Appendix A: Standard Operating Procedures for the Handling of Hazardous Chemicals
GENERAL
Do not pipette by mouth.
Food, Drink, Cosmetics
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or apply cosmetics in the laboratory.
Do not store food in the laboratory refrigerator.
Sharps/Broken Glass
Do not leave exposed needles or micropipettes on the bench or in washing facilities.
Broken glass should be disposed of separately from other solid waste in labeled containers to prevent injury to cleaning personnel.
Chemical Spills
In event of a chemical spill or any other emergency situation, warn occupants, turn off ignition sources, leave the lab and close the door, and phone 911.
When procedures involve especially hazardous chemicals, create a 'designated area' with the above information clearly posted.
Housekeeping
Decontaminate, clean or sanitize workspace and personal protective equipment on a regular basis.
In the event of malfunctioning protective or building related equipment, phone EH&S
Keep all egress pathways and doorways free of obstructions. Hallways outside of laboratories should not be used for storage.
Working Alone
Avoid working with hazardous chemicals alone, at night and in isolation.
Access to Laboratories
Laboratories must be locked when unoccupied. Note that specific access limitations apply in the case of certain classes of laboratories.
Electrical
Ensure that all hose connections are secure, and that electrical and other connections pose minimal risk of accident.
Access to electrical equipment shut-offs e.g., plugs and electrical panels must be maintained free from obstructions to allow immediate access in an emergency. All receptacle outlets in laboratory spaces must be polarized and grounded.
Electrical extension cords may not be used as a substitution for fixed receptacle outlets. Cords used for 110/120 volt service shall be UL listed standard heavy duty three wire equipped with a polarized three prong plug.
Electrical extension cords are visible and inspected frequently for damage and/or defects. Cords should not cross aisles and should not be wrapped around fixtures such as lights or piping.
Emergency Deluge Showers/Drench Hoses/Eye Wash Stations
Keep area under deluge showers clear of any possible obstruction. Flush drench hoses and eye wash at least monthly until the water stream runs clear. Insure that showers are inspected annually.
Ensure proper and continuing drainage, e.g.. in washing and rinsing sinks.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers must be immediately accessible and clear of any obstruction. They must be fully charged and wall mounted. All fire extinguishers are visually inspected monthly and tested annually.
Emergency Contact
Clearly label the equipment, bench, entry door or other prominent location with the name and 24 hour contact number of the individual carrying out the unattended operation.
Personal Protection/Hygiene
Assess the potential hazard posed by each chemical in every procedure. Select workpractices, control devices and personal protective equipment which minimize the risk of exposure. In particular: When working with chemicals which pose a hazard to the eyes, or whenever you are in the vicinity of such chemicals such that an exposure could occur as a result of any foreseeable accident, you must wear chemical splash resistant goggles.
Attire
Wear a lab coat or apron, cover legs and feet (no sandals or open-toed shoes), confine loose clothing and long hair.
Gloves
Remember that gloves are short-term protection. Wear disposables, discard on contamination, wash your hands and reglove.
Remove Barrier Protection (gloves, labcoats or aprons, protective foot and headgear) before leaving the laboratory.
Hazardous Materials Handling and Storage
Open Containers
Do not leave open containers of caustics, corrosives, or highly toxic substances on the bench. All waste containers must be closed at the end of daily operations.
Labels
Clearly label any containers of any substance which will remain at worksite in your absence. The label must include the name of the substance, the major health and physical hazards of the substance, and your name.
Chemical Storage
Segregate chemicals by hazard class. Store incompatible chemicals away from each other.
Containers
Check the integrity of containers frequently, particularly those that contain waste material.
Cylinder Storage
All cylinders must be secured by straps, chains or special floor stabilizers. Store in well-ventilated areas and place protective caps on when not in use. Cylinders shouls not be stored in areas that are considered primary egress routes (call EH&S if you have questions). Do not store empty and full cylinders together. Insure that flammable gases and oxidizing gases are stored away from each other.
Disposal of Chemicals
EH&S picks up materials from all laboratories on campus upon request. Until materials are picked up they should be stored with appropriate labels and checked frequently.
