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Chemical Safety
Chemicals are an important component of laboratory functions.
If used carelessly, they can cause severe physical, structural, and/or
financial damage to the University and it's employees. These
damages may be brought about by an immediate reaction or long term
misuse/neglect of a chemical. To prevent the misuse of chemicals,
the employee must identify any hazards associated with the chemical in
use. This can be done by reviewing the MSDS before working with
the chemical. Plan work carefully. At the beginning of
complex research projects conduct a risk assessment. Ask these
questions: What are the hazard(s) associated with the chemicals involved
in the research? (Nitric Acid, Xylene, Sodium Azide) What kind of
PPE is needed? (fume hood, biosafety cabinet, apron, splash proof
goggles) Will the process generate waste? Will the waste be
hazardous? (reactive, ignitable, corrosive, toxic) What type of
reactions take place when using the chemicals? (generate heat, acid-gas
formation, freeze)
If you are leaving the University or moving to another building (or
lab space), be
sure to remove all unwanted chemicals from the lab before you
leave the building (or lab space). The EHS Audit Team has found on numerous
occasions left behind chemicals (some chemicals 20+ years old) that lab
personal never knew was in their lab. Old or expired chemicals
present serious hazards for lab personal and EHS employees who manage
the disposal of these chemicals. Updated chemical inventories and
frequent housekeeping will prevent the unnecessary accumulation of
chemicals. The Environmental Management Division (6-7207) provides
lab chemical cleanouts if you do not want to take chemicals with you.
Audit Findings:
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