Chemical Storage Sorter

Organize laboratory chemicals into safe storage groups based on chemical compatibility and hazard classification. Prevents dangerous reactions by identifying incompatible pairs and providing segregation guidelines compliant with OSHA, NFPA, and institutional safety standards.

Key Capabilities:

• - Automatic Chemical Classification: Categorize chemicals into hazard groups (acids, bases, oxidizers, flammables, toxics)
• Compatibility Checking: Identify incompatible chemical pairs that could react dangerously if stored together
• Storage Grouping: Automatically sort chemical inventories into safe storage arrangements
• Safety Warnings: Generate warnings for incompatible storage combinations and hazardous interactions
• Regulatory Compliance: Follow standard chemical segregation rules per OSHA and NFPA guidelines

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When to Use

✅ Use this skill when:

• - Setting up new laboratory storage systems and need to organize chemical inventory
• Preparing for EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) inspections or compliance audits
• Relocating or reorganizing an existing chemical storage area
• Inventorying chemicals and checking current storage arrangements for safety issues
• Onboarding new lab members and training them on chemical storage safety
• Investigating chemical incidents involving improper storage or reactions
• Creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) for chemical handling and storage

❌ Do NOT use when:

• - Dealing with unknown chemical compositions or unlabeled containers → Contact EHS for proper identification first
• Needing specific temperature requirements for storage → Use specialized temperature monitoring tools
• Handling radioactive materials or biohazards → Follow specialized protocols for these materials
• Seeking disposal instructions for chemicals → Use waste-disposal-guide for disposal procedures
• Requiring SDS (Safety Data Sheet) lookup → Use safety-data-sheet-reader for detailed chemical information
• Planning chemical inventory tracking → Use lab-inventory-tracker for quantity and location tracking

Related Skills:

• - 上游 (Upstream): safety-data-sheet-reader, INLINECODE4
• 下游 (Downstream): lab-inventory-tracker, INLINECODE6

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Integration with Other Skills

Upstream Skills:

• - safety-data-sheet-reader: Retrieve chemical properties and hazard classifications from SDS
• INLINECODE8: Identify chemical class from structure or name for accurate categorization

Downstream Skills:

• - lab-inventory-tracker: Record storage locations after chemicals are sorted and assigned
• INLINECODE10: Identify disposal requirements for incompatible chemicals that need to be removed
• INLINECODE11: Track safety cabinet inspections and maintenance

Complete Workflow:

Chemical Inventory → safety-data-sheet-reader → chemical-storage-sorter → lab-inventory-tracker → Safe Storage

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Core Capabilities

1. Chemical Classification by Hazard Group

Automatically classify chemicals into standard hazard categories based on chemical name, formula, or keywords.

CODEBLOCK1

Hazard Groups:

Group	Examples	Key Hazards	Storage Requirements
Acids	HCl, H₂SO₄, HNO₃, acetic acid	Corrosive, reactive	Acid cabinet, secondary containment
Bases

NaOH, KOH, ammonia, amines | Corrosive, caustic | Base cabinet, separate from acids |
| Oxidizers | H₂O₂, KMnO₄, nitrates, hypochlorites | Fire/explosion risk | Cool, dry, away from organics |
| Flammables | Ethanol, methanol, acetone, hexane | Fire hazard | Flammable storage cabinet |
| Toxics | Cyanides, mercury, arsenic compounds | Poison, bioaccumulation | Locked cabinet, limited access |
| General | NaCl, PBS, sucrose, glycerol | Low hazard | General storage |

Classification Keywords:

Group	Keywords Triggers
Acids	acid, hcl, sulfuric, nitric, acetic, citric, formic
Bases

hydroxide, naoh, koh, ammonia, amine, carbonate |
| Flammables | ethanol, methanol, acetone, ether, hexane, toluene, benzene |
| Oxidizers | peroxide, permanganate, hypochlorite, nitrate, chlorate, perchlorate |
| Toxics | cyanide, mercury, arsenic, lead, cadmium, thallium |

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Use full chemical names for most accurate classification
• ✅ Include concentration when relevant (e.g., "hydrogen peroxide 30%" vs "3%")
• ✅ Check ambiguous chemicals manually if classification seems incorrect
• ✅ Update keyword lists for lab-specific chemicals not in default database

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: Chemical not recognized

• - Symptom: Classified as "general" despite being hazardous
• Solution: Use more specific chemical name; add custom keywords for lab-specific compounds

Issue: Misclassification of similar names

• - Symptom: "Sodium acetate" classified as acid due to "acet" keyword
• Solution: Check classification results; manually override if needed

2. Compatibility Checking Between Chemicals

Determine if two chemicals can be safely stored together without risk of dangerous reactions.

