General Safety Guidelines
While working with chemicals at CHESS, please observe the following general safety principles:
-
It is prudent to minimize all chemical exposures: even for substances of no known significant hazard. Skin contact should be avoided as a cardinal rule.
-
Avoid underestimating the risk of chemicals you work with. One should assume that any mixture will be more toxic than its most toxic component, and that all substances of unknown toxicity are toxic.
-
Make sure there is adequate ventilation, and that you are familiar with the proper use of equipment such as fume hoods or biological cabinets.
-
Observe the rules of the Chemical Hygiene Plan in the facility you are working in. CHESS's Chemical Hygiene Plan is posted outside the Chem Room door.
-
Observe the Permissible Exposure Limits of OSHA and the Threshold Limit Values of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
-
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment. eg: Gloves, lab coats, safety glasses, and aprons.
-
Chemical containers must be labeled with the identity of the product, the chemical constituents, and any appropriate hazard warnings. Labels must not be removed or defaced.
-
In the event of an accident or spill:
Eye contact: promptly flush eyes with water for a prolonged period and seek medical attention.
Ingestion: encourage the victim to drink large amounts of water.
Skin Contact: promptly flush the affected area with water and remove any contaminated clothing. If symptoms persist after washing, seek medical attention.
Clean-Up: promptly clean up spills using appropriate protective apparel and equipment, and proper disposal.
-
Do not eat, drink, smoke, apply cosmetics or contact lenses, or use mouth suction for pipetting in the laboratory at any time.
-
Restrict use of the lab while you are at work.
-
Before leaving the lab: clean up your work area and be sure your chemicals are stored and labeled properly.
