Beyond simply housing hazardous products, today’s chemical storage solutions are about smart management, risk reduction, and sustainability. Innovations such as automated monitoring and integrated ventilation are increasingly common, but as new chemicals are introduced and the list of handling and storage regulations evolves, the need for specialised storage solutions is on the up.
Here, we take a look at some of the current trends and innovative technologies shaping chemical storage and handling. Working to adopt these improvements in your chemical storage not only minimises hazards, both for personnel and the environment, but can also help to position your company for growth. Below are some of the key developments to watch:
Legislation
Around the world, regulations on hazardous chemical use, handling and storage are continually being updated. The 2025 revision of the EU’s REACH legislation, for example, is set to introduce stricter chemical regulations, including PFAS restrictions whereby the EU will move towards a complete ban on PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in consumer products.
Since leaving the European Union, much of the UK’s chemicals legislation has been transposed directly from the EU, however the UK is planning to deviate in various ways. With regard to PFAS, for instance, the UK plans to use targeted restrictions and authorisations for PFAS substances or groups, rather than a universal restriction.
As always, it is essential to follow the regulations that apply in your country, but it is also a good idea to stay abreast of global trends; companies that comply with forthcoming legislation before they are mandated can reduce long-term costs and mitigate the risk of non-compliance.
Automation and Robotics
When handling or storing hazardous chemicals, the primary goal is to reduce risk to humans and the environment so it’s little surprise that the use of automation is increasing in this field. Robotics enable organisations to handle dangerous chemicals with minimal human involvement, helping to automate tasks which might otherwise pose a risk to the people involved.
The use of robotic systems, in concert with sophisticated sensors, make it possible to automate a variety of activities involved in transporting and storing chemicals. From auto pallet handlers and order picking in large warehouses to stock rotation and precision chemical dispensing on-site, the use of robotics can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents or spills that could pose a severe risk to workers. Furthermore, these automated chemical handling systems can be programmed to adhere precisely to industry guidelines and regulations, improving safety and reducing human error.
Smart Sensors and Monitoring
Beyond physical handling, automation can also be used to improve the safety of chemical storage. Automated monitoring systems continuously assess storage conditions to detect changes or abnormalities, using sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, and movement. Any deviations will trigger an alarm, immediately alerting staff when environmental conditions exceed certain limits.
This technology is ideal for remote site monitoring, but can also be used in cabinet and on-site stores to improve personnel safety and enable rapid response in an emergency. Where leaks, spills or fires are detected, prompt communication not only protects your workforce, but also minimizes the potential for environmental contamination.
Finally, with the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, hazardous material storage is getting even smarter. Constant feedback on storage conditions can be used to adjust heating, ventilation or air conditioning in real-time, automatically ensuring storage conditions remain within optimal parameters.
To create this kind of smart storage facility, a specialist such as Safety Storage Systems can help you design a custom storage solution. This could include frost and fire protection or accommodate specific temperature control demands, for example, as well as organising a full electrical fit out to meet the needs of any automated extraction or ventilation equipment.
End-to-End Data
With access to more data and ever greater levels of detail, one trend set to develop further is end-to-end data collection. Thanks to IoT sensors and embedded RFID tags, it is now possible to record location and condition data for hazardous chemicals for the duration of their transport and storage.
By employing machine learning and predictive analysis, companies can forecast potential safety risks based on past incidents and operational data, working proactively to reduce risk and improve incident reporting.
Sustainability
Lastly, smart sensors and reactive storage can also reduce waste and improve the sustainability of your organisation. By ensuring materials are stored under optimal conditions, and by automatically organising chemical stock rotation, it is possible to ensure that chemicals do not degrade in storage or exceed their expiry date. Limiting waste in this way through chemical inventory management is environmentally responsible and supports both legal compliance and sustainability.
With its emphasis on preventing leaks and spills, smart chemical storage helps reduce your organisation’s impact on the environment. But to ensure your business operates sustainably, it is also important to consider how the environment could impact your business.
According to the US Government Accountability Office (GAO), about 31% of hazardous chemical facilities in the United States are at risk from climate-driven natural hazards, such as: flooding, storm surge, wildfires, and sea level rise. Although the UK does not experience the same level of weather disruption, extreme weather events are on the rise, so investing in appropriate, bunded chemical storage is an essential element of ensuring your company’s sustainability in the future.
Innovative Customisation
For a custom chemical storage solution that integrates the latest trends and innovative technologies, contact Safety Storage Systems. Our team of chemical storage experts are always happy to take on new projects to help you design safe, sustainable solutions, ensuring you can take advantage of the most advanced monitoring and chemical handling processes available.
Get in touch with one of our experts to learn more.