Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A.

Crowl

Laboratory
Safety Exam
Study Materials

Directions
In order to insure the safety of all those working in a
research laboratory, everyone must have a basic
understanding of laboratory safety, prior to having
access to the lab.
1. Study these materials. Also study the department
laboratory safety manual available on the Chemical
Engineering safety web page.
2. When you are ready, make arrangements with the
designated person in the Chemical Engineering office
to take the exam.
3. The exam has 50 multiple choice questions. You need
an 80% grade to pass the exam. The exam is closed
book.
4. You will be notified by email of your exam grade.
5. If you fail to pass the exam, you can take the exam
again.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Legacy of the Past

Edison
Lab at
Greenfield
Village,
Dearborn,
MI

Potential in the Present

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Hazardous Properties of Chemicals

Toxic
Reactive
Flammable
Explosive

Each major group has many sub-

groups, i.e. under toxic is
carcinogenic

Definitions - 1
Accident: The occurrence of a sequence of
events that produce unintended injury, death or
property damage.
Hazard: A chemical or physical condition that
has the potential for causing damage to people,
property or the environment. Hazards from
chemicals are always present. Hazards can be
created by procedures or equipment.
Incident: The loss of containment of material or
energy.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Definitions - 2
Consequence: A measure of the expected effects of
an incident. Examples: burns, asphyxiation, cancer,
lung failure, etc.
Scenario: A description of the events that result in
an accident or scenario.
Risk: A measure of human injury, environmental
damage, or economic loss in terms of both the
incident likelihood (probability) and the magnitude
of the injury or loss (consequence).

Risk = f( probability, consequence )

Accident Steps

Hazard Step Step Consequence

1 2...
Incident
Scenario

Initiation Propagation Termination

Safety program wishes to minimize initiation and

propagation steps and to maximize termination
steps.
Accidents typically have multiple root causes, i.e.
more than one direct cause.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Accident Cause
Most accidents are due to the loss of control of material or
energy.
Examples: Chemical spilling from an overturned
beaker. (loss of material control)
Unexpected reaction of a chemical resulting
in gas evolution and rupture of
container. (loss of energy control)
Sudden disconnection of a hose containing
high pressure nitrogen. (loss of
material control)
Fire in a beaker. (loss of energy control)

Toxicology
Considers worker exposures

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Definitions
Toxicology: - entry of toxicants into organism
- elimination from organism Quantitative
- effects on organism

Industrial hygiene: prevention or reduction of entry

Toxicant - chemical agents

- physical agents: particulates < 5 m,
noise, radiation

Toxicity: property related to effect on organism

Problem: organisms respond via a
distribution of effects
Toxic hazard: likelihood of damage based on exposure
reduction by appropriate techniques

Entry toxicants

ROUTE ENTRY CONTROL

Ingestion mouth, stomach rules on eating, drinking,
smoking
Inhalation mouth, nose ventilation, hoods,
* protection equipment
Injection cuts in skin protective clothing

Dermal Absorption skin protective clothing

* most significant in laboratory

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Routes and elimination

DIGESTIVE TRACK BLOOD TARGET ORGAN

LIVER KIDNEYS / LUNGS

EXCRETION kidneys (urine), liver (bile), lungs

DETOXIFICATION liver
STORAGE fat tissue

INACTIVATION

Toxic blood levels

WIDE VARIATIONS EXPECTED

injection
BLOOD LEVEL

inhalation

ingestion
dermal

TIME

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Toxicology Experiment with Rabbits!

Start with 50 rabbits.

Expose each to a fixed concentration.
Get a variety of responses.

Determine Response Curve

Response Number Fraction

Least 1 2 0.04
2 14 0.28
3 18 0.36
4 15 0.30
Worst 5 1 0.02
50 1.00

Average = (1x2+2x14+3x18+4x15+5x1)/50 = 149/50

= 2.98

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Plot Bar Chart

Average

20

15
Number

10

0
1 2 3 4 5
Response

Repeat experiment at different doses.

Dose Average Response

D1 R = 2.98
1

D2 R
2

D R
3 3

D4 R
4

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Plot Response vs. Dose

Average
Response X
X
X

R X
1

D1
Dose
This form not very useful, particularly at low
doses.

Take the log of the dose.

