EHS Document Binder

CHP Documents

THIS IS A MANDATORY SUPPLEMENT TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN

May 2022
 EHS DOCUMENT BINDER
CHP DOCUMENTS

The University of Michigan Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) establishes a written program in
accordance with the requirements of the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Act (MIOSHA)
Part 431 Hazardous Work in Laboratories. The Plan is available for all employees to view on the
EHS website.

U-M Chemical Hygiene Plan is located at:

http://ehs.umich.edu/research-clinical/chemical/

Complete the following documents in this section as applicable, maintain them in the EHS
Document Binder and review/update annually. The LD / Lab Manager or CHO can use the form
below to document their annual review.

Reviewer Date Reviewer Date

Laboratory Director (LD): _

Lab Manager or Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO, when other than the LD):

List building and room information for the above mentioned LD/research facility:
Building: Building:
Rooms: Rooms:
Building: Building:
Rooms: Rooms:
 Table of Contents

Section 1 Emergency Information and Instructions

Section 2 Chemical Inventory
Section 3 Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Section 4 Training Records
Section 5 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Section 6 Additional Documentation
 Section 1 – Emergency Information and Instructions

The CHP contains standard laboratory emergency information and instructions. In addition to this,
each laboratory must develop emergency plans for hazards requiring additional protective
measures not included in the CHP. These additional safety procedures will be kept in this section.

Enter your department's safety program key personnel below. Also refer to Section 9.0
Emergency Response of the CHP for additional information.

In Case of Emergency: 911 (With a campus phone.)

U-M Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) Phone

EHS Director............................................................................................................ (734) 647-2253

U-M Radiation Safety Officer.................................................................................. (734) 764-6200
U-M Biological Safety Officer.................................................................................. (734) 647-3133
U-M Chemical Hygiene Officer ............................................................................... (734) 647-3133
U-M Hazardous Materials Manager ....................................................................... (734) 763-4568

Laboratory Contact Information

LD: Work Phone #:

Home/Cell Phone #:

Lab CHO: Work Phone #:

(When other than LD)
Home/Cell Phone #:

Lab Manager: ______ Work Phone #:

Home/Cell Phone #:
 Laboratory Emergencies
Standard Operating Procedure
Rev. 05/05/22

This Standard Operating Procedure outlines emergency response guidelines for laboratories that
handle, store, or are potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals. Laboratories that handle other
hazardous materials including biohazardous materials or radioisotopes should consult the U-M
Biosafety Manual1 or the Radiation Safety Services SOP2 for emergency information prior to
working with those specific hazards.

Emergency Reporting
Report all emergencies, suspicious activity, injuries, spills, and fires to the University of Michigan
Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) by calling 9-1-1 or texting 377911. Register with the
University of Michigan Emergency Alert System3 via Wolverine Access.

Emergency evacuation and utility outages

In the event there is an emergency evacuation or a utility outage (electrical, gas, ventilation or
water) that affects your laboratory space, it is important to ensure the safety of the laboratory’s
occupants as well as others who may respond to assist. Prior to leaving the lab and only if safe to
do so, secure the laboratory:
● Stop all reactions, chemical processes, etc.
● Cover and seal all chemical, biological, radioactive materials and hazardous waste
containers
● Unplug or turn off non-essential electrical equipment (including ovens & hot plates)
● Shut off research gasses & water
● Fully close all fume hoods & biological safety cabinets
● Securely close all refrigerators and freezers
Vacate and inform emergency responders of any processes, experiments or equipment still in
operation that may pose a threat to health, property or the environment. Report utility outages to
the building’s Facilities contact or to the Facilities Service Center (FSC) at (734) 647-2059.

Fire
● Familiarize yourself with locations of fire alarm pull stations, fire extinguishers, egress
stairways, and emergency exits in your building(s)
● Activate the fire alarm system if you see smoke or fire
● Evacuate the building immediately using the nearest marked exit
● Use stairs, do not use elevators
● Encourage those around you to evacuate as well
● Assist those with disabilities or those who cannot safely evacuate the building by getting
them to a safe rescue location and notifying emergency responders of their location as
soon as possible
● Keep building exits and fire lanes clear
● Meet at designated assembly areas
● Re-enter only when directed by authorities

All fires and unintentional ignition events, even those that do not activate alarms or require
emergency services, must be immediately reported to the University of Michigan Division of Public
Safety and Security (DPSS) by dialing 9-1-1. DPSS will perform an investigation and complete an
after action report necessary for U-M Risk Management to deal with insurance recovery for
damages.

In the event a fire extinguisher is discharged, you must contact the Environment Health & Safety
(EHS) Fire Safety Service at (734) 647-1143. EHS must be notified because depending on the type
of building involved, notification must be made to the State of Michigan Bureau of Fire Safety. To
replace the discharged extinguishers, contact the FSC at (734) 647-2059.

Chemical Spill or Release

A minor chemical spill is one that the laboratory staff is capable of cleaning up safely without the
assistance of EHS and emergency personnel.
NOTE: For major spills or significant areas of contamination, call 9-1-1.

Resources
In the event of a spill, consult the following documents for information about spill and emergency
response:
● Chemical’s Safety Data Sheet
● Process-specific standard operating procedure

Spill Kits
Stock the area with spill cleanup kits to clean up minor spills of commonly used chemicals. The kits
contain:
● Instructions for use
● Absorbents
● Reactants
● Protective equipment
● Waste receptacle and labels
Kits are available through laboratory safety supply vendors or can be assembled from separate
materials.

