OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD CHEMICAL SAFETY

• FOR TULANE LABORATORY EMPLOYEES
• March 2007

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD CHEMICAL
SAFETYOBJECTIVES

• To become familiar with the requirements of the
  OSHA Laboratory Standard and components of
  Tulanes Chemical Hygiene Plan
• To ensure that all individuals at risk are
  adequately informed about work in the laboratory,
  its risks, methods to protect themselves, and
  procedures to follow in the event of an emergency
• To become familiar with common concerns noted
  during laboratory inspections and with good
  chemical hygiene practices associated with
  laboratory work

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD

• The OSHA Occupational Exposures to Hazardous
  Chemicals in Laboratories Standard, or
  Laboratory Standard for short, requires employers
  to protect laboratory workers from health hazards
  associated with chemical exposure in the
  laboratory (see OSHA Lab Standard at
  http//www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_docum
  ent?p_tableSTANDARDSp_id10106)

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDOSHA DEFINITIONS

• Laboratory - A workplace where relatively small
  quantities of hazardous chemicals are used on a
  non-production basis
• Laboratory Scale Containers used for reactions,
  transfers, and handling are small enough to be
  easily and safely manipulated by one person

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDDOES IT APPLY TO YOUR
LAB?

• The determination of whether the OSHA Laboratory
  Standard applies as opposed to the OSHA General
  Industry Standard depends on laboratory use and
  laboratory scale criteria.
• Some OSHA substance specific standards require
  coverage to remain under that standard rather
  than the Lab Standard. (Example The use of
  formaldehyde in labs is covered under OSHA
  Formaldehyde Standard rather than the OSHA Lab
  Standard.)
• Most Tulane labs fall under the OSHA Lab Standard.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXEMPTIONS

• Quality control laboratories connected with
  production processes that perform repetitive
  tasks are exempt from the Lab Standard.
• Uses of hazardous chemicals which provide no
  potential for employee exposure, such as medical
  labs which only use prepackaged test kits, are
  exempt from the Lab Standard.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDCHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN
(CHP)

• A requirement of the OSHA Lab Standard is for all
  employers that have laboratories to develop a
  written Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)
• Tulanes CHP is located in the Laboratory Safety
  section of the OEHS Policies Procedures Manual
  which can be found at http//www2.som.tulane.edu/o
  ehs/safety/30laboratory.pdf

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDCHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN
(CHP)

• Tulanes CHP is a generic plan covering the many
  different types of laboratories at Tulane.
• It is to be supplemented by annually updated
  Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) developed by
  laboratory supervisors/principal investigators
  discussing safety practices and procedures
  specific to the laboratory.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDCHEMICAL HYGIENE OFFICER
(CHO)

• The Lab Standard also requires each employer with
  laboratories to appoint a Chemical Hygiene
  Officer.
• The certified CHO for Tulane University is Pam
  Fatland of OEHS.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDRESPONSIBILITIES OF
TULANES CHO

• Develop update written CHP/ Review Laboratory
  Standard SOPs
• Give guidance in procurement, use, and disposal
  of chemicals
• Assist in emergency planning and major cleanup
  activities
• Perform laboratory inspections/ audit fume hood
  performance

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDRESPONSIBILITIES OF
TULANES CHO (Continued)

• Advise in lab closeouts, renovations, or building
  of laboratory facilities
• Advise in monitoring of exposure levels of
  regulated chemicals
• Seek ways to improve the chemical hygiene program

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDRESPONSIBILITIES OF
LABORATORY SUPERVISORS/PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS

• Compose and annually update Laboratory Standard
  SOPs and chemical inventories specific for their
  laboratories and submit to OEHS
• Provide adequate Personal Protective Equipment
  (PPE)
• Provide document safety training for laboratory
  personnel
• Perform quarterly inspections of labs

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDRESPONSIBILITIES OF
LABORATORY SUPERVISORS/PRINCIPAL
INVESTIGATORS(Continued)

• Contact OEHS if monitoring is needed, if spill
  occurs, if accident/injury occurs, etc.
• Ensure that facilities are adequate for
  experiments to be performed
• Ensure laboratory workers comply with safe
  chemical hygiene practices

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDRESPONSIBILITIES OF
LABORATORY WORKERS/TECHNICIANS

• Plan conduct activities in accordance with
  Tulanes CHP and their laboratorys SOPs
• Develop good chemical hygiene habits

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDSTANDARD OPERATING
PROCEDURES

• The SOPs cover specifics of the Chemical Hygiene
  Plan that apply to a particular laboratory.
• The SOPS must be developed by the lab
  supervisor/principal investigator.
• The SOPs must be updated and submitted to OEHS at
  least annually (usually in April/May).

