How to Handle Site Security Boxes Safely

Safety around a work site should be one of the primary goals of a job. For any project that takes you outside the controlled environment of your office or workplace, dangers are more likely.  Accidents often happen when you are moving heavy or sensitive materials. You may be tempted or pressured to get the job done quickly but safety should never be sacrificed for speed. If you do have sensitive or valuable materials that you need to keep in a site security box, what is the safest way to move and handle these containers?  That depends on what materials are inside and how big the container is.

Hazardous material safety

Hazardous materials should be in a class of their own. When storing these kinds of substance on a work site, it is good to have the proper container to keep them safe. For instance, Armorgard Flambank Fire COSHH is properly marked with caution signs and has a trough beneath to collect any spills that may occur. Depending on the substance, there are often distinct safety precautions that come with certain materials and they should be considered first. However, there are some general guidelines to follow when handling any potential dangerous material:

• Don’t rush. Put aside the fast pace of the job and give the task of handling hazardous materials the caution it deserves.
• Use the proper protection when you are loading and unloading any container. Whether they’re gloves or a full suit it is always better to be safe than sorry. It may even be beneficial to use gloves while moving the closed container just in case something was spilled while loading it.
• Pay attention to labels and make sure you follow the instructions. For example, if an item needs to be stored at room temperature you can’t keep it outdoors during the summer.
• You should never eat or drink around hazardous substances.
• Clean up spills immediately and safely and don’t let any substance touch your skin. Dispose of any waste according to safe disposal practices.
• If a substance touches your skin or gets in your eyes or mouth, wash it out and seek help. Call a poison hotline or emergency services when in doubt.

Ask for help

Hazardous materials are not the only potentially danger around a worksite, especially while moving materials. If you have large containers to move, don’t attempt to handle them on your own. For instance, if you have filled an Armorgard TRANSBANK-chem TRB4C Portable Chemical Box with heavy materials it may be necessary to have two people grab the handles on either side. Trying to lift something that is too heavy on your own not only increases your likelihood of injury through over-exertion but it also increases the likelihood of you dropping the container or falling.

If you are not confident in your ability to lift something with sheer man power, don’t hesitate to use the proper equipment like a fork lift or other lifting and moving aids.