X
Average X

Response
X

Log ( Dose )

Get S-shaped curve - better at low dose

values

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Threshold Limit Values - 1

THRESHOLD DOSE: NO DETECTABLE EFFECT
Threshold Limit Value TLV: workers lifetime
8 hours per day 40 hours per week

TLV - TWA * Time weighted average

TLV - STEL Short term exposure limit

TLV - C Ceiling limit

Threshold Limit Values - 2

Published by ACGIH: American
Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists, a professional organization
without legal authority.
Cannot be used as indication of relative
toxicity.
Cannot be used for air pollution
exposures.
Some toxicants have zero thresholds

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Problem with Relative Toxicity

Chemical A
Average
Response Chemical B

Log ( Dose )

Three Types of TLVs

TLV-TWA - Time weighted average for normal 8-hour

workday, to which nearly all workers can be exposed, day
after day, without adverse effects.
TLV-STEL - Short-term exposure limit. The max.
concentration to which workers can be exposed for a period
of up to 15 minutes continuously without suffering (1)
intolerable irritation, (2) chronic or irreversible tissue
damage, (3) narcosis of sufficient degree to increase
accident proneness, impair self rescue, or materially reduce
worker efficiency, provided that no more than 4 excursions
per day are permitted, with at least 60 minutes between
exposure periods, and provided that the daily TLV-TWA is not
exceeded

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Three Types of TLVs

TLV-C - Ceiling limit. The concentration that should

not be exceeded, even instantaneously.

Several hundred TLV-TWA values are available for

common materials. Less values are available for
STEL and C.

TLV Example Values

Acetone 500 ppm
Ammonia 25 ppm
CO 25 ppm
Chlorine 0.5 ppm
Gasoline 300 ppm
Hexane 50 ppm
Phosgene 0.1 ppm
For flammables, TLV is of lower flammable limit.

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Conversion from mg/m3 to ppm

22.4 T 1 T
ppm = ( mg/m ) = 0.08205 ( mg/m )
3 3

M 273 P PM

T in K, P in atm.

For liquid mixtures ppm = mg/m3, but this is

not true for vapors!

PEL - Permissible Exposure Level

Published by OSHA, and have legal authority.
Defined the same as TLV.
Most PELs are same as TLVs.
Not updated as regularly as TLVs.
Most companies use lowest of the two values.

For some chemicals, i.e. benzene, vinyl chloride, a

specific OSHA regulation has been published. These
are called REGULATED CHEMICALS. Each regulation
is unique, but most require EXPLICIT data that
workers are not exposed. See [Link] web site for
regulations.

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IDLH

IDLH Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health

Defined as a condition that poses a threat of
exposure to airborne contaminants when that
exposure is likely to cause death or immediate or
delayed permanent adverse health effects or prevent
escape from such an environment.
Published by NIOSH for about 380 chemicals.
See NIOSH Pocket Guide on CD.

IDLH Example Values

Acetone 2,500 ppm
Ammonia 300 ppm
CO 1,200 ppm
Chlorine 10 ppm
Hexane 1,100 ppm
Phosgene 2 ppm

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Fires & Explosions

Introduction
FIRE rapid exothermic, oxidation, with flame
EXPLOSION higher energy release rate (mixture) } may trigger
each other
pressure or shock wave

injuries / casualties Thermal radiation,

EFFECTS
property losses
process interruption
} asphyxiation, toxic products,
blast, fragments

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE FOR PREVENTION

material properties
nature of fire and explosion process
procedures to reduce hazards

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Fire Triangle

FIRE TRIANGLE FUEL

OXIDIZER
IGNITION SOURCE

Ignition Source

Oxidant may not be oxygen, i.e. chlorine.

Fire Triangle
FUELS Gases Acetylene, Propane, CO, H2
Liquids * Gasoline, Organic Solvents
Solids * Plastics, Wood Dust, Fibers, Metal Particles

OXIDIZERS Gases: O2 , F2 , Cl2

Liquids: H 2 O 2 , HNO3 , HCl3O
Solids: Peroxides, NH 4 NO3

IGNITION Sparks, Flames, Static

SOURCE Electricity, Heat

* Liquids are volatized and solids decomposed prior to their

combustion in the vapor phase

Sufficient quantity / energy required.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Application of the Fire Triangle

Fires and explosions can be prevented by removing

any single leg from the fire triangle.

Problem: Ignition
sources are so plentiful
that it is not a reliable
control method. No
Fire

Ignition Source

Robust Control: Prevent existence of flammable

mixtures.

Combustion Behavior Most Hydrocarbons

Smoke and fire are very visible!

Slide courtesy of Reed Welker.

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Combustion Behavior Carbon Disulfide

No smoke and fire, but heat release rate just as

high.

