Chemical
Hygiene
Plan

Building _____Chemistry 091____________________

Room(s) ____0230, 0233, 0224

Department _Geology and ESSIC____


Signoff Sheet Not Shown


 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

POLICY STATEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

(to be completed by the Laboratory Supervisor)

CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN ROSTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

(to be completed by the Laboratory Supervisor)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY

LABORATORY SUPERVISOR OR PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL HYGIENE (BACH) COMMITTEE

UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER

INDIVIDUAL RESEARCHERS AND LABORATORY USERS

DEPARTMENTAL SAFETY COMMITTEE

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES GUIDELINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

MEDICAL CONSULTATION AND EXAMINATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

INFORMATION AND TRAINING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

EXPOSURE MONITORING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

LABORATORY SAFETY GUIDE AND REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

29 CFR 1910.1450
(Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix I

29 CFR 1910.1200 (OSHA Hazard Communication excerpts) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix II

(Appendix A - Health Hazard Definitions)

(Appendix B - Hazard Determination)

UM FIRE EMERGENCY PROCEDURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix III

UM WORKERS' COMPENSATION REPORTING PROCEDURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix IV
(Not Shown) Available from the Department of Environmental Safety or from the
Health Center

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix V

(to be supplied by the Laboratory Supervisor)

CHEMICAL INVENTORY AND MATERIAL SAFETY DATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix VI

(to be supplied by the Laboratory Supervisor)


UM Policy on Occupational Exposure to

Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories,

Approved by the President September 19, 1994

A.Purpose.

This is a statement of official University policy to establish the process for compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation "Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories."

B. Policy.

The University is dedicated to providing safe and healthy laboratory facilities for students and employees, and complying with federal and state occupational health and safety standards. Laboratory administrators, managers, faculty, staff and students all share responsibility for minimizing their exposure to hazardous chemical substances which, for purposes of this policy, shall be defined as chemicals which are carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act on the hematopoietic systems, and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.

The Chemical Hygiene Plan shall be implemented for all facilities at the University of Maryland at College Park where the referenced hazardous chemicals are handled or used under all of the following conditions: (i) chemical manipulations are performed in containers designed to be easily and safely manipulated by one person; (ii) multiple chemical procedures or chemicals are used; and (iii) demonstrably effective laboratory practices and equipment are available and in common use to minimize the potential for employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.

The Chemical Hygiene Plan shall be reviewed and evaluated for its effectiveness at least annually, and updated as necessary.

C. Responsibilities.

Department of Environmental Safety shall:

(a) Provide a Chemical Hygiene Officer to develop and coordinate administration of the UM Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP);

(b) Prepare the CHP with annual review and revisions as needed;

(c) Distribute CHP to each affected department for each Laboratory Supervisor or Principal Investigator (LS/PI);

(d) Provide consultation, worksite monitoring (sampling), advisory assistance and information concerning use of hazardous materials;

(e) Investigate, document and report to the BACH Committee, significant chemical exposure or contamination incidents;

(f) Collect and dispose of hazardous, radioactive and other regulated wastes;

(g) Direct periodic laboratory safety audits to determine regulatory compliance, and recommend action to correct conditions generating release of toxic chemicals;

(h) Provide training to all laboratory workers concerning:

Provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan;

Physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area;

Measures to protect employees from chemical hazards;

Signs and symptoms associated with hazardous chemical exposure;

Location of reference materials on the hazards, safe handling, storage and disposal of laboratory chemicals;

The contents of the OSHA standard and its appendices;

The permissible exposure limits (PELs) for OSHA regulated substances or recommended exposure limits if no PEL is listed; and

The methods and observations used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical.

Laboratory Supervisors/Principal Investigators (LS/PI) shall:

(a) Implement all provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan for laboratory facilities under their control;

(b) Prepare an alphabetired inventory of all hazardous chemical substances in laboratory facilities under their control;

(c) Prepare laboratory-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to include work practices, protective equipment, engineering controls, emergency procedures and waste disposal procedures;

(d) Demarcate and indicate on SOP all areas designated for the use of select carcinogens, reproductive toxins and acute toxins;

(e) Train laboratory workers regarding the specific practices and provisions contained in the laboratory SOP; and

(f) Comply with necessary documentation requirements.

Biological and Chemical Hygiene (BACH) Committee shall:

Review and approve all aspects of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and provide technical guidance for implementation of campus policy concerning chemical and biological safety.

University Health Center shall:

(a) Coordinate and direct all required or recommended medical surveillance programs;

(b) Provide medical consultations and examinations for laboratory workers who have been overexposed, or suspect overexposure, to hazardous chemical substances; and

(c) Maintain medical records relating to consultations, examinations and medical surveillance as required by law.

Individual Researchers and Laboratory Users shall:

(a) Adhere to the requirements of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and SOPs;

(b) Complete all safety training requirements and comply with documentation procedures; and

(c) Report all workplace injuries, chemical exposure incidents or unsafe conditions to their LS/PI as soon as possible.

D. Information

Assistance will be provided by the Department of Environmental Safety to any Department requesting guidance or training to satisfy implementation of this policy.

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Emergency Telephone Numbers

UM Emergency (FIRE - POLICE - RESCUE) - 24 hour # 911

CALL IMMEDIATELY FOR ANY EMERGENCY INCLUDING

INJURED OR SICK PERSON, CHEMICAL SPILL OR FIRE

Environmental Safety (Main Office) (40)5-3960

(Industrial Hygiene, Hazardous Waste Management,

Fire Protection, Hazard Communication, Safety

Education)

Chemical Hygiene Officer (40)5-3980

(Program Consultation and Administration)

Biological Safety (40)5-3960

(Biological Safety, Regulated Pathogen Consultation)

Radiation Safety (40)5-3985

(Health Physics, Radioactive Materials Procurement)

University Health Center Occupational Health (31)4-8172

(Medical Consultation and Evaluation)

Workers' Compensation Office (31)4-8171

Facilities Management Work Control (40)5-2222

(Repair of Facility Equipment Deficiencies, e.g.,

fume hoods, emergency eyewashes, ventilation, etc.)

Laboratory Supervisors(s):

Business-hours #

After-hours #

James Farquhar

5-5043

3018640653

Jay Kaufman________

_______________

________________

 

Laboratory Personnel:

Business-hours #

After-hours #

Sang-Tae Kim_

5-2407

_____301 408 3837___________

 

 

________________

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Chemical Hygiene Plan Roster

UM SAFETY OFFICER: (40)5-3965

Director

Dept. of Environmental Safety

UM CHEMICAL HYGIENE OFFICER: (40)5-3980

Industrial Hygienist

Dept. of Environmental Safety

UM BIOLOGICAL SAFETY OFFICER: (40)5-3960

Dept. of Environmental Safety

MEDICAL CONSULTATION: (31)4-8172

Occupational Health

University Health Center

LABORATORY SUPERVISOR(s)/PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR(s):
(Provide names and UM phone numbers)

 

 

 

James Farquhar

301 405 5043 (office) 5-8611 mass spec lab, 301 405 1116 Chem lab, 301 864 0653 (Home)____________

 

Jay Kaufman 301405 0395 (office), 301460 1845 (home)

 

 

 

                _________________________________________       _____________

 

 

 

DEPARTMENTAL SAFETY COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

(Provide names and UM phone numbers)

 

 

 

Richard Ash 5-7504

 

 

 

                _________________________________________       _____________

 

 

 

                _________________________________________       _____________

 

 

 

                _________________________________________       _____________

 

 

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Duties and Responsibilities:

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY shall:

(a) Provide a Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO) to develop and coordinate administration of the UM Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP);

(b) Prepare the CHP with annual review and revisions as needed;

(c) Distribute CHP to each affected department for each Laboratory Supervisor or Principal Investigator (LS/PI);

(d) Provide consultation, worksite monitoring (sampling), advisory assistance and information concerning use of hazardous materials, processes or agents;

(e) Investigate, document and report to the BACH Committee, significant chemical exposure or contamination incidents;

(f) Collect and dispose of hazardous, radioactive and other regulated wastes;

(g) Direct periodic laboratory safety audits to determine regulatory compliance, and recommend action to correct conditions generating release of hazardous chemicals;

(h) Provide training to all laboratory workers concerning:

Provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan;

Contents of the OSHA standard and its appendices;

Permissible exposure limits (PELs) for OSHA regulated substances or recommended exposure limits if no PEL is listed;

Methods and observations used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical;

Physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area;

Measures to protect employees from chemical hazards;

Signs and symptoms associated with hazardous chemical exposure; and

Location of reference materials on the hazards, safe handling, storage and disposal of laboratory chemicals.

LABORATORY SUPERVISORS/PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS (LS/PI) shall:

(a) Implement all provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan for laboratory facilities under their control;

(b) Inventory and alphabetize all hazardous chemical substances in laboratory facilities under their control;

(c) Prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) relevant to safety and health considerations to be followed in each laboratory, whenever laboratory work involves the use of hazardous chemicals;

(d) Ensure that facilities, equipment, and materials are adequate for their intended use;

(e) Train laboratory workers regarding the specific practices and provisions contained in the laboratory SOP; and

(f) Comply with necessary documentation requirements, and ensure that laboratory workers comply with the requirements of the SOPs.

BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL HYGIENE (BACH) COMMITTEE shall:

Review and approve all aspects of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and provide technical guidance for implementation of campus policy concerning chemical and biological safety.

UNIVERSITY HEALTH CENTER shall:

(a) Coordinate and direct all required or recommended medical surveillance programs;

(b) Provide appropriate medical consultation and examinations to employees who develop signs or symptoms associated with hazardous chemical exposure; and to employees in work areas where significant exposure to hazardous chemicals may have resulted from incidents such as spills, leaks, and explosions.

(c) Maintain medical records relating to consultations, examinations and medical surveillance as required by law.

INDIVIDUAL RESEARCHERS AND LABORATORY USERS shall:

(a) Adhere to the requirements of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and SOPs;

(b) Complete all safety training requirements and comply with documentation procedures;

(c) Report all workplace injuries, chemical exposure incidents or unsafe conditions to their LS/PI as soon as possible; and

DEPARTMENTAL SAFETY COMMITTEE

The Safety Committee is most commonly used for peer review of SOPs (as deemed appropriate) and discussion of relevant and timely safety topics. Committee members should have the expertise and knowledge to recognize and assess potential chemical and physical hazards associated with chemical use within the Department. The Committee members should be able to identify and recommend prudent practices and precautions which should be adopted to minimize hazardous exposures in the handling of laboratory chemicals.

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Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

A comprehensive health and safety program should include documents that provide descriptions of standard methods or operations used within the facility. They should describe in clear and precise language the means and methods to be used by laboratory workers to minimize the risk of hazardous exposure while using hazardous chemicals. These documents, commonly referred to as standard operating procedures (SOPs), should be followed by all laboratory employees.

The LS/PI is responsible for preparation of the SOP documents for attachment to the CHP. The LS/PI is responsible for determining the adequacy of the SOPs prepared. The SOPs shall be incorporated in the on-site copy of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and placed in a designated location within the laboratory for immediate access by employees.

A good SOP is one that is clearly stated and realistic in scope. A laboratory LS/PI should prepare SOPs for all routine and repetitive operations as well as for general laboratory operations. The format of all SOPs should be consistent and should incorporate:

Facility name, department and section affected by or using the procedure;

Subject;

Issue date of the original document or current revision;

Any indication that revisions replace an earlier procedure;

Signature or initials of the SOP preparer as well as any reviewing authority; and

Concise instructions for safe and healthful performance of laboratory activities and procedures.

SOPs should indicate the measures that will be used to reduce or prevent employee exposure to hazardous chemicals, including engineering controls, hygiene practices. and the use and maintenance of personal protective equipment.

SOPs should include provisions for additional employee protection for work with particularly hazardous substances, including select carcinogens, reproductive toxins, and substances which have a high degree of acute toxicity. (See "Identification of Hazardous Materials, below.) Where appropriate, these additional measures should include:

Establishment of a designated area;

Use of containment devices such as fume hoods or glove boxes;

Procedures for safe removal of contaminated waste; and

Procedures for site and personal decontamination.

SOPs shall also indicate circumstances under which certain laboratory procedures, operations or activities require prior approval from the LS/PI before implementation (e.g., use of radioactive materials, bench top manipulation of volatile carcinogenic solvents without use of engineering controls, night or weekend work performed alone, reagent substitutions, etc.).

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Medical Consultation and Examinations

Employees who work with hazardous chemicals in the laboratory should be referred for medical consultation, examination, and/or surveillance (as appropriate to the circumstances) whenever:

An employee develops signs or symptoms associated with a hazardous chemical to which the employee may have been exposed in the laboratory;

An event takes place in the work area to create a likelihood of hazardous exposure; or

Exposure monitoring reveals an exposure level routinely above the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the Permissible Exposure Limit) for an OSHA-regulated substance for which there are exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements. (See "Exposure Monitoring" section, below.)

Examples of events or circumstances which might result in hazardous exposure include:

A spill or leak which rapidly releases a hazardous chemical in an uncontrolled manner;

Direct skin or eye contact with a hazardous chemical;

Symptoms such as headache, rash, nausea, tearing, irritation or redness of eyes, irritation of nose or throat, dizziness, loss of motor dexterity or judgement which disappear when the employee is removed from the exposure area and which reappear when the employee returns to working with the same hazardous chemical;

Two or more employees in the same laboratory work area exhibit similar symptoms; or

Exposure monitoring indicates exposures above regulated or recommended limits.

The University has established procedures for responding to job-related injuries. These procedures should be followed in the event of hazardous exposure due to the use of hazardous chemicals in the laboratory. (See Appendix IV.) In the event of life-threatening injuries or illnesses, the UM Emergency Dispatcher should be immediately notified. All injury or illness occurring as a result of work activities should be reported to the Workers' Compensation Office, immediately after the incident occurs or the injury is treated. All incidents of hazardous exposure, including their disposition, should be reported to the Chemical Hygiene Officer.