Procedure: Responding to a Minor Chemical Spill

1. Notify all individuals in the general vicinity that a spill has occurred.
2. Isolate the area and keep other personnel out of the contaminated area.
3. If spilled material is flammable, turn off ignition and heat sources. WARNING: Do not light
Bunsen burners or turn on/off other switches or lights. Turning on/off switches may cause
an electrical charge that could create a spark.
4. Avoid breathing vapors from the spill; if possible, open outside windows.
5. Do you have the training and equipment to clean up the spill?
a. If NO, call 9-1-1 and go to step 13.
b. If YES, then go to the next step.
6. Put on protective equipment, including:
a. Safety goggles
b. Gloves
c. Long-sleeve lab coat
7. Confine spill to as small an area as possible.
a. CAUTION: Do NOT wash spilled materials down the drain.
b. Avoid walking through spilled materials.
8. Use appropriate spill kits or sorbents to neutralize corrosives, absorb the spill, or both.
NOTE: For powdered chemicals, use one of the following methods to clean up the spill:
 a. Sweep carefully to avoid generation of dust
b. If appropriate, use moist sorbent pads
9. Collect contaminated materials and place them in a waste container.
10. Clean the spill area with water, and place any materials used for cleaning into the waste
container with the contaminated materials.
11. Label and manifest the waste.
12. Request a waste collection from EHS Hazardous Materials Management (HMM) using one
of the following methods:
a. Call HMM at (734) 763-4568
b. Complete the online Waste and Supply Request4 form
13. Notify area supervisor.
14. For all incidents and near misses, complete and submit the EHS Incident and Near Miss
Report5

Hazardous Material Exposures, Injuries or Illnesses

If the employee is in need of emergency medical attention, call 911 immediately.
Injury type Action Notes
Exposure-Eyes 1. Immediately rinse eyes with copious
amounts of water for at least 15
minutes, while occasionally lifting
upper and lower lids.
2. Promptly seek medical attention.
Exposure-Skin 1. Immediately remove contaminated
clothing and shoes.
2. Rinse with water for at least 15
minutes.
Inhalation (including 1. Move the person to fresh air
spills of powder immediately.
outside of a chemical 2. Seek medical attention.
fume hood)
Ingestion 1. Seek medical attention immediately.
NOTE: If an ambulance is needed, call DPSS at 9-1-1 to request assistance.

Treatment Facilities
Severe illness or injury requiring immediate care
Michigan Medicine Emergency Department or Call 9-1-1
1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor (734) 936-6666

Non-urgent conditions

Campus Employees, Fellows and student workers

U-M Occupational Health Services
Mon-Fri 7:00 am - 4:30 pm
C380 Med Inn building
1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor (734) 764-8021

Non-employee or guest of U-M

Go to an urgent care clinic in Ann Arbor

Report all work related accidents, injuries, illnesses or exposures to Work Connections within 24
hours by completing and submitting the Illness and Injury Report Form6
For all incidents, complete and submit the EHS Incident and Near Miss Report5

Contact EHS for assistance in performing an exposure assessment.

Training of Personnel
 All personnel shall read and fully adhere to this SOP when working with hazardous chemicals.
 All relevant employees should understand how to operate and where to find emergency
response equipment, including:
a. Emergency eyewash and shower
b. Fire extinguishers - contact EHS for training opportunities. Do not use a fire extinguisher if
you have not been trained on its use.
c. Spill kits
d. PPE needed for spill cleanup
e. Specific antidotes when applicable, e.g. calcium gluconate for hydrofluoric acid exposures

Additional online training courses are available through EHS MyLinc7.

External Links and References

1
U-M Biosafety Manual: https://ehs.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/bsm.pdf

2
Radiation Safety Services Preventing or Reducing Dispersal of Radioactive Contamination
Following a Spill Standard Operating Procedure:
https://ehs.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/RSS_Spill-EmerProc.pdf

3
U-M Emergency Alert System:
https://dpss.umich.edu/content/emergency-preparedness/emergency-alerts/

4
EHS HMM Waste and Supply Request Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf_y_KGJN_utudrRwBZX9Yx9qPg7IyF9xchinD6Ae7Kar
nocg/viewform

5
EHS Incident and Near Miss Report Form (for Lab, shop, and studio incidents):
https://ehsa.oseh.umich.edu/EHSA/public/injuryillnesssubmit/injuryillnessinitialedit

6
Work Connections Work-Related Injury or Illness Report Form:
https://www.workconnections.umich.edu/employees/work-related-illness-injury/step-one/

7
EHS MyLinc http://ehs.umich.edu/education/
 Section 2 – Chemical Inventory

This section contains information on the Chemical List/Inventory, as described in CHP Section 6.4
Chemical Inventory.

The Chemical Inventory can be accomplished by using either of the following options. Please
select the system your laboratory uses:

□ 1. Using EHS’s web-based inventory tracking system MI Safety Portal (MISP)

(http://ehs.umich.edu/research-clinical/mi-safety-portal/).

□ 2. Use of the Earth and Environmental Sciences or Department of Chemistry’s (Vertére)

Inventory system or the Lurie Nanofabrication inventory.

All labs, except those taking part in the Earth and Environmental Sciences or Chemistry
Department’s chemical tracking system or the Lurie Nanofabrication program, will be required to
transition to MISP. Chemical Lists already in Excel, Access, or other systems can be uploaded into
the system by contacting EHS.

