Abstract: Environmental containment systems, and in certain embodiments, systems and methods involving vessels and unit operations or components of cell culture, cell containment, bioreactor, chemical manufacturing, or pharmaceutical manufacturing systems provided with environmental containment are provided. Certain vessels, unit operations, devices, and components may be used to perform all or part of biological, chemical, and/or pharmaceutical manufacturing processes therein. In some embodiments, an environmental containment system includes a multi-level containment apparatus. For instance, a first substantially closed environmental containment enclosure may be contained within a second substantially closed environmental containment enclosure; the first and second enclosures may be contained in a third substantially closed environmental containment enclosure, etc.

Abstract: A medical waste receptacle includes a housing shaped to define an interior cavity into which a waste collection bin is disposed. The housing is also shaped to include a slot in communication with the interior cavity, the slot being selectively enclosed by a disposal drawer adapted to pivot between closed and open positions. A movable latch selectively engages the drawer, the position of the latch being regulated by an electronic controller. In use, a barcode scanner in electrical connection with the controller retrieves an access code provided on a refuse container to be dispensed. If the access code is deemed valid, the controller disengages the latch from the drawer, thereby enabling the container to be dispensed into the bin through the slot. In the absence of receiving a valid access code, the controller retains the latch in engagement with the naturally closed disposal drawer, thereby precluding access to the bin.

Abstract: Electrode containers and associated methods are provided. In one embodiment, an electrode container includes sides and a top, and the top includes an opening adapted to receive a rod of an electrode. A plurality of flexible members are interconnected about the perimeter of the opening, wherein at least some of the plurality of flexible members overlap with one another.

Abstract: A hydrogen-trapping compound is provided, along with a process for manufacturing the compound, and its uses, wherein the hydrogen-trapping compound is characterized in that it contains at least one metal salt of formula MX(OH), in which M represents a divalent transition element, for example Co or Ni; O represents an oxygen atom; X represents an atom of group 16 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, excluding O, for example a sulphur atom; and H represents a hydrogen atom, and wherein the hydrogen-trapping compound is effective for trapping hydrogen, hydrogen within a material and free hydrogen and is applicable in situations in which hydrogen is evolved and in which it has to be trapped, especially for safety reasons.

Abstract: An apparatus for mitigating mercury vapor emissions during transportation of mercury containing universal waste between locations. The apparatus includes a container having a bottom, sidewall structure extending from the closed bottom, and an opening for allowing the mercury containing universal waste to be inserted into the container. The opening in the container is releasably closed by a cover when the apparatus is transported between locations. Activated carbon media is arranged in the container after the container is closed The activated carbon media has an affinity for mercury vapors escaping from the mercury containing universal waste during transportation of the apparatus between locations and thereby mitigates mercury vapors escaping from the apparatus. A method for mitigating mercury vapor emissions during transportation of mercury containing universal waste between locations is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of making pelletized nitrocellulose (PNC) includes preparing a lacquer, the lacquer comprising nitrocellulose (NC), ethyl acetate and ethyl centralite, the NC having a nitrogen content of at least about 12.2%; mixing the lacquer with an antisolvent to thereby emulsify the lacquer and form PNC; drowning the PNC with the antisolvent; and separating the antisolvent and ethyl acetate from the PNC.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical hazardous waste identification and management system integrates disparate information regarding pharmaceuticals to provide an indication of which pharmaceuticals are hazardous wastes as defined by respective national, international and state regulations and/or which are hazardous materials as defined by the US OSHA regulations. A subset of this information offers a global repository with respect to the occurrence, concentrations, and ecotoxicologic data of pharmaceuticals based on peer reviewed data provided by environmental toxicologists and related scientists.

Abstract: A sensor system for a buried waste containment site having a bottom wall barrier and/or sidewall barriers, for containing hazardous waste. The sensor system includes one or more sensor devices disposed in one or more of the barriers for detecting a physical parameter either of the barrier itself or of the physical condition of the surrounding soils and buried waste, and for producing a signal representing the physical parameter detected. Also included is a signal processor for receiving signals produced by the sensor device and for developing information identifying the physical parameter detected, either for sounding an alarm, displaying a graphic representation of a physical parameter detected on a viewing screen and/or a hard copy printout.