The following information should be provided at the time that an employee is referred for medical consultation and/or examination:

Identity of the chemical(s) to which the employee may have been exposed;

Description of the conditions under which the exposure occurred, including any quantitative exposure data, if available; and

A description of the signs and symptoms of exposure that the employee experienced, if any.

A written report must be provided to the employer from any physician to whom the employee is referred for medical consultation or examination in connection with hazardous exposure. The physician's report(s) should indicate ONLY the specific findings of diagnoses related to occupational exposure and should include the following information:

Any recommendation for further medical follow-up;

The results of the medical examination and any associated test(s);

Any medical condition which may be revealed in the course of the examination which may place the employee at increased risk as a result of exposure to a hazardous workplace; and

A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the consultation or medical examination and any medical condition that may require further examination or treatment.

As indicated above, all incidents of hazardous exposure (including disposition) should be reported to, and documented by, the Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO). If no further assessment of the incident is deemed necessary, the reason for that decision should be included in the documentation. If the event is determined to require investigation, a formal exposure assessment will be initiated by the CHO. The purpose of an exposure assessment is not to determine whether there was a failure to follow proper procedures, but to identify the hazardous chemical(s) involved and determine whether an exposure might have caused harm to an employee. An exposure assessment may include the following items:

Interviews with the employee and complainant (if different);

Obtaining the following information:

the names of chemicals which may be involved

other chemicals used by the employee

all chemicals used by others in the immediate area

other chemicals stored in the immediate area

symptoms exhibited or claimed by the employee

comparison of symptoms with those referenced in the Material Safety Data Sheet for each involved chemical

observation of control measures and personal protective equipment in use during the event

notation of any on-site exposure monitoring performed previous to or during event

Monitoring or sampling the air in the area for suspect chemicals; and

Determination of whether the current control measures were adequate during the time of the incident.

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Identification of Hazardous Materials

A hazardous chemical is defined by the OSHA laboratory standard as "a chemical for which there is statistically significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees." Hazardous chemicals include carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act on the hematopoietic system and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes or mucous membranes.

Laboratory supervisors have certain responsibilities for the management of these hazardous chemicals, including:

Inventory of all hazardous chemical substances which are used in their laboratories, and attaching the inventory to this CHP;

Maintenance of the labels on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals to ensure that they are not removed or defaced;

Maintenance of any Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) that are received with incoming shipments of hazardous chemicals, and ensuring that the MSDSs are readily accessible to laboratory employees; and

Determination of whether chemical substances which are developed in the laboratory are hazardous chemicals within the definition of this CHP. If the chemical substance is a byproduct for which the composition is unknown, the substance should be deemed to be a hazardous chemical.

Laboratory supervisors also are responsible for identifying the following hazardous chemicals which are required to be used in an area specially designated for such use:

Select carcinogens: Any substance which meets one of the following criteria:

it is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen;

it is listed under the category, "known to be carcinogens," in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program (latest edition);

it is listed under Group 1 ("carcinogenic to humans") by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs (latest edition); or

it is listed in either Group 2A or 2B by the IARC, or under the category, "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens" by NTP, and causes statistically significant tumor incidence in experimental animals in accordance with criteria specified in the OSHA laboratory standard.

Reproductive toxins: Chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities, including chemicals which are mutagenic and teratogenic;

Acute toxins; and

Unknowns: Chemicals which are synthesized in the laboratory and which are byproducts for which the composition is unknown.

Information concerning the health effects of chemical substances can be located in the following reference sources:

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

MSDSs are available through:

(A) the University of Maryland Administrative Computer Center's Professional Office System (PROFS),

[From the main menu select LOCAL APPLICATIONS; then select ADMIN DISPLAY; then select ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY - MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS]

(B) the UM Mainframe (inforM),

[From the main menu select CAMPUS INFORMATION; then select GENERAL INFORMATION; then select ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY - MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS]

(C) the Department of Environmental Safety (DES) at x53960, via email at safety@accmail.umd.edu or after normal hours through UM Emergency Dispatcher at 911), and

(D) the vendor, manufacturer or distributor. (A MSDS must be provided at the time of initial purchase by the vendor, manufacturer or distributor without charge. A nominal fee may be assessed for additional copies.)

Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (Chemistry Library or DES)

National Toxicology Program (Chemistry Library or DES)

International Agency for Research on Cancer (Chemistry Library or DES)

Use of any of the following materials may be subject to specific occupational safety and health standards as shown:

Asbestos, tremolite, anthophyllite and actinolite

29 CFR 1910.1001

4-Nitrobiphenyl

.1003

alpha-Naphthylamine

.1004

4,4'-Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline)

.1005

Methyl chloromethyl ether

.1006

3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine (and salts)

.1007

bis-Chloromethyl ether

.1008

beta-Naphthylamine

.1009

Benzidine

.1010

4-Aminodiphenyl

.1011

Ethyleneimine

.1012

beta-Propiolactone

.1013

2-Acetylaminofluorene

.1014

4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene

.1015

N-Nitrosodimethylamine

.1016

Vinyl Chloride

.1017

Arsenic (inorganic)

.1018

Lead

.1025

Cadmium

.1027

Benzene

.1028

Cotton dust

.1043

1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane

.1044

Acrylonitrile

.1045

Ethylene oxide

.1047

Formaldehyde

.1048

4,4'-Methylenedianiline

.1050

Non-Asbestiform tremolite, anthophyllite and actinolite

.1101

These standards are not replaced by the Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories standard. Users of these materials are expected to adhere to the provisions of all applicable substance-specific standards if employee exposure routinely exceeds the OSHA-mandated permissible exposure limit (or Action Level, if specified). Copies of these standards may be obtained from the Department of Environmental Safety.

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Information and Training

All UM employees must assume an active role in maintaining a safe working environment by reporting any problems or noncompliance with policies to the LS/PI. All employees should fully utilize any information provided during formal and informal training sessions. Any staff member who does not understand a policy or procedure should consult the LS/PI, departmental safety committee or DES for clarification.

All employees shall be provided with information and training regarding the hazards of the chemicals in their work area. Employees shall be informed of:

The contents of the OSHA standard and its appendices;

The location and availability of the CHP;

The permissible exposure limits (PELs) for OSHA regulated substances or recommended exposure limits if no PEL is listed;

The methods and observations used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical;

The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area;

The measures employees can take to protect themselves from chemical hazards, including specific procedures (SOPs) to be used;

Signs and symptoms associated with exposures to hazardous chemicals used in the laboratory; and

The location of known reference material on the hazards, safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals found in the laboratory.

Distribution of training materials to LS/PIs and members of departmental safety committees is coordinated through the Department of Environmental Safety. Training of laboratory workers in general laboratory safety and the provisions of the OSHA laboratory standard's requirements shall be conducted by UM Chemical Hygiene Officer (or designee) during training sessions scheduled through the Department of Personnel Services Employee Relations and Training or through special arrangement with DES. The LS/PI shall be responsible for training of all supervised laboratory employees as to specific operations, safety equipment, emergency procedures, SOPs and chemical use which apply to the laboratory facilities. Documentation of general laboratory safety and CHP training conducted by the Department of Environmental Safety shall be maintained within each department and by the Department of Personnel Services as part of the employee's permanent record. Documentation of laboratory-specific training provided by the LS/PI shall be maintained within each department and laboratory.

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Exposure Monitoring

OSHA has established "Permissible Exposure Limits" (PELs) for laboratory employees' exposures to certain regulated substances. Exposure levels must be determined and monitored under certain circumstances. A medical surveillance program has been established for certain specified employees whose work assignments involve regular and frequent handling of toxicologically significant quantities of a chemical. In addition, the Department of Environmental Safety is responsible for making determinations regarding the requirements for area and/or personal exposure monitoring in specific circumstances.

PELs are specified in the OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910, Subpart Z Toxic and Hazardous Substances. In addition, PELs are usually indicated on the MSDSs, and can be obtained from the Department of Environmental Safety.

These limits are defined as:

Eight-hour time weighted average (TWA)

The average concentration to which an employee may be exposed to a particular chemical for up to eight hours per day, five days per week.

Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL)

The average concentration to which an employee may be exposed to a particular chemical for up to fifteen minutes per day.

Ceiling (C)

The maximum concentration to which an employee may be exposed to a particular chemical at any time.

Often, a notation of "Skin" is printed with an exposure limit. This indicates that skin absorption of that chemical occurs readily which would contribute to an employee's overall exposure. Employee exposure to dermal absorption of chemical substances can often be monitored through the use of biological testing.

Employee exposure should be monitored in the following circumstances:

Initially, where there is reason to believe that exposure levels to any chemical substance regulated by a standard routinely exceed the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the PEL) for an OSHA-regulated substance for which there are exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements; and

Periodically, where the initial monitoring discloses employee exposure over the action level (or in absence of an action level, the PEL).

The general training provided by the Department of Environmental Safety will include information regarding the identification of situations where employee exposure might exceed the PEL, TLV or STEL. TLVs (Threshold Limit Values) are eight-hour time-weighted average inhalation exposure limits recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. The Department of Environmental Safety will perform area and/or personal exposure monitoring at the request of any LS/PI or laboratory worker. The employee will be provided written notification of monitoring results, within 15 working days after receipt of monitoring results by the University.

Where initial monitoring discloses employee exposure over the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the PEL), the affected employee must be provided with personal protective equipment, unless engineering controls are available as a feasible means of controlling exposure.

Monitoring will be terminated when appropriate in accordance with the relevant standard.

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Laboratory Safety Guide and References

The Laboratory Safety Guide is a separate document prepared and distributed by the Department of Environmental Safety. It was assembled to assist laboratory supervisors and workers in their daily operations at UM and to provide a means to lower employee exposure to hazardous materials and operations. It can supply much of the information needed to provide laboratory workers a safe working environment. However, laboratory workers should not assume that this guide will supply sufficient information to prevent injury and protect the environment. The nature of the work that is performed in many research and testing laboratories increases the necessity for safety planning and awareness. The Principal Investigator and other faculty often have special expertise in the unique or specific experimental processes used in laboratories under their control, and the prepared SOP may supersede general laboratory safety guidelines.

Recommended reference sources concerning safe operations in laboratories include:

CRC Handbook of Laboratory Safety
CRC Press, Inc.

Guide for Safety in the Chemical Laboratory
Van Nostrand Reinhold Company

Improving Safety in the Chemical Laboratory
John Wiley and Sons

Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories
National Academy Press

Safe Storage of Laboratory Chemicals
John Wiley and Sons

Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories
American Chemical Society

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Appendix I

Federal Occupational Safety and Health Standard (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910.1450.

Title: Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories.

(a) Scope and application.

This section shall apply to all employers engaged in the laboratory use of hazardous chemicals as defined below.

Where this section applies, it shall supersede, for laboratories, the requirements of all other OSHA health standards in 29 CFR part 1910, subpart Z, except as follows:

(i) For any OSHA health standard, only the requirement to limit employee exposure to the specific permissible exposure limit shall apply for laboratories, unless that particular standard states otherwise or unless the conditions of paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section apply.

(ii) Prohibition of eye and skin contact where specified by any OSHA health standard shall be observed.

(iii) Where the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the permissible exposure limit) is routinely exceeded for an OSHA regulated substance with exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements paragraphs (d) and (g)(1)(ii) of this section shall apply.

This section shall not apply to:

(i) Uses of hazardous chemicals which do not meet the definition of laboratory use, and in such cases, the employer shall comply with the relevant standard in 29 CFR part 1910, subpart 2, even if such use occurs in a laboratory.

(ii) Laboratory uses of hazardous chemicals which provide no potential for employee exposure.

Examples of such conditions might include:

Procedures using chemically-impregnated test media such as Dip-and-Read tests where a reagent strip is dipped into the specimen to be tested and the results are interpreted by comparing the color reaction to a color chart supplied by the manufacturer of the test strip; and

Commercially prepared kits such as those used in performing pregnancy tests in which all of the reagents needed to conduct the test are contained in the kit.

(b) Definitions -

"Action level" means a concentration designated in 29 CFR part 1910 for a specific substance, calculated as an eight (8)-hour time-weighted average, which initiates certain required activities such as exposure monitoring and medical surveillance.

"Assistant Secretary" means the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, U.S. Department of Labor, or designee.

"Carcinogen" (see "select carcinogen").

"Chemical Hygiene Officer" means an employee who is designated by the employer, and who is qualified by training or experience, to provide technical guidance in the development and implementation of the provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan. This definition is not intended to place limitations on the position description or job classification that the designated individual shall hold within the employer's organizational structure.

"Chemical Hygiene Plan" means a written program developed and implemented by the employer which sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment and work practices that

are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular workplace and

meets the requirements of paragraph (e) of this section.

"Combustible liquid" means any liquid having a flashpoint at or above 100 deg. F (37.8 deg. C), but below 200 deg. F (93.3 deg. C), except any mixture having components with flashpoints of 200 deg. F (93.3 deg. C), or higher, the total volume of which make up 99 percent or more of the total volume of the mixture.

"Compressed gas" means:

A gas or mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 40 psi at 70 deg. F (21.1 deg. C); or

A gas or mixture of gases having, in a container, an absolute pressure exceeding 104 psi at 130 deg. F (54.4 deg C) regardless of the pressure at 70 deg. F (21.1 deg. C); or

A liquid having a vapor pressure exceeding 40 psi at 100 deg. F (37.8 C) as determined by ASTM D-323-72.

"Designated area" means an area which may be used for work with "select carcinogens," reproductive toxins or substances which have a high degree of acute toxicity. A designated area may be the entire laboratory, such as a laboratory hood.

"EMERGENCY" means any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers or failure of control equipment which results in an uncontrolled release of a hazardous chemical into the workplace.

"Employee" means an individual employed in a laboratory workplace who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals in the course of his or her assignments.

"Explosive" means a chemical that causes a sudden, almost instantaneous release of pressure, gas, and heat when subjected to sudden shock, pressure, or high temperature.

"Flammable" means a chemical that falls into one of the following categories:

"Aerosol, flammable" means an aerosol that, when tested by the method described in 16 CFR 1500.45, yields a flame protection exceeding 18 inches at full valve opening, or a flashback (a flame extending back to the valve) at any degree of valve opening;

"Gas, flammable" means:

A gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a flammable mixture with air at a concentration of 13 percent by volume or less; or

A gas that, at ambient temperature and pressure, forms a range of flammable mixtures with air wider than 12 percent by volume, regardless of the lower limit.

"Liquid, flammable" means any liquid having a flashpoint below 100 deg F (37.8 deg. C), except any mixture having components with flashpoints of 100 deg. C) or higher, the total of which make up 99 percent or more of the total volume of the mixture.

"Solid, flammable" means a solid, other than a blasting agent or explosive as defined in 1910.109(a), that is liable to cause fire through friction, absorption of moisture, spontaneous chemical change, or retained heat from manufacturing or processing, or which can be ignited readily and when ignited burns so vigorously and persistently as to create a serious hazard. A chemical shall be considered to be a flammable solid if, when tested by the method described in 16 CFR 1500.44, it ignites and burns with a self-sustained flame at a rate greater than one-tenth of an inch per second along its major axis.

"Flashpoint" means the minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off a vapor insufficient concentration to ignite when tested as follows:

Tagliabue Closed Tester (See American National Standard Method of Test for Flash Point by Tag Closed Tester, Z11.24 - 1979 (ASTM D 56-79)) - for liquids with a viscosity of less than 45 Saybolt Universal Seconds (SUS) at 100 deg. F (37.8 deg. C), that do not contain suspended solids and do not have a tendency to form a surface film under test; or

Pensky-Martens Closed Tester (See American National Standard Method of Test for Flashpoint by Pensky-Martens Closed Tester, Z11.7 - 1979 (ASTM D 93-79)) - for liquids with a viscosity equal to or greater than 45 SUS at 100 deg. F (37.8 deg. C ), or that contain suspended solids, or that have a tendency to form a surface film under test; or

Setaflash Closed Tester (see American National Standard Method of test for Flash Point by Setaflash Closed Tester (ASTM D 3278-78)).

* Organic peroxides, which undergo autoaccelerating thermal decomposition, are excluded from any of the flashpoint determination methods specified above.

"Hazardous chemical" means a chemical for which there is statistically significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees. The term "health hazard" includes chemicals which are carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, hepatotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act on the hematopoietic systems, and agents which damage the lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. Appendices A and B of the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) provide further guidance in defining the scope of health hazards and determining whether or not a chemical is to be considered hazardous for purposes of this standard.

"Laboratory" means a facility where the "laboratory use of hazardous chemicals" occurs. It is a workplace where relatively small quantities of hazardous chemicals are used on a non-production basis.

"Laboratory scale" means work with substances in which the containers used for reactions, transfers, and other handling of substances are designed to be easily and safety manipulated by one person. "Laboratory scale" excludes those workplaces whose function is to produce commercial quantities of materials.

"Laboratory-type hood" means a device located in a laboratory, enclosure on five sides with a movable sash or fixed partial enclosed on the remaining side; constructed and maintained to draw air from the laboratory and to prevent or minimize the escape of air contaminants into the laboratory; and allows chemical manipulations to be conducted in the enclosure without insertion of any portion of the employee's body other than hands and arms. Walk-in hoods with adjustable sashes meet the above definition provided that the sashes are adjusted during use so that the airflow and the exhaust of air contaminants are not compromised and employees do not work inside the enclosure during the release of airborne hazardous chemicals.

"Laboratory use of hazardous chemicals" means handling or use of such chemicals in which all of the following conditions are met:

Chemical manipulations are carried out on a "laboratory scale;"

Multiple chemical procedures or chemicals are used;

The procedures involved are not part of a production process, nor in any way simulate a production process; and

"Protective laboratory practices and equipment" are available and in common use to minimize the potential for employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.

"Medical consultation" means a consultation which takes place between an employee and a licensed physician for the purpose of determining what medical examinations or procedures, if any, are appropriate in cases where a significant exposure to a hazardous chemical may have taken place.

"Organic peroxide" means an organic compound that contains the bivalent -O-O- structure and which may be considered to be a structural derivative of hydrogen peroxide where one or both of the hydrogen atoms has been replaced by an organic radical.

"Oxidizer" means a chemical other than a blasting agent or explosive as defined in 1910.109(a), that initiates or promotes combustion in other materials, thereby causing fire either of itself or through the release of oxygen or other gases.

"Physical hazard" means a chemical for which there is scientifically valid evidence tat it is a combustible liquid, a compressed gas, explosive, flammable, an organic peroxide, an oxidizer pyrophoric, unstable (reactive) or water-reactive.

"Protective laboratory practices and equipment" means those laboratory procedures, practices and equipment accepted by laboratory health and safety experts as effective, or that the employer can show to be effective, in minimizing the potential for employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.

"Reproductive toxins" means chemicals which affect the reproductive chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities including chromosomal damage (mutations) and effects on fetuses (teratogenesis).

"Select carcinogen" means any substance which meets one of the following criteria:

It is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen; or

It is listed under the category, "known to be carcinogens," in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program (NTP)(latest edition); or

It is listed under Group 1 ("carcinogenic to humans") by the International Agency for research on Cancer Monographs (IARC)(latest editions); or

It is listed in either Group 2A or 2B by IARC or under the category, "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens" by NTP, and causes statistically significant tumor incidence in experimental animals in accordance with any of the following criteria:

After inhalation exposure of 6 - 7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for a significant portion of a lifetime to dosages of less than 10 mg/m(3);

After repeated skin application of less than 300 (mg/kg of body weight) per week; or

After oral dosages of less than 50 mg/kg of body weight per day.

"Unstable (reactive)" means a chemical which is the pure state, or as produced or transported, will vigorously polymerize, decompose, condense, or will become self-reactive under conditions of shocks, pressure or temperature.

"Water-reactive" means a chemical that reacts with water to release a gas that is either flammable or presents a health hazard.

(c) Permissible exposure limits. For laboratory uses of OSHA regulated substances, the employer shall assure that laboratory employees' exposures to such substances do not exceed the permissible exposure limits specified in 29 CFR part 1910, subpart Z.

(d) Employee exposure determination -

Initial monitoring. The employer shall measure the employee's exposure to any substance regulated by a standard which requires monitoring if there is reason to believe that exposure levels for that substance routinely exceed the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the PEL).

Periodic monitoring. If the initial monitoring prescribed by paragraph (d)(1) of this section discloses employee exposure over the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the PEL), the employer shall immediately comply with the exposure monitoring provisions of the relevant standard.

Termination of monitoring. Monitoring may be terminated in accordance with the relevant standard.

Employee notification of monitoring results. The employer shall, within 15 working days after the receipt of any monitoring results, notify the employee of these results in writing either individually or by posting results in an appropriate location that is accessible to employees.

(e) Chemical hygiene plan - General. (Appendix A of this section is non-mandatory but provides guidance to assist employers in the development of the Chemical Hygiene Plan).

Where hazardous chemicals as defined by this standard are used in the workplace, the employer shall develop and carry out the provisions of a written Chemical Hygiene Plan which is:

(i) Capable of protecting employees from health hazards associated with hazardous chemicals in that laboratory and

(ii) Capable of keeping exposures below the limits specified in paragraph (c) of this section.

The Chemical Hygiene Plan shall be readily available to employees, employee representatives and, upon request, to the Assistant Secretary.

The Chemical Hygiene Plan shall include each of the following elements and shall indicate specific measures that the employer will take to ensure laboratory employee protection;

(i) Standard operating procedures relevant to safety and health considerations to be followed when laboratory work involves the use of hazardous chemicals;

(ii) Criteria that the employer will use to determine and implement control measures to reduce employee exposure to hazardous chemicals including engineering controls, the use of personal protective equipment and hygiene practices; particular attention shall be given to the selection of control measures for chemicals that are known to be extremely hazardous;

(iii) A requirement that fume hoods and other protective equipment are functioning properly and specific measures that shall be taken to ensure proper and adequate performance of such equipment;

(iv) Provisions for employee information and training as prescribed in paragraph (f) of this section;

(v) The circumstances under which a particular laboratory operation, procedure or activity shall require prior approval from the employer or the employer's designee before implementation;

(vi) Provisions for medical consultation and medical examinations in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section;

(vii) Designation of personnel responsible for implementation of the Chemical Hygiene Plan including the assignment of a Chemical Hygiene Officer, and, if appropriate, establishment of a Chemical Hygiene Committee; and

(viii) Provisions for additional employee protection for work with particularly hazardous substances. These include "select carcinogens, "reproductive toxins and substances which have a high degree of acute toxicity. Specific consideration shall be given to the following provisions which shall be included where appropriate:

Establishment of a designated area;

Use of containment devices such as fume hoods or glove boxes;

Procedures for safe removal of contaminated waste; and

Decontamination procedures.

The employer shall review and evaluate the effectiveness of the Chemical Hygiene Plan at least annually and update it as necessary.

(f) Employee information and training.

The employer shall provide employees with information and training to ensure that they are apprised of the hazards of chemicals present in their work area.

Such information shall be provided at the time of an employee's initial assignment to a work area where hazardous chemicals are present and prior to assignments involving new exposure situations. The frequency of refresher information and training shall be determined by the employer.

Information. Employees shall be informed of:

(i) The contents of this standard and its appendices which shall be made available to employees;

(ii) the location and availability of the employer's Chemical Hygiene Plan;

(iii) The permissible exposure limits for OSHA regulated substances or recommended exposure limits for other hazardous chemicals where there is no applicable OSHA standard;

(iv) Signs and symptoms associated with exposures to hazardous chemicals used in the laboratory; and

(v) The location and availability of known reference material on the hazards, safe handling, storage and disposal of hazardous chemicals found in the laboratory including, but not limited to, Material Safety Data Sheets received from the chemical supplier.

Training.

(i) Employee training shall include:

Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical (such as monitoring conducted by the employer, continuous monitoring devices, visual appearance or odor of hazardous chemicals when being released, etc.);

The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area; and

The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards, including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be used.

(ii) The employee shall be trained on the applicable details of the employer's written Chemical Hygiene Plan.

(g) Medical consultation and medical examinations.

The employer shall provide all employees who work with hazardous chemicals an opportunity to receive medical attention, including any follow-up examinations which the examining physician determines to be necessary, under the following circumstances:

(i) Whenever an employee develops signs or symptoms associated with a hazardous chemical to which the employee may have been exposed in the laboratory, the employee shall be provided an opportunity to receive an appropriate medical examination.

(ii) Where exposure monitoring reveals an exposure level routinely above the action level (or in the absence of an action level, the PEL) for an OSHA regulated substance for which there are exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements, medical surveillance shall be established for the affected employee as prescribed by the particular standard.

(iii) Whenever an event takes place in the work area such as a spill, leak, explosion or other occurrence resulting in the likelihood of a hazardous exposure, the affected employee shall be provided an opportunity for a medical consultation. Such consultation shall be for the purpose of determining the need for a medical examination.

All medical examinations and consultations shall be performed by or under the direct supervision of a licensed physician and shall be provided without cost to the employee, without loss of pay and at a reasonable time and place.

Information provided to the physician. The employer shall provide the following information to the physician:

(i) The identity of the hazardous chemical(s) to which the employee may have been exposed;

(ii) A description of the conditions under which the exposure occurred including quantitative exposure data, if available; and

(iii) A description of the signs and symptoms of exposure that the employee is experiencing, if any.

Physician's written opinion.

(i) For examination or consultation required under this standard, the employer shall obtain a written opinion from the examining physician which shall include the following:

Any recommendation for further medical follow-up;

The results of the medical examination and any associated tests;

Any medical condition which may be revealed in the course of the examination which may place the employee at increased risk as a result of exposure to a hazardous workplace; and

A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the consultation or medical examination and any medical condition that may require further examination or treatment.

(ii) The written opinion shall not reveal specific findings of diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure.

(h) Hazard identification.

With respect to labels and material safety data sheets:

(i) Employers shall ensure that labels on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals are not removed or defaced.

(ii) Employers shall maintain any material safety data sheets that are received with incoming shipments of hazardous chemicals, and ensure that they are readily accessible to laboratory employees.

The following provisions shall apply to chemical substances developed in the laboratory:

(i) If the composition of the chemical substance which is produced exclusively for the laboratory's use is known, the employer shall determine if it is a hazardous chemical as defined in paragraph (b) of this section. If the chemical is determined to be hazardous, the employer shall provide appropriate training as required under paragraph (f) of this section.

(ii) If the chemical produced is a byproduct whose composition is not known, the employer shall assume that the substance is hazardous and shall implement paragraph (e) of this section.

(iii) If the chemical substance is produced for another user outside of the laboratory, the employer shall comply with the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.120) including the requirements for preparation of material safety data sheets and labeling.

(iv) Use of respirators. Where the use of respirators is necessary to maintain exposure below permissible exposure limits, the employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, the proper respiratory equipment.

Respirators shall be selected and used in accordance with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.134.

(j) Recordkeeping.

The employer shall establish and maintain for each employee an accurate record of any measurements taken to monitor employee exposures and any medical consultation and examinations including tests or written opinions required by this standard.

The employer shall assure that such records are kept, transferred, and made available in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.20.

(k) Dates -

Effective date. This section shall become effective May 1, 1990.

Start-up dates.

(i) Employers shall have developed and implemented a written Chemical Hygiene Plan no later than January 31, 1991.

(ii) Paragraph (a)(2) of this section shall not take effect until the employer has developed and implemented a written Chemical Hygiene Plan.

(l) Appendices. The information contained in the appendices is not intended, by itself, to create any additional obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract from any existing obligation.

Go Back to the Table of Contents


Appendix A to 1910.1450 - National Research Council Recommendations

Concerning Chemical Hygiene in Laboratories (Non-Mandatory)

Table of Contents

Foreword

Corresponding Sections of the Standard and this Appendix

A. General Principles

Minimize all Chemical Exposures

Avoid Underestimation of Risk

Provide Adequate Ventilation

Institute a Chemical Hygiene Program

Observe the PELs and TLVs

B. Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer

Supervisor of Administrative Unit

Chemical Hygiene Officer

Laboratory Supervisor

Project Director

Laboratory Worker

C. The Laboratory Facility

Design

Maintenance

Usage

Ventilation

D. Components of the Chemical Hygiene Plan

Basic Rules and Procedures

Chemical Procurement, Distribution, and Storage

Environmental Monitoring

Housekeeping, Maintenance and Inspections

Medical Program

Personal Protective Apparel and Equipment

Records

Signs and Labels

Spills and Accidents

Training and Information

Waste Disposal

E. General Procedures for Working With Chemicals

General Rules for all Laboratory Work with Chemicals

Allergens and Embryotoxins

Chemicals of Moderate Chronic or High Acute Toxicity

Chemicals of High Chronic Toxicity

Animal Work with Chemicals of High Chronic Toxicity

F. Safety Recommendations

G. Material Safety Data Sheets

Foreword

As guidance for each employer's development of an appropriate laboratory Chemical Hygiene Plan, the following non-mandatory recommendations are provided. They were extracted form "Prudent Practices" for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories" (referred to below as "Prudent Practices"), which was published in 1981 by the National Research Council and is available from the National Academy Press, 2101 Constitution Ave., NW,. Washington DC 20418.

"Prudent Practices" is cited because of its wide distribution and acceptance and because of its preparation by members of the laboratory community through the sponsorship of the National Research Council.

However, none of the recommendations given here will modify any requirements of the laboratory standard. This Appendix merely presents pertinent recommendations from "Prudent Practices", organized into a form convenient for quick reference during operation of a laboratory facility and during development and application of a Chemical Hygiene Plan. Users of this appendix should consult "Prudent Practices" for a more extended presentation and justification for each recommendation.

"Prudent Practices" deal with both safety and chemical hazards while the laboratory standard is concerned primarily with chemical hazards. Therefore, only those recommendations directed primarily toward control of toxic exposures are cited in this appendix, with the term "chemical Hygiene" being substituted for the word "safety". However, since conditions producing or threatening physical injury often pose toxic risks as well, page references concerning major categories of safety hazards in the laboratory are given in section F.

The recommendations from "Prudent Practices" have been paraphrased, combined, or otherwise reorganized, and headings have been added. However, their sense has not been changed.

Corresponding Sections of the Standard and this Appendix

The following table is given for the convenience of those who are developing a Chemical Hygiene Plan which will satisfy the requirements of paragraph (e) of the standard. It indicates those sections of this appendix which are most pertinent to each of the sections of paragraph (e) and related paragraphs.

 

 

 ___________________________________________________________________________________

|Paragraph and topic in laboratory standard             |  Relevant appendix section|

|_______________________________________________________|___________________________|

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(i) Standard operating procedures for handling   | C, D, E                   |

|          toxic chemicals.                             |                           |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(ii) Criteria to be used for implemetation of    |   D                       |

|           measures to reduce exposures.               |                           |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3) iii) Fume hood performance                      |   C4b                     |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(iv) Employee information and training           |  D10, D9                  |

|           (including emergency procedures).           |                           |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(v) Requirements for prior approval of           |   E2b, E4b                |

|          laboratory activities.                       |                           |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(vi) Medical consultation and medical            |  D5, E4f                  |

|           examinations.                               |                           |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(vii) Chemical hygiene responsibilities.         |    B                      |

|                                                       |                           |

|(e)(3)(viii) Special precautions for work with         |   E2, E3, E4              |

|             particularly hazardous substances.        |                           |

|_______________________________________________________|___________________________|

 

In this appendix, those recommendations directed primarily at administrators and supervisors are given in sections A - D. Those recommendations of primary concern to employees who are actually handling laboratory chemicals are given in section E. (Reference to page numbers in "Prudent Practices" are given in parentheses.)

A. General Principles for Work with Laboratory Chemicals

In addition to the more detailed recommendations listed below in sections B-E, "Prudent Practices" expresses certain general principles, including the following:

It is prudent to minimize all chemical exposures. Because few laboratory chemicals are without hazards, general precautions for handling all laboratory chemicals should be adopted, rather than specific guidelines for particular chemicals (2,10). Skin contact with chemicals should be avoided as a cardinal rule (198).

Avoid underestimation of risk. Even for substances of no known significant hazard, exposure should be minimized; for work with substances which present special hazards, special precautions should be taken (10, 37, 38). One should assume that any mixture will be more toxic than its most toxic component (30, 103) and that all substances of unknown toxicity are toxic (3, 34).

Provide adequate ventilation. The best way to prevent exposure to airborne substances is to prevent their escape into the working atmosphere by use of hoods and other ventilation devices (32, 198).

Institute a chemical hygiene program. A mandatory chemical hygiene program designed to minimize exposures is needed; it should be a regular, continuing effort, not merely a standby or short-term activity (6,11). Its recommendations should be followed in academic teaching laboratories as well as by full-time laboratory workers (13).

Observe the PELs, TLVs. The Permissible Exposure Limits of OSHA and the Threshold Limit Values of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists should not be exceeded (13).

B. Chemical Hygiene Responsibilities

Responsibility for chemical hygiene rests at all levels (6, 11, 21) including the:

Chief executive officer, who has ultimate responsibility for chemical hygiene within the institution and must, with other administrators, provide continuing support for institutional chemical hygiene (7, 11).

Supervisor of the department or other administrative unit, who is responsible for chemical hygiene in that unit (7).

Chemical Hygiene Officer(s), whose appointment is essential (7) and who must:

(a) Work with administrators and other employees to develop and implement appropriate chemical hygiene policies and practices (7);

(b) Monitor procurement, use, and disposal of chemicals used in the lab (8);

(c) See that appropriate audits are maintained (8);

(d) Help project directors develop precautions and adequate facilities (10);

(e) Know the current legal requirements concerning regulated substances (50); and

(f) Seek ways to improve the chemical hygiene program (8, 11).

Laboratory supervisor, who has overall responsibility for chemical hygiene in the laboratory (21) including responsibility to:

(a) Ensure that workers know and follow the chemical hygiene rules, that protective equipment is available and in working order, and that appropriate training has been provided (21, 22);

(b) Provide regular, formal chemical hygiene and housekeeping inspections including routine inspections of emergency equipment (21, 171);

(c) Know the current legal requirements concerning regulated substances (50, 231);

(d) Determine the required levels of protective apparel and equipment (156, 160, 162); and

(e) Ensure that facilities and training for use of any material being ordered are adequate (215).

Project director or director of other specific operation, who has primary responsibility for chemical hygiene procedures for that operation (7).

Laboratory worker, who is responsible for:

(a) Planning and conducting each operation in accordance with the institutional chemical hygiene procedures (7, 21, 22, 230); and

(b) Developing good personal chemical hygiene habits (22).

C. The Laboratory Facility

Design. The laboratory facility should have:

(a) An appropriate general ventilation system (see C4 below) with air intakes and exhausts located so as to avoid intake of contaminated air (194);

(b) Adequate, well-ventilated stockrooms/storerooms (218, 219).

(c) Laboratory hoods and sinks (12, 162);

(d) Other safety equipment including eyewash fountains and drench showers (162, 169); and

(e) Arrangements for waste disposal (12, 240).

Maintenance. Chemical-hygiene-related equipment (hoods, incinerator, etc.) should undergo continual appraisal and be modified if inadequate (11, 12).

Usage. The work conducted (10) and its scale (12) must be appropriate to the physical facilities available and, especially, to the quality of ventilation (13).

Ventilation -

(a) General laboratory ventilation. This system should: Provide a source of air for breathing and for input to local ventilation devices (199); it should not be relied on for protection from toxic substances released into the laboratory (198); ensure that laboratory air is continually replaced, preventing increase of air concentrations of toxic substances during the working day (194); direct air flow into the laboratory from non-laboratory areas and out to the exterior of the building (194).

(b) Hoods. A laboratory hood with 2.5 linear feet of hood space per person should be provided for every 2 workers if they spend most of their time working with chemicals (199); each hood should have a continuous monitoring device to allow convenient confirmation of adequate hood performance before use (200, 209). If this is not possible, work with substances of unknown toxicity should be avoided (13) or other types of local ventilation devices should be provided (199). See pp. 201-206 for a discussion of hood design, construction, and evaluation.

(c) Other local ventilation devices. Ventilated storage cabinets, canopy hoods, snorkels, etc. should be provided as needed (199). Each canopy hood and snorkel should have a separate exhaust duct (207).

(d) Special ventilation areas. Exhaust air from glove boxes and isolation rooms should be passed through scrubbers or other treatment before release into the regular exhaust system (208). Cold rooms and warm rooms should have provisions for rapid escape and for escape in the event of electrical failure (209).

(e) Modifications. Any alteration of the ventilation system should be made only if thorough testing indicates that worker protection from airborne toxic substances will continue to be adequate (12, 193, 204).

(f) Performance. Rate: 4-12 room air changes/hour is normally adequate general ventilation if local exhaust systems such as hoods are used as the primary method of control (194).

(g) Quality. General air flow should not be turbulent and should be relatively uniform throughout the laboratory, with no high velocity or static areas (194, 195); airflow into and within the hood should not be excessively turbulent (200); hood face velocity should be adequate (typically 60-100 lfm) (200, 204).

(h) Evaluation. Quality and quantity of ventilation should be evaluated on installation (202), regularly monitored (at least every 3 months) (6, 12, 14, 195), and reevaluated whenever a change in local ventilation devices is made (12, 195, 207). See pp 195-198 for methods of evaluation and for calculation of estimated airborne contaminant concentrations.

D. Components of the Chemical Hygiene Plan

Basic Rules and Procedures

(Recommendations for these are given in section E, below)

Chemical Procurement, Distribution, and Storage

(a) Procurement. Before a substance is received, information on proper handling, storage, and disposal should be known to those who will be involved (215, 216). No container should be accepted without an adequate identifying label (216). Preferably, all substances should be received in a central location (216).

(b) Stockrooms/storerooms. Toxic substances should be segregated in a well-identified area with local exhaust ventilation (221). Chemicals which are highly toxic (227) or other chemicals whose containers have been opened should be in unbreakable secondary containers (219). Stored chemicals should be examined periodically (at least annually) for replacement, deterioration, and container integrity (218-19). Stockrooms/storerooms should not be used as preparation or repackaging areas, should be open during normal working hours, and should be controlled by one person (219).

(c) Distribution. When chemicals are hand carried, the container should be placed in an outside container or bucket. Freight-only elevators should be used if possible (223).

(d) Laboratory storage. Amounts permitted should be as small as practical. Storage on bench tops and in hoods is inadvisable. Exposure to heat or direct sunlight should be avoided. Periodic inventories should be conducted, with unneeded items being discarded or returned to the storeroom/stockroom (225-6, 229).

Environmental Monitoring

Regular instrumental monitoring of airborne concentrations is not usually justified or practical in laboratories but may be appropriate when testing or redesigning hoods or other ventilation devices (12) or when a highly toxic substance is stored or used regularly (e.g., 3 times/week) (13).

Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Inspections

(a) Cleaning. Floors should be cleaned regularly (24).

(b) Inspections. Formal housekeeping and chemical hygiene inspections should be held at least quarterly (6, 21) for units which have frequent personnel changes and semiannually for others; informal inspections should be continual (21).

(c) Maintenance. Eye wash fountains should be inspected at intervals of not less than 3 months (6). Respirators for routine use should be inspected periodically by the laboratory supervisor (169). Other safety equipment should be inspected regularly. (e.g., every 3-6 months) (6, 24, 171). Procedures to prevent restarting of out-of-service equipment should be established (25).

(d) Passageways. Stairways and hallways should not be used as storage areas (24). Access to exits, emergency equipment, and utility controls should never be blocked (24).

Medical Program

(a) Compliance with regulations. Regular medical surveillance should be established to the extent required by regulations (12).

(b) Routine surveillance. Anyone whose work involves regular and frequent handling of toxicologically significant quantities of a chemical should consult a qualified physician to determine on an individual basis whether a regular schedule of medical surveillance is desirable (11, 50).

(c) First aid. Personnel trained in first aid should be available during working hours and an emergency room with medical personnel should be nearby (173). See pp. 176-178 for description of some emergency first aid procedures.

Protective Apparel and Equipment

These should include for each laboratory:

(a) Protective apparel compatible with the required degree of protection for substances being handled (158-161);

(b) An easily accessible drench-type safety shower (162, 169);

(c) An eyewash fountain (162)

(d) A fire extinguisher (162-164);

(e) Respiratory protection (164-9), fire alarm and telephone for emergency use (162) should be available nearby; and

(f) Other items designated by the laboratory supervisor (156, 160).

Records

(a) Accident records should be written and retained (174).

(b) Chemical Hygiene Plan records should document that the facilities and precautions were compatible with current knowledge and regulations (7).

(c) Inventory and usage records for high-risk substances should be kept as specified in sections E3(e) below.

(d) Medical records should be retained by the institution in accordance with the requirements of state and federal regulations (12).

Signs and Labels

Prominent signs and labels of the following types should be posted:

(a) Emergency telephone numbers of emergency personnel/facilities, supervisors, and laboratory workers (28);

(b) Identity labels, showing contents of containers (including waste receptacles) and associated hazards (27, 48);

(c) Location signs for safety showers, eyewash stations, other safety and first aid equipment, exits (27) and areas where food and beverage consumption and storage are permitted (24); and

(d) Warnings at areas or equipment where special or unusual hazards exist (27).

Spills and Accidents

(a) A written emergency plan should be established and communicated to all personnel; it should include procedures for ventilation failure (200), evacuation, medical care, reporting, and drills (172).

(b) There should be an alarm system to alert people in all parts of the facility including isolation areas such as cold rooms (172).

(c) A spill control policy should be developed and should include consideration of prevention, containment, cleanup, and reporting (175).

(d) All accidents or near accidents should be carefully analyzed with the results distributed to all who might benefit (8, 28).

Information and Training Program

(a) Aim: To assure that all individuals at risk are adequately informed about the work in the laboratory, its risks, and what to do if an accident occurs (5, 15).

(b) Emergency and Personal Protection Training: Every laboratory worker should know the location and proper use of available protective apparel and equipment (154, 169). Some of the full-time personnel of the laboratory should be trained in the proper use of emergency equipment and procedures (6). Such training as well as first aid instruction should be available to (154) and encouraged for (176) everyone who might need it.

(c) Receiving and stockroom/storeroom personnel should know about hazards, handling equipment, protective apparel, and relevant regulations (217).

(d) Frequency of Training: The training and education program should be a regular, continuing activity - not simply an annual presentation (15).

(e) Literature/Consultation: Literature and consulting advice concerning chemical hygiene should be readily available to laboratory personnel, who should be encouraged to use these information resources (14).

Waste Disposal Program.

(a) Aim: To assure that minimal harm to people, other organisms, and the environment will result from the disposal of waste laboratory chemicals (5).

(b) Content (14, 232, 233, 240): The waste disposal program should specify how waste is to be collected, segregated, stored, and transported and include consideration of what materials can be incinerated. Transport from the institution must be in accordance with DOT regulations (244).

(c) Discarding Chemical Stocks: Unlabeled containers of chemicals and solutions should undergo prompt disposal; if partially used, they should not be opened (24, 27). Before a worker's employment in the laboratory ends, chemicals for which that person was responsible should be discarded or returned to storage (226).

(d) Frequency of Disposal: Waste should be removed from laboratories to a central waste storage area at least once per week and from the central waste storage area at regular intervals (14).

(e) Method of Disposal: Incineration in an environmentally acceptable manner is the most practical disposal method for combustible laboratory waste (14, 238, 241). Indiscriminate disposal by pouring waste chemicals down the drain (14, 231, 242) or adding them to mixed refuse for landfill burial is unacceptable (14). Hoods should not be used as a means of disposal for volatile chemicals (40, 200). Disposal by recycling (233, 243) or chemical decontamination (40, 230) should be used when possible.

E. Basic Rules and Procedures for Working with Chemicals

The Chemical Hygiene Plan should require that laboratory workers know and follow its rules and procedures. In addition to the procedures of the sub programs mentioned above, these should include the rules listed below.

General Rules

The following should be used for essentially all laboratory work with chemicals:

(a) Accidents and spills -

Eye Contact: Promptly flush eyes with water for a prolonged period (15 minutes) and seek medical attention (33, 172).

Ingestion: Encourage the victim to drink large amounts of water (178).

Skin Contact: Promptly flush the affected area with water (33, 172, 178) and remove any contaminated clothing (172, 178). If symptoms persist after washing, seek medical attention (33).

Clean-up. Promptly clean up spills, using appropriate protective apparel and equipment and proper disposal (24, 33). See pp. 233-237 for specific clean-up recommendations.

(b) Avoidance of "routine" exposure: Develop and encourage safe habits (23); avoid unnecessary exposure to chemicals by any route (23); Do not smell or taste chemicals (32). Vent apparatus which may discharge toxic chemicals (vacuum pumps, distillation columns, etc.) into local exhaust devices (199). Inspect gloves (157) and test glove boxes (208) before use. Do not allow release of toxic substances in cold rooms and warm rooms, since these have contained recirculated atmospheres (209).

(c) Choice of chemicals: Use only those chemicals for which the quality of the available ventilation system is appropriate (13).

(d) Eating, smoking, etc.: Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, gum chewing, or application of cosmetics in areas where laboratory chemicals are present (22, 24, 32, 40); wash hands before conducting these activities (23, 24). Avoid storage, handling, or consumption of food or beverages in storage areas, refrigerators, glassware or utensils which are also used for laboratory operations (23, 24, 226).

(e) Equipment and glassware: Handle and store laboratory glassware with care to avoid damage; do not use damaged glassware (25). Use extra care with Dewar flasks and other evacuated glass apparatus; shield or wrap them to contain chemicals and fragments should implosion occur (25). Use equipment only for its designed purpose (23, 26).

(f) Exiting: Wash areas of exposed skin well before leaving the laboratory (23).

(g) Horseplay: Avoid practical jokes or other behavior which might confuse, startle or distract another worker (23).

(h) Mouth suction: Do not use mouth suction for pipeting or starting a siphon (23, 32).

(i) Personal apparel: Confine long hair and loose clothing (23, 158). Wear shoes at all times in the laboratory but do not wear sandals, perforated shoes, or sneakers (158).

(j) Personal housekeeping: Keep the work area clean and uncluttered, with chemicals and equipment being properly labeled and stored; clean up the work area on completion of an operation or at the end of each day (24).

(k) Personal protection: Assure that appropriate eye protection (154-156) is worn by all persons, including visitors, where chemicals are stored or handled (22, 23, 33, 154). Wear appropriate gloves when the potential for contact with toxic materials exists (157); inspect the gloves before each use, wash them before removal, and replace them periodically (157). (A table of resistance to chemi als o common glove materials is given p. 159). Use appropriate (164-168) respiratory equipment when air contaminant concentrations are not sufficiently restricted by engineering controls (164-5), inspecting the respirator before use (169). Use any other protective and emergency apparel and equipment as appropriate (22, 157-162). Avoid use of contact lenses in the laboratory unless necessary; if they are used, inform supervisor so special precautions can be taken (155). Remove laboratory coats immediately on significant contamination (161).

(l) Planning: Seek information and advice about hazards (7), plan appropriate protective procedures, and plan positioning of equipment before beginning any new operation (22, 23).

(m) Unattended operations: Leave lights on, place an appropriate sign on the door, and provide for containment of toxic substances in the event of failure of a utility service (such as cooling water) to an unattended operation (27, 128).

(n) Use of hood: Use the hood for operations which might result in release of toxic chemical vapors or dust (198-9). As a rule of thumb, use a hood or other local ventilation device when working with any appreciably volatile substance with a TLV of less than 50 ppm (13). Confirm adequate hood performance before use; keep hood closed at all times except when adjustments within the hood are being made (200); keep materials stored in hoods to a minimum and do not allow them to block vents or air flow (200). Leave the hood "on" when it is not in active use if toxic substances are stored in it or if it is uncertain whether adequate general laboratory ventilation will be maintained when it is "off" (200).

(o) Vigilance: Be alert to unsafe conditions and see that they are corrected when detected (22).

(p) Waste disposal: Assure that the plan for each laboratory operation includes plans and training for waste disposal (230). Deposit chemical waste in appropriately labeled receptacles and follow all other waste disposal procedures of the Chemical Hygiene Plan (22, 24). Do not discharge to the sewer concentrated acids or bases (231); highly toxic, malodorous, or lachrymatory substances (231); or any substances which might interfere with the biological activity of waste water treatment plants, create fire or explosion hazards, cause structural damage or obstruct flow (242).

(q) Working alone: Avoid working alone in a building; do not work alone in a laboratory if the procedures being conducted are hazardous (28).

Working with Allergens and Embryotoxins

(a) Allergens (examples: diazomethane, isocyanates, bichromates): Wear suitable gloves to prevent hand contact with allergens or substances of unknown allergenic activity (35).

(b) Embryotoxins (34-5) (examples: organomercurials, lead compounds, formamide): If you are a woman of childbearing age, handle these substances only in a hood whose satisfactory performance has been confirmed, using appropriate protective apparel (especially gloves) to prevent skin contact. Review each use of these materials with the research supervisor and review continuing uses annually or whenever a procedural change is made. Store these substances, properly labeled, in an adequately ventilated area in an unbreakable secondary container. Notify supervisors of all incidents of exposure or spills; consult a qualified physician when appropriate.

Work with Chemicals of Moderate Chronic or High Acute Toxicity

Examples: diisopropylfluorophosphate (41), hydrofluoric acid (43), hydrogen cyanide (45).Supplemental rules to be followed in addition to those mentioned above (Procedure B of "Prudent Practices", pp. 39-41):

(a) Aim: To minimize exposure to these toxic substances by any route using all reasonable precautions (39).

(b) Applicability: These precautions are appropriate for substances with moderate chronic or high acute toxicity used in significant quantities (39).

(c) Location: Use and store these substances only in areas of restricted access with special warning signs (40, 229). Always use a hood (previously evaluated to confirm adequate performance with a face velocity of at least 60 linear feet per minute) (40) or other containment device for procedures which may result in the generation of aerosols or vapors containing the substance (39); trap released vapors to prevent their discharge with the hood exhaust (40).

(d) Personal protection: Always avoid skin contact by use of gloves and long sleeves (and other protective apparel as appropriate) (39). Always wash hands and arms immediately after working with these materials (40).

(e) Records: Maintain records of the amounts of these materials on hand, amounts used, and the names of the workers involved (40, 229).

(f) Prevention of spills and accidents: Be prepared for accidents and spills (41). Assure that at least 2 people are present at all times if a compound in use is highly toxic or of unknown toxicity (39). Store breakable containers of these substances in chemically resistant trays; also work and mount apparatus above such trays or cover work and storage surfaces with removable, absorbent, plastic backed paper (40). If a major spill occurs outside the hood, evacuate the area; assure that cleanup personnel wear suitable protective apparel and equipment (41).

(g) Waste: Thoroughly decontaminate or incinerate contaminated clothing or shoes (41). If possible, chemically decontaminate by chemical conversion (40). Store contaminated waste in closed, suitably labeled, impervious containers (for liquids, in glass or plastic bottles half-filled with vermiculite) (40).

Work with Chemicals of High Chronic Toxicity

(Examples: dimethylmercury and nickel carbonyl (48), benzo-a-pyrene (51), N-nitrosodiethylamine (54), other human carcinogens or substances with high carcinogenic potency in animals (38).) Further supplemental rules to be followed, in addition to all these mentioned above, for work with substances of known high chronic toxicity (in quantities above a few milligrams to a few grams, depending on the substance) (47). (Procedure A of "Prudent Practices" pp. 47-50).

(a) Access: Conduct all transfers and work with these substances in a "controlled area": a restricted access hood, glove box, or portion of a lab, designated for use of highly toxic substances, for which all people with access are aware of the substances being used and necessary precautions (48).

(b) Approvals: Prepare a plan for use and disposal of these materials and obtain the approval of the laboratory supervisor (48).

(c) Non-contamination/Decontamination: Protect vacuum pumps against contamination by scrubbers or HEPA filters and vent them into the hood (49). Decontaminate vacuum pumps or other contaminated equipment, including glassware, in the hood before removing them from the controlled area (49, 50). Decontaminate the controlled area before normal work is resumed there (50).

(d) Exiting: On leaving a controlled area, remove any protective apparel (placing it in an appropriate, labeled container) and thoroughly wash hands, forearms, face, and neck (49).

(e) Housekeeping: Use a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter instead of dry sweeping if the toxic substance was a dry powder (50).

(f) Medical surveillance: If using toxicologically significant quantities of such a substance on a regular basis (e.g., 3 times per week), consult a qualified physician concerning desirability of regular medical surveillance (50).

(g) Records: Keep accurate records of the amounts of these substances stored (229) and used, the dates of use, and names of users (48).

(h) Signs and labels: Assure that the controlled area is conspicuously marked with warning and restricted access signs (49) and that all containers of these substances are appropriately labeled with identity and warning labels (48).

(i) Spills: Assure that contingency plans, equipment, and materials to minimize exposures of people and property in case of accident are available (233-4).

(j) Storage: Store containers of these chemicals only in a ventilated, limited access (48, 227, 229) area in appropriately labeled, unbreakable, chemically resistant, secondary containers (48, 229).

(k) Glove boxes: For a negative pressure glove box, ventilation rate must be at least 2 volume changes/hour and pressure at least 0.5 inches of water (48). For a positive pressure glove box, thoroughly check for leaks before each use (49). In either case, trap the exit gases or filter them through a HEPA filter and then release them into the hood (49).

(l) Waste: Use chemical decontamination whenever possible; ensure that containers of contaminated waste (including washings from contaminated flasks) are transferred from the controlled area in a secondary container under the supervision of authorized personnel (49, 50, 233).

Animal Work with Chemicals of High Chronic Toxicity

(a) Access: For large scale studies, special facilities with restricted access are preferable (56).

(b) Administration of the toxic substance: When possible, administer the substance by injection or gavage instead of in the diet. If administration is in the diet, use a caging system under negative pressure or under laminar air flow directed toward HEPA filters (56).

(c) Aerosol suppression: Devise procedures which minimize formation and dispersal of contaminated aerosols, including those from food, urine, and feces (e.g., use HEPA filtered vacuum equipment for cleaning, moisten contaminated bedding before removal from the cage, mix diets in closed containers in a hood) (55, 56).

(d) Personal protection: When working in the animal room, wear plastic or rubber gloves, fully buttoned laboratory coat or jumpsuit and, if needed because of incomplete suppression of aerosols, other apparel and equipment (shoe and head coverings, respirator) (56).

(e) Waste disposal: Dispose of contaminated animal tissues and excreta by incineration if the available incinerator can convert the contaminant to non-toxic products (238); otherwise, package the waste appropriately for burial in an EPA-approved site (239).

F. Safety Recommendations

The above recommendations from "EMERGENCY" do not include those which are directed primarily toward prevention of physical injury rather than toxic exposure. However, failure of precautions against injury will often have the secondary effect of causing toxic exposures. Therefore, we list below page references for recommendations concerning some of the major categories of safety hazards which also have implications for chemical hygiene:

Corrosive agents: (35-6)

Electrically powered laboratory apparatus: (179-92)

Fires, explosions: (26, 57-74, 162-64, 174-5, 219-20, 226-7)

Low temperature procedures: (26, 88)

Pressurized and vacuum operations (including use of compressed gas cylinders): (27, 75-101)

G. Material Safety Data Sheets

Material safety data sheets are presented in "EMERGENCY" for the chemicals listed below. (Asterisks denote that comprehensive material safety data sheets are provided).

* Acetyl peroxide (105)

* Acrolein (106)

* Acrylonitrile

Ammonia (anhydrous)(91)

* Aniline (109)

* Benzene (110)

* Benzo[a]pyrene (112)

* Bis(chloromethyl) ether (113)

Boron trichloride (91)

Boron trifluoride (92)

Bromine (114)

* Tert-butyl hydroperoxide (148)

* Carbon disulfide (116)

Carbon monoxide (92)

* Carbon tetrachloride (118)

* Chlorine (119)

Chlorine trifluoride (94)

* Chloroform (121)

Chloromethane (93)

* Diethyl ether (122)

Diisopropyl fluorophosphate (41)

* Dimethylformamide (123)

* Dimethyl sulfate (125)

* Dioxane (126)

* Ethylene dibromide (128)

* Fluorine (95)

* Formaldehyde (130)

* Hydrazine and salts (132)

Hydrofluoric acid (43)

Hydrogen bromide (98)

Hydrogen chloride (98)

* Hydrogen cyanide (133)

* Hydrogen sulfide (135)

Mercury and compounds (52)

* Methanol (137)

* Morpholine (138)

* Nickel carbonyl (99)

* Nitrobenzene (139)

Nitrogen dioxide (100)

N-nitrosodiethylamine (54)

* Peracetic acid (141)

* Phenol (142)

* Phosgene (143)

* Pyridine (144)

* Sodium azide (145)

* Sodium cyanide (147)

Sulfur dioxide (101)

* Trichloroethylene (149)

* Vinyl chloride (150)

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Appendix B to 1910.1450 - References (Non-Mandatory)

The following references are provided to assist the employer in the development of a Chemical Hygiene Plan. The materials listed below are offered as non-mandatory guidance. References listed here do not imply specific endorsement of a book, opinion, technique, policy or a specific solution for a safety or health problem. Other references not listed here may better meet the needs of a specific laboratory.

(a) Materials for the development of the Chemical Hygiene Plan:

American Chemical Society, Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories, 4th edition, 1985.

Fawcett, H.H. and W.S. Wood, Safety and Accident Prevention in Chemical Operations, 2nd edition, Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1982.

Flury, Patricia A., Environmental Health and Safety in the Hospital Laboratory, Charles C. Thomas Publisher, Springfield IL, 1978.

Green, Michael E. and Turk, Amos, Safety in Working with Chemicals, Macmillan Publishing Co., NY, 1978.

Kaufman, James A., Laboratory Safety Guidelines, Dow Chemical Co., Box 1713, Midland, MI 48640, 1977.

National Institutes of Health, NIH Guidelines for the Laboratory use of Chemical Carcinogens, NIH Pub. No. 81-2385, GPO, Washington, DC 20402, 1981.

National Research Council, Prudent Practices for Disposal of Chemicals from Laboratories, National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1983.

National Research Council, Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories, National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1981.

Renfrew, Malcolm, Ed., Safety in the Chemical Laboratory, Vol. IV, J. Chem. Ed., American Chemical Society, Easlon, PA, 1981.

Steere, Norman V., Ed., Safety in the Chemical Laboratory, J. Chem. Ed. American Chemical Society, Easlon, PA, 18042, Vol. I, 1967, Vol. II, 1971, Vol. III, 1974.

Steere, Norman V., Handbook of Laboratory Safety, the Chemical Rubber Company Cleveland, OH, 1971.

Young, Jay A., Ed., Improving Safety in the Chemical Laboratory, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, 1987.

(b) Hazardous Substances Information:

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents in the Workroom * Environment with Intended Changes, 6500 Glenway Avenue, Bldg. D-7, Cincinnati, OH 45211-4438.

Annual Report on Carcinogens, National Toxicology Program U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, (latest edition).

Best Company, Best Safety Directory, Vols. I and II, Oldwick, N.J., 1981.

Bretherick, L., Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards, 2nd edition, Butterworths, London, 1979.

Bretherick, L., Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory, 3rd edition, Royal Society of Chemistry, London, 1986.

Code of Federal Regulations, 29 CFR part 1910 subpart Z. U.S. Govt. Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402 (latest edition).

IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of chemicals to Man, World Health Organization Publications Center, 49 Sheridan Avenue, Albany, New York 12210 (latest editions).

NIOSH/OSHA Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. NIOSH Pub. No. 85-114, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 1985 (or latest edition).

Occupational Health Guidelines, NIOSH/OSHA. NIOSH Pub. No. 81-123 U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC, 1981.

Patty, F.A., Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY (Five Volumes).

Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Revised Annually, for sale from Superintendent of documents US. Govt. Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.

The Merck Index: An Encyclopedia of Chemicals and Drugs. Merck and Company Inc. Rahway, N.J., 1976 (or latest edition).

Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, 5th edition, Van Nostrand Reinhold, NY., 1979.

Sittig, Marshall, Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals, Noyes Publications. Park Ridge, NJ, 1981.

(c) Information on Ventilation:

American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Industrial * Ventilation (latest edition), 6500 Glenway Avenue, Bldg. D-7, Cincinnati, Ohio 45211-4438.

American National Standards Institute, Inc. American National Standards Fundamentals Governing the Design and Operation of Local Exhaust Systems ANSI Z 9.2-1979 American National Standards Institute, N.Y. 1979.

Imad, A.P. and Watson, C.L. Ventilation Index: An Easy Way to Decide about Hazardous Liquids, Professional Safety pp 15-18, April 1980.

National Fire Protection Association, Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals NFPA-45, 1982. Safety Standard for Laboratories in Health Related Institutions, NFPA, 56c, 1980. Fire Protection Guide on Hazardous Materials, 7th edition, 1978. National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.

Scientific Apparatus Makers Association (SAMA), Standard for Laboratory Fume Hoods, SAMA LF7-1980, 1101 16th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20036.

(d) Information on Availability of Referenced Material:

American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 1218-0131) [55 FR 3327, Jan. 31, 1990]

* [57 FR 29204, July 1, 1992]

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Appendix II

Hazard Communication Standard Excerpts

29 CFR 1910.1200, Appendices A & B

Title: Health hazard definitions (Mandatory)

Although safety hazards related to the physical characteristics of a chemical can be objectively defined in terms of testing requirements (e.g. flammability), health hazard definitions are less precise and more

subjective. Health hazards may cause measurable changes in the body - such as decreased pulmonary function. These changes are generally indicated by the occurrence of signs and symptoms in the exposed employees - such as shortness of breath, a non-measurable, subjective feeling. Employees exposed to such hazards must be apprised of both the change in body function and the signs and symptoms that may occur to signal that change.

The determination of occupational health hazards is complicated by the fact that many of the effects or signs and symptoms occur commonly in non-occupationally exposed populations, so that effects of exposure are difficult to separate from normally occurring illnesses. Occasionally, a substance causes an effect that is rarely seen in the population at large, such as angiosarcomas caused by vinyl chloride exposure, thus making it easier to ascertain that the occupational exposure was the primary causative factor. More often, however, the effects are common, such as lung cancer. The situation is further complicated by the fact that most chemicals have not been adequately tested to determine their health hazard potential, and data do not exist to substantiate these effects.

There have been many attempts to categorize effects and to define them in various ways. Generally, the terms "acute" and "chronic" are used to delineate between effects on the basis of severity or duration. "Acute" effects usually occur rapidly as a result of short-term exposures, and are of short duration. "Chronic" effects generally occur as a result of long-term exposure, and are of long duration.

The acute effects referred to most frequently are those defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard for Precautionary Labeling of Hazardous Industrial Chemicals (Z129.1-1988) - irritation, corrosivity, sensitization and lethal dose. Although these are important health effects, they do not adequately cover the considerable range of acute effects which may occur as a result of occupational exposure, such as, for example, narcosis.

Similarly, the term chronic effect is often used to cover only carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, and mutagenicity. These effects are obviously a concern in the workplace, but again, do not adequately cover the area of chronic effects, excluding, for example, blood dyscrasias (such as anemia), chronic bronchitis and liver atrophy.

The goal of defining precisely, in measurable terms, every possible health effect that may occur in the workplace as a result of chemical exposures cannot realistically be accomplished. This does not negate the need for employees to be informed of such effects and protected from them.

Appendix B, which is also mandatory, outlines the principles and procedures of hazard assessment.

For purposes of this section, any chemicals which meet any of the following definitions, as determined by the criteria set forth in Appendix B are health hazards. However, this is not intended to be an exclusive categorization scheme. If there are available scientific data that involve other animal species or test methods, they must also be evaluated to determine the applicability of the HCS.

"Carcinogen:" A chemical is considered to be a carcinogen if:

(a) It has been evaluated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and found to be a carcinogen or potential carcinogen; or

(b) It is listed as a carcinogen or potential carcinogen in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) (latest edition); or, (c) It is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen.

"Corrosive:" A chemical that causes visible destruction of, or irreversible alterations in, living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. For example, a chemical is considered to be corrosive if, when tested on the intact skin of albino rabbits by the method described by the U.S. Department of Transportation in appendix A to 49 CFR part 173, it destroys or changes irreversibly the structure of the tissue at the site of contact following an exposure period of four hours. This term shall not refer to action on inanimate surfaces.

"Highly toxic:" A chemical falling within any of the following categories:

(a) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD(50)) of 50 milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight when administered orally to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.

(b) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD(50)) of 200 milligrams or less per kilogram of body weight when administered by continuous contact for 24 hours (or less if death occurs within 24 hours) with the bare skin of albino rabbits weighing between two and three kilograms each.

(c) A chemical that has a median lethal concentration (LC(50)) in air of 200 parts per million by volume or less of gas or vapor, or 2 milligrams per liter or less of mist, fume, or dust, when administered by continuous inhalation for one hour (or less if death occurs within one hour) to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.

"Irritant:" A chemical, which is not corrosive, but which causes a reversible inflammatory effect on living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. A chemical is a skin irritant if, when tested on the intact skin of albino rabbits by the methods of 16 CFR 1500.41 for four hours exposure or by other appropriate techniques, it results in an empirical score of five or more. A chemical is an eye irritant if so determined under the procedure listed in 16 CFR 1500.42 or other appropriate techniques.

"Sensitizer:" A chemical that causes a substantial proportion of exposed people or animals to develop an allergic reaction in normal tissue after repeated exposure to the chemical.

"Toxic." A chemical falling within any of the following categories:

(a) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD(50)) of more than 50 milligrams per kilogram but not more than 500 milligrams per kilogram of body weight when administered orally to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.

(b) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD(50)) of more than 200 milligrams per kilogram but not more than 1,000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight when administered by continuous contact for 24 hours (or less if death occurs within 24 hours) with the bare skin of albino rabbits weighing between two and three kilograms each.

(c) A chemical that has a median lethal concentration (LC(50)) in air of more than 200 parts per million but not more than 2,000 parts per million by volume of gas or vapor, or more than two milligrams per liter but not more than 20 milligrams per liter of mist, fume, or dust, when administered by continuous inhalation for one hour (or less if death occurs within one hour) to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.

"Target organ effects."

The following is a target organ categorization of effects which may occur, including examples of signs and symptoms and chemicals which have been found to cause such effects. These examples are presented to illustrate the range and diversity of effects and hazards found in the workplace, and the broad scope employers must consider in this area, but are not intended to be all - inclusive.

Hepatotoxins: Chemicals which produce liver damage
Signs & Symptoms: Jaundice; liver enlargement
Chemicals: Carbon tetrachloride; nitrosamines

Nephrotoxins: Chemicals which produce kidney damage
Signs & Symptoms: Edema; proteinuria
Chemicals: Halogenated hydrocarbons; uranium

Neurotoxins: Chemicals which produce their primary toxic effects on the nervous system
Signs & Symptoms: Narcosis; behavioral changes; decrease in motor functions
Chemicals: Mercury; carbon disulfide

Agents which act on the blood or hemato-poietic system: Decrease hemoglobin function; deprive the body tissues of oxygen
Signs & Symptoms: Cyanosis; loss of consciousness
Chemicals: Carbon monoxide; cyanides

Agents which damage the lung: Chemicals which irritate or damage pulmonary tissue
Signs & Symptoms: Cough; tightness in chest; shortness of breath
Chemicals: Silica; asbestos

Reproductive toxins: Chemicals which affect the reproductive capabilities including chromosomal damage (mutations) and effects on fetuses (teratogenesis)
Signs & Symptoms: Birth defects; sterility
Chemicals: Lead; DBCP

Cutaneous hazards: Chemicals which affect the dermal layer of the body
Signs & Symptoms: Defatting of the skin; rashes; irritation
Chemicals: Ketones; chlorinated compounds

Eye hazards: Chemicals which affect the eye or visual capacity
Signs & Symptoms: Conjunctivitis; corneal damage
Chemicals: Organic solvents; acids

Title: Hazard determination (Mandatory)

The quality of a hazard communication program is largely dependent upon the adequacy and accuracy of the hazard determination. The hazard determination requirement of this standard is performance - oriented.

Chemical manufacturers, importers, and employers evaluating chemicals are not required to follow any specific methods for determining hazards, but they must be able to demonstrate that they have adequately ascertained the hazards of the chemicals produced or imported in accordance with the criteria set forth in this Appendix.

Hazard evaluation is a process which relies heavily on the professional judgment of the evaluator, particularly in the area of chronic hazards.