The chemical inventory must be updated immediately when new chemicals arrive into the
laboratory. At a minimum, the chemical inventory must be reviewed on an annual basis.
Certification of the annual review is accomplished by clicking on the “Chemical Inventory Review
Statement” link within MI Safety Portal and submitting the acknowledgement.
 Section 3 - Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Most SDS can be quickly found using the Chemwatch Gold FFX SDS
(http://ehs.umich.edu/research-clinical/chemical/safety-data-sheets/) system on the EHS website.
Each lab is responsible for obtaining and maintaining copies of SDS received with incoming
shipments of hazardous chemicals and making sure they are readily accessible to laboratory
employees. Place received SDS in this section. EHS can assist in obtaining SDS that may be difficult
to find.
 Section 4 – Training Records

Employee training is documented in this section of the binder.

4.1 Each person working in a laboratory must take the online Chemical Laboratory Safety
course (EHS_BLS025w_TAB) noted in chapter 2 of the CHP. Records of training
completion are maintained in MyLinc.
4.2 Each person will review the U-M CHP and the documents in the EHS Document Binder.
They will also receive training on lab-specific procedures identified in Part 2: Lab-Specific
Training Acknowledgement and sign the form.
4.3 Any additional laboratory-specific training is recorded on the documentation sheets in
this section.

NOTE: Training on specific SOPs is documented on each SOP located in Section 5 of this
document.
4.2: Lab-Specific Training Acknowledgement – Sign below to acknowledge
having reviewed or received training on the following information. Any questions
relating to this material will be directed to the LD or other designated lab authority.
 U-M Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)  Working after hours
 EHS Document Binder (Blue Binder)  Chemical procurement, distribution, and storage
 Specific areas for food consumption  Compressed gas cylinders
 Chemical Inventory – Ensure access to MISP  Protective Apparel and Equipment
 Location of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)  Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Inspections
 Emergency Procedures: Spills, Injury, Reporting  Maintenance of scientific equipment
 Radiological safety practices (If working with  Environmental monitoring: PELs and TLVs
radioactive materials) for chemicals
 Biosafety Manual (If working with recombinant  Fume hoods, biological safety cabinets or other
DNA or infectious agents) local exhaust – proper use and functioning
 Exposure Control Plan (If working with human  Medical surveillance (Respirator, Heat Stress,
blood or other potentially infectious materials) Noise, etc)

 Waste Handling: Labeling, Packaging, Pick-ups

LABORATORY-SPECIFIC TRAINING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Date of
Name U-M ID No. Signature Training
4.2: Lab-Specific Training Acknowledgement – Sign below to acknowledge
having reviewed or received training on the following information. Any questions
relating to this material will be directed to the LD or other designated lab authority.
 U-M Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)  Working after hours
 EHS Document Binder (Blue Binder)  Chemical procurement, distribution, and storage
 Specific areas for food consumption  Compressed gas cylinders
 Chemical Inventory – Ensure access to MISP  Protective Apparel and Equipment
 Location of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)  Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Inspections
 Emergency Procedures: Spills, Injury, Reporting  Maintenance of scientific equipment
 Radiological safety practices (If working with  Environmental monitoring: PELs and TLVs
radioactive materials) for chemicals
 Biosafety Manual (If working with recombinant  Fume hoods, biological safety cabinets or other
DNA or infectious agents) local exhaust – proper use and functioning
 Exposure Control Plan (If working with human  Medical surveillance (Respirator, Heat Stress,
blood or other potentially infectious materials) Noise, etc)

 Waste Handling: Labeling, Packaging, Pick-ups

LABORATORY-SPECIFIC TRAINING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Date of
Name U-M ID No. Signature Training
4.3: Additional Lab Specific Training – Record any safety training beyond that
covered in the previous parts and within the SOP section.

Training Employee Name U-M ID Initial Trainer Date

Type No. s
i.e. Glove box John Doe 55551212 JD Dr. Smith 1-1-
2022
4.3: Additional Lab Specific Training – Record any safety training beyond that
covered in the previous parts and within the SOP section.

Training Employee Name U-M ID Initial Trainer Date

Type No. s
i.e. Glove box John Doe 55551212 JD Dr. Smith 1-1-
2022
 Section 5 – Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Each laboratory working with hazardous chemicals should include applicable SOPs in this section
or indicate where they are maintained – ex: DropBox, MISP, etc. The CHP provides information and
guidelines on best practices in laboratory health and safety. In addition, EHS has developed SOPs
for many specific chemicals and classes of chemicals used in the laboratory. An SOP must be
developed for hazardous chemicals or procedures not included in EHS’s list of SOPs.

Laboratory employees working with a particularly hazardous chemical or hazardous procedure

must receive the applicable SOP training from their LD/Laboratory Supervisor.

