Managing Chemical Risk: Q&A with Travis Goff

Hazardous chemicals are essential in industries from biotech to food processing, but they also carry serious risks when not properly managed. Fires, toxic releases, and regulatory fines are just some of the consequences facilities may face. To shed light on how chemical risk reviews can help prevent these incidents, we sat down with Travis Goff, Director of EH&S at EBI Consulting, to talk about the most common challenges facilities face and what steps they can take to stay safe and compliant. 

From your perspective, what makes chemical risk reviews such a critical step for facilities handling hazardous materials? 

Chemical risk reviews identify hazards before they cause costly damage or liability. They reveal leaks, corrosion, or incompatible storage that can ignite fires or release toxins. Early detection protects property, keeps tenants compliant, and prevents harm to nearby communities. A routine review also shows due diligence, reducing insurance and legal risks for building owners. 

When your team conducts these reviews, what are some of the most common red flags or mistakes you tend to see at facilities? 

The biggest issues are poor labeling, open or leaking containers, and storing incompatible chemicals too close together. Many facilities also skip secondary containment or keep outdated safety data sheets. Improper ventilation, blocked access to or missing spill kits, and missing emergency exit signs are frequent problems. Each of these increases fire, corrosion, or spill risks that can damage buildings and increase building owner liability. 

What best practices should every facility have in place to reduce the likelihood of a chemical-related fire, explosion, or release? 

• Separate incompatible materials, especially oxidizers and corrosives from flammables to prevent violent reactions. 
• Store flammable liquids in approved cabinets, or if kept in a general storage area, ensure quantities are NFPA compliant, containers are sealed, and no ignition sources are nearby.
• Keep all containers sealed, labeled, and inspected for leaks or corrosion. 
• Maintain spill kits, ventilation, and fire suppression systems in working order. 
• Train staff on safe handling and emergency response and document all inspections. 

If you could give one piece of advice to facility managers who are trying to stay ahead of these risks, what would it be? 

Treat chemical storage as a living system, not a one-time setup. Regularly review inventory, update labels, and remove unused or expired materials. Frequent walk-throughs help spot leaks, corrosion, or warning odors early. Small, steady attention prevents costly incidents and protects both property and nearby communities. 

Chemical safety is not just a compliance requirement; it’s a critical part of protecting employees, surrounding communities, and long-term business operations. As Nic explains, proactive chemical risk reviews can uncover hidden hazards before they become costly or dangerous incidents.

To learn more about EBI’s chemical risk review services, connect with our team today, and read our full blog on how chemical risk reviews keep your property safe: https://ebiconsulting.com/chemical-risk-reviews/