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD STANDARD OPERERATING
PROCEDURES

• Guidelines for the Lab Standards annually
  updated SOPs can be found on the OEHS website at
  http//www.som.tulane.edu/oehs/docs/sopguideline.p
  df.
• This format may be used, or the laboratory
  supervisor/principal investigator may develop his
  own format, as long as chemical safety procedures
  for the specific laboratory are documented.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTRAINING INFORMATION

• Training must be done at initial assignment and
  prior to new hazardous chemical/new exposure
  situations.
• The purpose of training is to ensure that all
  individuals at risk are adequately informed about
  the work in the laboratory, its risks, methods to
  protect themselves, and procedures to follow in
  the event of an emergency.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTRAINING INFORMATION

• It is the responsibility of the lab
  supervisor/principal investigator to document
  appropriate training send records to OEHS.
• Training documentation forms can be found at
  www2.som.tulane.edu/oehs/safety/04F-oehss03.pdf.
  
• An online quiz at the end of this PowerPoint
  presentation will go directly to OEHS and will
  serve as training documentation for the OSHA Lab
  Standard Chemical Safety presentation.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTRAINING INFORMATION

• The lab supervisor/principal investigator must
  also provide training on laboratory specific
  information such as the SOPs for the laboratory,
  the proper use of particular chemicals and
  equipment in the laboratory, the appropriate PPE
  for the chemicals being used, etc. (see next
  slide for supervisor/PI training topics).

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTRAINING INFORMATION
TOPICSThe OSHA Lab Standard States that you must
be familiar with the following

• Methods to detect hazardous chemicals in the work
  area
• Signs and symptoms of exposure to chemicals
• Methods to reduce exposure
• Physical health hazards of chemicals used in
  the work area
• PPE and emergency procedures
• CHP/SOPs reference materials

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTRAINING INFORMATION
TOPICS

• For information on resources where you or your
  supervisor/ principal investigator can find
  specific chemical safety information, see the
  OEHS PowerPoint presentations on Sources of
  Chemical Safety Information and The OSHA Hazard
  Communication Standard

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROLThere
are three main ways to control exposure to
chemicals

• Engineering Controls (usually consists of
  ventilation, safety showers/eyewash units, etc.)
• Work Practices (handling, storage, housekeeping,
  etc.)
• Personal Protective Equipment (gloves, eye/face
  protection, etc.)

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL FUME
HOODS

• Before using toxic or volatile chemicals in a
  fume hood, adequate hood performance needs to be
  confirmed.
• Hoods at Tulane are required to have an alarm or
  airflow indicator/monitor. At the very least,
  use a piece of tissue to make sure the hood is
  exhausting.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL FUME
HOODS

• Typically a working fume hood should exhaust at a
  rate of 80-120 feet per minute face velocity.
• Report problems promptly to Facilities Services.
• DO NOT perform work with toxic or volatile
  chemicals if the hood is not operating properly!
  This is the users responsibility.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL FUME
HOODS

• For more information on proper fume hood use or
  on biological safety cabinets, see the OEHS
  PowerPoint presentation on Laboratory Ventilation.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
EYEWASHES/SHOWERS

• Eyewash fountains are required in work areas
  where formaldehyde, irritants, or corrosive
  chemicals are used and there is the potential for
  a splash to the eye.
• Eyewashes must be tested weekly by the laboratory
  personnel. Showers must be tested at least
  annually by Facilities Services.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
EYEWASHES/SHOWERS