When developing SOPs for working with hazardous chemicals in your laboratory, follow these
steps:
 Download and print, or save electronically, applicable SOP from the EHS website. These
SOPs may be modified if necessary to reflect laboratory-specific information. Employees
will be trained on applicable SOPs by their LD/Laboratory Supervisor. Once training is
complete, employees will certify training with a signature in Training of Personnel section
of SOP.
 Develop an SOP for any hazardous chemical or procedure not included in EHS’s list of
SOPs. Use the EHS SOP template to develop the SOPs. Once SOP training has been given
by the LD/Laboratory Supervisor, employees will certify with signature in Training of
Personnel section of SOP.
 Please note that there are restricted chemicals (found in CHP Section 5.2 Restricted
Chemicals Requiring Prior Approval), and chemicals with a hazard ranking of 4 in any
ChemWatch GoldFFX rating for Flammability, Toxicity, Body Contact, Reactivity or Chronic.
When developing an SOP for these chemicals, use the EHS SOP Template LD Approval.
 Section 6 – Additional Documentation

The following items must be saved in this section, or indicate where they are maintained – ex:
DropBox, MISP, etc.:

 Hazard Assessment Worksheet(s) and Risk Assessment(s): Maintain the Hazard

Assessment Worksheet(s) for the lab, as well as any Risk Assessments, in this section.
The MIOSHA standard regarding PPE requires an assessment to determine the hazards in
the workplace, PPE selection and training. A documented Hazard Assessment is required
to be maintained in the EHS Document Binder. Lab Directors are also responsible for
determining if there are areas in the lab where PPE is not required and are encouraged to
work with EHS to assess risks. If the Lab Director or PI wishes to designate areas in the lab
where PPE is not required - i.e. when seated at a desk - then they must also complete and
document a risk assessment.

 EHS Correspondence: Copies of correspondence to the LD/Laboratory Supervisor from

EHS, safety-related memos within laboratory groups, requests for safety information, and
other correspondence that may be important to safety management.

 EHS Exposure Monitoring Information: Maintain a copy of personal exposure monitoring

information in this section.

 Incident/Near-Miss Information: Laboratory incident and near miss report forms are
located online: http://ehs.umich.edu/research-clinical/reporting-incidents/.

Please note, a Work Connections Injury or Illness Report Form

must also be completed for all workplace injuries and illnesses:

https://www.workconnections.umich.edu/employees/work-related-illness-injury/step-
one/

 EHS Safety Findings for Animal Use Protocols: Maintain copies of EHS recommendations
for proper protective measures, including any need for special medical monitoring, based
on risk assessments in animal use protocols.
 HAZARD ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET
NOTES:
Minimum PPE to work with hazardous materials, equipment, or processes is a lab coat,
appropriate gloves, safety glasses and appropriate lab attire (closed toe shoes, long
pants, etc.).
Always consult the U-M SOP in addition to lab-specific SOP for more information.
Always consult a material’s SDS for additional PPE guidance and use engineering and/or
administrative controls.

Date: Employee(s) Covered:

Lab Director/PI: Location:

Use the table below to list and identify the tasks conducted in your research space:
 Copy and paste any rows from Table 1 (beginning on the next page) that apply to your
research
 Include additional rows for tasks, potential hazards and recommended PPE that are specific
to your research

Tasks & Materials Potential Hazard(s) PPE Required

 PPE Hazard Assessment & PPE Recommendations
NOTES:
Minimum PPE to work with hazardous materials, equipment, or processes is a lab coat, appropriate gloves,
safety glasses and appropriate lab attire (closed toe shoes, long pants, etc.). Refer to Tables 1 & 2 below for
additional eye and face protection guidance

Always consult the U-M SOP in addition to lab-specific SOP for more information. Always consult a
material’s SDS for additional PPE guidance and use engineering and/or administrative controls.
Tasks & Materials Potential Hazard(s) PPE Required
 Safety goggles
Working with small (< 1 Liter)  Splash hazards
 Chemical resistant gloves (refer to
volumes of corrosive liquids  Skin and eye damage
Corrosives SOP)
Working with large (> 1 Liter)  Large surface area skin and eye  Safety goggles
volumes of corrosive liquids, damage  Face shield
acutely toxic corrosives or work  Poisoning  Chemical resistant gloves (refer to
which may create a splash  Great potential for eye and skin Corrosives SOP)
hazard damage  Chemical resistant apron
 Safety goggles
 Major skin damage  Chemical resistant gloves (refer to HF
Working with Hydrofluoric (HF)  Major eye damage SOP)
Acid  Potential poisoning through skin  Chemical resistant apron
absorption ** Have unexpired Calcium Gluconate on-
hand **
 Skin damage
 Safety goggles (if splash hazard)
Working with small (< 1 Liter)  Eye Damage
 Chemical resistant gloves (refer to Glove
volumes of organic solvents  Slight poisoning potential
Compatibility Charts & SDS)
through skin absorption
Working with large (> 1 Liter)  Safety goggles
 Major skin damage
volumes of organic solvents,  Face shield
 Major eye damage
very dangerous organic solvents  Chemical resistant apron
 Poisoning through skin
or work which may create a  Chemical resistant gloves (refer to Glove
absorption
splash hazard Compatibility Charts & SDS)
 Fire resistant (FR) lab coat
 Safety goggles
Working with pyrophoric  Body damage from burns
 Fire/chemical resistant gloves (refer to
materials  Fires
Pyrophoric SOP)
** No synthetic clothing allowed **
Working with small (< 1 Liter)
 Acquire an infectious disease
volumes of human blood, body
(BBP)  Light latex or nitrile gloves
fluids or other Bloodborne
 Spread of infectious disease
Pathogens (BBP)
1. 1
Table
 Tasks & Materials Potential Hazard(s) PPE Required
Working with large (> 1 Liter)  Light latex or nitrile gloves
 Greater risk of acquiring an
volumes of human blood, body  Safety goggles
infectious disease (BBP)
fluids or other Bloodborne  Face shield
 Greater risk of spreading an
Pathogens (BBP) and/or splash  Foot covers (as applicable)
infectious disease
hazards  N-95 respirator (as applicable)
 Skin damage
 Safety goggles for large quantities
Working with hazardous  Eye damage
 Light chemical resistant gloves (refer to
powders  Poisoning through skin
Glove Compatibility Charts)
absorption
 Safety goggles
 Greater risk for skin damage
 Heavy chemical resistant gloves
Working with acutely toxic  Greater risk for eye damage
 Chemical resistant apron
hazardous powders  Greater risk for poisoning
 Booties (as applicable)
through skin absorption
 Also refer to Highly Toxic Chemicals SOP

