How to Store Diethylene Glycol Safely

How to safely store diethylene glycol: a comprehensive analysis and practical recommendations

In the chemical industry, diethylene glycol (Diethylene Glycol, DEG) is an important chemical raw material, widely used in coatings, plastics, synthetic fibers and other fields. Due to the toxicity and flammability of diethylene glycol, how to store it safely has become a crucial part of the production and storage process. This article will discuss in depth how to safely store diethylene glycol to ensure the safety of operators and the environment.

1. Understanding Diethylene Glycol's Dangers

Before discussing how to safely store diethylene glycol, it is important to understand its dangers. Diethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless, tasteless liquid, but it has a certain toxicity, especially in the case of ingestion or long-term exposure. It can cause damage to the nervous system, liver and kidneys. In addition, the vapor of diethylene glycol may irritate the eyes and respiratory tract, so proper storage can reduce these potential health hazards.

2. Storage environment selection and requirements

When storing diethylene glycol, it is important to choose the right storage environment. The storage place should be away from fire and high temperature environment, because diethylene glycol is flammable. The ideal storage temperature range is room temperature to 30°C, avoid too high or too low temperature. The storage area should have a good ventilation system to remove harmful gases in time in case of leakage or evaporation.

3. Storage container selection

How to safely store diethylene glycol also needs to consider the choice of storage container. Diethylene glycol should be stored in corrosion-resistant, well-sealed containers, such as plastic drums or metal cans. The storage container shall be marked with the word "Diethylene Glycol" and a warning of danger. The container should be checked regularly to ensure that there is no leakage or damage to avoid accidents.

4. Storage area identification and isolation

In order to ensure the safety of the storage of diethylene glycol, the storage area needs to be clearly marked to warn all personnel of the presence of dangerous chemicals in the area. The storage area shall be provided with fire prevention, leakage prevention and other isolation facilities. For example, firewalls and fire alarm systems can be set up around the storage area, and the storage area can be equipped with fire extinguishers and other equipment to deal with accidents in time.

5. Safety operation procedure formulation and training

In addition to storage conditions, how to safely store diethylene glycol also includes the management and training of operators. Detailed safety procedures should be established, including how to properly handle, transfer and fill diethylene glycol to avoid spills or leaks. All staff exposed to diethylene glycol should undergo specific safety training to understand its hazards and emergency response measures.

6. Emergency response and spill handling

Even with all safety measures in place, diethylene glycol leaks can still occur, so it is important to have a sound emergency response plan in place. The storage area shall be equipped with spill treatment facilities such as absorbents, cleaning tools, etc. In the event of a leak, measures should be taken in a timely manner, such as closing the source of the leak, using absorbent materials to clean up the leak, and notifying the relevant departments for treatment. Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as protective gloves, goggles, etc.

7. Regular inspection and maintenance

How to safely store diethylene glycol is not just a one-time measure, regular inspection and maintenance are equally important. Regularly check the integrity of storage equipment and containers to ensure that there is no damage or aging. The fire protection facilities and leakage treatment facilities in the storage area should also be inspected regularly to ensure their effectiveness and availability. Through regular maintenance, can effectively prevent the occurrence of security risks.

Conclusion

How to safely store diethylene glycol is an important part of chemical enterprises. By understanding the danger of diethylene glycol, selecting the appropriate storage environment and containers, formulating safety operation procedures, and making emergency response and regular inspection, the safety accidents that may occur during storage can be greatly reduced. Only by strictly implementing these safety storage measures can we ensure the safety of operators, prevent environmental pollution, and ensure the normal operation of enterprises.