• Emergency showers/eyewashes must be readily
  accessible, clear of obstructions, and clearly
  labeled.
• For more information on emergency eyewash/shower
  requirements, see the OEHS PowerPoint
  presentation on Eyewashes/Showers.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL WORK
PRACTICES

• Laboratory technique is important in minimizing
  exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• There is no substitute for adequate planning and
  knowledge when using hazardous materials.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL WORK
PRACTICES

• Practice good housekeeping.
• Maintain aisles/uncluttered work areas.
• Properly store handle chemicals.
• Substitute less hazardous materials when possible
  (such as non-mercury thermometers).
• Scale down experiments.
• Use secondary containment.
• Use good chemical hygiene practices.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• PPE is used as a final alternative in the event
  that engineering controls and work practices do
  not adequately prevent exposure to chemicals.
• PPE must be adequate for the substance being
  handled and must be available in different
  sizes/styles (i.e., powdered unpowdered gloves).

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• A Dartmouth researcher got one drop of
  dimethylmercury on her latex glove and died from
  the exposure. Latex was not appropriate for
  protection for work with dimethylmercury.
• Latex or PVC gloves are not suitable for direct
  contact with corrosive or highly toxic chemicals.
  
• Glove permeability charts are available from
  glove manufacturers to help you decide which type
  of glove is appropriate for use with different
  chemicals. Contact OEHS for more information or
  if you have questions.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

• Respirators require a medical evaluation and
  annual fit-testing.
• PPE must be inspected to make sure it is in good
  condition.
• Personnel must be trained on PPE, how and when to
  use it, how to maintain and store it, etc.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

• When using PPE, remember the Infectious Disease
  concept of Universal Precautions Treat ALL
  materials as if they are contaminated (with
  infectious materials, hazardous chemicals, etc.).
• Plan for the worst case scenario and be ready for
  an emergency.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• PPE is covered in depth under the OSHA Personal
  Protective Equipment and OSHA Respiratory
  Protection Standards. The PPE standard requires
  an assessment for hand, eye and face, and body
  protection in the work area.
• See OEHS PowerPoint presentation on personal
  protective equipment as well as the PPE section
  of the OEHS Policies and Procedures Manual at
  www.som.tulane.edu/oehs for more information on
  PPE. Contact OEHS for information on Tulanes
  respiratory protection program.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• In addition to wearing suitable PPE, a laboratory
  worker must also dress appropriately for their
  work. For example, sandals/flip-flops, shorts,
  and tops with exposed midriffs are inappropriate
  attire for laboratory work with hazardous
  materials.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE CONTROL
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• Regular prescription eyeglasses do not take the
  place of safety glasses or goggles.
• The American Chemical Society has taken the
  position that contact lenses may be worn in the
  laboratory as long as appropriate eye protection
  such as safety glasses or goggles, as required of
  other workers in the laboratory, is also worn.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDLABORATORY INSPECTIONS

• OEHS annually inspects the laboratories for
  safety concerns.
• Supervisors/principal investigators must perform
  quarterly inspections and submit them to OEHS.
  For a generic lab quarterly inspection form, see
  http//www2.som.tulane.edu/oehs/safety/14F-oehss13
  .pdf, or you may create your own inspection
  format specific to your lab. Note concerns and
  address them with a plan of correction.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDLABORATORY INSPECTIONS

• Other entities such as the fire department,
  insurance companies, or regulatory agencies
  (OSHA, EPA) may also perform laboratory
  inspections. Contact OEHS if an outside agency
  inspector wants to inspect your laboratory.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE MONITORING

• Contact OEHS if there is a chemical exposure
  problem in your area or if you feel that chemical
  exposure monitoring is needed in your lab.
• Be aware of chemicals with permissible exposure
  limits (PELs) levels of exposure which should
  not be exceeded during a normal workday.
  Exposures may need to be monitored if there is
  reason to believe that the exposure to hazardous
  chemicals routinely exceeds the PELs.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDEXPOSURE MONITORING

