Chemical Segregation: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Chemical segregation is the separation of incompatible substances such as acids, bases, flammables, and oxidisers, to prevent dangerous reactions, fires, and spills in labs, warehouses, and workplaces.

Risks of Poor Segregation

• Reactive hazards: Mixing oxidisers and organics or acids and bases can create heat, flames, toxic gases, or even explosions.
  
  
• Environmental spill risks: Chemical releases can contaminate drains and soil.
  
  
• Regulatory breaches: In Australia, the ADG Code and AS 4452 mandate strict segregation of hazardous substances.
  
  

Australian Standards & Regulations

• AS 4452:1997 (Storage and Handling of Toxic Substances) outlines the requirements for the safe storage and handling of toxic substances classified as Class 6.1 under the Australian Dangerous Goods (ADG) Code. It includes specifications such as the use of metal cabinets for storing highly toxic chemicals like cyanides and phenols.
  
  
• ADG Code (Australian Dangerous Goods Code): Establishes the rules and guidelines for the classification, packaging, labelling, and transport of dangerous goods by road and rail in Australia.
  
  
• Labeling and signage: Clear signage is required for effective chemical segregation in Australian workplaces. It ensures legal compliance, enhances safety, and supports emergency response. Safety signs such as "Chemical Storage Area" reduces misidentification.
  
  

Practical Strategies for Segregation

Best Practice Implementation Tips

1. Assess chemical inventory: Map quantities, hazard classes, incompatibilities.
   
   
2. Label everything clearly: For example, “Toxic”, “Flammable”, “Corrosive”.
   
   
3. Select proper storage equipment: Such as SAYKA’s Stortekt cabinets, matching class & volume.
   
   
4. Use bunding mechanisms: Spillfixr bunded pallets help contain leaks.
   
   
5. Equip spill kits: Place near storage zones based on hazard type.
   
   
6. Regular training & audits: Staff must be competent in segregation, storage, and response.
   
   

Discover Stortekt & Spillfixr By SAYKA  

• Stortekt 250L Toxic Substance Cabinet
  Meets AS 4452 with double-wall steel, self‑closing doors, vents and spill sump ideal for arsenic, cyanide, phenol, trichloroethylene.
  
  
• Spillfixr 80L Carry Bag Spill Kit
  Portable, comprehensive kit with absorbents, gloves, disposal bags crucial for emergency response.
  
  
• Spillfixr Bunded Pallets
  Designed for drum storage this 2‑drum pallet with 150L sump and 600kg safe load is essential for secondary containment.

Why Segregation Is Worth It

• Reduced incident rates: Lower chance of dangerous chemical mixing or spills.
  
  
• Legal compliance: Avoid hefty fines, work-safe enforcement, and environmental liabilities.
  
  
• Protect your team & environment: Limits exposure and mitigates contamination risks.
  
  
• Operational efficiency: Clearly designated areas speed up workflows and inspections.
  
  

Effective chemical segregation goes beyond compliance - it’s foundational to a safe and efficient workplace. 

By investing in proper cabinets, like SAYKA’s Stortekt range, and also bunded pallets, spill kits, clear signage, and staff training, you can significantly reduce hazards and foster a culture of safety.

Need Help With A Segregation Plan?

Need help selecting the right cabinet or creating a segregation plan for your site? We can walk you through options and help ensure you stay safe and compliant. Contact us today.