Working with radioactive  Cellular damage  Safety goggles (if splash hazard)
materials  Spread of radioactive materials  Light latex or nitrile gloves

 Refer to appropriate chemical

Working with radioactive  Safety goggles (if splash hazard)
sections above
chemicals, e.g., corrosives,  Light chemical resistant gloves
 Cellular damage
solvents, powders, etc.  Use PPE for applicable tasks above
 Spread of radioactive materials
 Cellular damage
Working with radioactive
 Spread of radioactive materials  Safety goggles (if splash hazard)
human blood, body fluids or
 Risk of acquiring an infectious  Light latex or nitrile gloves
other BBPs
disease (BBP)
 Safety goggles for large volumes or splash
 Major skin damage
hazards
Working with cryogenic liquids  Major tissue damage
 Thicker insulated gloves
 Major eye damage
 Also refer to Cryogenic Materials SOP
Working with very cold
 Insulated gloves
materials and equipment, e.g.,  Skin damage
 Also refer to Environmental Rooms SOP
freezers, dry ice
Working in cold environments,  Insulated gloves and warm clothing
 Frostbite
e.g., walk-in cold rooms or  Also refer to Environmental Rooms SOP
 Hypothermia
freezers
Working with hot liquids,
 Safety goggles for large volumes or splash
equipment and/or open flames,  Skin damage
hazards
e.g., autoclave, Bunsen burner,  Eye damage
 Insulated gloves
waterbath, oil bath
 Safety goggles
 Face shield
Working with large volumes of  Major skin and eye damage
 Heavy insulated gloves
hot, cold, or cryogenic liquids Frozen or burned body tissues
 Chemical apron
 Also refer to Cryogenic Materials SOP
 Tasks & Materials Potential Hazard(s) PPE Required
 Conjunctivitis  UV face shield
Working with Ultraviolet (UV)
 Corneal eye damage  Safety goggles
Radiation
 Erythema  Also refer to UV Radiation SOP
 Appropriate shaded goggles with optical
density based on individual beam
 Retinal eye damage
Working with LASER radiation parameters.
 Skin damage
 Also refer to the EHS LASER Guideline
** No jewelry or reflective items allowed *
Working with Infrared (IR)
 Cataracts and flash burns to
emitting equipment, e.g., glass  Appropriate shaded goggles
cornea
blowing
 Conjunctivitis  Appropriate shaded goggles and face
Arc/TIG welding  Corneal eye damage shield
 Erythema  Work gloves
 Safety glasses with side shields or safety
Instrument or equipment
 Eye damage from foreign objects goggles
repair/service
** No loose clothing or jewelry **
 Safety glasses with side shields or safety
Metalworking/Woodworking
 Eye damage from foreign objects goggles
shop
** No loose clothing or jewelry **
 Safety glasses with side shields or safety
Glassware washing  Skin lacerations goggles
 Heavy rubber gloves
Working in Industrial lab with
potential injury from falling
 Head injury  Hard-hat
equipment or tools, e.g.,
 Foot injury  Steel toe boots
Earthquake lab, Structural
Engineering lab, etc.

 See potential hazards for

Spill clean-up See applicable individual task section
applicable task section

 Skin lacerations
Changing Cryostat knife blade  Risk of acquiring an infectious  Steel mesh glove
disease (BBP)
 TABLE I. EYE AND FACE PROTECTION SELECTION CHART
(To be used as a guide to select the proper eye and face protection.)
PROTECTOR
TYPE
(refer to
ASSESSMENT graphic NOT
TYPE HAZARD(S) SEE NOTE (1) below) PROTECTORS LIMITATIONS RECOMMENDED
Protectors that do
not provide
protection from
side exposure
Spectacles, goggles,
Flying Protective
I Chipping, face shields SEE NOTE (10)
fragments, devices do
M grinding,
objects, large B, C, D, E, F, not provide
P machining, SEE NOTE (1) (3) (5) (6) Filter or tinted
chips, G, H, I, J, K, unlimited
A masonry, (10) lenses that restrict
particles, L, N protection.
C work, riveting, light
sand, dirt,
T and sanding For severe exposures transmittance,
etc. SEE NOTE (7)
add N. unless it is
determined that a
glare hazard exists.
Refer to OPTICAL
RADIATION
Spectacles,
Face shields, goggles, cup and cover
spectacles type goggles
B, C, D, E, F,
not provide
Hot sparks G, H, I, J, K,
Furnace *For severe exposure unlimited
L, N
operations, add N. protection.
H Protectors that do
pouring,
E not provide
casting, hot SEE NOTE (2) (3) SEE NOTE (2)
A protection from
dipping, gas Splash from
T *Face shields worn over side exposure
cutting, and molten *N ---
goggles H, K
welding metals
Screen face shields,
High
reflective face shields
temperature N SEE NOTE (3)
exposure
SEE NOTE (2) (3)
Ventilation
C
Goggles, eyecup, and should be
H
Acid & cover types adequate but
E G, H, K,
chemicals Splash well
M *N
handling, * For severe exposure, protected < None >
I
degreasing, add N. from splash
C
plating entry.
A
Irritating
L G Special purpose goggles SEE NOTE (3)
mists
D Woodworking Nuisance G, H, K Goggles, eyecup, and Atmospheric < None >
U , buffing, dust cover types conditions
 and the
restricted
ventilation of
the protector
S general dusty
can cause
T conditions
lenses to fog.
Frequent
cleaning may
be required.
TYPICAL Protection
FILTER from optical
LENS PROTECTOR radiation is
SHADE S directly
Welding related to
Protectors that do
Helmets or filter lens
10 – 14 not provide
Welding density.
protection from
Welding: Electric Arc O, P, Q Shields optical radiation.
SEE NOTE (4)
O
SEE NOTE (4)
P Select the
T SEE NOTE (9) darkest shade
I that allows
C adequate task
A performance.
L Welding:
Welding
Gas 4–8 Goggles
J, K, L, M, N,
R or
O, P, Q
A Cutting 3–6
D Welding
I Shields
A Torch Brazing 3–4 SEE NOTE (3)
T Spectacles
I
< None >
O B, C, D, E, F, or
Torch Soldering 1.5 – 3
N N
Welding Face
shield
Shaded or
special
Spectacle Purpose
Glare A, B lenses as
SEE NOTE (9) (10) suitable

SEE NOTE (8)

NOTES TO TABLE I (ABOVE) EYE AND FACE PROTECTION SELECTION CHART:
(1) Care should be taken to recognize the possibility of multiple and simultaneous exposure to a variety of hazards.
Adequate protection against the highest level of each of the hazards should be provided. Protective devices do
not provide unlimited protection.
(2) Operations involving heat may also involve light radiation. As required by the standard, protection from both
hazards must be provided.
(3) Face shields should only be worn over primary eye protection (spectacles or goggles).
(4) As required by the standard, filter lenses must meet the requirements for shade designations in Table II. Tinted
and shaded lenses are not filter lenses unless they are marked or identified as such.
(5) As required by the standard, persons whose vision requires the use of prescription (Rx) lenses must wear either
protective devices fitted with prescription (Rx) lenses or protective devices designed to be worn over regular
prescription (Rx) eyewear.
(6) Wearers of contact lenses must also wear appropriate eye and face protection devices in a hazardous
environment. It should be recognized that dusty and/or chemical environments might represent an additional
hazard to contact lens wearers.
(7) Caution should be exercised in the use of metal frame protective devices in electrical hazard areas.
(8) Atmospheric conditions and the restricted ventilation of the protector can cause lenses to fog. Frequent
cleansing may be necessary.
(9) Welding helmets or face shields should be used only over primary eye protection (spectacles or
goggles).
(10) Non-side shield spectacles are available for frontal protection only, but are not acceptable eye protection for the
sources and operations listed for "impact."
(11) Ventilation should be adequate, but well protected from splash entry. Eye and face protection should be
designed and used so that it provides both adequate ventilation and protects the wearer from splash entry.
(12) Protection from light radiation is directly related to filter lens density. See note (4). Select the darkest shade that
allows task performance.

PROTECTOR TYPES (from Table 1 above):

 TABLE II. FILTER LENSES FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIANT ENERGY
(Listing of appropriate shade numbers for various operations.)
Operations Electric Size 1/32 in. Arc Current(amps) Minimum* Protective Shade
Less than 3 Less than 60 7

Shielded metal 3-5 60 - 160 8

Arc welding more than 5 to 8 161 - 250 10

more than 8 251 - 550 11

Less than 60 7

Gas metal arc welding and 60 - 160 10

cored arc welding
flux 161 - 250 10

251 - 500 10

Less than 50 8

Gas Tungsten arc welding 50 - 150 8

151 - 500 10

Air carbon Light Less than 500 10

Arc cutting Heavy 500 – 1,000 11

Less than 20 6

20 - 100 8
Plasma arc welding ---
101 - 400 10

401 - 800 11

Light** Less than 300 8

Plasma arc cutting Medium** 300 - 400 9

Heavy** 401 - 800 10

Torch soldering --- --- 2

Torch brazing --- --- 3

Carbon arc welding --- --- 14

Operations Plate Thickness(inches) Plate Thickness(mm) Minimum* Protective Shade
Gas Welding: --- --- ---

Light Under 1/8 Under 3.2 4

1
Medium /8 to 1/2 3.2 to 12.7 5

Heavy Over 1/2 Over 12.7 6

Oxygen Cutting: --- --- ---

Light Under 1 Under 25 3

Medium 1 to 6 25 to 150 4

Heavy Over 6 Over 150 5

*As a rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to see the weld zone. Then go to a lighter shade, which gives sufficient view of the weld zone without going
below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas welding or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs the yellow
or sodium line in the visible light of the (spectrum) operation.
** These values apply where the actual arc is clearly seen. Experience has shown that lighter filters may be used when the arc is hidden by the work piece.
Performing a Risk Assessment
If a lab wishes to designate specific areas within the lab where PPE may be removed, a risk
assessment is required to ensure the hazards have been identified and the risks posed by those
hazards have been controlled in that area. Options include removing hazardous work when
possible or redesigning spaces to isolate hazardous from non-hazardous work. Physical
modifications to the laboratory, including the addition of barriers, require approval to ensure
codes, regulations and guidelines are met. EHS can assist in determining which U-M entities
need to be involved to review proposed modifications. It is expected that these areas will be
the exception and not the rule in labs where hazardous materials and/or equipment are
present and work is conducted with chemical, biological and/or radiological materials.

In order to understand the process of completing a risk assessment, a few definitions are
essential:

Hazard: The potential for harm; cannot be changed. A chemical with a low or high pH will
always be corrosive, a burning flame will always be hot, etc.

Risk: The probability or likelihood that the hazard will cause harm. For instance, the hazard
of a chemical with a low or high pH, i.e. a corrosive liquid, is that any living tissue exposed to
it will be burned. The risk of working with a corrosive liquid can be controlled through the
use of controls – engineering, administrative and PPE – to prevent exposure of living tissue.

Risk assessment: Performed to identify hazards and ways to eliminate or reduce the
hazards. It involves a detailed review of equipment, processes, chemicals and the work
environment and requires substantial time and effort to properly and thoroughly complete.

When performing a risk assessment, the following questions must be addressed:

1. What can happen and under what circumstances?

2. How likely are the possible consequences to occur? Do not underestimate.
3. Is the risk controlled effectively?

Step 1 - Start by making a list of the operations/procedures/tasks done in the lab that include:
 All procedures involving hazardous materials (solvents, acids, bases, toxics, chemical gases or
vapors), biological materials, potentially dangerous equipment, intermediate chemicals, waste
products, etc.
 All procedures with potential for physical hazards – container or vessel pressurization, moving
parts, heat from thermal energy, cold from cryogenic liquids, etc.

Use the following checklists to aid in thinking through tasks that include any of the following:

Physical Hazards of Chemicals

☐ Compressed gases ☐ Cryogens ☐ Explosives ☐ Flammables ☐ Organic peroxides ☐
Oxidizers ☐ Peroxide formers ☐ Pyrophorics ☐ Self-heating substances ☐ Self-reactive
substances
☐ Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

Health Hazards of Chemicals

☐ Acute toxicity ☐ Carcinogens ☐ Eye damage/irritation ☐ Germ cell mutagens
☐ Nanomaterials ☐ Reproductive toxins ☐ Respiratory or skin sensitization
☐ Simple asphyxiant ☐ Skin corrosion/irritation ☐ Specific target organ toxicity
☐ Hazards not otherwise classified (specify)

Biohazards

☐ BSL-2 Biological agents ☐ BSL-3 Biological agents ☐ Human cells, blood, BBP
☐ NHPs/cells/blood ☐ Non-exempt rDNA ☐ Animal work ☐ High risk animals (RC1)

Reaction Hazards
☐ Explosive ☐ Exothermic, with potential for fire, excessive heat, or runaway reaction
☐ Endothermic, with potential for freezing solvents, decreased solubility or heterogeneous
mixtures
☐ Gases produced ☐ Hazardous reaction intermediates/products ☐ Hazardous side reactions

Hazardous Processes
☐ Generation of air contaminants (gases, aerosols, or particulates) ☐ Heating chemicals
☐ Large mass or volume ☐ Pressure > atmospheric ☐ Pressure < atmospheric
☐ Scale-up of reaction

Other Hazards
☐ Hand/power tools ☐ Moving equipment/parts ☐ Electrical ☐ Noise > 80 dBA
☐ Heat/hot surfaces ☐ Ergonomic hazards ☐ Needles/sharps ☐ Other (list):

Step 2 – Using the Risk Assessment Table below, for each operation/procedure/task
identified, list the hazards of concern (Column 1) and describe the consequence(s) of an
incident occurring (Column 2).

For a Chemical Process, Consider:

 Reactions, including side reactions. Think through reactants, intermediates, and products in
terms of flammability, toxicity, and reactivity hazards.
 Does it decompose, and if so, how rapidly and to what products?
 What is its stability on exposure to heat, light, water, metals, etc.?
 Is it impact sensitive?
 How violent will the reaction be?
 What is the effect of catalysts or inhibitors?
 How will air affect the reaction?
 Are any incompatible materials near the reaction?
 Determine the quantity and the rate of evolution of heat and gases that may be released
during the reaction. Use the thermodynamic and kinetic data from the reaction chemistry.
 Are the chemicals compatible with containers and equipment?
 Will the experiment be conducted at temperatures or pressures above normal?
 Are there other hazards to be aware of such as noise, electrical, radiation, biological, or
machinery?
Step 3 –Determine the probability (Column 3) and severity (Column 4) of that incident or
failure occurring. Information on probability and severity is provided in a Risk Matrix that
follows the Risk Assessment table and the example provided. Do not underestimate the
probability! Consider:
 Prior incidents – even if not in your lab
 Human error due to inexperience/incomplete understanding of the process, failure to follow
standard operating procedure, fatigue, inattention, etc. resulting in improper
chemicals/amounts of chemicals being used; inadvertent addition of heat to a process on a
heat/stir plate;
 Electric power failure
 Cooling system failure
 Exhaust system failure
 Over-pressurization
 Water leaks into system
 Air leaks into system
 Fire (Is the appropriate extinguishing agent nearby?)
 Container breakage
 Chemical spill

Step 4 – Determine the Risk (column 5), which is the intersection of Probability (P) and
Severity (S) in the Risk Matrix Table. When considering the possibility of eye injuries, there is
no acceptable risk. If there is any risk of injury, eye protection must be worn.

Step 5 - Identify all controls and risk mitigation strategies for each hazard or potential failure
point. Use the controls listed below and add this information to the column 6 in the risk
assessment table.