CODEBLOCK2

Incompatibility Matrix:

Chemical Group	Incompatible With	Reaction Risk
Acids	Bases, oxidizers, cyanides, sulfides	Violent neutralization, toxic gas generation
Bases

Acids, oxidizers, halogenated compounds | Heat generation, decomposition |
| Oxidizers | Flammables, acids, bases, reducing agents | Fire, explosion, violent reactions |
| Flammables | Oxidizers, acids | Fire, combustion enhancement |
| Toxics | Acids, oxidizers | Toxic gas release, increased hazard |

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Check all new chemicals against existing storage before placement
• ✅ Use minimum 3-foot separation for incompatible groups
• ✅ Consider secondary containment for highly reactive pairs
• ✅ Document exceptions with engineering controls in place

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: False positive compatibility

• - Symptom: Tool says compatible but chemicals actually react
• Causes: Missing specific incompatibility not in general rules
• Solution: Always consult SDS for specific incompatibilities; use this as first check only

Issue: Ambiguous compatibility

• - Symptom: "Compatible with precautions" message for borderline cases
• Solution: Err on side of caution; store separately or consult EHS

3. Automated Storage Grouping

Sort an entire chemical inventory into safe storage groups based on hazard classifications.

CODEBLOCK3

Storage Group Output:
CODEBLOCK4

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Sort alphabetically within groups for easier location
• ✅ Include concentration in labels for diluted vs concentrated chemicals
• ✅ Group by frequency of use - most used chemicals most accessible
• ✅ Reserve general storage for the bulk of inventory (typically 60-70%)

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: Chemical fits multiple categories

• - Symptom: Chemical has multiple hazards (e.g., concentrated HNO₃ is both acid and oxidizer)
• Solution: Store in most restrictive group (oxidizer cabinet for this example); check all incompatibilities

Issue: Large inventory processing

• - Symptom: Hundreds of chemicals to sort
• Solution: Process in batches by lab area; export to spreadsheet for manual review

4. Storage Plan Generation with Safety Warnings

Generate a complete storage plan with specific warnings and segregation requirements.

CODEBLOCK5

Sample Output:
CODEBLOCK6

Storage Requirements by Group:

Group	Cabinet Type	Ventilation	Special Requirements
Acids	Acid cabinet	Fume hood access	Secondary containment, corrosion-resistant
Bases

Base cabinet | Standard | Keep separate from acids (minimum 3 feet) |
| Oxidizers | Standard/oxidizer | Cool, dry location | Away from ignition sources |
| Flammables | Flammable cabinet | Explosion-proof | Bonding/grounding for dispensing |
| Toxics | Locked cabinet | Standard | Access log, limited quantities |
| General | Standard shelving | Standard | Standard lab storage |

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Post plan visibly near storage areas
• ✅ Update when chemicals are added/removed
• ✅ Include emergency contact info on storage plan
• ✅ Review quarterly for accuracy

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: Insufficient storage space

• - Symptom: Multiple groups needing same cabinet type
• Solution: Prioritize by hazard level; obtain additional cabinets if needed

Issue: Chemicals with multiple incompatibilities

• - Symptom: One chemical incompatible with many others
• Solution: Isolate in separate location; consider reducing inventory

5. Batch Inventory Processing

Process large chemical inventories from files for comprehensive storage organization.

CODEBLOCK7

Input File Format:
CODEBLOCK8

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Use standardized naming in inventory files
• ✅ Include concentrations for diluted chemicals
• ✅ Date the inventory for tracking changes
• ✅ Archive old versions for historical reference

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: Typos and inconsistent naming

• - Symptom: Same chemical listed multiple ways
• Solution: Standardize naming convention; use CAS numbers for ambiguous cases

Issue: Concentration variations

• - Symptom: Multiple entries for "ethanol" at different concentrations
• Solution: Include concentration in name; store according to most hazardous concentration

6. Custom Classification Rules

Extend the classification system with lab-specific chemicals and custom rules.

