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Storage and Handling of Lubricants

Lubricating oils and greases from Al Maha Petroleum are the product of extensive research and development; they are expertly made and supplied, and they are as suitable as we can make them for the purposes for which they are intended.

Preventing contamination during storage is crucial since it can significantly affect the functionality and lifespan of a lubricant. Water and grime can shorten the lifespan of bearings and other components, according to numerous studies. The benefits of preventing contamination during storage include increased lubricant life, decreased maintenance costs, and optimal lubricant performance.

Internal Storage

It is best to store lubricants inside. Even so, there are a few safety measures that need to be taken:

  • The storage area’s temperature should stay moderate and not fluctuate much.
  • The storage area and dispensing equipment should be kept clean and a part of a regular cleaning schedule. Labels, stencils, and markings on containers and dispensing equipment should be kept legible to prevent cross-contamination or incorrect application. The storage area should be placed away from industrial contamination, such as fumes or dust.
  • Dispensing equipment should be different for each type of oil.
  • According to the First IN First Out principle, the oldest product that is needed should be used first.
  • Drums kept on their sides must to be kept off the ground and ideally rest against steel or wooden supports. If correctly wedged to prevent movement, they can be stacked three high.
  • Using a rack is recommended because stacking frequently leads to the bottom drums being unused.
  • As less time as possible should be spent in outdoor storage to reduce weathering and contamination.
  • Places for outdoor placement should be away from unpaved roads and dusty places like quarries. In such circumstances, opening drums will contaminate the contents.
  • To ensure a speedy turnover, both smaller package sizes, like pails, and bigger package sizes, such Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), should be stored correctly, covered, and inspected frequently.
  • Products that are supplied in plastic IBCs need to be kept away of direct sunlight. The oil may become discoloured if these packets are exposed to direct sunlight because they offer no UV protection.

Handling

Grease and lubricating oils are a fairly safe category of materials.
However, caution should be exercised to prevent coming into contact with skin and breathing in oil mists. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available for all of Al Maha Petroleum’s products through your sales executive, or online at www.AlMaha.com.om.

The following are some general rules for handling greases and lubricants:

The following are some general rules for handling greases and lubricants:

  • Steer clear of skin contact by wearing personal protection equipment. This could also involve applying a barrier cream to lessen direct touch.
  • As soon as a product does get on your skin, remove it quickly.
  • Avoid using solvents like kerosene, petrol, or other similar substances to remove lubricants from the skin since they deplete the skin’s natural oils and leave the skin feeling dry.
  • To remove grease and lubricating oil from the skin, use warm water and mild soap or a hand cleaner that has been recommended. Wipe the skin dry with fresh hand towels.
  • Wash your hands and arms before you eat at the end of the workday.
  • Before reusing, take off any contaminated clothing and give it a thorough cleaning or discard in a controlled bin.
  • Steer clear of oil mists/ sprays.
  • As soon as lubricating oil or grease spills occur, clean them up and dispose of them in accordance with environmental regulations.
  • Consult a physician about any possible health issues.
  • Exercise extra caution to avoid injecting anything into the skin, including pressurised delivery devices, pneumatics, and hydraulics.

For detailed instructions on handling and safety, always consult the product SDS.