Definitions - 1
LFL: Lower Flammability Limit
Below LFL, mixture will not burn, it is too lean.
UFL: Upper Flammability Limit
Above UFL, mixture will not burn, it is too rich.

Defined only for gas mixtures in air.

Both UFL and LFL defined as volume % fuel in air.

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Definitions - 2

Flash Point: Temperature above which a

liquid produces enough vapor to form an
ignitable mixture with air. Defined only for
liquids at 1 atm. Pressure.
Auto-Ignition Temperature (AIT):
Temperature above which adequate energy is
available in the environment to provide an
ignition source.

Experimental Determination - Flashpoint

Thermometer
Test Flame Applicator
Open cup with liquid
Flame

Heating Plate
Cleveland Open Cup
Method.
Closed cup
produces a better
Bunsen result - reduces
Burner drafts across cup.
From Gas Supply

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Experimental Determination - Flashpoint

Setaflash Flashpoint Device

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Setaflash Flashpoint Device Close-up

Setaflash Flashpoint Device Close-up

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Setaflash Flashpoint Device Close-up

Auto-Ignition Temperature (AIT) Device

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Typical Values - 1
LFL UFL
Methane: 5% 15%
Propane: 2.1% 9.5%
Butane: 1.8% 8.5%
Hydrogen: 4.0% 75%

Flash Point Temp. (deg F)

Methanol: 52
Benzene: 12
Gasoline: -44

Typical Values - 2
AIT (deg. F)
Methane: 1112
Great variability in
Methanol: 865
reported AIT values!
Toluene: 997 Use lowest value.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Flammability Relationships
Saturation Vapor Pressure Curve

Vapor pressure / concentration

UFL
Flammable
Liquid Auto-ignition zone
Gas
LFL

Flash Point AIT

Ambient Temperature
Temperature

Chemical Reactivity
Very difficult to characterize!
Can have: Decompositions, reactivity with other
chemicals (normal and emergency situations),
catalyst effects, contamination of reactants,
changes in raw material concentrations,
accumulation of unreacted materials, equipment
malfunctions (stirrer, cooling, vessel), improper
mixing, unintended reactions, reactions occurring
elsewhere, ...

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Reactive Chemical Hazards

What?
Reactive chemicals contain a lot of energy. When this
energy is released suddenly and unexpectedly, an accident
may result.
Why?
Reactive chemical accidents are unfortunately, fairly
common.
Problem?
Reactive chemicals are difficult to quantify in a general
fashion. Many common materials, when used by
themselves, present little hazard. But when mixed with other
common materials they present a severe reaction hazard.

Reactive Chemical Hazards

The uncontrolled chemical reaction
might be accompanied by:
Temperature increase
Pressure increase
Energy release
Gas evolution

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Reactive Chemical Hazards

It need not be explosive to result in
serious harm.
For example, gases evolved from a
chemical reaction can be:
flammable
toxic
corrosive
hot
sufficient to pressurize an enclosure to the
point of rupture

Reactive Hazards Procedure

1. Identify reactive hazards.
2. Characterize reactive hazards.
3. Control reactive hazards

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Chemical Reactivity
Two major issues:
1. Reactivity with other chemicals.
2. Reactivity by decomposition of a single pure
chemical. The decomp frequently occurs at a
higher temperature, but may occur at room
temperature.
Questions we need to know:
1. Does the reaction occur quick or fast?
2. Does the reaction generate heat and if so, how
much?
3. Does the reaction generate gaseous by-
products that may lead to a high pressure in the
reaction container?

Chemical Reactivity
Chemical reactions can result in the very rapid
generation of heat, gas, or other chemical
products. This can result in a very rapid
temperature increase (several 100 deg. C per
minute), very rapid pressure increase (several 100
psig per minute), and very rapid generation of
flammable and toxic gases or products.

This can lead to fires, explosions or toxic

exposures.

Can use calorimeters (DSC, ARC, others) to study

and characterize.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

ARC Accelerating Rate Calorimeter

Used to characterize the

reactive behavior of
chemicals.

Upper Heater

Test Cell

Lower Heater

Containment Vessel

Control Unit

ARC Accelerating Rate Calorimeter

Upper Heater

Thermocouple

Test Cell

Lower Heater

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

ARC Test Cell About 10 ml

Determining Self Heat Rate

Heat sample at constant rate.
Measure temperature and temperature rate.
(dT/dt)max is self heat rate.

