The Complete Guide to Storing Cleaning Chemicals Safely in the Workplace
Storing your cleaning chemicals safely and securely in the workplace isn’t just good practice; it’s required by law. Even the most routine cleaning products can become dangerous if they’re not handled or stored properly.
Whether you use them daily or they are stored for periodic use only, these cleaning substances require attention when it comes to where and how they’re kept. Poor storage can lead to accidents, injuries, or even regulatory breaches under workplace safety laws like COSHH.
In this blog, we will break down what safe, proper storage looks like, including essential storage rules, legal requirements, and clear steps to help you stay compliant.
Why Proper Storage of Cleaning Chemicals Is Crucial
Improperly stored chemicals can cause more than just a mess. Spills, toxic fumes, and the accidental mixing of incompatible chemicals can lead to serious incidents, including burns, breathing issues, and even fires in some cases.
According to the HSE, hazardous substances are one of the major contributors to workplace injuries and ill-health across the entire UK. Exposure doesn’t need to be prolonged to be damaging; repeated contact with poorly stored chemicals can result in long-term health issues.
There’s also a financial risk when it comes to improper storage; your business could be at risk of:Â
- Insurance claims
- Regulatory fines
- Reputational damage
Whether it’s a locked cabinet or a purpose-built chemical store room, creating a safe system protects not just your team, but your business too.
Legal Responsibilities: What the Law Requires
Storing your cleaning chemicals safely is a legal duty under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations). If you use hazardous cleaning products within your workplace, by law, you are expected to:
- Carry out risk assessments for all hazardous substances
- Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for every chemical and make sure they are easily accessible to staff
- Train your employees on the safe handling, storage, and emergency procedures
- Use proper signage in storage and cleaning areas
- Store chemicals securely, ensuring they are kept in well-ventilated, clearly labelled, and compatible containers
- Prevent leaks, spills or reactions by keeping incompatible substances stored away from each other
Failure to comply with these responsibilities can lead to fines, enforcement action, or harm to your team. Following the rules isn’t just about compliance; it’s about keeping people safe.
Where and How to Store Cleaning Chemicals Safely
Here are a few key rules that you must follow to ensure your chemicals are stored properly:
- Always keep chemicals in their original containers with intact labels
- Choose a safe storage spot that is away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Separate incompatible substances (like acids and bleaches) to prevent the potential for dangerous reactions
- Never store chemicals near food, break rooms, or public spaces
- Use lockable cabinets to prevent accidental access or misuse
- Label your shelves and storage units clearly, especially for flammable or hazardous items
Having a clear system in place will reduce the risks associated with improper storage and keep everyone in your workplace safe.
Best Practices for Day-to-Day
Chemical Handling and Storage
Keep Track of What You’re Storing
Have a clear, up-to-date inventory of cleaning chemicals to help you stay organised and to help monitor the usage of each product.
Dispose of Containers Safely
Empty or leaking containers should be disposed of correctly; you should never reuse, refill, or leave them unattended.
Use PPE and Provide Ongoing Training
You must ensure that all staff wear the right protective clothing whenever they are handling chemicals and that they are provided with the proper training procedures for each cleaning chemical. Refresher training could also be useful.
Carry Out Regular Safety Checks
Weekly or monthly inspections of your storage areas and equipment are critical in ensuring that small issues don’t turn into serious risks.
Be Ready for Spills
Spills happen, so spill kits and emergency gear should be easily accessible for all staff members. All staff should be trained on where these items are stored and how they should use them properly.
Link to Your Health and Safety Policy
All handling and storage routines should connect perfectly with your wider health and safety policy and should constantly be under review.
Training and Communication in the Workplace
Ultimately, the safe storage of cleaning chemicals relies on more than just the cupboards they’re stored in; it relies on your staff knowing what to do and why it matters. All staff should be trained not only when they first join, but also through regular refresher sessions to keep health and safety protocols at the top of their mind.
You should make sure that everyone knows how to access and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDS), as these provide crucial information on how to handle and store each individual chemical. Visual reminders like signage, wall charts, and checklists can help to reinforce your key safety messages day to day.
The more confident and informed your team is, the more likely they are to act responsibly, helping prevent accidents before they happen.
Safe Storage Starts With the Right Systems
From clear labelling to secure storage and confident handling, the right approach to chemical storage will help prevent accidents before they happen.
It’s about creating a workplace that’s not only compliant, but truly safe, every single day.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best place to store cleaning chemicals?
The best place to store cleaning chemicals is in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area that is secure and clearly labelled. Ideally, use a dedicated chemical storage cabinet made from non-reactive materials and fitted with lockable doors to prevent unauthorised access.
Keep chemicals away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and food preparation areas to reduce the risk of reactions or contamination. Always store them at eye or waist level where possible, never above head height, to minimise the chance of spills and accidents.
What cleaning chemicals cannot be stored together?
Certain cleaning chemicals should never be stored together because they can produce dangerous reactions if mixed, even accidentally:
- Bleach and ammonia – Creates toxic chloramine vapours.
- Bleach and acids (e.g., vinegar, toilet cleaner) – Releases chlorine gas.
- Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar – Forms peracetic acid, a strong irritant.
- Different drain cleaners – Mixing acid and alkali-based products can cause violent reactions.
To prevent cross-contamination, always store chemicals in their original containers, keep incompatible substances on separate shelves or in separate locked cabinets, and follow the safety guidance on each product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
What are the five rules of chemical safety?
The five golden rules of chemical safety in the workplace are:
- Read the label and SDS before use – Understand hazards, precautions, and correct handling.
- Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) – Gloves, goggles, masks, and aprons as recommended.
- Store chemicals correctly – Keep in secure, ventilated, and clearly labelled areas, away from incompatible substances.
- Handle with care – Avoid spills, splashes, and direct contact with skin or eyes.
- Dispose of chemicals safely – Follow local regulations and never pour hazardous chemicals down drains unless the SDS confirms it’s safe.
Following these rules helps prevent accidents, protect health, and ensure legal compliance in the workplace.
Power Hygiene Expert Insights Team
Power Hygiene has been a trusted name in commercial cleaning and hygiene supply for over 40 years, supporting organisations across the UK with reliable products, expert advice, and sustainable solutions.
Our Expert Insights Team brings together industry knowledge from across cleaning, procurement, and facilities management to share practical, real-world guidance that helps businesses maintain safer, cleaner, and more efficient environments.
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