The performance - orientation of the hazard determination does not diminish the duty of the chemical manufacturer, importer or employer to conduct a thorough evaluation, examining all relevant data and producing a scientifically defensible evaluation. For purposes of this standard, the following criteria shall be used in making hazard determinations that meet the requirements of this standard.

"Carcinogenicity:" As described in paragraph (d)(4) of this section and Appendix A of this section, a determination by the National Toxicology Program, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, or OSHA that a chemical is a carcinogen or potential carcinogen will be considered conclusive evidence for purposes of this section. In addition, however, all available scientific data on carcinogenicity must be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of this Appendix and the requirements of the rule.

"Human data:" Where available, epidemiological studies and case reports of adverse health effects shall be considered in the evaluation.

"Animal data:" Human evidence of health effects in exposed populations is generally not available for the majority of chemicals produced or used in the workplace. Therefore, the available results of toxicological testing in animal populations shall be used to predict the health effects that may be experienced by exposed workers. In particular, the definitions of certain acute hazards refer to specific animal testing results (see Appendix A).

"Adequacy and reporting of data." The results of any studies which are designed and conducted according to established scientific principles, and which report statistically significant conclusions regarding the health effects of a chemical, shall be a sufficient basis for a hazard determination and reported on any material safety data sheet. In vitro studies alone generally do not form the basis for a definitive finding of hazard under the HCS since they have a positive or negative result rather than a statistically significant finding.

The chemical manufacturer, importer, or employer may also report the results of other scientifically valid studies which tend to refute the findings of hazard.

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Appendix III

X-7.00(A) UM POLICY CONCERNING FIRE EMERGENCIES

APPROVED BY THE PRESIDENT MARCH 6, 1993

A. Purpose. This is a statement of official University policy for the reporting of fire emergencies and for the evacuation of campus buildings during fire emergencies, in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

B. Policy. A fire emergency exists whenever:

A building fire evacuation alarm is sounding;

An uncontrolled fire or imminent fire hazard occurs in any building or area of the campus;

There is the presence of smoke, or the odor of burning;

There is spontaneous or abnormal heating of any material, an uncontrolled release of combustible or toxic gas or other material, or a flammable liquid spill.

C. Procedures.

Campus Buildings shall be immediately and totally evacuated whenever the building evacuation alarm is sounding.

Upon discovery of evidence that a fire emergency exists, an individual shall accomplish, or cause to be accomplished, the following actions:

(a) SOUND AN ALARM. Activate the building fire alarm in buildings equipped with a manual fire alarm system. Shout a warning and knock on doors as you evacuate in buildings not equipped with a fire alarm.

(b) SHUT OFF ALL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT IN YOUR AREA.

(c) LEAVE THE BUILDING AT ONCE.

(d) CALL THE FIRE DEPARTMENT FROM A SAFE PLACE.

On-Campus phones DIAL 911

Off-Campus phones and campus pay phones DIAL 911

Use Campus emergency phones;

Indoors - Yellow wall phones with red "EMERGENCY" markings (some corridors)

Outdoors - Yellow phone boxes with red "EMERGENCY" markings, under blue lights.

When the emergency operator answers, ask for the fire department, give as much specific information as possible. State that you are from UM and include the proper name of the building and room number, floor, or other specific area. Do not hang up until released by the dispatcher. A PHONE CALL MUST BE MADE! ALL BUILDING FIRE ALARMS DO NOT NOTIFY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.

(e) MEET THE FIRE DEPARTMENT OUTSIDE AND DIRECT THEM TO THE EMERGENCY.

(f) ALL FIRES, EVEN IF EXTINGUISHED OR FOUND EXTINGUISHED, MUST BE REPORTED.

(g) ALL FIRE ALARMS, EVEN IF SUSPECTED TO BE FALSE OR ACCIDENTAL, MUST BE REPORTED TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.

The evacuation procedures shall be as follows:

(a) It shall be the responsibility of every person to immediately leave a University building whenever the fire alarm is activated or a fire emergency exists.

All students, faculty, and staff are required to leave the building and remain outside until the emergency is over. No one shall restrict or impede the evacuation.

(b) Department heads are expected to review annually fire prevention and fire survival information with faculty and staff, or to schedule such a presentation with the Department of Environmental Safety. Such information is available from the Department for use and distribution.

Whenever it is brought to the attention of the staff of residential buildings, or departmental personnel, that the fire alarm or sprinkler system is inoperable or has been placed out of service, a firewatch shall be established.

(a) Responsible personnel (residential staff, safety committee, etc.) shall be assigned to the firewatch.

(b) The entire building shall be toured at least one time during each hour of the firewatch.

(c) The emergency dispatcher (405-3555) shall be notified each hour that the watch has been performed.

(d) The firewatch shall be maintained at all times that the building is occupied until the fire protection system is repaired.

INTERRUPTION OF FIRE ALARM:

(a) No person may shut off any fire protection or alarm system during a fire emergency incident without the permission of the fire department officer in charge.

(b) No person may shut off any fire protection or alarm system during a bomb threat emergency without the permission of the police officer in charge.

(c) It shall be the responsibility of the University Facilities Management Department to reset or repair any fire protection or alarm system after an emergency incident when notified by the fire or police department in charge. The Facilities Management shall inspect each such system immediately after every emergency incident and place the system in serviceable condition.

(d) The fire and police departments may reset an alarm system only if there is no damage to the system and when it is within their technical capabilities to do so.

(e) Any person desiring to interrupt service to any fire protection or alarm system must obtain permission from the office of Facilities Management, Work Control Center (405-2222) which shall notify the fire and police departments of every such interruption.

(f) Fire or police department must request the Facilities Management to repair or rest a fire protection system, via the Work Control Center (405-2222).

INFORMATION RELEASE TO MEDIA AND THE PUBLIC:

All information regarding University fires will be released through the Department of Environmental Safety in cooperation with the Public Information Office. No other University agency or employee may release official statements regarding the cause, origin, or nature of campus fires.

D. Information

Assistance will be provided by the Department of Environmental Safety to any Department requiring help and advice in its implementation of this UM policy.

Appendix IV

Work-Related Injury Forms is available by download from the Department of Environmental Safety web site.

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Appendix V

Standard Operating Procedures

(to be attached by Laboratory Supervisor)

.

General SOP

A number of different operating procedures are employed in the laboratory.  These operating procedures include associated hazards and specific methods that are to be followed.  Training for specific procedures can be obtained from either the laboratory supervisor or the designated trainer.  Training must be completed and approved before work is undertaken.    General laboratory attire, safety glasses, gloves, lab coat. Are to be worn at all times.   A book in the laboratory entitled SOP standard operating procedure has detailed descriptions of specific procedures, and/or references to pages in other laboratory books where procedures are described.

The following procedures have been identified.

 

General Operating procedures

5/02/02

 

In case of an emergency consider your safety first.  If necessary leave the lab and call for help.  911.

 

If there is a leak or accident involving a Fluorine, Bromine, Bromine Pentafluoride, Leave the lab immediately and call for help 911 and notify me. 

 

Notify me in the case of any equipment malfunction, chemical spill, equipment breakage, injuries, etc…..  Call me at home if I am not present (301 864 0653) or at my office (301 405 5043).  This means any time of day or night.

 

Chemical clean up procedures should follow those outlined in the emergency response guide on the wall of the lab.

 

Chemical storage requirements.  Storage of Acids should be in the acid cabinet.  Bases in the base cabinet.  Organic solvents in the organic cabinet. Oxidizers in the oxidizer cabinet. 

 

Access to these facilities should always be overseen by someone who has received proper training in the practices of the lab.

 

When necessary, chemicals will need to be procured.  If this is done, make sure that the appropriate MSDS are filed in the MSDS folder and that proper training, safety, and storage precautions are observed in use of the chemical.  Also notify the PI of the introduction of any new chemicals to the lab.

 

As waste is generated it should be properly labeled, stored until pickup, and pickup arranged according to rules set by the University.

 

Safety glasses, lab coats, gloves and face masks are available in or hanging on the cabinet to the right of the door as you enter the lab.

 

If an alarm starts, you should assess the situation and leave the laboratory if this is indicated by the alarm. 

 

If power goes out:  Call me at home (301 8640653) or office (301 405 5043); Check volumes that may be presently evacuated but have liquid nitrogen on them.  If necessary, remove the liquid nitrogen.  If air has condensed in the volumes, do not do this, because it will thaw, expand and may overpressure the volume.  Check other equipment and turn off equipment that could be damaged when power returns. 

 

If the fire alarm rings: Exit the lab and building. 

If the ventilation system fails, Exit the lab and contact the lab supervisor. 

 

 

 

Operating Procedure: Diffusion apparatus Chrome reduction/Acid Volatile extraction of sulfur from Geologic samples. 

Designated trainer: Sang-Tae Kim

Specific hazards:  acids, hydrochloric acid, chromium chloride hyhydrate, reduced chromium chloride solutions,  Zinc acetate solution,

Background:    These procedures involve the use of strong acids and require specific hands on training.  Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles are to be worn for all procedures.

 

 

Operating Procedure: Sang-Tae Kim

Specific hazards:  acids, hydrochloric acid, Hydriodic, hypophosphorous, chromium chloride hyhydrate, reduced chromium chloride solutions,  Zinc acetate solution, cadmium acetate solution, ammonium hydroxide solution

Background:    These procedures involve the use of strong acids and require specific hands on training.  Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles are to be worn for all procedures.

 

Operating Procedure:  Delta Plus Mass Spectrometer Room 0233

Designated trainer: J. Farquhar Sang-Tae Kim

Specific hazards:  electrical, glass, vacuum manifolds, Cryogenic liquids

Background:  The Delta Plus mass spectrometer is a gas-source mass spectrometer that is to be used for analysis of molecular oxygen gas.  Proper training for the mass spectrometer should be obtained from the Laboratory Manager.  Manuals for the mass spectrometer are located behind the computer that operates the mass spectrometer.   The mass spectrometer itself is operated by computer control (located on the desk beside the instrument), and is attached to a vacuume extraction manifold that is used for decomposition of silver nitrate (see SOP below).  The reference bulb for the mass spectrometer is a one liter glass bulb that contains one atmosphere of pressure of molecular oxygen (research grade).  Because both the reference bulb and the extraction manifold are glass, safety glasses are to be worn at all times.    

 

Operating Procedure:  MAT 253 Mass Spectrometer and Sulfur fluorination manifold Room 0233

Designated trainer: Sang-Tae Kim,

Specific hazards:  electrical, glass, vacuum manifolds, halogens, Cryogenic liquids, electrical resistance furnaces

Background:  The MAT 253 mass spectrometer is a gas-source mass spectrometer that is to be used for analysis of sulfur hexafluoride gas.  Proper training for the mass spectrometer should be obtained from the Laboratory Manager.  Manuals for the mass spectrometer are located behind the computer that operates the mass spectrometer.   The mass spectrometer itself is operated by computer control (located on the desk beside the instrument), and is attached to a vacuume extraction manifold that is used for decomposition of silver nitrate (see SOP below).  The reference bulb for the mass spectrometer is a one liter glass bulb that contains one atmosphere of pressure of molecular oxygen (research grade).  Because both the reference bulb and the extraction manifold are glass, safety glasses are to be worn at all times.   The sulfur fluorination manifold  requires specialized training in handling of reagents and cryogenic liquids. 

 

In Storage

Operating Procedure: Nitrate extraction manifold. 

Designated trainer: J Farquhar

Specific hazards:  :  electrical, glass, vacuum manifolds, Cryogenic liquids, electrical resistance furnaces,

Background:   The nitrate extraction manifold is the attached to the mass spectrometer.  It consists of a series of valves, an oil diffusion pump, a mechanical pump, a resistance heated reaction chamber that has uranium glass feedthroughs and a platinum furnace.  Gas is transferred through the extraction manifold by condensation onto 13X molecular sieve using liquid nitrogen.  Further purifications may be done using other cryogenic liquids.

apiezon N and H grease are used to grease the valves and glass joints.  A small amount of N grease may be used on the O-ring glass plug valves as well. 

The power supply produces high amperage, low voltage current that can heat (and weld) any metal that comes into contact with it.  Caution should be observed when operating the power supply to the resistance heater on the reaction vessel.

Safety glasses and lab coat are to be worn when operating the glass extraction manifold.

When the manifold is operated, the glass waste trap should be kept at liquid nitrogen temperatures.

Samples of less than 50 mg of silver nitrate are loaded into silver metal boats that are crimped and placed into the resistance heater. 

Samples are outgassed for 50 minutes while a preheating routine is undertaken.

To decompose the samples, the reaction chamber is isolated, liquid nitrogen is placed on the traps and the collection volume.  The current is increased to 12.5 amps on the resistance heater and the reaction is allowed to proceed for 5 minutes.  The transfer of gas is undertaken until complete (using the thermocouple gauge as a monitor).  The sample is then transferred to the inlet molecular sieve by freezing the inlet sieve with liquid nitrogen (using a dewar) for 10 minutes.  After this the sample is thawed for 10 minutes and introduced to the mass spectrometer using the mass spectrometer valves.

Product NO2 is transferred to the sample tube and decomposed by introducing Millipore water to the sample tube.  The amounts of nitric acid thus produced are at the micromolar level.

After the reaction, the silver boat is to be removed from the reaction chamber and disposed of in the proper waste container.

The manifold is to be closed down when not in use by thawing the waste trap to the roughing pump and by turning off the oil diffusion pump.

Only people with proper training are authorized to perform these tasks.

You will require training on proper use of the mass spectrometer and vacuum line that can be provided by the PI (or other qualified users).

No engineering controls are required to minimize inhalation hazards

Liquid nitrogen is a cryogenic liquid and should be handled in small quantities to minimize the chances of getting cryogenic burns. 