• Exposure levels may also need to be measured if a
  person has developed signs or symptoms of
  overexposure or in the event of a spill or leak.
• OEHS has industrial hygiene staff and equipment
  to monitor for a variety of chemicals. Notify
  OEHS if there is a problem such as unusual odors,
  spills, chemical injuries, sudden exhaust
  problems, greater than routine exposure to highly
  toxic chemicals, etc.
• Use adequate ventilation.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDPRIOR APPROVAL

• Contact OEHS for prior approval and safety advice
  when using high risk substances (i.e.,
  explosives, select carcinogens, reproductive
  toxins, substances with a high degree of acute
  toxicity), for grant environmental compliance
  statements, or for projects with possible safety
  concerns.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDPRIOR APPROVAL

• Whenever high risk substances such as explosives,
  select carcinogens, reproductive toxins, or
  substances having a high degree of acute toxicity
  are used, a protocol sheet describing the project
  and the safety procedures/precautions that will
  be followed should be submitted to OEHS for
  review.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDPRIOR APPROVAL

• Many grants require an environmental compliance
  statement be signed by the OEHS Director stating
  the researcher is in compliance with
  environmental health and safety laws.
• OEHS reviews these protocols in depth, determines
  if the researcher is in compliance, suggests
  additional safety precautions that may be needed,
  etc.
• DO NOT wait until a grant is due to submit such
  protocols. It takes time to do this review.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTOXICS/HIGH RISK
CHEMICALSOSHA requires the following when using
toxic or high risk chemicals such as allergens,
embryotoxins, select carcinogens, toxic
chemicals, etc.

• Use only in a designated area with restricted
  access and warning signs posted stating the
  hazard (may be entire laboratory, fume hood,
  etc.).
• Use containment devices (such as fume hood, glove
  boxes, local exhaust).
• Personnel must be familiar with waste removal
  procedures.

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTOXICS/HIGH RISK
CHEMICALSOSHA requires the following when using
toxic or high risk chemicals

• Decontamination procedures must be established
  (such as how to clean equipment that may become
  contaminated).
• Emergency plans must be available in the event
  material spills, a splash occurs, etc.

46
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTOXICS/HIGH RISK
CHEMICALSOSHA requires the following when using
toxic or high risk chemicals

• Records of the materials used, names of workers
  involved, and dates/amounts used should be kept
  since, in many cases, illnesses related to
  chemical exposure can take years to develop.

47
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDTOXICS/HIGH RISK
CHEMICALSOSHA requires the following when using
toxic or high risk chemicals

• SOPs should include specific requirements and
  special procedures for using toxic or high risk
  chemicals in the laboratory.

48
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDMEDICAL PROGRAMA
medical evaluation is available to all Tulane
employees who experience

• Signs and symptoms of exposure to a chemical
• Exposure above the Permissible Exposure Limits
  (PELs) on a routine basis
• A spill/leak

49
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDMEDICAL PROGRAM

• The employee should notify supervisor, fill out
  an injury/illness form, notify the OEHS Workers
  Compensation Specialist at 988-2869, and report
  for medical care (a copy of the form should be
  provided to the healthcare provider, to the
  supervisor, and to OEHS)

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDSUPERVISOR/PI COMPLIANCE
CHECKLISTThis is a summary of some of the
paperwork and duties required by the lab
supervisor/principal investigator

• Annual SOPs, chemical inventories submitted to
  OEHS
• Training documentation submitted to OEHS
• Quarterly inspections/inspection response to
  annual OEHS inspections submitted
• PPE assessments done/PPE inspected and in good
  condition
• High risk chemicals documentation and usage
  records kept

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OSHA LABORATORY STANDARDSUPERVISOR/PI COMPLIANCE
CHECKLISTThis is a summary of some of the
paperwork and duties required by the laboratory
supervisor/principal investigator

• Up to date door signs posted
• Exposure monitoring results posted and kept
• Medical records/injury reports kept
• Prior Approval protocols submitted to OEHS for
  review
• Fume Hood functioning before use
• Weekly Eyewash Inspections

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LABORATORY INSPECTION CONCERNS
53
LABORATORY INSPECTION CONCERNS

• The following slides deal with concerns noted
  during actual laboratory inspections or with
  hazards associated with laboratory work
• Be aware of similar problems in your laboratory
  area and correct any deficiencies
• Contact OEHS if you have questions about any of
  the items

54
HOOD CONCERNSThese concerns deal with the actual
hood, exhaust, and alarm system

• Airfoil (curved sill at front of hood) missing -
  can create turbulence
• Hood not working (Exhaust too high or too low)
• Hood sash stuck/broken/needs repair
• Interior hood panel missing or broken
• Vaneometer/airflow indicator device needs
  mounting or repair
• No alarm/alarm not working properly
• Additional exhaust needed

55
HOOD CONCERNSThese concerns deal with improper
work practices

• Chemicals on front edge of hood
• Large equipment in front of hood/exhaust
• Loose paper towels in hood can be sucked into
  and damage exhaust system
• Hood used for chemical or equipment storage
  need room to work in hood
• Work at least 6 inches inside hood

56
HOOD CONCERNSThese concerns deal with proper use
of a fume hood and knowing its limitations

• Filter in countertop unit needs replacement
• Perchloric acid used in regular fume hood
• Biological Safety Cabinet/Walk-in Hood/Perchloric
  Acid Hood not properly used

57
HOOD CONCERNS

• For more information on fume hoods and tips for
  proper usage, see the OEHS PowerPoint
  presentation on Laboratory Ventilation

58
CONCERNS WITH FIRE ALARMS, EXTINGUISHERS,
EQUIPMENTThese concerns deal with fire
extinguishers

• Fire extinguisher/equipment blocked
• Relocate/mount fire extinguisher or an
  extinguisher is needed
• Extinguisher needs inspection

59
CONCERNS WITH FIRE ALARMS, EXTINGUISHERS,
EQUIPMENTThese concerns deal with fire equipment

• Emergency light or strobe blocked or needed
• Smoke detector needs to be secured or is damaged
• Exit sign needed or not illuminated
• Door closure needs adjustment

60
CONCERNS WITH FIRE ALARMS, EXTINGUISHERS,
EQUIPMENTThese concerns deal with improper work
practices

• Storage within 18 inches of sprinkler heads
  prevents proper operation of automatic sprinkler
  system
• Exit locked or blocked

61
EYEWASHES/DRENCH HOSES/SHOWER CONCERNSThese
concerns deal with the equipment itself

• Eyewash needs adjusting/not working
• Eyewash/shower needed
• Shower handle too high or missing, cover plate
  coming off
• Drench hose handle missing/ needs repair
• Eyewash needs caps for nozzles

62
EYEWASHES/DRENCH HOSES/SHOWER CONCERNSThese
concerns deal with work practices as well as
awareness of equipment limitations

• Access to eyewash, drench hose, shower, or sink
  blocked
• Plastic personal eyewash bottle in laboratory as
  opposed to plumbed eyewash unit (these plastic
  bottles are not recommended for laboratories
  not enough water to properly wash the eyes)

63
SIGNAGE CONCERNSThese concerns deal with
labeling of doors and equipment

• Door sign needed/ changes needed
• Eyewash, refrigerator, equipment labels needed
• Signage needs mounting
• Signage blocked or unreadable

64
CHEMICAL STORAGE CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with gas cylinders

• Gas cylinders improperly or not secured
• Gas cylinders missing caps
• Excess lecture bottles

65
CHEMICAL STORAGE CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with flammable liquid storage cabinets and
flammable liquid storage in a laboratory setting

• Unlatched flammable cabinet or flammable cabinet
  not closing properly
• Flammable cabinet blocked or unsteady
• Greater than 10 gallons of flammable liquids are
  stored outside of a flammable cabinet
• Improper grounding or bonding
• 5 gal or 55 gal containers used

66
CHEMICAL STORAGE CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with chemical storage

• Chemicals are stored directly on the floor
• Incompatible chemicals are stored together
  evidence of corroding containers or cabinets
• Old or undated ether (or other peroxide forming
  chemical) found in lab
• Improperly labeled or unlabeled containers
  (includes squeeze/wash bottles)
• Uncapped containers
• Improper chemical or glassware storage (could
  fall, lip needed, needs lock key)

