Industrial Strength Podcast – Episode 16: Peroxide Problems Part 1: Know Your Chemistry

Episode Overview

In Part 1 of this two-part peroxide special, the Industrial Strength Podcast crew—Jeff, Randy, and Steve—unpack the explosive truth about peroxide-forming chemicals (PFCs). They break down what these substances are, the risks they pose in both lab and industrial environments, and how to identify and manage them safely. With real-life humor and technical depth, this episode is essential listening for hazmat professionals, lab managers, and safety geeks alike.

 

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

00:33 – 01:34 | Offbeat Intro & Host Intros

Classic chaotic humor as Jeff fumbles through tech issues and introduces co-hosts Randy and Steve.

01:35 – 03:26 | What Are Peroxide-Forming Chemicals?

Overview of peroxide-formers—compounds that can form explosive peroxide crystals over time, like diethyl ether and THF.

03:27 – 04:57 | Peroxides Defined

Explaining the "OO" bond and why these chemicals are dangerously sensitive to heat, shock, and light.

04:59 – 06:49 | Four Key Factors for Peroxide Formation

Oxygen, time, heat/concentration, and light are all critical ingredients in this hazardous chemistry.

07:15 – 09:19 | Inhibitors Like BHT

The role of BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) in preventing peroxide buildup—and how it’s also used in food!

09:30 – 14:50 | Peroxide Classes A through D

Breaking down the four classes:

• Class A – Spontaneously form peroxides.
• Class B – Need external energy.
• Class C – React dangerously when peroxides are present.
• Class D – Possibly form peroxides, but not well understood.

14:51 – 16:26 | Proper Storage & Prevention Tips

Cool, dry, sealed storage and avoiding wood pallets for bulk containers.

16:26 – 21:01 | Visual Hazard Analysis

How to evaluate suspicious containers and what visual clues to look for—like crust formation or pressurized distortion.

21:02 – 24:52 | How Hazmat Teams Should Handle Suspect Containers

Detailed guidance on how and when to safely transport, inspect, or dispose of potentially dangerous materials.

24:53 – 27:11 | Storage Time Limits by Class

• Class A: 3 months
• Class B/D: 12 months
• Class C (inhibited): 12 months
• Class C (uninhibited): 24 hours (yes, hours!)

27:12 – 30:14 | Wrap-Up and Tease for Part 2

Previewing Part 2, which will feature testing methods, visuals of peroxide solids, and real-world case studies.

 

Key Moments & Quotes

• "It contains all the materials to do it themselves. Class A is the most dangerous."
• "Don’t move the container until a full hazard assessment is done. Period."
• "Slow and observant wins the race—no Leroy Jenkins allowed on peroxide calls."
• "That UV light... it's magic."