A well-designed and well-maintained chemical storage facility protects people from exposure, reduces the chances of environmental contamination, prevents damage to chemicals from temperature extremes and excess moisture, safeguards chemicals, and reduces the likelihood of liability. Proper handling and storage of pesticides and petroleum-based products are important to reduce risk of serious injury or death of an operator or bystander. Fires or environmental contamination may result in large fines, cleanup costs, and civil lawsuits if these chemicals are not managed properly. Pesticide-specific requirements and BMPs are provided in the “Pesticide Management” section.
Best Management Practices
- Storage buildings should have appropriate warning signs and placards.
- Develop an emergency response plan and educate all golf course personnel regarding emergency procedures on a regular basis.
- Individuals conducting emergency chemical cleanups should be properly trained under requirements of federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
- Locate pesticide storage away from other buildings, especially fertilizer storage facilities.
- Floors of chemical storage buildings should be impervious and sealed with chemical-resistant paint.
- Floors of chemical storage buildings should have a continuous sill to contain spills and should not have a drain. A sump is acceptable.
- Shelving should be fabricated from plastic or reinforced metal. Metal shelving should be painted to avoid corrosion. Wood shelving should never be used because of its ability to absorb spilled pesticides.
- Automatic exhaust fans and an emergency wash area should be provided
- Locate fan and light switches outside the entrance to the building to facilitate ventilation of building before entrance of staff.
- Store chemicals in original containers. Never store them in containers that might be mistaken as packaging for food or drink.
- Arrange containers so the labels are clearly visible. Securely fasten loose labels to ensure containers and associated labels are kept together.
- Damaged labels should be replaced immediately.
- Store flammable chemicals separate from those that are non-flammable.
- Store liquid materials below dry materials to prevent any leaks from contaminating dry products.
- Ensure that oil containers and small fuel containers (service containers) are properly labeled and stored within the facility.
- Ensure that all containers are sealed, secured, and properly labeled. Use only regulatory agency-approved, licensed contractors for disposal.