Abstract: A method for selecting an emulsifier for isolating free hydrocarbons in a given drilling system and a method of using the emulsifiers to treat drill cuttings to isolate free hydrocarbons, including bitumen.

Abstract: A sealable container for receiving toxic waste for long-term storage is described, the container comprising sheet metal members welded together to form a main fillable volume; four hollow, sheet metal, vertically directed leg portions situated at corner positions on the container, and, a separate lid member fixable to the container to seal at least the main fillable volume wherein the majority of the weld length utilized in the container construction is constituted by fillet welds. Further constructions are described having means to prevent flotation of waste in a liquid grout prior to solidification thereof and constructions where the leg volumes are independently fillable of the main volume.

Abstract: A method for recombining and then solidifying groups of soil particles by utilizing changes in the status and properties of soil particles which comprises a combination (in an adhering state) between soil particles and groups polymers (humin) in an aqueous solution (solvent). By using specified solvents, the preliminary treatment of separating soil particles and polymers is initiated. Secondarily, each structure of groups of soil particles is observed microscopically as a metal complex, and the combining method is accomplished by utilizing substitution based on various reactions (i.e. SN, SE, and SEAr type reactions) along with electron transfer in a solvent made of specified solutes. The substitution includes the rock forming function through the substitution of the hydrogen atom within the hydroxyl group of clay minerals as molecular components and the dehydration and dissociation function resulted from the binding structure of oxygen molecule O−2 and Al+3 as components of aluminum oxide.

Abstract: Apparatus for containing, transporting, and storing or disposing of radioactive machinery, including decommissioned nuclear reactor pressure vessels. An improved, economically-produced container allows easier handling and packaging of machinery within plants where the machinery has been installed, and offers improved shock absorption and attenuation characteristics, especially when packaging is complete, through the provision, for example, of integral fenders. The invention also includes methods of making the container.

Abstract: Areas in which toxic material has been released, particularly in gaseous form but also in liquid form, are decontaminated by forming gas hydrate of the toxic agent. Smaller-molecule toxic agents form sI or sII type hydrates, whereas larger-molecule toxic agents for sH type hydrates. A “companion gas” or “companion agent” is supplied to fill the smaller voids of the sH hydrate, thereby enabling larger-molecule toxic agents to form hydrates by filling the larger voids of the sH hydrate which, but for the presence of the smaller-molecule agent in the smaller voids, would be unstable and not form. Portable as well as fixed, permanently installed apparatus for conducting hydrate-based decontamination is also disclosed.

Abstract: Encapsulating calcined radioactive waste in strong, corrosion-resistant spheres of dimensions such that heat from the radiation melts the ice at a rate which brings the spheres to the bottom of the permanent icefield in a relatively short time, with the resulting waste ultimately being no more hazardous than natural uranium ore.

Abstract: Hydrocarbon contaminants in drill cuttings generated in an oil drilling operation are removed by mixing the drill cuttings with an agglomerant to produce a pre-treatment mixture; heating to vaporize the hydrocarbon contaminants under a condition in which vapor entrainable particles of the drill cuttings are agglomerated by the agglomerant, and caking of drill cuttings is inhibited; drill cuttings having a reduced content of the contaminant are removed, and vaporized hydrocarbons having a reduced content of vapor entrainable particles are recovered. In this way, the particulate content of vapors escaping from the drill cuttings is reduced.

Abstract: Areas in which toxic material has been released, particularly in gaseous form but also in liquid form, are decontaminated by forming gas hydrate of the toxic agent. Smaller-molecule toxic agents form sI or sII type hydrates, whereas larger-molecule toxic agents for sH type hydrates. A “companion gas” or “companion agent” is supplied to fill the smaller voids of the sH hydrate, thereby enabling larger-molecule toxic agents to form hydrates by filling the larger voids of the sH hydrate which, but for the presence of the smaller-molecule agent in the smaller voids, would be unstable and not form. Portable as well as fixed, permanently installed apparatus for conducting hydrate-based decontamination is also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for chemical stabilization of selenium bearing materials and wastes subject to acid and water leaching tests or leach conditions by addition of selenium stabilizing agents such that the leaching potential is inhibited to desired levels. The resultant material or waste after stabilization is deemed suitable for on-site reuse, off-site reuse or disposal as RCRA non-hazardous waste.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for processing deleterious material on a floating vessel during transportation from a well to a disposal site. The vessel contains equipment for the slurrification and agitation of the deleterious material. Such equipment includes storage tanks, slurrification units, and agitation units, as well as transfer equipment such as flow lines and vacuum or pump means. The deleterious material is transferred from the drill site to the storage tanks on the vessel. The vessel then transports the material to a disposal site, such as an injection well. During transportation, the deleterious material is processed. Such processing can include slurrification and/or agitation of the deleterious material to maintain the slurry, adding fluid if necessary. Once at the disposal site, the deleterious material slurry is then transferred from the vessel to the disposal site.

