1. Refrigerators and Freezers
For a recent accident, see the “Safety in the News: Refrigerator Blast in Chemical Lab” safety moment

2. Storing Chemicals in Fridges and Freezers
The atmosphere of a refrigerator could contain an explosive mixture of air & chemical vapors
To avoid inhaling vapors, don’t stick your head inside
Seal containers tightly (parafilm or tape are good options)
Use a refrigerator approved for storage of these materials
Modified to not spark inside
Approved for “flammable storage”
Store incompatible chemicals separately
Oxidizers and highly reactive in a separate unit from flammables.
Use secondary containment
Air- and moisture- sensitive materials stored at low temp. are prone to problems exacerbated by condensation.
Peroxide-forming chemicals are also often stored in fridges.
Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories. Section5.E.4 Cold Storage. Accessed 8 March

3. This is what can happen….
An Example story (more available at the link on the slide): At the University of Virginia we have found out the hard way.  Two and a half years ago we had an incident in a Chemistry Lab using a household refrigerator.  Vapor from stored chemicals exploded inside the refrigerator, ripping off the door and activating the sprinkler system.  We believe the explosion occurred when the volatile gases came in contact with the electrical arc in the normal operation of the defrost timer housing.  We were lucky that no one was hurt.  We had claims in excess of $100,000
For other stories and photos:

4. Types of Fridges & Freezers
Ordinary Household
Flammable Storage
Explosion Proof
Internal components can produce sparks.
Keep flammable materials away.
Components capable of producing a spark are external.
Okay for storage of flammables.
Not for use in a flammable atmosphere.
No internal or external components capable of producing a spark.
Okay for storage of flammables
Can use in a flammable atmosphere (where solvents are dispensed)
For more information: