CHEMICAL  SAFETY  PROGRAM  

   
PURPOSE    
 
The  purpose  of  UFV’s  Chemical  Safety  Program  is  to  provide  a  framework  to  establish  a  written  program  
that  can  be  used  by  all  laboratory  workers  to  carry  out  their  work  activities  safely.    
 
This   program   provides   general   information   on   the   safe   use,   storage   and   disposal   of   chemicals   in   UFV  
laboratories.     All   laboratory   supervisors   are   responsible   for   developing   laboratory-­‐specific   chemical   safety  
programs   that   reflects   work   activities   within   their   laboratories.   All   laboratory   workers   are   required   to  
follow  the  safe  practices  outlined  but  not  limited  to  the  information  in  UFV’s  Chemical  Safety  Program.    

APPLICATION  

The  Chemical  Safety  Program  extends  to  all  employees,  faculty,  students,  researchers,  contractors,  
subcontractors,  and  visitors.    More  specifically,  this  program  applies  to  all  University  laboratory  personnel  
who  handle  chemicals  in  research  and  teaching  laboratories.  

ROLES  AND  RESPONSIBILITIES  

LABORATORY  SUPERVISOR  
 
 Identifying  hazards  and  implementing  appropriate  control  measures  (e.g.  ventilation,  safe  work  
practices  and  personal  protective  equipment)  to  minimize  or  eliminate  the  hazards.  
 Establishing  standard  safe  work  procedures  appropriate  for  the  work.    
 Training   laboratory   workers   on   the   safe   handling,   use,   storage   and   disposal   of   chemicals   and  
hazardous  laboratory  procedures.  
 Conducting   periodic   formal   and   informal   inspections   of   their   areas   for   hazardous   conditions,   and  
promptly  correcting  unsafe  work  practices  or  hazardous  conditions.  
 Providing  the  required  personal  protective  equipment.  
 Ensuring   that   all   safety   equipment   (e.g.   fume   hoods,   emergency   eye   wash   and   showers)   is   in  
working  order.  
 Providing   training   specific   to   the   hazards   and   processes   in   the   laboratory   to   all   laboratory  
workers  prior  to  start  of  work  or  prior  to  start  of  an  experiment  never  done  before.  
 
LABORATORY  WORKERS  
 
 Observing  established  safety  policies  and  procedures  established  by  the  University  and  any  safe  
work  procedures  or  guidelines  established  by  the  laboratory  supervisor.  
 Participating  in  laboratory-­‐specific  training  prior  to  starting  work  in  the  laboratory.  
 Reporting   incidents,   injuries,   unsafe   conditions,   insecure   conditions   or   threats   to   personal  
security  and  property  to  supervisor  as  soon  as  possible.  
 Ensuring  for  the  proper  use  and  adequate  care  of  personal  protective  equipment.  
 Seeking  clarification  from  supervisor  on  laboratory  procedures  
 

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CHEMICAL  INVENTORY  

Each  laboratory  should  maintain  an  inventory  of  chemicals  and  update  it  as  new  chemicals  are  added;  
chemicals  are  used  up  or  disposed.    A  recommended  template  (Excel  spreadsheet)  is  available  from  the  
Occupational  Health  &  Safety  Office  (OHSO).    A  laboratory  may  create  an  alternate  template  provided  the  
following  fields  of  information  are  included:  
Chemical  Name,  Quantity,  Hazard  Class  (es);  Date  Received;  Location;  MSDS  available  and  Date  removed  
from  inventory.  

MATERIAL  SAFETY  DATA  SHEETS  (MSDSs)  

MSDSs  must  be  in  a  readily  accessible  location  in  the  laboratory  and  all  workers  should  be  informed  on  
how  to  access  the  MSDSs.  MSDSs  can  be  in  electronic  form  provided  a  paper  copy  can  be  printed  and  
workers  know  how  to  access  these  MSDSs.  Each  laboratory  must  have  MSDSs  corresponding  to  the  
chemicals  listed  in  the  inventory.  WHMIS  requires  that  MSDSs  be  less  than  3  years  old.  MSDSs  may  be  
accessed  from  OHSO  website  via  the  online  3E  system.      

CONTAINER  LABELING  

All  chemical  containers  must  be  labelled  according  to  the  requirements  of  Workplace  Hazardous  Materials  
Information  System  (WHMIS).  Two  major  types  of  labels  are  defined  within  WHMIS:  supplier  and  work  
site  labels.  Labels  provide  health  and  safety  information  to  help  protect  the  user  and  others  in  the  
laboratory.  If  chemicals  are  transferred  from  the  original  supplier  container  to  a  secondary  container,  the  
secondary  container  must  be  labeled  –  the  label  can  be  just  the  name  of  the  chemical,  or  if  it  takes  more  
than  one  work  shift  to  use  of  the  contents  of  the  secondary  container  or  someone  else  in  the  laboratory  
may  handle  the  container,  then  it  must  be  labelled  with  a  work  site  label  that  includes  health  &  safety  
information.  Sample  labels  are  presented  in  Appendix  E.  For  more  information  refer  to  the  Laboratory  
Safety  Manual.  

HAZARD  MANAGEMENT  

Identifying,  assessing  and  managing  hazards  in  the  workplace  are  key  components  in  maintaining  a  safe  
environment.  A  hazard  is  defined  as  a  condition  or  behaviour  that  has  the  potential  to  cause  injury  or  loss.  
The  WorkSafe  BC  regulations  require  employers  to  conduct  hazard  assessments.    Refer  to  Appendix  F  for  
information  on  conducting  hazard  assessment.    For  further  assistance  with  conducting  hazard  
assessments  contact  the  OHSO.  
 
Most   hazards   can   be   classified   into   three   main   categories:   chemical,   biological   or   physical.   Exposure   to  
chemicals   can   occur   during   use   or   due   to   improper   storage.   The   potential   for   harm   is   significant   if  
chemicals   are   misused   or   mishandled.   Similarly   biological   hazards   have   the   potential   to   cause   harm   if  
misused   or   mishandled.   Physical   hazards   such   as   electrical   safety,   noise,   equipment   use   and   ergonomic  
concerns  due  to  static  postures  or  improper  material  handling  also  require  attention.  Hazards  commonly  
encountered  in  research  laboratories  are  listed  in  Tables  1  &  2  (Appendix  A).  This  is  by  no  means  an  all-­‐
inclusive   list.   It   is   expected   that   laboratories   will   use   this   as   a   guide   to   identify   hazards   in   their  
laboratories.  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 2 | 23

HAZARD  CONTROL  METHODS  

Hazard  control  methods  are  generally  classified  in  three  categories:  

 
 ENGINEERING   CONTROLS:   This   is   the   preferred   method   of   control   because   the   hazard   is  
eliminated   or   minimized   at   the   source   by   substitution,   isolation,   automation   or   exhaust  
ventilation  e.g.  fume  hoods  or  other  local  exhaust  ventilation.  

 ADMINISTRATIVE  PROCEDURES:    When  engineering  controls  are  not  possible  then  administrative  
procedures   such   as   additional   training,   safe   operating   procedures,   job   rotation   and   effective  
repair  and  maintenance  and  housekeeping  programs  can  also  be  implemented.    

 PERSONAL  PROTECTIVE  EQUIPMENT  (PPE):  Personal  protective  equipment  is  used  as  a  method  of  
controlling   hazards   only   when   neither   engineering   controls   nor   administrative   procedures   can  
effectively   minimize   the   impact   of   the   hazard.   PPE   is   considered   a   last   line   of   defense   because  
the  potential  for  exposure  has  not  been  removed  and  any  breach  (e.g.  improper  fit  or  use)  will  
result  in  worker  exposure.  

Sometimes  a  combination  of  two  or  more  of  the  above  control  methods  may  be  required  to  adequately  
control  the  hazard.    

PERSONAL  PROTECTIVE  EQUIPMENT  

As  a  minimum,  the  following  personal  protective  equipment  must  be  worn  by  laboratory  workers  using  
chemicals  or  other  hazardous  materials  that  may  come  in  contact  with  skin,  or  eyes.  Please  note  that  
laboratory  coats  and  gloves  should  be  removed  prior  to  leaving  the  laboratory  or  conducting  activities  
that  may  contaminate  other  surfaces  or  equipment  (e.g.  using  the  computer,  telephone  etc.)    

 Safety  glasses  with  side  shields  

 Buttoned-­‐up  laboratory  coat  (long  sleeves)  
 Long  pants  (to  the  shoe)  
 Closed-­‐toe  shoes  
 Appropriate  gloves  –  No  single  glove  type  will  protect  against  all  chemicals.  Gloves  must  be  
selected  based  on  the  type  of  chemical  being  used,  duration  of  use  and  the  method  of  use.  
Disposable  gloves  such  as  latex  and  nitrile  gloves  are  commonly  used  in  laboratories.  The  use  
of   latex   gloves   is   discouraged   because   they   do   not   provide   protection   against   many  
chemicals   and   also   there   is   concern   regarding   development   of   allergies   or   aggravating  
existing   allergies.   Nitrile   gloves   are   generally   more   chemical   resistant.   Disposable   gloves  
generally   provide   protection   against   incidental   contact;   more   specific   (non-­‐disposable)  
gloves  are  required  when  extended  contact  with  chemicals  is  expected.  Glove  manufacturers  
provide  glove  selection  charts  to  assist  with  selection  of  an  appropriate  glove.  
 

 RESPIRATORY  PROTECTIVE  EQUIPMENT  

Respiratory  protective  equipment  is  used  to  protect  against  exposure  to  airborne  dusts,  gases,  vapours,  
mists  and  aerosols.  Respirators  are  used  as  a  means  of  protection  only  after  it  has  been  determined  that  
the   airborne   hazard   cannot   be   controlled   using   engineering   or   administrative   methods.   The   following  
steps  assist  in  determining  the  need  for  a  respirator:  

 Identify  the  airborne  hazards.  

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  Can  the  process  be  substituted  with  less  hazardous  materials?  

 Can  the  experiment/process  be  conducted  inside  a  fume  hood  or  other  ventilated  enclosure?  

 Can  safe  work  procedures  and  training  be  used  to  minimize  the  hazard?  

Once  it  is  determined  that  a  respirator  is  required  then,  the  following  procedure  must  be  followed  prior  to  
using  a  respirator:  

 Contact  the  OHSO  for  support.  

 OHSO  personnel  will  then  contact  the  respirator  wearer  to  arrange  a  fit  test.  A  fit  test  is  done  to  
ensure   an   appropriate   respirator   that   fits   properly   and   is   comfortable   to   wear.   The   results   of   the  
fit  test  are  shared  with  the  user  and  their  supervisor.  

 Instructions   on   the   proper   use,   care,   maintenance   and   limitations   of   the   respirator   are   also  
provided  at  that  time.  

LABORATORY  SPECIFIC  SAFETY  TRAINING    

 
WHMIS  legislation  requires  all  workers  working  with  or  in  proximity  to  controlled  products  be  trained  in  
the  safe  use,  handling  storage  and  disposal  of  the  controlled  products.  Workers  are  also  required  to  know  
how   to   read   and   prepare   labels   and   be   able   to   understand   information   presented   in   MSDSs.   Generic  
training  is  provided  through  the  online  generic  WHMIS  course  through  OHSO.  To  supplement  this  training,  
Laboratory  supervisors  shall  ensure  that  all  workers  in  their  laboratories  receive  health  &  safety  training  
specific  to  the  hazards  present  in  the  laboratory.  Where  a  laboratory  or  core  piece  of  equipment  is  shared  
by   multiple   user   groups,   the   Laboratory   Supervisors   of   these   groups   shall   work   together   to   provide   cross-­‐
training  to  the  groups  on  the  various  hazards  associated  with  their  individual  projects.    
 
