Some laboratories use a rule of thumb of purchasing the desired amount of a chemical in at least two half-amount containers. Other Reasons to Make Smaller Purchases Extended storage of unused chemicals increases the risk of accidents. Small quantity purchases result in fewer unused chemicals being stored and reduce the potential for employee and student exposure to hazardous substances. Small bottles tend to break less often than larger ones. If they do break, there is less spillage, making cleanup safer, easier, and less expensive.
Accidents also increase negative publicity and legal liability.
Decreased risks of accidents may be reason enough to justify purchases of smaller containers. Finally, larger containers are less likely to be emptied before their shelf life expires and may require more storage space. In summary, the purchase of several small containers rather than one large container is generally the least expensive, safest, and most practical way to acquire laboratory chemicals. The risk of accident and exposure to the hazardous material is reduced when handling a smaller container. Storage and use of large quantities results in higher costs such as additional stockroom planning and design to prevent and control fires and increase ventilation.