Chemical Hazards

A chemical is considered hazardous if it has flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic properties. Examples are cleaners, solvents, and acids. Labels should identify the nature of the hazard. The health effects of chemical exposures will depend on several factors: toxicity, dose, duration of exposure, route of entry (inhalation, skin absorption, injection, ingestion), individual susceptibility, and the possible combined effects of several exposures (syngerism).

Guidelines for Working with Chemicals

1. Know the hazards of the substances in your work area, and learn how to use them safely. Read signs, labels, and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), and talk to your supervisor. Other resources are listed at the end of this booklet. You may also get more information from your EH&S Division Liaison.
   
   
2. Always use the recommended protective clothing and equipment for the job, and follow appropriate safety procedures.
   
   
3. Attend Chemical Hygiene and Safety Training (EHS-348).
   
   
4. Wash your hands. Never eat, drink, or smoke in areas where chemical contamination could occur.
   
   
5. Keep your workplace clean and uncluttered. Follow good housekeeping practices.
   
   
6. Store chemicals properly. Incompatible chemicals should be stored separately. Keep flammables in special cabinets and containers.
   
   
7. Keep a set of spill kits on hand (available from Stores for flammables, acids, and caustics), and read the instructions before an accident happens.
   
   
8. Whenever possible, use a safer process or substitute a less hazardous material for the chemicals currently in use.
   
   
9. Never pour hazardous liquids down the drain or put hazardous materials in the trash. Hazardous materials must be properly packaged and labeled for disposal.
   
   
10. Know what to do in an emergency. Know where the closest eyewash and emergency shower are located.