67
CHEMICAL STORAGE CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with chemical disposal issues

• Evidence of improper chemical disposal
• Disposal of chemicals needed
• Waste chemicals not properly labeled or not
  capped

68
REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER CONCERNS

• Flammables stored in improper refrigerator or
  freezer
• Refrigerator or freezer needs defrosting or
  cleaning
• Food or beverages found in refrigerator, freezer,
  or cold room
• Gasket needs replacing or cleaning

69
EATING/DRINKING/SMOKING/LABORATORY ATTIRE
CONCERNS

• Evidence of eating, drinking, or smoking in lab
• Improper laboratory attire (Shorts, sandals)

70
EQUIPMENT/ELECTRICAL CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with equipment

• Equipment needs repair or discard
• Unguarded equipment or improper guarding
• Improper storage of equipment
• Tagged out of service equipment in use

71
EQUIPMENT/ELECTRICAL CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with lighting and electrical covers

• Electrical covers missing or broken light covers
  missing
• Lights not working
• Exit signs or emergency lighting needed

72
EQUIPMENT/ELECTRICAL CONCERNSThese deal with
electrical concerns

• Electrical panels are blocked
• Cheater plugs are in use, or items are not
  plugged in properly
• Improper multi-outlet strip or outlet usage
• Improper extension cord usage
• Electrical cords through doorways or walls

73
EQUIPMENT/ELECTRICAL CONCERNSThese concerns deal
with heating, electrical shock prevention, and
equipment that protects drinking water

• Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), vacuum
  breaker, serrated tip faucet needed
• Space heater in lab
• Heat producing equipment left on and unattended

74
HOUSEKEEPING AND RELATED CONCERNS

• Poor housekeeping observed
• Paper pads on counters need replacement
• Combustible storage (boxes, cardboard) needs
  removal
• Trash needs removal
• Maintain aisles and exits
• Slip/trip hazards (cords, floor tiles, etc.)
• Evidence of a spilled chemical

75
HOUSEKEEPING AND RELATED CONCERNS

• Mold growth, ceiling needs repair, tiles stained
  or missing
• Peeling paint, rust, stains
• Ventilation blocked, dirty, or improper
• Poor condition tubing or improper Bunsen burner
  use

76
HOUSEKEEPING AND RELATED CONCERNS

• Doors not latching properly
• Holes in walls need repair
• Hall storage

77
BIOHAZARDS/SHARPS CONCERNS

• Unsecured sharps (needles, razor blades,
  scalpels, etc.)
• Improper trash can, waste bag, sharps container
• Sharps container not upright or missing top
• Glass box, biohazard box, sharps container needs
  disposal (2/3rds full)
• Broken glassware needs to be discarded

78
PPE CONCERNS

• Improperly stored PPE
• PPE not disposed properly
• Need to use PPE
• Poor condition PPE
• Verify fit-test/medical for respirator use
• Verify PPE for cryogenic use

79
MISC. CONCERNS

• Bicycles in laboratory
• Improper or broken furniture in laboratory
• Utility fixtures corroding

80
MISC. CONCERNS

• Prohibited animal (personal pet) in lab
• Improper railing, toeboard or guard rail needed

81
BUILDING BLOCKS OF LABORATORY SAFETY

• Right Attitude
• Safety Education
• Communication
• Equipment
• Vigilance
• Coordination
• Alternatives
• Avoid Complacency

82
BUILDING BLOCKS OF LABORATORY SAFETY

• Make safety a top priority.
• Make information available and accessible (MSDSs,
  safety literature, etc.).
• Use equipment appropriate for the task.
• Be watchful during experiments be ready for
  unexpected events
• Substitute less hazardous substances when
  possible, or use other methods such as robotics

83
BUILDING BLOCKS OF LABORATORY SAFETY

• Avoid close calls and doing something just this
  once
• Do not procrastinate (get equipment repaired, buy
  needed PPE, etc.)