INSTRUCTIONS  TO  THE  LABORATORY  SUPERVISOR  
 
Laboratory   Supervisors   should   supplement   general   Department   safety   training   with   training   specific   to   all  
chemical,  biological,  radiation  or  other  hazards  in  their  laboratories.    The  checklist  in  Appendix  B  identifies  
information/training   that   should   be   provided   to   all   workers   in   the   laboratory.   The   training   may   be  
completed  by  the  laboratory  Supervisor  or  their  delegate.  
 
The  checklist  is  divided  into  various  Sections.  Below  is  a  brief  description  to  assist  you  in  the  provision  of  
applicable  training:  
 
SAFETY   RESOURCES:   This   Section   lists   the   documentation,   manuals,   Material   Safety   Data   Sheets,   and  
other  safety  resources  that  are  available  to  the  worker  and  information  that  the  worker  should  be  aware  
of  and  refer  to  as  necessary.  Lab-­‐specific  safe  operating  procedures  identifying  hazards  associated  with  a  
specific  experiment  or  process.  
 
EMERGENCY&SAFETY   EQUIPMENT:   This   Section   lists   the   emergency   equipment   and   personal   protective  
equipment.  It  is  extremely  important  that  all  workers  are  aware  of  the  location  of  emergency  equipment  
and  know  how  to  operate  it  before  they  start  working  with  hazardous  materials  so  they  are  able  to  access  
it  without  delay  in  the  event  of  an  emergency.  
 
CHEMICAL,  RADIATION  AND  BIOSAFETY:  These  Sections  list  the  training  and  instruction  that  is  required  for  
workers  working  with  chemicals,  radioisotopes  or  biohazardous  materials.  
 

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 4 | 23

HAZARDOUS   WASTE   DISPOSAL:   This   Section   identifies   the   need   to   discuss   hazardous   waste   storage   and  
disposal  procedures  in  the  lab  with  the  users  that  will  be  generating  the  waste.  
 
LABORATORY  EQUIPMENT:  Use  this  Section  to  train  lab  workers  on  the  use  of  laboratory  equipment  that  
the  worker  will  require  to  use,  for  example,  centrifuges,  ovens,  rotoVaps,  UV  or  x-­‐ray  emitting  devices.  
 
Complete  the  checklist  for  each  worker  in  the  laboratory.  
 
The  supervisor  and  the  worker  must  sign  and  date  this  document.  The  lab  supervisor  should  retain  a  copy  
for  recordkeeping  and  future  review.  
 
The   checklist   is   designed   to   assist   the   laboratory   Supervisor   in   the   provision   of   laboratory   specific   training  
for   new   workers.   It   is   recommended   this   checklist   be   reviewed   with   workers   on   a   regularly   scheduled  
basis   e.g.   during   their   annual   performance   review   as   a   means   to   update   and   ensure   that   the   worker   is  
trained  to  perform  all  identified    tasks  and/or  job  duties.  
 

EXPERIMENT  PLANNING  

Assess  each  experiment  or  process  prior  to  execution  to  ensure  that  appropriate  control  measures  are  
used  to  protect  the  health  and  safety  of  the  workers.  Identify  hazards  at  each  step  and  implement  
appropriate  controls  for  each  step.  Engineering  (e.g.  substitution  for  a  less  hazardous  material,  exhaust  
ventilation)  and  administrative  controls  should  be  considered  first  when  reducing  or  eliminating  
associated  hazards.  Personal  protective  equipment  should  be  selected  carefully  based  on  the  hazard.    
Discuss   all   new   experiments   and   any   changes   (e.g.   increase   in   quantities   of   reactants)   with   your  
supervisor  prior  to  conducting  the  experiment.    

WORKING  ALONE  

Every  effort  must  be  made  to  ensure  workers  do  not  perform  hazardous  laboratory  work  alone.  A  working  
alone  procedure  is  required  when  workers  work  alone  in  the  laboratory.  For  more  information  on  working  
alone  at  UFV,  please  contact  the  OHSO.  

LABORATORY  HAZARD  SIGNS  

Laboratory  Hazard  Signs  are  required  on  every  door  off  a  public  hallway  or  common  access  that  leads  into  
a  space  where  hazardous  materials  are  stored  and/or  used.  To  request  a  new  sign  for  a  laboratory  or  
support  space  (i.e.  autoclave  room,  chemical  storage  room  or  cold  room),  please  contact  the  OHSO.    

CHEMICAL  STORAGE  

It  is  preferable  to  store  chemicals  in  appropriate  acid  and  flammable  storage  cabinets.  
If   storage   cabinets   are   not   available,   then   store   chemicals   on   shelves   that   are   sturdy,   and   made   of  
material  that  is  resistant  to  the  chemicals  being  stored.  
 
GENERAL  CHEMICAL  STORAGE  GUIDELINES  
 
 Store  chemicals  at  or  below  eye  level.  
 Store  chemicals  according  to  chemical  compatibility  groups.  The  MSDS  provides  information  on  
special  storage  requirements,  on  compatibility  and  material  stability.  
 Do  not  store  chemicals  on  the  floor  or  under  the  sink.  

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  Separate  chemicals  into  compatible  groups,  and  then  segregate  these  groups  from  each  other  by  
physical   barriers   or   distance.   Generally,   inorganic   and   organic   chemicals   are   stored   separately,  
and  liquids  are  separated  from  solids.    
 Do   not   store   chemicals   alphabetically,   as   an   overall   storage   system.   Storing   chemicals  
alphabetically   is   only   acceptable   within   a   specific   hazard   group,   and   only   once   that   group   has  
already  been  segregated  from  any  other  incompatible  groups  or  materials.    
 
 
COMPATABILITY  GROUPS  FOR  CHEMICAL  SEGRAGATION  
 
 Perchloric   Acid,   Hydrofluoric   Acid,   and   Concentrated   Nitric   Acid   are   separated   from   all   other  
materials  (including  each  other)  
 Inorganic  acids  (except  as  noted  above)  
 Bases  
 Water  reactive  chemicals  
 Pyrophoric  chemicals  
 Strong  oxidizing  agents  
 Strong  reducing  agents  
 Flammable  and  combustible  liquids  
 
Refer  to  the  Laboratory  Safety  Manual  for  more  information  on  storage  of  chemicals.  
 

FUME  HOODS  

Fume  hoods  are  the  most  common  engineering  control  in  laboratories.  Their  sole  purpose  is  to  protect  
laboratory  workers  from  exposure  to  airborne  hazardous  materials.  Before  beginning  any  work  in  the  
fume  hood,  confirm  that  the  hood  is  operational.  Check  that  the  local  ON/OFF  switch  is  in  the  "ON"  
position.  Adequate  airflow  and  the  absence  of  excessive  air  turbulence  are  necessary  for  the  safe  
operation  of  a  fume  hood.  To  ensure  continued  safe  operation:  
 
 Sash  openings  should  be  kept  as  far  down  as  possible,  while  working  in  the  fume  hood.  When  the  
fume  hood  is  not  in  use,  the  sash  should  be  completely  closed.  
 Do  not  block  the  air  baffles  at  the  back  of  the  fume  hood.  Do  not  place  anything  closer  than  3  cm  
(1  inch)  from  the  back  of  the  inside  of  the  fume  hood.  
 Keep  apparatus  at  least  15  cm  (6  inches)  away  from  the  front  of  the  fume  hood.  Use  stands  to  
elevate  bulky  apparatus  so  as  to  avoid  disrupting  the  air  flow  through  the  fume  hood.  
 Keep   the   fume   hood   clean   and   uncluttered.   Apparatus   and   chemicals   should   normally   be   kept   in  
the  fume  hood  only  if  they  are  a  component  of  the  operation  for  which  the  hood  is  being  used.    
 Do  not  use  fume  hoods  for  long-­‐term  storage  of  chemicals  or  apparatus.    
 Do   not   modify   the   interior   of   the   hood   (e.g.,   installing   shelves).  Some  of  the  older  fume  hoods  
may  have  asbestos-­‐containing  liners.  
 Minimize   foot   traffic   around   the   fume   hood.   A   person   walking   past   a   fume   hood   can   create  
turbulence,  causing  contaminants  to  flow  out.  
 Keep  windows  and  doors  near  fume  hoods  closed.  Open  windows  and  doors  can  disrupt  airflow.  
 Do  not  use  fans  near  fume  hoods.  Fans  in  the  laboratory  can  cause  turbulence  that  can  disrupt  
proper  air  flow  throughout  the  fume  hood.  
 Read  and  understand  fume  hood  operations  manual  prior  to  using  fume  hood.  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 6 | 23

EMERGENCY  RESPONSE  PROCEDURES  

All  workers  in  the  laboratory  must  know  what  actions  are  to  be  taken  in  the  event  of  an  emergency.      All  
workers  must  be  aware  to  call  911  for  fire,  police  &  medical  emergencies.  
 
CHEMICAL  CONTACT/SPLASH  
 
EYES:  Flush  with  water  15  minutes.  Seek  immediate  medical  attention.  
SKIN:  Flush  with  water  for  15  minutes  while  removing  contaminated  clothing.  Seek  medical  attention.  
INGESTION:  Drink  water  and  seek  medical  attention.  Do  not  induce  vomiting.  
INHALATION:   Remove   the   victim   from   exposure   and   move   to   fresh   air.   If   person   is   not   breathing   or  
experiencing  breathing  difficulty,  seek  medical  attention.  
 
CHEMICAL  SPILL  
 Develop  spill  clean-­‐up  protocols  for  the  chemicals  in  the  laboratory.  
 Ensure  a  spill  kit  with  appropriate  spill  cleaning  supplies  and  equipment  is  readily  accessible  in  a  
conspicuously  marked  location.  
 Ensure  all  workers  in  the  laboratory  are  trained  in  the  proper  spill  clean-­‐up  protocols.  
 Refer  to  UFV’s  Chemical  Spill  Response  Guideline  
 
GENERAL  ACTIONS  TO  TAKE  IN  THE  EVENT  OF  A  SPILL  
 Stay  clear  and  warn  others  in  the  immediate  area  of  the  spill.  
 Isolate  the  area  around  the  spill.  
 Assist  injured  or  contaminated  persons  if  you  are  trained  to  do  so.  
 Assess   the   situation,   and   determine   if   it   constitutes   an   emergency.   Call   911   if   it   is   a   fire   or   life  
emergency  
 Proceed  to  clean-­‐up  the  spill  if  it  is  minor,  spill  clean-­‐up  supplies  and  equipment  are  and  trained  
local  personnel  are  able  to  clean  it  up.  
 Call  EXT  7770  if  assistance  is  required.  
 
FIRE  
In  the  event  of  a  fire:  
• Warn  others  in  the  immediate  area  of  the  fire  or  explosion.  
• Activate  the  building  fire  alarm  system.  
• Contain  the  fire  by  closing  doors  and  fume  hoods  in  the  area  of  the  fire.    
• Evacuate  the  area  of  the  fire  or  explosion  and  the  building.  Use  stairs,  not  the  elevator.  
• Call  911  and  provide  details  of  the  fire  
• Meet  emergency  personnel  at  the  main  entrance  to  the  building  
 

INCIDENT  REPORTING  &  INVESTIGATION  PROCEDURES  

All   incidents   must   be   reported   to   the   Laboratory   Supervisor   and   the   OHSO   immediately.     Complete   the  
incident   report   form   on   the   OHSO   website   and   OHSO   personnel   will   be   in   touch   to   conduct   an  
investigation.      
 
 
 

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 7 | 23

LABORATORY  INSPECTIONS  

Regular  workplace  inspections  play  a  key  role  in  preventing  accidents  and  injuries  by  identifying  hazards,  
implementing  corrective  measures,  and  monitoring  the  effectiveness  of  the  controls.  it  is  recommended  
that  laboratory  supervisors  conduct  inspections  of  their  work  areas  on  a  monthly  basis.  A  generic  
inspection  checklist  is  included  in  Appendix  C.  Customize  this  form  so  as  to  meet  the  specific  
circumstances  of  your  own  laboratory.    

HAZARDOUS  WASTE  
 
At  UFV  all  precautions  are  followed  when  handling,  storing,  and  using  laboratory  chemicals  to  hazardous  
waste.   Waste   containers   should   be   kept   closed   at   all   times,   except   when   contents   are   being   added.   Do  
not  leave  filter  funnels  in  the  open  necks  of  containers,  even  if  the  waste  is  in  a  fume  hood.  Fume  hoods  
are  not  to  be  treated  as  a  worry-­‐free  method  of  waste  containment  or  disposal.  
 
Waste  should  be  separated  as  follows:  
 Separate  liquid  and  solid  waste.  
 Separate  liquid  organic  waste  from  liquid  aqueous  waste.  
 Separate  strong  acids  and  bases  from  other  aqueous  waste.  
 
The   system   is   designed   to   streamline   the   waste   handling   process   and   enables   users   and   disposal  
personnel  to  process  the  removal  and  disposal  of  hazardous  materials  in  a  timely  and  efficient  manner.  
 
Please  contact  the  Facilities  Department  for  further  information.  
 
SHARPS  
 
Sharps  should  be  disposed  of  in  specially  designed  sharps  disposal  unit,  or  another  appropriate  puncture  
proof  container  with  a  lid.  Sharps  include  needle/syringe  assemblies,  broken  glassware,  hard  plastic,  and  
any   object   with   a   jagged   or   sharp   edge   that   can   puncture   a   plastic   bag   or   potentially   cause   injury   to  
someone  handling  the  material.  
 
GLASSWARE  
 
Clean  glassware  can  be  disposed  in  specially  provided  glass  collection  containers.  Contaminated  glassware  
that  cannot  be  effectively  de-­‐contaminated  and  cleaned  must  be  disposed  as  hazardous  waste.  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 8 | 23

  
APPENDIX  A:  TABLE  1  &  2  
TABLE  1:  COMMON  HAZARDS  IN  CHEMICAL  RESEARCH  LABORATORY  
Category/Hazard   Potential  Hazard   Personal   Protective   Other  Control  Measures  
Type   Equipment  
Chemical  Hazards  
Corrosives  (acids  &   Eye  and  skin   Safety  goggles;   Review  MSDS  
bases)   damage;   Face  shield  for  large   Use  in  fume  hood  
  Irreversible  tissue   amounts   Emergency  shower  &  eye  wash  
    damage   Chemical  resistant  gloves;   within  10  second  distance  
Lab  coat   Always  add  acid  to  water.  
Chemical  resistant  apron  
for  large  amounts  
Hydrofluoric  Acid   Eye  and  Skin   Safety  goggles   Review  MSDS  
Damage   Face  shield  for  large   Use  in  fume  hood  
Penetrates  deep   amounts   Emergency  shower  &  eye  wash  
into  tissue  without   Nitrile  or  neoprene   within  10  second  distance  
pain   rubber  gloves   Apply  Calcium  Gluconate  cream  to  
Lab  coat:  Chemical   skin  after  flushing  and  seek  
resistant  apron  for  large   immediate  medical  attention  
amounts   Never  store  HF  in  glass  containers  
Must  have  a  safe  work  procedure    
Perchloric  Acid   Eye  and  skin   Safety  goggles;   Heat  perchloric  acid  in  a  specially  
damage;   Face  shield  for  large   designed  perchloric  acid  fume  hood  
  amounts   that  has  a  water  wash-­‐down  system  
Chemical  resistant  gloves;  
Lab  coat  
Chemical  resistant  apron  
for  large  amounts  
Organic  Solvents   Skin  damage   Wear  chemical  resistant   May  be  absorbed  through  intact  skin  
Absorbed  through   gloves   Use  in  fume  hood  
skin   Safety  glasses  with  side   Review  MSDS  
Long  term  or   shields  
repeated  use  may  
cause  chronic  
effects  such  as  
nervous  system  
damage,  kidney  
and  liver  damage  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 9 | 23

TABLE  1:  COMMON  HAZARDS  IN  CHEMICAL  RESEARCH  LABORATORY    
Category/Hazard   Potential  Hazard   Personal  Protective   Other  Control  Measures  
Type   Equipment  
Chemical  Hazards  
Flammable  and   Fire  or  explosion   Gloves   Fume  hood  or  other  Local  exhaust  
Combustible  Liquids   Health  effects   Lab  coat  from  natural   ventilation  
depending  on  the   fibers   Do  not  use  open  flames  and  keep  
compound   away  form  other  ignition  sources  
Water  &  Air   Ignite   Face  shield   Require  supervisor’s  permission  to  
Sensitive   spontaneously   Lab  coat  from  natural   use    
Compounds   when  in  contact   fibers  or  fire  resistant  lab   Read  MSDS  &  experiment-­‐specific  
with  air  or   coats  for  high  risk   safe  work  procedure  
moisture   activities   Never  work  alone  with  these  
Skin  and  eye   Avoid  wearing  clothing   compounds.  
damage   made  form  synthetic   Always  use  under  inert  atmosphere  
  materials   inside  a  fume  hood  or  a  glove  box  
Highly  reactive  or   May  vigorously   Barrier  shields   Review  MSDS  
unstable  or   polymerize;   Safety  goggles   Use  smallest  quantities  
potentially   Shock,   Protective  gloves   Handle  with  caution    
explosive   temperature  &     Protect  glass  equipment  from  
compounds   pressure    sensitive   shattering  e.g.  by  shielding,  
wrapping  in  tape  
Carcinogens   May  cause  cancer   Wear  safety  glasses  or   Use  the  smallest  amount  possible  
typically  after   goggles   Use  inside  a  properly  functioning  
repeated  or   Chemical  resistant  gloves   fume  hood  or  other  local  exhaust  
chronic  exposure   ventilation  
Nanomaterials   Inhalation,  dermal   Lab  coat,   Whenever  possible  use  
or  ingestion   Gloves   nanomaterials  in  solutions  or  
Safety  glasses   attached  to  a  substrate.  
N95  or  P100  respirator   Use  glove  box  or  fume  hoods  
(Consult  EHS;  must  be  fit    
tested  prior  to  use)  
Compressed  Gases   High  pressure   Depends  on  the  gas:   Gas  cylinders  secured  upright  with  
Health  hazard   Gloves   Strap  or  chain  to  a  stable  structure  
dependent  upon   Safety  goggles  or  face   (e.g.  wall).  Use  one  strap  per  
type  of  gas   shield   cylinder.  
Asphyxiation         Gas  cylinder  valve  protection  cap  in  
  place  when  not  in  use  
Use    cart  equipped  with  a  
restraining  strap  to  transport  
cylinders  
Physical  Hazards  
Cryogenic  Liquids   Frost  bite   Heavy  insulated  gloves   Dispense  in  a  well-­‐ventilated  area  
Skin,  tissue  and   Safety  goggles;  face    
eye  damage     shield;  Lab  coat,  long  
Asphyxiants   pants,  closed  toe  shoes  
Physical  Hazards  
Hot  liquids  and   Burns   Insulated  gloves   Safe  operating  procedure  
equipment   Safety  goggles;  face  shield  
Lab  coat,  long  pants,  
closed  toe  shoes  
Glassware   Cuts  and   Heavy  rubber  gloves   Inspect  glassware  for  cracks    