Engineering Controls Administrative Controls Personal Protective Equipment

(PPE)
 Ventilation (fume hood,  Reduce scale of process  Eye and face protection
snorkel, biological safety (micro-scale experiments) (Safety glasses, safety goggles,
cabinet)  Reduce time of personal laser eyewear, face shield)
 Containment (glove box, exposure to process  Body protection (Lab coat,
reaction vessel, sealed  Provide training on proper apron, close-toed shoes,
containers, barriers) techniques to reduce pants, hearing protection)
 Substitution/Elimination exposure and mitigate  Hand protection (thermal,
(consider less hazardous hazards mechanical, chemical)
alternative materials)  Chemical expiration and  Respiratory protection
 Process controls (safety valves, testing (contact your EHS rep)
gauges, temperature sensor,  Equipment maintenance
regulators, alarms, monitors, and certification (pressure
electrical grounding and vessel testing)
bonding, glassware
preparation).
RISK ASSESSMENT TABLE
Adapted from Identifying and Evaluating Hazards in Research Laboratories

Operation Name and Purpose:

Date of Risk Assessment:
Person Conducting Risk Assessment:
1 2 3 4 5 6
Describe Describe the What is the How Severe* Risk Describe
Hazard(s) Consequence(s) of Probability* of is the (Intersection Controls/Risk
of an Incident Occurrence Consequence of P and S Mitigation
Concern Occurring (P)? Do Not (S ) of an from table) Strategies
Underestimate Incident?

*Use the Risk Matrix on the next page to determine the probability and severity

EXAMPLE RISK ASSESSMENT TABLE:

Operation Name and Purpose: Use of Bunsen burner: Bunsen burners are used to sterilize inoculation
loops when plating bacteria
Date of Risk Assessment: January 17, 2022
Person Conducting Risk Assessment: Dr. R. Searcher
1 2 3 4 5 6
Describe Describe the What is the How Severe* Risk Describe Controls/Risk
Hazard(s) Consequence Probability* (P) (S) is the (Intersection Mitigation Strategies
of (s) of an of Occurrence? Consequence of P and S
Concern Incident Do Not of an from table)
Occurring Underestimate Incident?
Use of an Ignition of Possible Moderate – High Engineering Controls: N/A
open ethanol Severe
flame vapor Administrative Controls:
1 - Train all Bunsen burner
Ignition of users on use
clothing 2 - Restrict areas of use to
east end of bench
Ignition of 3 – Locate combustible
nearby materials and flammable
combustible liquids at least 3 feet away
materials from Bunsen burner when in
use
4 – Prohibit use of ethanol
spray on gloves prior to
flaming the loop

PPE: Lab coat, gloves, safety

glasses

Possible Substitutions:
1 - Purchase sterile inoculating loops that do not require flaming
2 – Replace Bunsen burners with hot glass beads for sterilization
 RISK MATRIX: SEVERITY OF CONSEQUENCE(S) X PROBABILITY OF OCCURRENCE

PROBABILITY
SEVERITY RARE UNLIKELY POSSIBLE LIKELY ALMOST
CERTAIN
NO RISK:
No injuries LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW
Minor property damage
No impact to reputation
MINOR:
Minor injuries LOW LOW MEDIUM MEDIUM HIGH
Moderate property damage
Potential damage to reputation
MODERATE:
Moderate to life-impacting injuries LOW MEDIUM HIGH HIGH CRITICAL
Substantial property damage
Damaged reputation
HIGH:
Life-threatening injuries MEDIUM HIGH CRITICAL CRITICAL CRITICAL
Severe property damage
Loss of confidence to reputation
Low = Acceptable risk level. Implement appropriate engineering and administrative controls and PPE. Monitor and manage.
Medium = Tolerable risk level. Implement appropriate engineering and administrative controls and PPE. Monitor and manage.
High = Tolerable risk level with strict controls, routine monitoring and oversight. Contact EHS for assistance.
Critical = Intolerable risk level. Engage higher levels of management.

Engineering Controls Administrative Controls Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

 Ventilation (fume hood, snorkel, biological safety  Reduce scale of process (micro-scale  Eye and face protection (Safety
cabinet) experiments) glasses, safety goggles, laser
 Containment (glove box, reaction vessel, sealed  Reduce time of personal exposure to eyewear, face shield)
containers, barriers) process  Body protection (Lab coat, apron,
 Substitution/Elimination (consider less hazardous  Provide training on proper techniques close-toed shoes, pants, hearing
alternative materials) to reduce exposure and mitigate protection)
 Process controls (safety valves, gauges, hazards  Hand protection (thermal,
temperature sensor, regulators, alarms,  Chemical expiration and testing mechanical, chemical)
monitors, electrical grounding and bonding,  Equipment maintenance and  Respiratory protection (contact
glassware preparation). certification (pressure vessel testing) your EHS rep)
According to the hazards and risks identified above please provide the areas/locations that do not require the use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) based on the assessment of risk and mitigation activities (e.g. relocation of equipment, reagents, or research
procedures.)

Building Room/Lab Space Specific Area in Lab PPE That May Be Removed

Description of Risk Mitigation:

Attach the completed Risk Assessment(s). Specify the hazards and describe what is in place to protect against the hazards in the PPE Free
Area e.g. barriers to protect from splash, relocation of hazards to remove them from the area, etc.

PROCESS HAZARD(S) RISK MITIGATION

X_________________________________________________________

Lab Director/Principal Investigator (PI) / Date