Chemical Safety

Overview of Chemical Safety

Definition: Chemical safety refers to the procedures and practices used to prevent injuries and illnesses caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals
Importance:
- Protect Laboratory Workers: To prevent chemical burns, respiratory problems, and other health hazards
- Prevent Environmental Contamination: To prevent the release of hazardous chemicals into the environment
- Comply with Regulations: To comply with regulatory requirements and accreditation standards
Key Aspects of Chemical Safety:
- Hazard Identification
- Chemical Storage
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Handling and Disposal Procedures
- Emergency Procedures

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) / Safety Data Sheets (SDS):
- Definition: Documents that provide information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling of chemicals
- Availability: SDSs are required to be readily available for all hazardous chemicals in the workplace
- Content: SDSs contain information about:
  - Chemical Identification
  - Hazards Identification
  - Composition/Information on Ingredients
  - First Aid Measures
  - Fire-Fighting Measures
  - Accidental Release Measures
  - Handling and Storage
  - Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
  - Physical and Chemical Properties
  - Stability and Reactivity
  - Toxicological Information
  - Ecological Information
  - Disposal Considerations
  - Transport Information
  - Regulatory Information
- How to Use SDSs:
  - Review the SDS before working with any hazardous chemical
  - Identify the hazards associated with the chemical
  - Follow the recommended safe handling procedures
Labeling Requirements:
- All chemical containers must be clearly labeled with the name of the chemical, hazard warnings, and precautionary statements
- Use labels that are durable and resistant to chemicals
- Replace damaged or missing labels immediately

Proper Storage Areas:
- Store chemicals in designated storage areas that are appropriate for the type of chemical
- Use cabinets, shelves, and containers that are compatible with the chemicals being stored
- Store flammable liquids in flammable storage cabinets
- Store corrosive chemicals in corrosion-resistant cabinets
Segregation of Incompatible Chemicals:
- Store incompatible chemicals separately to prevent dangerous reactions
- Use a chemical compatibility chart to determine which chemicals should not be stored together
Storage Procedures:
- Store chemicals in tightly closed containers
- Store chemicals at the recommended temperature
- Protect chemicals from sunlight and heat
- Do not store chemicals on the floor or in walkways
Storage Requirements:
- Review the labels and SDS to understand the proper storage procedures

Types of PPE:
- Gloves: Protect hands from contamination and chemical burns
- Eye Protection (e.g., safety glasses, face shields): Protect eyes from splashes or fumes
- Gowns or Lab Coats: Protect clothing from contamination
- Respiratory Protection (e.g., respirators): Protect the respiratory system from inhaling hazardous fumes or dusts
PPE Usage:
- Select the appropriate PPE for the task being performed
- Inspect PPE for any damage or defects before use
- Put on PPE in the correct order
- Remove PPE carefully to avoid contamination
- Dispose of contaminated PPE properly
Safety tips to keep in mind:
- Gloves should be changed immediately after contamination and at regular intervals
- Hands should be washed before putting on gloves and immediately after removing gloves

Using Chemicals in the Laboratory:
- Follow established procedures for using chemicals in the laboratory
- Work in well-ventilated areas or use a chemical fume hood
- Use appropriate equipment for measuring and dispensing chemicals
- Avoid creating aerosols or dusts
- Clean up spills immediately
Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedures:
- Segregate hazardous waste into appropriate containers
- Label all hazardous waste containers with the type of waste and the date of disposal
- Dispose of hazardous waste according to federal, state, and local regulations
Never store chemicals down the drain

Mutagenic Agents:
- Definition: Chemicals that can cause mutations in DNA
- Examples: Ethidium bromide, propidium iodide
- Hazards: Can cause cancer or birth defects
- Safe Handling:
  - Handle in a chemical fume hood
  - Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, lab coat, eye protection)
  - Dispose of as hazardous waste
Cytotoxic Agents:
- Definition: Chemicals that are toxic to cells
- Examples: Formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, methanol
- Hazards: Can cause cell damage or death
- Safe Handling:
  - Handle in a chemical fume hood
  - Wear appropriate PPE (gloves, lab coat, eye protection)
  - Avoid skin contact or inhalation
  - Dispose of as hazardous waste

Chemical Spills:
- Have a written spill response plan in place
- Provide spill kits with all of the necessary materials (e.g., absorbent pads, gloves, eye protection)
- Contain the spill and prevent it from spreading
- Clean up the spill using appropriate methods
- Report the spill to the appropriate authorities
Chemical Exposure:
- Have a written exposure response plan in place
- Provide immediate first aid
- Seek medical attention if necessary
- Report the exposure to the appropriate authorities