Oxidising Agents – An Overview

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What are Oxidising Agents?

Simply put, oxidizing agents are substances that have the ability to oxidise other substances.

For an overview of hazardous substances read our editorial here.

What are the differences between Oxidising Agents and Organic Peroxides?

Where an oxidising agent is a substance that has the ability to oxidise other substances, an organic peroxide – while still an oxidising agent – doesn’t present the same risks. An oxidising agent is non-combustible and provides the oxygen needed to sustain combustion, whereas an organic peroxide can combust independently. While different, both are classified as hazardous and need to be handled and stored very carefully.

Where are Oxidising Agents most likely to be found?

Common oxidising agents are oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, sulfuric acid and potassium nitrate. These substances are used as bleaches, water purifiers, and fertilisers, to name a few.

What are the risks to people and the environment?

While not necessarily combustible in themselves, oxidising substances may react, cause, or contribute to the combustion of other material. The result will inevitably produce heat, gas and/or flames – which in turn can cause considerable damage to both people and the environment around. Further to that, exposure to oxidising agents, particularly without the appropriate PPE, can cause significant harm to a person through ingestion, inhalation or eye contact.

How do I store Oxidising Agents?

Oxidising agents need to be held so they are protected from the risks of heat, friction or contact with other incompatible substances. This can be achieved by segregating and storing them in dedicated storage areas, or within cabinets that are designed for the specific storage of oxidising agents.

Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinets are available in six sizes:

• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 30L | 41-0501
  
• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 60L | 41-0502
  
• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 100L | 41-0503
  
• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 160L | 41-0504
  
• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 250L | 41-0505
  
• Hazero Oxidising Agent Cabinet - 350L | 41-0506
  

Due to the risks to people working with or around these substances, it is hugely beneficial to have safety shower and eye-wash equipment in close proximity.

What are the design requirements for cabinets?

Indoor storage cabinets that are specifically for the storage of oxidising agents, need to be built to the specifications as set out in the Australian Standard AS4326-2008 (The storage and handling of oxidising agents), which also applies to New Zealand.

Incompatible substance

Due to their volatility, oxidising agents are suitable for storage with few other substances. Please consult the Hazero segregation chart for specific details.

The Hazero Shield of Honour

The Hazero Shield of Honour is more powerful than a “lifetime guarantee”. It means our reputation is on the line not only when a product is sold, but every single time it is used. If the product doesn’t meet your expectations over the next 99 years, we or our descendants (we’re a multi-generational company), will refund, replace, or repair it. Free of charge. You don’t need a receipt. Or even a reason. No questions asked. Naturally, that’s so long as you use your Hazero product as intended and in accordance with existing legislation. Shield your people. Shield your business.

Creating safer working environments

At Hazero our mission is zero hazards. Our extensive range of quality products will help you store, contain and control and clean-up dangerous goods and hazardous substances.

View our full range of Hazero Oxidising Agents Cabinets here.

Need help creating a safer working environment? Contact our team today on 0800 688 844 or email us at help@hazero.co.nz. Our team are also available for on-site assessments across New Zealand, click here to request a site visit.

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