Appendix E: Charge to the Chemical Hygiene Committee
The purpose of the Chemical Hygiene Committee shall be to oversee the implementation of a Chemical Hygiene Plan which shall stipulate all workpractices, policies and procedures intended to minimize hazardous chemical exposure to laboratory workers. The committee shall report to, and derive its authority from the Provost. The Chemical Hygiene Committee, shall be composed of at least one member chosen by the Deans of Arts and Sciences from each department operating laboratories in which hazardous chemicals are used (Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, and Psychology), and a representative from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
In formulating the Chemical Hygiene Plan, the committee shall use as a model the Department of Labor - Occupational Safety and Health Administration 'Laboratory Standard', 29 CFR 1910.1450 and any applicable standards or guidelines included therein by reference. Specifically, the committee shall address the following components:
- Delegation of authority, including the selection and appointment of local Chemical Hygiene Officers, and establishing lines of communication.
- The formulation of general and specific Standard Operating Procedures for the use of hazardous chemicals.
- Inspection and maintenance schedules for installed safety devices (engineering controls).
- Methods of hazard assessment, and selection of appropriate workpractices and personal protective equipment.
- Procedures and protocols for response to chemical spills and other emergency situations.
- Availability of medical consultation in the event of accidental exposure.
- The content and scheduling of training programs for laboratory personnel.
The committee shall review the Chemical Hygiene Plan annually to determine its continued effectiveness in preventing chemical exposure, and to ensure continued compliance with existing standards and regulations.