Abstract: A lead abatement method approved for use by governmental agencies is described. The method id achieved by first applying a highly compliant protective film over a lead contaminated surface. The film includes an exposed layer and an adhesive layer composed of an adhesive material adapted for substantially permanent bonding to the contaminated surface. The exposed surface is then perforated and a topcoat is applied to the exposed surface. The topcoat is adapted for treatment of the exposed surface of the film so as to permit treatment of the topcoat in a desired manner.

Abstract: A process for the stabilization of metal bearing waste is provided that is based upon the discovery that landfills have anaerobic environments. This process includes adjusting the pH of the waste and adding a sulfide containing reducing agent to the waste to achieve a reducing environment. In one embodiment, electric arc furnace dust is stabilized for landfill disposal. Also provided is a method for a determination of landfilled waste leachability. This method is performed under conditions that simulate the chemical characteristics of landfills. In one embodiment, stabilized metal bearing waste is deoxygenated and a simulated leachate is prepared under anaerobic conditions.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for containing, transporting, and storing or disposing of radioactive machinery, including decommissioned nuclear reactor pressure vessels. An improved, economically-produced container is provided which allows easier handling and packaging of machinery within plants where the machinery has been installed, and which provides improved shock absorption and attenuation characteristics, especially when packaging is complete. A reactor pressure vessel or similar item is disconnected from the remainder of the plant and external fittings are trimmed as close to flush with item's exterior as practicable. A storage and containment canister, optionally cut into at least two sections to ease handling and packaging, is placed nearby. The pressure vessel head or any other low-radioactive items are removed, and insulation and other items removed from the outside of the item are placed inside the item's body.

Abstract: Hydrocarbon contaminants in drill cuttings generated in an oil drilling operation are removed by mixing the drill cuttings with an agglomerant to produce a pre-treatment mixture; heating to vaporize the hydrocarbon contaminants under a condition in which vapor entrainable particles of the drill cuttings are agglomerated by the agglomerant, and caking of drill cuttings is inhibited; drill cuttings having a reduced content of the contaminant are removed, and vaporized hydrocarbons having a reduced content of vapor entrainable particles are recovered. In this way, the particulate content of vapors escaping from the drill cuttings is reduced.

Abstract: A process for the remediation of soil, rock or water contaminated with volatile organic compounds involving: (1) forming an emulsifier comprising: (a) a sugar surfactant; and (b) a nonionic surfactant, other than the sugar surfactant which, when combined with the sugar surfactant, provides a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of from about 8.0 to about 13.0; (2) mixing the emulsifier with the volatile organic compounds to form a stable emulsion; and (3) removing the stable emulsion from the soil, rock or water.

Abstract: A process of treating solid material flammable waste is provided in which dry fire retardant admixtures are used to intermix with the material waste so as to lower the burn rate and flammability characteristics of the material waste. The process, in turn, allows the waste to be accepted by an approved waste handling facility.

Abstract: A containment assembly with gloved access to a processing zone that is isolated from the surrounding environment. A protective glove is secured in an access opening. A replacement glove is secured in a retainer location that is separate from the retainer location of the glove being replaced without interrupting the isolation of the processing zone.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for containing, transporting, and storing or disposing of radioactive machinery, including decommissioned nuclear reactor pressure vessels. An improved, economically-produced container is provided which allows easier handling and packaging of machinery within plants where the machinery has been installed, and which provides improved shock absorption and attenuation characteristics, especially when packaging is complete. A reactor pressure vessel or similar item is disconnected from the remainder of the plant and external fittings are trimmed as close to flush with item's exterior as practicable. A storage and containment canister, optionally cut into at least two sections to ease handling and packaging, is placed nearby. The pressure vessel head or any other low-radioactive items are removed, and insulation and other items removed from the outside of the item are placed inside the item's body.