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 10 | 23

Category/Hazard   Potential  Hazard   Personal  Protective   Other  Control  Measures  
Type   Equipment  
lacerations   Lab  coat,  gloves   Handle  broken  glass  with  extreme  
care  
Electrical   Electric  shock   Lab  coat,  work  gloves  to   Inspect  cords  and  replace  fraying  
equipment   Ignition  source   operate  equipment.   cords  
Special  PPE  is  required  for   Do  not  plug  several  power  cords  
conducting  electrical   into  one  outlet  one  extension  cord  
work.   into  another.  
Unplug  electrical  equipment  before  
making  any  direct  repairs  or  
modifications  
 
TABLE  2:  COMMON  PROCESSES/EQUIPMENT  IN  CHEMICAL  RESEARCH  LABORATORY  
Process   Potential  Hazards   Control  Measures  
Solvent  Distillation   Fire   Set  up  solvent  stills  inside  fume  hood  or  a  ventilated  
Explosion   enclosure  
Reactive  metal  hydrides   Use  smallest  volumes  of  solvents  possible  
Skin  and/or  eye  damage   Use  inert  gas  to  keep  solvents  dry  and  free  of  oxygen  
Interlock  water  supply  with  electrical  connection  to  
turn  electricity  OFF  in  the  event  of  water  supply  failure.  
Use  safety  goggles,  gloves,  lab  coat,  closed-­‐toe  shoes    
Centrifuge   Cuts  from  broken  tubes   Properly  balance  tubes  when  loading  the  centrifuge  
Aerosol  inhalation   Close  the  lid  before  operating  the  centrifuge  
Wait  a  few  minutes  after  centrifuge  has  stopped  to  
allow  aerosols  to  settle  before  opening  the  centrifuge  
Perform  regular  maintenance  and  cleaning  as  per  
manufacturers  recommendations  
Vacuum  Pumps  and   Risk  of  implosion     Place  cold  traps  between  the  apparatus  and  the  
lines   Flying  glass   vacuum  source  
Chemical  splash   Vent  rotary  pumps  to  an  air  exhaust  system  
  Protective  guards  on  belt-­‐driven  pumps  
Wear  safety  glasses  with  side  shields  
Oil  Baths   Hot  temperature   Use  oil  that  has  a  flash  point  higher  than  the  desired  
Fire   temperature;  Use  insulated  gloves  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 11 | 23

  

APPENDIX  B:  LABORATORY  SAFETY  TRAINING  CHECKLIST  

 
Name:                 Supervisor:          
Department:           Lab  Number:    
Date:    
 
This  Checklist  is  to  be  completed  prior  to  the  worker  working  in  the  laboratory.  
Please   check   all   items   on   which   training,   information   or   safe   work   procedures   have   been   read   and  
understood.  For  items  that  are  not  applicable,  please  indicate  as  N/A.  
 

A.  Safety  Resources   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

Department  Safety  Procedures        

Department  Safety  Committee        

Laboratory  Safety  Manual        

Emergency  Procedures  e.g.  spill,  exposure,  fire        

Working  Alone  Protocol        

Hazardous  Materials    Inventory          

Material  Safety  Data  Sheets        

Laboratory  Safe  Operating  procedures        

B.  Emergency  &  Safety  Equipment   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

Fire  extinguisher  location        

First  Aid  Kit  location        

Emergency  eyewash  location  &  operation  instructions        

Emergency  Shower  location  &  operation  instructions        

Spill  Kit  location        

Appropriate  lab  attire  –  lab  coat,  long  pants,  closed  toe  shoes        

Appropriate  Gloves  –  specify  type        

Safety  Glasses/  Safety  goggles/  Face  shield        

Respirator  –  specify  type  and  purpose        

Instructions  on  the  cleaning  &  maintenance  of  personal  
     
protective  equipment  listed  above.  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 12 | 23

  

C.  Chemical  Safety   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

WHMIS  training        
Instruction  on  safe  storage  of  chemicals  in  this  lab  
     
e.g.  Storage  by  compatibility  groups  
Instruction  on  handling  and  storage  of  specialized  chemicals  
     
e.g.  air  reactive  chemicals  
Instruction  on  specific  processes/experiments  e.g.  use  of  
     
hydrofluoric  acid,  solvent  distillation  
Instruction  on  clean  up  of  chemical  spills        
Instruction  on  proper  use  of  fume  hood  e.g.  sash  as  far  down  
     
as  possible  when  not  in  use  
Safe  handling,  use  and  transport  of  compressed  gas  cylinders        

D.  Radiation  Safety   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

Completed  the  mandatory  Radiation  Safety  Training        

Listed  as  a  user  on  the  Lab  Supervisor’s  radioisotope  permit        

Instructions  on  the  use,  storage  and  disposal  of  radioisotopes  
     
in  this  lab.  
Instructions  on  radioisotope  record  keeping  requirements.        
Instruction  on  clean  up  of  radioisotope  spills  and  
     
decontaminating  self  
Instruction  on  reporting  of  radioactive    spills  and  exposure        

