When risk assessing the separation distances between chemical stores the following guidelines should be referenced:
AS1940 Table: 2.1
AS3780 Table: 2.1
AS1940 Table 4.1 determines the separation distance based on volume:
AS1940 The storage and handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids:
1.4.46 On-site protected place
A building where people are employed within the property boundary, including offices, warehouses, manufacturing or processing areas, amenities and other dangerous goods stores where quantities exceed minor storage.
4.3 LOCATION AND SEPARATION DISTANCES
4.3.1 Separation distances for package stores
When determining the location for a package store, factors such as infrastructure, firefighting resources, fire brigade access and automation need to be considered.
A store for packages of flammable or combustible liquids shall be located in accordance with the following requirements:
(b) The minimum separation distance to any on-site protected place shall be as given in Table 4.1, but need not exceed—
(i) 15 m for flammable liquids
Table: 4.1
Allowable: Packaging Group I & II Quantities below 100 litres Unrestricted
Packaging Group III Quantities below 500 litres Unrestricted
AS3780 The storage and Handling of Corrosive Substances:
1.4.19 On-site protected place
A building where people are employed within the property boundary of the installation, including warehouses, manufacturing or processing areas, amenities or other dangerous goods stores where quantities exceed minor storage.
Table: 4.1
Note: Where separation distances are applied to on-site protected places that are an integral part of the storage, processing or handling of corrosive substances, such distances may be reduced subject to appropriate risk identification, assessment and control.