Abstract: Volatile organic compounds are removed from contaminated soil by introducing one or both of a water soluble peroxygen compound, such as a persulfate, and a permanganate into the soil, either in situ or ex situ, in amounts and under conditions wherein both the soil oxidant demand is satisfied and volatile organic compounds in the soil are oxidized. In a preferred embodiment, when both are used, the peroxygen satisfies the soil oxidant demand and the permanganate oxidizes the volatile organic compounds. Sodium persulfate is the preferred persulfate and potassium permanganate is preferred permanganate. The persulfate and the permanganate may be added to the soil sequentially, or may be mixed together and added as an aqueous solution.

Abstract: A process for treating earth materials such as rock heaps to prevent acid rock drainage therefrom is disclosed. First, the oxygen concentration in the gas-phase of the rock heap is decreased, that is, displaced and/or depleted. This first step may be accomplished physically, chemically or biologically. Then, the gas-phase oxygen concentration in the heap is maintained at a low level. This second step may be provided for in a self-sustaining manner, like, for example, by covering the rock heap with soil and vegetation so that acid rock drainage is prevented indefinitely. Alternatively, the density of the gas-phase of the rock heap may be increased, and maintained at an elevated level indefinitely. The process is applicable to waste heaps from mining and industrial operations such as power generation and minerals processing, and to rubble collections in open and closed mines.

Abstract: Novel sulfur-containing ligands for binding of heavy metals are disclosed. The ligands incorporate a central ring structure and pendant alkyl-thiol chains.

Abstract: The present invention discloses the formulation and use of an advanced solid-media chemical composition which includes both plant-derived and inorganic components which is designed and intended to enhance the removal of a broad range of recalcitrant organic and inorganic contaminants in the environment by provided an improved means of promoting the anaerobic, biologically mediated degradation, transformation, and/or detoxification of the contaminants which may be present in solid and liquid wastes, soils, sediments, and water bodies. The invention provides for improved means of (i) promoting the solid-phase extraction, absorption and adsorbtion of recalcitrant contaminants from contaminated media, (ii) creating, enhancing, and maintaining anaerobic and highly reducing conditions (i.e.

Abstract: This specification discloses a method and apparatus for the remediation of soil contaminated by pollutants. The method utilizes a unitary mobile remediation apparatus in which the soil is impounded, metered, and transported to be sprayed with a treatment spray, pulverized, and mixed to blend the spray with the soil. The disclosed unitary mobile remediation apparatus utilizes mechanical, gravimetric, inertial methods, and enclosed conveyors to accomplish the flow of the soil through the apparatus and also includes adjustable and separately supplied spray nozzles to alter the amount and coverage area of the treatment spray to be ejected by the nozzles. The apparatus also utilizes a screen to prevent the entry of excessively large objects into the treatment apparatus.

Abstract: Reactive barriers and methods for making reactive barriers in situ in soil for sequestering soil ontaminants including actinides and heavy metals. The barrier includes phosphate, and techniques are disclosed for forming specifically apatite barriers. The method includes injecting dilute reagents into soil in proximity to a contamination plume or source such as a waste drum to achieve complete or partial encapsulation of the waste. Controlled temperature and pH facilitates rapid formation of apatite, for example, where dilute aqueous calcium chloride and dilute aqueous sodium phosphate are the selected reagents. Mixing of reagents to form precipitate is mediated and enhanced through movement of reagents in soil as a result of phenomena including capillary action, movement of groundwater, soil washing and reagent injection pressure.

Abstract: A method of packaging a nuclear reactor vessel for decommissioning and removal, wherein closure plates are installed onto the vessel, concrete is injected into the vessel, shielding material is installed around the exterior of the vessel and the main nozzles of the vessel, the installed shielding materials are welded to themselves, the vessel is placed on shipping cradles and attached to longitudinal restraint mechanisms for transport.