Instruction  on  Laser  Safety        

Completed  the  Radiation  Safety  Guideline  for  Non-­‐users        

E.  Biological  Safety   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

Have  read  the  Biosafety  Manual        

Instruction  on  the  use,  storage  and  disposal  of  biohazardous  
     
materials  in  this  lab.  
Instruction  on  the  appropriate  decontamination  procedures  in  
     
this  lab.  
Instructions  on  clean-­‐up  of  biohazardous  spills  and  
     
decontaminating  self.    
Instructions  on  reporting  of  biohazardous  spills  and  exposure        

Instruction  on  the  use  of  appropriate  Biosafety  Cabinet        

 

F.  Hazardous  Waste  Disposal   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

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Instruction  on  segregation  and  storage  of  hazardous  chemical,  
     
biohazardous  and  radioactive  waste  
Instruction  on  disposal  of  sharps  (e.g.  syringes)        

Instruction  on  disposal  of  waste  glassware        

G.  Laboratory  Equipment  (e.g.  centrifuge,  oven,  solvent  stills,  

Yes   N/A   Training  Date  
RotoVap,    etc.  -­‐  Add  extra  sheets  as  required)  

Centrifuge        

Autoclave        

       

       

       

       

H.  Other  (List  specific  training  –  Add  extra  sheets  as  required)   Yes   N/A   Training  Date  

Working  with  hydrofluoric  acid        

Working  with  air  &  water  sensitive  chemicals          

Working  with  hydrogen  sulfide        

       

       
 
I,  ___________________________  was  instructed  on  all  applicable  points  in  this  laboratory  safety  training  
checklist  and  fully  understand  them.  My  signature  below  indicates  that  I  fully  understand  all  areas  listed  
on  the  training  checklist  and  will  follow  all  safe  work  practices  and  procedures.  
 
I,  ___________________________  instructed  the  above-­‐named  individual  on  all  applicable  points  in  this  
laboratory  safety  training  checklist.  My  signature  below  indicates  that  the  individual  is  suitably  trained  
and  has  sufficient  experience  to  safely  perform  the  assigned  work  in  the  laboratory.  
 
Laboratory  Personnel  Signature:  ___________________________   Date:  _____________  
 
Laboratory  Supervisor  Signature:  __________________________   Date:  _____________  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 14 | 23

APPENDIX  C:  SAFE  OPERATING  PROCEDURE  
 
LABORATORY  SAFE  OPERATING  PROCEDURE  
(to  be  used  for  hazardous  chemicals  or  processes  or  specialized  equipment)  
 
Process:    

Prepared  By:  

Location  (Room  #  and  Building):  

Phone#:  
Supervisor:     Emergency/  
After-­‐hours  Phone#  
 
Hazard  Identification:  (Identify  hazards  associated  at  each  step  of  the  process  or  equipment  as  identified  
in  hazard  assessment;  include  special  instructions  on  storage  and  handling  of  hazardous  materials)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Engineering   Controls:(List   engineering   controls   e.g.   fume   hood,   glove   box,   special   enclosure,   automatic  
shut-­‐off)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Administrative  Controls  :(  List  Specific  Work  Procedures  e.g.  handling  water  sensitive  chemicals,  necessary  
training/certification  to  conduct  this  process  or  operate  equipment,  alarms  etc.)  

 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
Personal   Protective   Equipment:   (List   appropriate   gloves,   safety   glasses,   face   shields,   blast   shields,   lab  
coats,  aprons  etc.  required)  

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Emergency     Response   Procedures:   (Clearly   indicate   procedure   to   be   followed   in   the   event   of   accidental  
exposure,  spill  or  injury)  

 
Hazardous   Waste   Disposal   Procedures:   (All   hazardous   waste   shall   be   disposed   through   the   University  
hazardous  waste  management  system.  Hazardous  waste  pick-­‐up  requests  can  be  made  through  Chematix)  

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Prepared  By:           Date:  
 
Approved  by:           Date:  
(Department  Chair)  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 16 | 23

APPENDIX  D:  CHEMICAL  LABORATORY  INSPECTION  CHECKLIST  
 
Principal  Investigator:   Date:  
   
Room  &  Building:                                       Inspected    
By:  
         
A.  Documentation   Yes   No   NA   Comments  
Are  emergency  procedures  posted?          

Is  a  Chemical  Spill  Response  Guideline  available?            

Is  the  Laboratory  Chemical  Safety  Manual  available?          

Is  the  chemical  inventory  available  and  up  to  date?          

Are  MSDSs  available  for  all  controlled  products?          

Are  WHMIS  and  Chemical  Safety  training  records  available?          

 
B.  Housekeeping   Yes   No   NA   Comments  
Are  benches  and  sinks  clean  and  tidy?          

Exit  doors  unobstructed?          

Are  aisles  unobstructed?          

No  tripping  hazards  (e.g.  cords,  hoses,  equipment)          

No  food  or  drink  in  lab          

 
C.  Emergency  &  Safety  Equipment   Yes   No   NA   Comments  
Are  appropriate  fire  extinguishers  available?          

Is  the  First  Aid  Kit  available  and  fully  stocked?          

Are  safety  glasses  available  and  in  use?          

Are  lab  coats  and  gloves  worn?          

Is  emergency  eyewash  available  and  accessible?          

Is  emergency  eyewash  activated  weekly  and  recorded?          

Is  an  emergency  shower  available  and  accessible?          

Is  the  spill  kit  available  and  fully  stocked?          

Is  fumehood  sash  at  proper  operating  height?          

Fume  hoods  are  clean  and  uncluttered.          

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C.  Emergency  &  Safety  Equipment  -­‐  Continued   Yes   No   NA   Comments  
         

Are  fume  hoods  being  used  for  storing  chemicals?          

All  chemicals  have  WHMIS  compliant  labels?          

Chemicals  segregated  by  compatibility  class?          

