit various industrial needs. Our products adhere to strict safety standards and are designed to minimize the risk associated with handling flammable liquids. We are committed to assisting employers in creating safer and more eco-friendly work environments. 

 Ensuring workplace safety is not just about protecting your employees; it’s also about safeguarding the environment. Flammable cabinets, safety cans, and drum funnels are vital tools in achieving this goal. By understanding how these products work and selecting the right ones for your needs, you can take significant steps towards creating a safer workplace for your employees and a more responsible approach to environmental conservation.