How should incompatible chemicals be stored to prevent dangerous reactions?

How should incompatible chemicals be stored to prevent dangerous reactions?

• A. Store only compatible substances together; segregate acids from bases and oxidizers from organics; use secondary containment and clear labeling.
• B. Do not segregate; store according to convenience.
• C. Keep acids and bases together on the same shelf.
• D. Mix oxidizers with organics to simplify storage.

Answer: (A)

Preventing dangerous reactions starts with storing chemicals in a way that keeps incompatible substances apart and clearly identified. Only compatible substances should share storage space, with acids kept separate from bases to avoid exothermic neutralization and gas evolution, and oxidizers kept away from organics to prevent rapid, uncontrolled ignition. Using secondary containment helps catch leaks or spills before they spread, and clear labeling ensures everyone handling the chemicals knows the hazards and the proper precautions. Storing by convenience or mixing acids with bases or oxidizers with organics creates opportunities for dangerous reactions, fires, or releases of toxic gases.

Preventing dangerous reactions starts with storing chemicals in a way that keeps incompatible substances apart and clearly identified. Only compatible substances should share storage space, with acids kept separate from bases to avoid exothermic neutralization and gas evolution, and oxidizers kept away from organics to prevent rapid, uncontrolled ignition. Using secondary containment helps catch leaks or spills before they spread, and clear labeling ensures everyone handling the chemicals knows the hazards and the proper precautions. Storing by convenience or mixing acids with bases or oxidizers with organics creates opportunities for dangerous reactions, fires, or releases of toxic gases.