Abstract: Methods of extracting liquid hydrocarbon contaminants from underground zones are provided. The methods are basically comprised of the steps of introducing a hot purge gas into an underground zone containing a pool of liquid hydrocarbon contaminants whereby light liquid hydrocarbons in and around the pool are evaporated and dense liquid hydrocarbons in the pool are evaporated to some extent, charred, auto-ignited and combusted, and removing the hot purge gas, the evaporated light liquid hydrocarbons and combustion gases from the combustion of the dense liquid hydrocarbons in the zone.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for remedying soil containing a region polluted with a pollutant which comprises a step of injecting into the soil a liquid containing a microorganism having an activity to decompose the pollutant or a liquid containing the microorganism and an activation agent for the microorganism decomposing the pollutant, wherein the step comprises isolating the region from surrounding soil with a barrier made of a material that does not allow the pollutant, the microorganism, the activation agent or water to pass through, and replacing void water in the isolated region with the liquid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a waste disposal system through the use of a bag 14 with removable glove members 20, 22, a removable and replaceable splash shield 17, a drain line tube 32, and a refill tube 48 in order to service aircraft lavatories. Through the use of the bag 14, the ramp attendant, the aircraft ramp, baggage and other property on the ramp is protected from contamination with human waste and chemical solutions used to deodorize and sanitize aircraft lavatories.

Abstract: A system and method for filling, dewatering and sealing high integrity containers for storing high level radioactive debris has a support structure for receiving a container and a movable hood supported over the support structure. The movable hood is movable between a filling/dewatering position, an intermediate position, and a sealing position. Fill and dewatering lines extend through the hood and have flexible lower portions with connectors for interfacing with the container to be filled. The flexible lower portions are movable into and out of engagement with respective connectors on the container when the hood is in the filling/dewatering position. A plurality of valves are provided to isolate the fill and dewatering lines to minimize release of radioactive debris during connector mating and demating operations. A straw extends through the hood for removing water from an upper volume of the container when the hood is in the intermediate position.

Abstract: Liquid chemical compositions are disclosed for anaerobic biodegradation, detoxification, and transformation of toxic organic and inorganic compounds in a contaminated geologic media under reducing conditions, including, but not limited to, denitrifying, manganese-reducing, iron-reducing and sulfate-reducing conditions. One such liquid chemical composition includes sodium nitrate in the range of one-fifth (0.2) to four (4) pounds per gallon of the chemical composition; sodium hexametaphosphate or other biologically hydrolyzable ring or linear polyphosphate in the range of one twentieth (0.05) to five (5) pounds per gallon of the chemical composition; a surfactant in the range of 0.01% to 10% by volume of the chemical composition; and a diluent in the form of water. A bioremediation apparatus is disclosed for anaerobic biodegradation, detoxification, and transformation of toxic organic and inorganic compounds in a contaminated geologic media.

Abstract: A waste collection device which comprises, inside a pit, a plate for supporting at least one container; the plate is provided with supports adapted to limit its downward motion to a minimum elevation which allows the container to lie fully within the pit; a monolithic structure, with a base and a lid provided with waste insertion pillars, the base and the lid being spaced so that when the lid is at the level of the paving that surrounds the pit the base lies at a lower level than the supporting plate; the structure is provided with movement device.

Abstract: A method for disposing of metal cations includes binding them to a cation exchange resin. The valence of the metal which forms the metal cations is lowered to the lowest possible value. The metal cations, the metal of which has the lowest possible valence, are then bound to the cation exchange resin. The valence of the metal is lowered, for example, by reduction, for which purpose, by way of example, an organic compound together with UV irradiation is used.

Abstract: A method and system are described for removing contaminants from the phreatic zone, also known as the saturation zone, or groundwater. A barrier wall is constructed below the ground surface and in the path of flow of a contaminated groundwater plume. A well is constructed in advance of the barrier wall and is connected to the barrier wall via a pipe. Various remediation media may be lowered into the well to perform remediation on the contaminated groundwater before it passes through the barrier wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a capture and containment canister which reduces the risk of radiation and other biohazard exposure to workers, the need for a costly containment hut and the need for the extra manpower associated with the hut. The present invention includes the design of a canister having a specially designed magnetic ring that attracts and holds the top of the canister in place during modifications to gloveboxes and other types of radiological and biochemical hoods. The present invention also provides an improved hole saw that eliminates the need for a pilot bit.