CODEBLOCK9

Best Practices:

• - ✅ Document custom rules in lab SOP
• ✅ Share with all lab members for consistency
• ✅ Review periodically for completeness
• ✅ Update when new chemicals are introduced

Common Issues and Solutions:

Issue: Custom rules conflict with defaults

• - Symptom: Chemical classified differently than expected
• Solution: Check rule priority; custom rules should typically override defaults

Issue: Too many custom chemicals

• - Symptom: Most chemicals need custom classification
• Solution: Update default database instead; contribute improvements upstream

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Complete Workflow Example

From chemical inventory to organized storage:

CODEBLOCK10

Python API Usage:

CODEBLOCK11

Expected Output Files:

CODEBLOCK12

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Common Patterns

Pattern 1: New Lab Setup

Scenario: Setting up chemical storage for a new laboratory from scratch.

CODEBLOCK13

Workflow:

1. 1. Inventory all chemicals before they arrive
2. Classify each chemical using this tool
3. Assign storage locations based on groups
4. Purchase appropriate cabinets (acid, flammable, etc.)
5. Label all storage areas clearly
6. Train all lab members on the system
7. Post emergency procedures and contact numbers

Output Example:
CODEBLOCK14

Pattern 2: Safety Inspection Preparation

Scenario: Preparing for annual EHS safety inspection.

CODEBLOCK15

Workflow:

1. 1. Run full inventory through storage sorter
2. Check current storage against recommendations
3. Identify any incompatibilities in current arrangement
4. Move misplaced chemicals to proper storage
5. Update storage plan documentation
6. Print and post current storage map
7. Verify all cabinets properly labeled
8. Check secondary containment systems

Output Example:
CODEBLOCK16

Pattern 3: Chemical Relocation

Scenario: Moving chemicals to a new location or different lab.

CODEBLOCK17

Workflow:

1. 1. Inventory all chemicals at current location
2. Classify and sort all chemicals
3. Identify chemicals for disposal (expired, unknown, unneeded)
4. Plan packing by storage groups (pack together)
5. Ensure proper segregation during transport
6. Design storage layout at new location
7. Unpack directly into appropriate storage
8. Update inventory with new locations

Output Example:
CODEBLOCK18

Pattern 4: Training New Lab Members

Scenario: Training new graduate students or technicians on chemical safety.

CODEBLOCK19

Workflow:

1. 1. Introduce chemical hazard groups using this tool
2. Show real examples from lab inventory
3. Demonstrate compatibility checking
4. Practice classifying unknown chemicals
5. Tour actual storage areas
6. Quiz on incompatible pairs
7. Provide storage plan as reference
8. Document training completion

Output Example:

Training Session: Chemical Storage Safety

DEMONSTRATION EXAMPLES:
  1. Show classification: "ethanol" → flammable
  2. Show incompatibility: HCl + NaOH → violent reaction
  3. Show safe storage: PBS + NaCl → general storage together

INTERACTIVE QUIZ:
  Q: Can you store acetone near hydrogen peroxide?
  A: No - flammable + oxidizer = fire risk ✅
  
  Q: Where should concentrated HCl go?
  A: Acid cabinet with secondary containment ✅

HANDOUTS PROVIDED:
  ✓ Storage plan (current)
  ✓ Incompatibility matrix
  ✓ Emergency contact card
  ✓ SDS access instructions

TRAINING COMPLETE: 3/3 trainees passed quiz (100%)

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Quality Checklist

Pre-Organization:

• - [ ] CRITICAL: Ensure all chemical containers are properly labeled
• [ ] Obtain complete chemical inventory (including concentrations)
• [ ] Review SDS for chemicals with unclear classifications
• [ ] Measure available storage space (cabinets, shelves)
• [ ] Identify existing storage equipment (acid cabinets, flammable cabinets)
• [ ] Check for expired or unneeded chemicals to dispose
• [ ] Verify emergency equipment availability (eyewash, shower, spill kit)
• [ ] Review institutional EHS requirements and restrictions

During Classification:

• - [ ] Classify each chemical using full chemical name
• [ ] Note concentrations for diluted vs concentrated forms
• [ ] CRITICAL: Verify classification of borderline chemicals manually
• [ ] Check all chemicals with multiple hazards (e.g., oxidizing acid)
• [ ] Document any custom classifications or exceptions
• [ ] Flag chemicals requiring special storage (temperature, light-sensitive)
• [ ] Identify chemicals needing secondary containment
• [ ] Note any chemicals with expiration dates

Storage Assignment:

• - [ ] CRITICAL: Ensure incompatible groups are physically separated (minimum 3 feet)
• [ ] Verify adequate space in each storage category
• [ ] Place most hazardous chemicals in most secure locations
• [ ] Ensure frequently used chemicals are easily accessible
• [ ] Check that cabinet ventilation is appropriate for contents
• [ ] Verify flammable cabinet is properly grounded
• [ ] Ensure acid cabinet has corrosion-resistant construction
• [ ] Confirm toxic chemicals are in locked storage

Post-Organization Verification:

• - [ ] CRITICAL: Check no incompatible chemicals stored together
• [ ] Verify all containers properly labeled with chemical name and hazards
• [ ] Confirm storage plan is posted near chemical area
• [ ] Check emergency procedures are posted and visible
• [ ] Verify spill kits are appropriate for stored chemicals
• [ ] Ensure SDS binder is accessible and current
• [ ] Test that all lab members can locate chemicals easily
• [ ] Schedule first quarterly inspection

Documentation:

• - [ ] CRITICAL: Update chemical inventory with new storage locations
• [ ] Document any exceptions to standard storage rules
• [ ] Record training completion for all lab members
• [ ] File storage plan with lab notebook or ELN
• [ ] Share storage map with EHS coordinator
• [ ] Set calendar reminder for next inspection
• [ ] Archive old storage plans for reference
• [ ] Update lab SOP with storage procedures

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Common Pitfalls

Classification Errors:

• - ❌ Assuming dilute = safe → Even dilute acids/bases need proper storage

- ✅ Classify by chemical identity, not just concentration

• - ❌ Ignoring chemical name keywords → Missing hazards in complex names

- ✅ Check for multiple hazard indicators in chemical names

• - ❌ Not considering mixtures → Commercial reagents may have multiple components

- ✅ Check SDS for mixture compositions and store by most hazardous component

• - ❌ Classifying by use rather than hazard → Storing buffer salts with acids

- ✅ Always use hazard-based classification for storage

Storage Arrangement Errors:

• - ❌ Inadequate separation → 6-inch gap instead of 3-foot minimum

- ✅ Use physical barriers (cabinets) for incompatible groups

• - ❌ Storing by alphabetical order → Acetic acid next to acetone

- ✅ Always prioritize chemical compatibility over alphabetical order

• - ❌ Ignoring spill containment → No secondary containment for liquids

- ✅ Use trays or bunds for liquid chemicals, especially corrosives

• - ❌ Overcrowding cabinets → Blocking access to emergency equipment

- ✅ Maintain clear access to all chemicals and safety equipment

Documentation Errors:

• - ❌ Outdated storage plans → Chemicals moved but map not updated

- ✅ Update storage documentation whenever chemicals are relocated

• - ❌ Missing hazard warnings → No incompatibility matrix posted

- ✅ Post storage plan with clear hazard warnings

• - ❌ No training records → Cannot prove safety training occurred

- ✅ Document all safety training with signatures

• - ❌ Incomplete inventories → Missing chemicals from tracking system

- ✅ Maintain complete, up-to-date chemical inventory

Operational Errors:

• - ❌ Using food containers → Chemicals stored in drink bottles

- ✅ Use only appropriate chemical storage containers

• - ❌ No expiration monitoring → Old peroxides or other degradables

- ✅ Track expiration dates; dispose of expired chemicals promptly

• - ❌ Improper labeling → Abbreviations or formulas only

- ✅ Use full chemical names plus hazard symbols

• - ❌ Blocking access → Storage in front of eyewash or shower

- ✅ Maintain 3-foot clearance around all safety equipment

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Troubleshooting

Problem: Chemical cannot be classified

• - Symptoms: Tool returns "general" for obviously hazardous chemical
• Causes:

- Chemical name not in keyword database
- Unusual or proprietary chemical name
- Mixture with complex name

• - Solutions:

- Check SDS for proper chemical name and hazards
- Use CAS number to look up chemical class
- Consult with EHS for unusual chemicals
- Add custom classification rule for lab-specific chemicals

Problem: Too many "incompatible" pairs identified

• - Symptoms: Hundreds of incompatibilities in a small lab
• Causes:

- Overly broad incompatibility rules
- Chemicals already properly separated but flagged
- Concentration not considered (dilute vs concentrated)

• - Solutions:

- Focus on actual storage arrangements, not theoretical incompatibilities
- Check if chemicals are already properly segregated
- Consider concentration exemptions (very dilute solutions)
- Prioritize by hazard severity

