To minimize risk, how should incompatible chemicals be stored?

• A. Together in the same area
• B. In the same cabinet
• C. Apart from each other
• D. In heat sources

Answer: (C)

Keep incompatible chemicals apart from each other. Storing reactive substances separately minimizes the risk of a spill, container breach, or vapor exposure leading to a dangerous reaction, heat buildup, or fire. The safest approach is to segregate them in different areas or cabinets and use secondary containment when needed, grouping only compatible materials together. For example, acids should be kept away from bases, oxidizers away from organics, and water-reactive substances away from moisture. Storing them together or near heat sources would increase the chance and severity of a reaction, which is why those options are not appropriate.