84
CHEMICAL SHIPMENTSTreat chemical shipments with
care and caution

• Read labels/paperwork/documents before opening
• Visually inspect shipment for indications of
  damage look for leaks, wet stained areas, sounds
  associated with breakage, lingering aromas
• Open possibly damaged shipments in hood by
  trained staff wearing proper PPE
• Know who to notify and what to do in an emergency

85
CHEMICAL STORAGE TIPS

• Minimize purchases order and store only what is
  needed
• Avoid storing on floor and in fume hood practice
  good housekeeping
• Use shelves with lips flammable cabinets if
  available
• Use secondary containment to minimize spills
• Segregate by hazard class (acids separate from
  bases, oxidizers separate from flammables)
• Inventory periodically to weed out deteriorating
  or unneeded chemicals

86
REFRIGERATORSKnow the difference and the
limitations

• Explosion-proof designed to operate in hazardous
  flammable or explosive atmospheres
• Explosion-safe (or laboratory-safe) designed for
  storage of flammable materials (ignition sources
  such as lights, door switch, thermostat, and
  exposed electrical components and circuitry are
  removed from interior chamber external
  components such as compressors, wiring,
  circuitry, and controls are located at top of
  refrigerator to minimize ignition from vapors
  heavier than air)
• Household not designed for laboratory use (vapors
  can build up and possibly ignite)

87
LABORATORY/STUDIO CLOSE-OUT POLICY

• Policy designed to ensure laboratories/art
  studios are left in a safe condition when
  vacating or renovating the laboratory/studio
• Procedures include making provisions for
  hazardous chemicals, biologicals, sharps,
  cylinders, radioactive materials, and equipment
  such as fume hoods or biological safety cabinets
• Must notify OEHS of plans (Notification Letter)
• Must certify that hazardous materials have been
  properly removed and that the area has been
  decontaminated before area can be renovated or
  re-occupied (Pre-Close-Out Certification)
• Also includes Move-in reminders and tips

88
LABORATORY/STUDIO CLOSE-OUT POLICY

• For details on Tulanes Laboratory/Studio
  Close-out Policy, see Laboratory Safety section
  of OEHS Policies and Procedures Manual (see
  http//www2.som.tulane.edu/oehs/safety/30laborator
  y.pdf) or contact OEHS

89
EQUIPMENT TRANSFER POLICY

• All potentially contaminated equipment must be
  properly prepared prior to moving, servicing,
  shipping, or disposing of equipment
• Preparation includes removing chemicals,
  radioactive materials, biological materials, and
  sharps and decontaminating all surfaces of the
  equipment
• The PI/Supervisor should complete an Equipment
  Transfer Certification Form verifying the
  equipment has been decontaminated and is free of
  hazardous materials

90
EQUIPMENT TRANSFER POLICY (cont.)

• Once form is completed and forwarded to OEHS,
  OEHS will check the equipment and issue a
  sticker/tag showing that the equipment is ready
  for transfer
• Facilities Services will not transfer equipment
  without a tag or special instructions from OEHS
• The department will bear any costs associated
  with equipment transfer including the costs of
  hazardous materials disposal, cleanup,
  decontamination, and any regulatory fines if the
  equipment is not properly prepared

91
UNATTENDED EXPERIMENTSUnattended experiments
often lead to incidents requiring emergency
response

• Unattended experiments are discouraged
• Plan for the unexpected
• If necessary, design experiment to prevent
  release of hazardous substances in the event of
  interruptions in utility services such as
  electricity, cooling water, and inert gas
• Leave lab lights on and post signs identifying
  nature of experiment, hazardous substances in
  use, and responsible person to contact in an
  emergency
• Make arrangements for other workers to
  periodically inspect the operation

92
ORGANIC PEROXIDESOrganic peroxides tend to be
shock or light sensitive

• Know the hazards specific to the chemical (MSDS)
• Order only what is needed in small container
  sizes
• Date containers when received, when opened, and
  when to discard Store properly
• Use correct PPE
• Routinely test for peroxides
• Know what to do in an emergency clean up spills
  immediately
• Dispose of properly and in a timely manner

93
ORGANIC PEROXIDESOrganic peroxides tend to be
shock or light sensitive

• Be especially wary of diethyl ether which is
  highly flammable and volatile and which may start
  to form peroxides as soon as 6 months from
  opening. Date container when it is opened and
  try to use or dispose of material within 6 months
  of opening.