 

We use silver nitrate in small (milligram) quantities for some procedures.  Silver(I) nitrate (1:1) CAS: 7761-88-8 meets the University of Maryland definition of a Mutagen for the purpose of the Chemical Hygiene Plan. It was listed as a mutagen in the "Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials", 7th Ed., by N. Irving Sax and Richard J. Lewis. DNA inhibition system-human:lymphocyte 76 mmol/l

The following are also listed on its MSDS

      Health Rating: 3 - Severe (Poison)

      Flammability Rating: 0 - None

      Reactivity Rating: 3 - Severe (Oxidizer)

      Contact Rating: 3 - Severe (Corrosive)

      Lab Protective Equip: GOGGLES; LAB COAT; VENT HOOD; PROPER GLOVES

      Storage Color Code: Yellow (Reactive)

 

Power supply is a low voltage high amperage power supply.  Do not allow conductive materials (metal) to touch any electrical contacts on this device as they will heat up as a result of high current.

 

Operating Procedure: Wet chemical extraction and isolation of nitrate.

Designated trainer: J Farquhar

Specific hazards:  acids, hydrochloric acid, silver nitrate, ion exchange resins, 

Background:    These procedures involve the use of acids and require specific hands on training.  Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles are to be worn for all procedures.

 

Operating Procedure: BrF5 Manifold Filling Station                                                                                   

Designated trainer: J Farquhar                                

Specific hazards:  Strong oxidizers BrF5, Fluorine Gas, liquid nitrogen

Background:    These procedures involve the use of strong oxidizers and require specific hands on training.  Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles, facemask, neoprene gloves with leather glove inserts, and neoprene apron are to be worn for all procedures.

 

 

Operating Procedure: Asprey Manifold Filling Station.

Designated trainer: J Farquhar                                

Specific hazards:  Strong oxidizers Fluorine Gas, liquid nitrogen

Background:    These procedures involve the use of strong oxidizers and require specific hands on training.  Gloves, lab coat, safety goggles, facemask, neoprene gloves with leather glove inserts, and neoprene apron are to be worn for all procedures.

Designated users:  James Farquhar, Sang-Tae Kim (Nanping Wu and Harry Oduro with supervision)

Asprey salt regerneration procedures.

The procedure is in principle relatively straightforward.  The aim is to resorb fluorine onto the salt without adding water to the salt or other contaminants to the salt, and without releasing fluorine from the parts of the line where it is supposed to be restricted to.

Start with all valves closed and check to make sure pump is running.

Step 1:  Preparing the system for attaching the asprey generator.

Note all valves inside the Safety cabinet all need to be closed.  

Important:  Treat any pressure in the line as possibly being fluorine.  If you sense that there is a leak, you should stop, but you should also be aware that HF desorbs from surfaces at a slow rate and will produce an effect that looks like a leak.

 

Passivate the contents of the manifold through the KBr trap (heated to 110 C) and with all liquid nitrogen traps in place.  This should be done first without the pump open and the pump should not be opened until the passivation has proceeded for at least 30 minutes.

Pump the manifold to its ultimate vacuum.  This will vary with the cleanliness of the manifold and the presence of HF and Br.

Step 2:  Attach the Aprey generator

The Asprey generator is attached with a copper vcr gasket and ¼ inch fitting.  These fittings are made following procedures outlined in the Swagelok catalog.

Step 3:  Evacuate the air in the space contained by the vcr fitting that attaches the asprey generator to the manifold.  Let the system pump for at least 4 hours and heat every so often with a heat gun to mobilize condensables like HF and Br towards the pump.  The baseline should be reached and the system should not leak. 

Step 4:  Do a 40 minute leak check (with liquid nitrogen) to determine if there is a leak in the system.

Step 5:  Check the pressure inside the asprey generator.  It should be at vacuum.  This checks the integrity of the generator and of the valve above the generator.  Close the generator.

Step 6: Passivate the manifold by aiquoting the contents from between the valves in the fluorine generator into the manifold.  Passivate each aliquot for 30 minutes and then pump to vacuum.  Repeat, and on the third time passivate back to valve in front of the tank.

Step 7 Isolate the manifold from the KBr and transfer the contents of the KBr traps to the Kel-F trap for Bromine waste.

Step 8 Absorbing fluorine onto the asprey generator.  Open an aliquot from the tank into the manifold and into the asprey generator.  Then close the tank and the valve in front of the tank. 

Step 8b:  Start to heat the asprey generator and raise its temperature to 250 C.  Leave the generator to absorb the fluorine for several days.  If the fluorine is absorbed, repeat step 8.  Do this stepwise until no more fluorine is absorbed. 

Step 9 cycling the asprey generator.  Raise the temperature to 500 C, when it reaches 500 C, reduce the temperature back to 250 C.  This will facilitate reactions that resorb fluorine onto the salt.  If the fluorine is all resorbed, repeat step 8.

Step 9b:  It may be that you suspect oxygen is in the fluorine, or that HF is poisoning the generator.  You should cool the generator to 200 C and then passivate what is in the headspace for 40 minutes and then slowly pump  the noncondensibles.   IF this is the case, pump the asprey generator for at least 4 hours and use all the liwuid nitrogen traps.  Once this is done, you can try to add another aliquot of fluorine (step 8) and repeat the procedure (steps 8-9).

Step 10:  Once this is done, cool the generator to 200 C and passivate the contents of the manifold and within the connector, close all valves to the generator and manifold, and remove the generator to be transferred to the SF6 manifold.

 

 

 

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Appendix VI

Chemical Inventory

 

 

Chemical Name

Formula

CAS#

Manufacturer

Part number

Location

Fluorine

F2

778241-1

Matheson Gas

68300355-2

0230 Gas cabinet 1

Bromine Pentafluoride

BrF5

7789-30-2

Elf Atochem

 

0230 gas cabinet 2

Potassium hexafluornickelate

K2NiF6.KF

99688-48-9

Elf Atochem

 

0230 Glove Box

Sodium Flouride, Powder

NaF

7681-49-4

J.T. Baker

3688-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Chromium Chloride, 6-Hydrate

CrCl3~6H2O

10060-12-5

J.T. Baker

1588-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Potassium Bromide

KBr

7758-02-3

Fisher

P205-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Molecular Sieve 13x

Sodium aluminosilicate

68989-23-1

Alltech

87954

0230 West Shelf #2

Carbon, Activated, Powder

C

7440-44-0

J.T. Baker

E343-07

0230 West Shelf #2

Mercuric Nitrate Monohydrate, granular

Hg(NO3)2~H2O

10045-94-0

Mallinckrodt

MK685334

0230 West Shelf #2

Cadmium Acetate, Dihydrate, Crystal

(CH3COO)2Cd~2H2O

5743-04-4

J.T. Baker

1190-04

0230 West Shelf #2

Zinc Acetate

(CH3COO)2ZN~H2O

5970-45-6

J.T. Baker

4296-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Zinc, Granular (30 mesh)

Zn

7440-66-6

J.T. Baker

4248-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Silver Nitrate

AgNO3

7761-88-8

VWR

VW6030-4

0230 West Shelf #2

Phenolphtalein

C6H4COOC(C6H4-4-OH)2

77-09-8

Fisher

P79-100

0230 West Shelf #2

Tamer Tabs

 

 

BT Products

 

0230 West Shelf #2

Potassium Chloride

KCl

7447-40-7

Fisher

P217-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Barium Chloride

BaCl2

10361-37-2

J.T. Baker

0980-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Potassium Hydroxide

KOH

1310-58-3

Fisher

P250-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Sodium Hydroxide

NaOH

1310-73-2

Fisher

S318-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Sodium Chloride

NaCl

7647-14-5

Fisher

S271-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Potassium Nitrate

KNO3

7757-79-1

Fisher

P263-500

0230 West Shelf #2

Sodium Sulfate, Anhydrous, Granular powder

Na2SO4

7757-82-6

J.T. Baker

3891-01

0230 West Shelf #2

AG 50W-X8 Resin, 100-200 mesh hydrogen form

Polystyrene-divinylbenzene sulfonic acid resin

69011-20-7

Bio-RAD

142-1441

0230 West Shelf #2

AG 50W-X8 Resin, 100-200 mesh hydrogen form (Poly prep prefilled chromatography)

Polystyrene-divinylbenzene sulfonic acid resin

69011-20-7

Bio-RAD

731-6213

0230 West Shelf #2

AG 2-X8 Resin, 100-200 mesh chloride form

Polystyrene-divinylbenzene quaternary ammonium resin

69011-15-0

Bio-RAD

140-2441

0230 West Shelf #2

AG 1-X8 Resin, 200-400 mesh chloride form (Poly prep prefilled chromatography)

Polystyrene-divinylbenzene quaternary ammonium resin

60177-39-1

Bio-RAD

731-6213

0230 West Shelf #2

AG MP-50

Macroporous Polystyrene-divinylbenzene sulfonic acid resin

50653-53-9

Bio-RAD

143-0841

0230 West Shelf #2

N-(1-Naphthyl_ethylenediamine dihydrochloride, 98%

C12H14N2~2ClH

1465-25-4

Sigma-Aldrich

222488-5G

0230 West Shelf #2

Hydrazine Sulfate

H6N2O4S

10034-93-2

Alrdich Chemical

21,604-6

0230 West Shelf #2

Sulfanilamide

C6H8N2O2S

63-74-1

Aldrich

240346-10G

0230 West Shelf #2

Sand

SiO2

14808-60-7

J.T. Baker

3382-01

0230 West Shelf #2

Ethyl Alcohol

 

 

Aaper

 

0230 Right Hood

Epoxy Remover

 

 

 

 

0230 Right Hood

Dimethylformamide

HCON(CH3)2

68-12-2

JT Baker

 

0230 Right Hood

Toluene

C5H5CH3

108-88-3

Fisher

 

0230 Right Hood

Methylene Chloride

CH2Cl2

75-09-2

Fisher

 

0230 Right Hood

Benzene

C6H6

71-43-2

Fisher

 

0230 Right Hood

1-propanol

CH3CH2CH2OH

71-23-8

JT Baker

 

0230 Right Hood

1-propanol

C3H2OH

71-23-8

Fisher

 

0230 Right Hood

Acetone

CH3COCH3

67-64-1

Aaper

 

0230 Right Hood

Chromerge

sulfuric acid (H2SO4)

7738-94-5

VWR

21865-000

0230 Right Hood

 

chromic acid

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Iron Phosphide

Fe3P

12023-53-9

alfa Aesar

 

230 Right Hood

 

 

 

 

 

 

oils

 

 

 

 

 

P3

 

 

pfeiffer

 

230 Right Hood

edwards-45

 

 

edwards

 

230 Right Hood

edwards ultra 19

 

 

edwards

 

230 Right Hood

 

 

 

 

 

 

Santovac 5 diffusion pump fluid

 

H0230045

BOC Edwards

 

0233 E Wall Cabinets

Edwards ultra grade 19 mech pump oil

 

H11025013

BOC Edwards

 

0233 E Wall Cabinets

Ethyl Alcohol 200 proof

 

 

Aaper

 

0233 E Wall Cabinets

Potassium Bromide

KBr

0002-4539

International Crystal Labs

 

0233 E Wall Cabinets

Vac seal

 

 

Space Environmental Laboratories

 

0233 E Wall Cabinets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carbon Dioxide

CO2

124-38-9

AirGas

UN1013

0233 Gas Closet

Helium

He

7440-59-7

AirGas

UN1046

0233 Gas Closet

Carbon Monoxide

CO2

630-08-0

AirGas

UN1016

0233 Gas Closet

Nitrogen

N2

7727-37-9

AirGas

UN1066

0233 Gas Closet

Oxygen

O2

7782-44-7

AirProducts

UN1072

0233 Gas Closet

Sulfur Hexafluoride

SF6

2551-62-4

AirProducts

UN1080

0233 Gas Closet

Hydrogen

He

133-74-0

 

 

0233 Gas Closet

Sulfur Dioxide

SO2

 

 

 

0233 Gas Closet

Hydrogen in Helium

H (10%) / He

see above for pure gases

AirProducts

CSS385550-01

0233 Gas Closet

Carbon Dioxide in Helium

CO2 (5%) / He

see above for pure gases

AirProducts

CSS406079-02

0233 Gas Closet

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hypophosphoric Acid

H3PO4

6303-21-5

J.T. Baker

0178-01

0230 Right Closet

Hydriodic Acid

HI

10034-85-2

Sigma-Aldrich

06027TA

0230 Right Closet

Hydrochloric Acid

HCl

7732-18-5

J.T. Baker

9535-33

0230 Right Closet

Hydrogen Peroxide

H2O2

7722-84-1

Fisher Scientific

FL-08-0900

0230 Right Closet

Nitric Acid

HNO3

7697-37-2

J.T. Baker

9601-01

0230 Right Closet

Silver Oxide

AG2O

20667-12-3

EM Science

SX0207-3

0230 Right Closet

Phosphoric Acid

H3PO4

7664-38-2

J.T. Baker

0260

0230 Right Closet

Silver Chloride

AgCl

7783-90-6

Acros Organics

21127

0230 Right Closet

Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach)

NaOCl

7681-52-9

J.T. Baker

9416

0230 Right Closet

Sodium Hydroxide

NaOH

1310-73-2

Fisher Scientific

55266-1

0230 Right Closet

Ammonium Hydroxide

NH4OH

1336-21-6

J.T. Baker

9721-33

0230 Right Closet

Acetone

(CH3)2CO

67-64-1

J.T. Baker

5008

0230 Right Closet

Methyl Alcohol (Methanol)

CH3OH

67-56-1

Fisher Scientific

A412-4

0230 Right Closet

Hydrogen Sulfide (Gas)

H2S

7783-06-4

Matheson Tri-Gas

23-1LB

0230 Right Closet

Methane (Gas)

CH4

74-82-8

Matheson Tri-Gas

UN1971

0230 Right Closet

Ammonia

NH3

7664-41-7

National Specialty Gases

034051

0230 Right Closet

 

 

Material Safety Data

Chemical inventory (kept as an excel file on lab computer)

Data sheets are in folder labeled MSDS in cabinet to left of door as room 0230 is entered.  Additional copies can be found on-line, and in the MSDS folder on the laboratory computer in 0230.

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