Abstract: A method for remediating soil which is contaminated by one or more hydrophobic organic chemicals, comprising: contacting the contaminated soil with an aqueous composition comprising a surfactant prepared by reacting a sulfonate of the formula an amine wherein R1 is hydrogen or methyl, R2 is hydrogen or an alkyl group containing up to 18 carbon atoms, and each of R3, R4 and R5 is individually hydrogen or an alkyl group containing up to 7 carbon atoms and M is an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal or —NR10R11R12 wherein R10, R11 and R12 are independently hydrogen or hydrocarbyl groups containing from 1 to 22 carbon atoms and removing said aqueous compositions and organic chemicals associated therewith from the soil.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for treating confined material such as buried waste or areas of contaminated earth by injecting a plurality of high velocity jets of treating fluid into the material over a limited depth in multiple directions from each of a plurality of injection holes. The high velocity jets remain stationary, but the arrangement of the jets emanating from an injection hole in multiple directions produces a result similar to a rotating jet but with increased penetrating force. The jets are operated sequentially over the limited depth of each injection hole to treat a layer of the material and are then moved and again operated sequentially over another limited depth of each injection hole to provide treatment of the material by layers. This allows effective treatment of material surrounding each injection hole without substantial interference from treating fluid flowing through the material from a previously treated hole.

Abstract: A method for removal of organic contaminants from solid particulate soil contaminated with the organic contaminants. The method comprises forming an aqueous slurry of a mixture of a hydrophobic adsorbent selected from foamed synthetic materials or natural materials which entrap gas, with the soil in the presence of water. The adsorbent has a density less than water. The slurry is mixed for a period of time, and a gravity separation of the adsorbent from the aqueous admixture thus obtained is effected.

Abstract: A method for treating infectious organic waste material such as dewatered sewage sludge, mixed organic wastes and animal waste. The method includes mixing the infectious organic waste material with a comminuted organic fibrous material to provide a reaction mixture. An oxidizing agent is an optional additive. The reaction mixture is heated in a hyperbaric reactor vessel at an elevated pressure and temperature for a time sufficient to create saturated steam and to produce a substantially denatured product containing inactivated pathogenic agents. The denatured product is dehydrated to produce a free-flowing solid product that may be used in various agricultural, industrial or commercial applications. Odor is controlled so that malodorous compounds are not released to the atmosphere.

Abstract: The present invention provides a waste disposal system through the use of a flexible bag 14 with glove members 20, 22, a drain line tube 32, and a refill tube 48 in order to service aircraft lavatories. Through the use of the bag 14 the ramp attendant, the aircraft ramp, baggage and other property on the ramp is protected from contamination with human waste and chemical solutions used to deodorize and sanitize aircraft lavatories.

Abstract: A composition comprising magnesium sulfite, triple super phosphate, and one of limestone and hydroboracite, useful for heavy metal stabilizing, controlling pH and/or removing acid gas from a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gaseous matrix.

Abstract: A mobile reuse center structure for containment and handling of hazardous materials comprising a base assembly having a containment pan, right side and left side walls, front and rear walls and a roof assembly. The right side wall and the front wall each have a door which allow access to the interior of the structure by its user. The left side wall has a plurality of deflagration vents which burst open when pressure is applied to the deflagration vents. The roof assembly has at each corner thereof a corner fitting which may receive a twistlock stacker. The twistlock stackers when coupled to the roof assembly corner fittings allow a drum rack to be stacked on top of and secured to the roof assembly. A machinery compartment is located in the rear end of the mobile reuse center structure. The machinery compartment includes the electrical control and power distribution system for the mobile reuse center structure.

Abstract: A mobile modular warehouse structure for the storing and handling of conters of hazardous materials comprising a control point modular storage unit and a plurality of warehouse modular storage units. The modular storage units may be configured in a row to form one embodiment of the mobile modular warehouse structure. In this configuration access between the interiors of adjacent modular storage units is provided by a bellows which is connected to and removable from a bellows support frame in a side wall of each modular storage unit. The modular storage units may also be configured in a stacked arrangement to form an alternate embodiment of the modular mobile safety structure. In this configuration access between the interiors of the stacked modular storage units is provided through an opening between the control point modular storage unit and the warehouse modular storage unit stacked thereon. Stairs located in the control point modular storage unit allow the user to gain access to each unit in the stack.