Chemical Overview

 

The chemical hygiene plan is composed of five key elements:

Five key elements

Example items from these key elements include the following:

Procedures and Protocols:

Chemicals must be stored and separated by hazard class (e.g., oxidizers, acids, bases, carcinogens/teratogens, flammable). Examples of improper storage include oxidizers with organic material acids with cyanides or heavy metal inorganic salts carcinogens and teratogens with general reagent chemicals

Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, face mask, gloves, protective clothing, or a respirator must be available, in serviceable condition, and be worn in accordance with the nature of the experiment and the materials used.

Gloves and other PPE equipment must be removed when using computer keyboards or telephones, or when leaving the laboratory area.

Hazard Communication:

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be made available on all hazardous materials used in the facility.

Visual key codes for the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and Hazardous Materials Identification Guide (HMIG) hazard warning label systems must be posted in laboratories and work areas.

Supplementary safety references must be made available (LLE Safety Library and the “Safety Zone” website).

Chemical Safety Training:

On a yearly basis, all persons working with chemicals or other hazardous materials must attend a Chemical Safety training session.

Chemical Inventory:

A full inventory of all chemical substances in the facility must be maintained and updated on a regular basis

Employee Participation:

Laboratory workers must