Chemicals  dated  upon  receipt?            

Are  peroxide  forming  chemicals  labelled  with  opening  date?          

Is  the  volume  of  flammable  liquids  in  open  lab  <  25L?          

Are  flammables  stored  in  intrinsically  safe  refrigerator?          

Are  all  gas  cylinders  upright  and  secured?          

Is  hazardous  waste  properly  stored  and  labelled?          

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

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APPENDIX  E:  LABORATORY  CONTAINER  LABELS  –  EXAMPLES  

 
 

Workplace  Label  –  used  for  products  decanted  from  original  supplier  container.  

 
HYDROCHLORIC  ACID  
  Corrosive  –  Causes  severe  burns  
Avoid  skin  and  eye  contact  
  Wear  safety  glasses  with  side  
shields  or  safety  goggles  
  Wear  neoprene  (Solvex)  gloves  
MSDS  located  on  Shelf  #1  
 

Product  Identifier  Label  –  this  is  an  acceptable  mode  of  identification  if  to  be  used  by  one  worker  during  
that  work  shift.  

   
Hydrochloric  Acid  
John  Smith  
 

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 19 | 23

  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 20 | 23

APPENDIX  F:  BLANK  HAZARD  ASSESSMENT  FORM  
 
INSTRUCTIONS:  
Prepare  and  submit  the  completed  report  to  the  supervisor.  
Supervisors  review  and  retain  the  report  and  review  hazard  identification  and  controls  annually  or  when  
conditions/tasks  change.  
 
Job  Title  or  Occupation    Department   Completed  By   Date:  
(year/month/day)  
 
 
 
Column  1   Column  2   Column  3   Columns  4/5/6  

Hazard   Risk  Value  

Classification  

Risk  Level  (Prob  X  

(Include  Chemical,  

Probability  (1-­‐4)  

Severity  =  Low,  
Medium  High)  
Biological,  

Severity  (1-­‐4)  
Physical,  
Ergonomic,  
Existing  and  Potential  Hazards  (Include   Radiation,  
Task   both  health  and  safety  hazards)   Psychosocial)   Co
         
   

             

             

             

             

             

             

             

 
Name  of  Hazard  Assessment  Team   Signature  of  Hazard  Assessment  Team   Date  
Leader   Leader  

   

Name  of  Reviewing  Supervisor   Signature  of  Reviewing  Supervisor   Date  

     

Name  of  Reviewing  Manager   Signature  of  Reviewing  Manager   Date  

REVISED JANUARY 4, 2013 26 | 23

      

 
Incident  Probability                     4=Probable  (may  happen  at  least  once  a  year)  
3=  Occasional  (may  happen  once  every  1-­‐5  years)  
                                2=Remote  (not  likely  to  happen,  but  possible  once  every  5-­‐10  years)    
1=Improbable  (not  likely  to  happen)  
Potential  Severity       4=Severe  (death,  serious  injury  or  illness  with  more  than  2  days  in  the  
hospital,  permanent  disability,  extensive  property  damage  (>  
$100,000),  extensive  off-­‐site  environmental  damage)  
3=Substantial  (lost  time  injury  or  illness,  temporary  disability,  
potential  injury,    substantial  property  damage(>$50,000),  substantial  
off-­‐site  environmental  damage,  significant  adverse  public  response)  
2=  Minor  (medical  aid  injury,  minor  illness,  minor  property  damage  
<$50,000)  
1=Minimal  (first  aid  injury)  
Risk  Value         =  Incident  Probability  X  Potential  Severity  
Risk  Level   >  11,  High  Risk  (take  immediate  action  to  eliminate  the  risk  or  
implement  appropriate  controls  to  lower  the  risk)  
        =  4  –  11,  Medium  Risk  (take  timely  action  to  implement  appropriate  
controls  to  lower  or  minimize  risk)  
        <  4      Low  Risk  (continued  operation  is  permissible  with  minimal  
controls)  
Instructions:  
• Tool  must  be  completed  by  individual(s)  who  are  completing  the  task  identified.  
• Tool  can  be  used  to  evaluate  all  tasks  for  a  specific  occupation  or  all  tasks  associated  with  a  
specific  activity.  
• List  all  work  activities  in  the  first  column  (tasks).    It  is  acceptable  to  group  activities  together  
when  the  hazards  encountered  are  the  same  for  all  of  the  activities  
• List  the  existing  and  potential  hazards  associated  with  each  task  in  the  second  column,  include  
both  health  and  safety  hazards.  
• List  the  type  of  hazard  encountered  in  the  third  column.    The  hazards  are  Chemical,  Biological,  
Physical,  Ergonomic,  Radiation,  and  Psychosocial.  
• Complete  the  risk  analysis  and  determine  the  overall  risk  level  by  assigning  the  Incident  
Probability  (column  4),  Incident  Severity  (column  5)  and  enter  the  Risk  Level  in  column  6.  
• List  the  current  or  proposed  controls  for  each  hazard  identified  in  column  7.    The  complexity  of  
the  controls  should  be  proportional  to  the  overall  risk  level.  
• Identify  if  the  controls  are  already  in  place  and  complete  in  column  8.    It  is  the  responsibility  of  
the  Supervisor  or  designate  to  ensure  controls  are  put  in  place  in  a  reasonable  timeframe  based  
on  the  overall  Risk  Level.  
• Individuals  completing  the  hazard  assessment  must  sign  off  on  the  document.  
• Supervisor  must  review  and  sign  off  on  the  document.  
• The  document  must  be  kept  on  file  by  the  supervisor  or  designate.  
• The  supervisor  or  designate  must  ensure  that  the  results  of  the  hazard  assessment  including  
identified  controls  are  communicated  to  any  impacted  employee.  
• The  hazard  assessment  must  be  reviewed  when  there  is  an  operating  or  infrastructure  change.    
Only  the  relevant  portions  of  the  hazard  assessment  need  to  be  reviewed  at  this  time.      
• The  entire  hazard  assessment  also  must  be  reviewed  at  3  year  intervals.  
 
 
 
 

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