Organic Peroxide – An Overview

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What are Organic Peroxides?

Organic Peroxide is an organic compound, with two oxygen compounds joined together.

For an overview of hazardous substances read our editorial here.

What are the differences between Organic Peroxides and Oxidising Agents?

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 Organic Peroxides most likely to be found?

Organic peroxides are useful as initiators for some types of polymerisation, such as epoxy resins used in glass-reinforced plastics. MEKP and benzoyl peroxide are commonly used for this purpose. 

What are the risks to people and the environment?

Due to their unstable nature, organic peroxides are sensitive to heat and in situations of high temperatures and inadequate separation from other incompatible substances, these can combust and create significant fires. This brings about the associated risks to people from burns and suffocation, but it is important to note, even without a fire, organic peroxides can be very damaging to your eyes, skin and mucous membranes.

How do I store Organic Peroxides?

Organic peroxides 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 organic peroxides.

Chemshed Organic Peroxide cabinets are available in three sizes:

• Chemshed Organic Peroxide Cabinet - 30L | 04-1300
• Chemshed Organic Peroxide Cabinet - 100L | 04-1301
• Chemshed Organic Peroxide Cabinet - 160L | 04-1302

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 Organic Peroxides, need to be built to the specifications as set out in the Australian Standard AS2714-2008 (The storage and handling of organic peroxides), which also applies to New Zealand.

Incompatible substances

Due to their volatility, Organic Peroxides are suitable for storage with few other substances.

Please consult the Hazero segregation chart for specific details.

Chemshed 20-Year Warranty

Storing dangerous goods is a demanding task but the strength and reliability of Chemshed cabinets, mean they are right up to it. To prove our confidence in them, they are backed up with a 20-year Warranty, which will give you the peace of mind that you are purchasing a solution that rises to the storage challenge, like none other. Find out more here.

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 Chemshed Organic Peroxide Cabinets here.

Need help creating a safer working environment? Contact our team today on 0800 688 844 or email us at info@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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