Garages and workshops

Many items stored in homes, garages, or workshops can be hazardous including:

• petrol
• cleaning fluids
• garden fertilisers
• pesticides
• kerosene
• acids
• caustic materials
• paints
• pool chemicals such as chlorine.

Always store these items according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Chemicals may be poisonous, flammable, or volatile when mixed. You should always:

• Read the label before purchasing to understand the correct use and the dangers posed.
• Keep in the original containers - never decant into other bottles or containers.
• Keep all labelling intact and readable (including warning labels and manufacturers’ instructions).
• Follow manufacturers’ instructions for handling and protective equipment (such as goggles and gloves).
• Store different types of dangerous goods separately (including liquids and powders).
• Store, keep, and use chemicals and dangerous goods away from ignition sources.
• Keep dangerous goods and chemicals in a secure location, out of reach of children.

Dispose of chemicals or hazardous waste in a safe way. Never dispose down the drain or toilet, or through regular household rubbish collection. Visit Sustainability Victoria for advice.

If in doubt, contact the manufacturer for safety information. Manufacturers must have this information on their products.

Call the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.

You should always store and handle Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) in a safe way.

Visit Energy Safe Victoria for information and resources about using gas safely.