94
PERCHLORIC ACIDPerchloric acid must be handled
and stored properly or it can lead to explosions

• Use perchloric acid fume hood made of proper
  material and designed with a washdown system
• Do not use or store organic solvents in
  perchloric hood
• Add acid to water
• Use full body protection goggles, faceshield,
  gloves, apron
• Do not mix perchloric acid waste with any other
  waste
• Store perchloric acid away from organic acids
  (including acetic acid), organic bases, and other
  organic or flammable materials use secondary
  containment when storing

95
SCALE-UP OF EXPERIMENTSScaling up an experiment
can lead to an explosion. Prepare for an
emergency

• Scale-up is frequently a contributing cause for
  an energetic incident
• As the scale of a reaction increases, the need
  for more efficient heat removal is needed
• Heat which cannot safely dissipate to the
  surroundings may be retained in the reaction
  vessel leading to a rapid increase in temperature
  and reaction rate
• The end result is a violent reaction
• Monitor temperature provide cooling

96
HAZARDOUS WASTE

• Containerize all waste in sealed, compatible
  containers.
• Label all waste containers with the words
  Hazardous Waste, the full name of the chemical,
  and the associated hazards. Waste labels are
  available from OEHS.
• Maintain waste in the lab until collected by OEHS
  (In some buildings, OEHS maintains waste room
  collection hours. Call OEHS for details.
• Request collection via OEHS website request form
  (see http//www.som.tulane.edu/oehs/Hazwaste.htm)
  or by emailing Hazardous Waste Supervisor,
  bmcclue_at_tulane.edu.

97
HAZARDOUS WASTE

• Keep waste containers tightly capped at all times
  except when adding waste
• Use secondary containment to help contain spills
• Ensure all personnel understand safety and
  disposal procedures and have received appropriate
  training
• Do not allow large quantities of hazardous waste
  to accumulate
• Do not use evaporation as a treatment method

98
WASTE MINIMIZATION

• Check current inventories before making new
  chemical purchases
• Audit chemical supplies regularly and use
  inventory control
• Substitute less hazardous materials when possible
• Reduce the scale of experiments when possible
• Purchase only the quantity of chemicals required
  for specific projects
• Avoid mixing hazardous waste with non-hazardous
  waste
• Train personnel to avoid excess waste generation

99
LARGE CHEMICAL SPILLS

• Alert others in area to evacuate
• Obtain the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Turn off ignition sources
• Confine spill if possible (upright container,
  close doors, pull down sash of hood_
• Notify supervisor/PI, OEHS, and Tulane
  Police/Public Safety
• Attend to injured or contaminated persons
• Wait for OEHS to respond provide support to OEHS
  personnel in uncontaminated area

100
Respect Your Chemical Hygiene Plan!

• Tulanes Policy
• SOPs Specific to Your Lab

101
Summary

• The OSHA Laboratory Standard and Tulanes
  Chemical Hygiene Plan have many components to
  protect laboratory workers from health hazards
  associated with chemical exposure in the
  laboratory including laboratory specific
  standard operating procedures, training
  requirements, inspections, exposure monitoring,
  medical evaluations, prior approval, and
  requirements for using high risk chemicals.

102
Summary

• A laboratory inspection is a good way to become
  familiar with potential hazards in the laboratory
  and to correct concerns before they become a
  major problem.
• Everyone has a responsibility when it comes to
  chemical safety use good chemical hygiene
  practices in the laboratory and be prepared for
  the unexpected.

103
Summary

• For more information on Tulanes Chemical Hygiene
  Plan and laboratory safety, see the Laboratory
  Safety section of the OEHS Policies and
  Procedures Manual, available at
  http//www2.som.tulane.edu/oehs/safety/30laborator
  y.pdf

104
Tulane UniversityOffice of Environmental Health
Safety (OEHS)Pam Fatland pfatlan_at_tulane.edu
Manager, Chemical Safety(504)
988-2800www.som.tulane.edu.oehsIf unable to
proceed to quiz, type the link below into your
browserhttp//aurora.tcs.tulane.edu/ehs/enterssn.
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