Problem: Storage space insufficient

• - Symptoms: More chemicals than available cabinet space
• Causes:

- Inventory has grown over time
- Improper disposal of old chemicals
- Over-purchasing of chemicals

• - Solutions:

- Dispose of expired or unneeded chemicals
- Share chemicals between labs when possible
- Request additional storage equipment from EHS
- Implement "just-in-time" purchasing for expensive chemicals
- Consider chemical inventory reduction program

Problem: Lab members resist new storage system

• - Symptoms: Chemicals found in wrong locations after reorganization
• Causes:

- Inadequate training
- System too complex
- Old habits hard to break

• - Solutions:

- Provide clear, hands-on training
- Make storage locations intuitive and convenient
- Post visible storage maps at point of use
- Gentle reminders and positive reinforcement
- Regular audits with feedback

Problem: Chemical reactions in storage

• - Symptoms: Evidence of reaction (discoloration, gas, heat, fumes)
• Causes:

- Incompatible chemicals stored together
- Degradation of unstable chemicals
- Contamination during storage

• - Solutions:

- Immediately evacuate area if fumes or heat
- Contact EHS for safe cleanup
- Review storage arrangements to prevent recurrence
- Check for other potentially affected chemicals
- Document incident and lessons learned

Problem: Cannot find chemical when needed

• - Symptoms: Chemical in inventory but not in expected location
• Causes:

- Chemical moved but inventory not updated
- Mislabeling or unclear labels
- Inconsistent naming (acetic acid vs ethanoic acid)

• - Solutions:

- Update inventory immediately when chemicals are moved
- Use standardized, full chemical names
- Implement barcode or QR code tracking
- Keep storage plan current and accessible
- Regular inventory reconciliation

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References

Available in references/ directory:

• - (No reference files currently available for this skill)

External Resources:

• - OSHA Chemical Storage Guidelines: https://www.osha.gov/chemical-storage
• NFPA 45: Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals
• Prudent Practices in the Laboratory (National Research Council)
• SDS Search (MSDSOnline): https://www.msdsonline.com

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Scripts

Located in scripts/ directory:

• - main.py - Chemical classification and storage sorting engine

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Chemical Storage Quick Reference

General Rules:

1. 1. Separate incompatible chemicals by at least 3 feet or physical barrier
2. Store acids and bases in separate cabinets
3. Keep oxidizers away from flammables and organics
4. Lock toxic chemicals and limit access
5. Use secondary containment for liquid corrosives
6. Label all containers with chemical name and hazards
7. Never store chemicals in food containers or near food areas
8. Maintain access to safety equipment (eyewash, shower, exits)

Emergency Contacts:

• - Fire: 911
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
• Campus EHS: [Insert local number]
• Chemical Spill Hotline: [Insert local number]

Parameters

Parameter	Type	Default	Required	Description
INLINECODE15, INLINECODE16	string	-	No	Comma-separated chemical list
INLINECODE17

string | - | No | Check compatibility with another chemical | | --list-groups, -l | flag | - | No | List storage groups |

Usage

Basic Usage

CODEBLOCK21

Risk Assessment

Risk Indicator	Assessment	Level
Code Execution	Python script executed locally	Low
Network Access

No external API calls | Low | | File System Access | No file access | Low | | Data Exposure | No sensitive data | Low | | Safety Risk | Provides chemical safety guidance | Medium |

Security Checklist

• - [x] No hardcoded credentials or API keys
• [x] No file system access
• [x] Input validation for chemical names
• [x] Output does not expose sensitive information
• [x] Error messages sanitized
• [x] Script execution in sandboxed environment

Prerequisites

CODEBLOCK22

Evaluation Criteria

Success Metrics

• - [x] Successfully classifies chemicals into storage groups
• [x] Identifies incompatible chemical pairs
• [x] Provides storage recommendations
• [x] Lists all available storage groups

Test Cases

1. 1. Chemical List: Input list → Sorted by compatibility groups
2. Compatibility Check: Two chemicals → Compatible/Incompatible result
3. Unknown Chemical: Unrecognized name → General group assignment

Lifecycle Status

• - Current Stage: Active
• Next Review Date: 2026-03-09
• Known Issues: None
• Planned Improvements:

- Expand chemical database - Add SDS integration - Support for custom storage rules

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Last Updated: 2026-02-09 Skill ID: 184 Version: 2.0 (K-Dense Standard)