Tem Pressure
p

Time Time

(dT/dt)max (dP/dt)max
dT/dt
dP/dt

Time Time

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Summary

We must understand the hazardous

properties of chemicals prior to their use
in the laboratory.
The dominant hazardous properties of
chemicals include: toxicity, flammability
and reactivity.
We must understand how these properties
relate to our use of this chemical,
including storage, transport, experimental
procedure and disposal.

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Industrial Hygiene

Industrial hygiene
Concerns conditions related to workplace injury and sickness
e.g: exposures to toxic vapors, dust, noise, heat, cold, radiation,
physical factors, etc.

ANTICIPATION Expectation of hazard existence

IDENTIFICATION Presence of workplace exposure

EVALUATION Magnitude exposure

CONTROL Reduction to acceptable levels

Chemical labs: requires co-operation from industrial hygiene,

safety & lab operations people

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Identification
Requires study of
CHEMISTRY Operating instructions
Safety reviews
OPERATING CONDITIONS Equipment description
Chemicals description MSDSs
OPERATING PROCEDURES

POTENTIAL HAZARDS HAZARD DATA

liquids physical state / vapor pressure
vapors TLVs
dusts temperature sensitivity
noise rate and heat of reaction
radiation by-products
temperature reactivity with other chemicals
mechanical explosion limits

RISK ASSESMENT: potential for hazard to result in an accident

Evaluating Volatiles
Monitoring air concentrations Variation in time and place

Time Weighted Average

Continuous: t
1 w
TWA = C ( t )dt
80 ppm or mg/m 3

Intermittent:
i
1
TWA =
8
1
C i Ti

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Evaluating Volatiles
Additive effect multiple toxicants:

i
Ci

1 (TLV TWA)i
<1
Mixture:
Equivalent
i

C i
(TLV TWA ) mix = 1
i
Ci
TLV TWA
1 i

Colorimetric Tubes for Volatiles

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Air Sampling Unit for Volatiles

Badge Units for Volatiles

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Evaluating Noise
NOISE PROBLEMS ARE COMMON IN CHEMICAL PLANTS

I
Relative Noise Intensity = -10 log (dB) I 0 = hearing threshold
I0
(dBA)
9
Permissible exposure (h)

speech

factory

painful
8
traffic

7
office

2
Similar calculations
1 as volatiles
0
60 70 80 90 100 110 120

dBA

Evaluating Noise

Sound meter for

measuring sound levels.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Hearing Conservation Program

Required by OSHA if noise exposure exceeds 90

dba.
Worker must have an annual physical.
Hearing Protection must be provided.
High noise area must be marked with signs.

Noise Control - Earplugs

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Noise Control - Ear Muffs

Noise Reduction Ratio (NRR)

Used for Personal Protective Equipment:

A particular hearing protector has an NRR of
18. If the noise is 95 dba, what is the worker
exposure?
95 dba - 18 dba = 77 dba

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Control
LABORATORY CONTROL TECHNIQUES

Environmental

Substitution Less toxic solvents, higher flash points

Attenuation Boiling point reduction by vacuum
Isolation Separate laboratories
Intensification Reduce chemicals, small continuous
reactors
Enclosures Contain experiment in hood
Local ventilation Hoods
Dilution ventilation Ventilation in general laboratory
Good housekeeping Keeptoxics contained

Personal protection Last defense: always compromises

workers

Ventilation
DILUTION Dilution below target concentration
Problems: Requires high air flow,
high energy costs and workers
always exposed

Ventilation rate Volatile rate out

Evolution rate

LOCAL Removes contaminant before workers exposed

Minimal air flow

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Ventilation - Hoods
Face Velocity: Air velocity through hood opening.
Use 80 - 125 feet per min (fpm).

Standard
Hoods

* Sash and hood itself can be used to contain process.

* Positive indication of hood function required by OSHA.
* Hoods should not be used for storage of equipment or
chemicals.

Ventilation - Hoods

Bypass Hoods: Air flow is adjusted as sash is moved. Some

hoods have dynamic dampers to adjust airflow.

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Ventilation
- Hoods

Ventilation - Hoods
Hoods must have
positive
indication of hood
function.
This is a
manometer type
indicator.
Colored fluid
moves higher as
air flow
increases.

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Ventilation - Hoods
Hoods must have
positive indication of
hood function.
This is an electronic
type indicator.
An alarm sounds if air
flow is too low. This
can be a problem if
Physical Plant turns off
hood.

Ventilation Systems
Must use negative pressure to insure no
contaminant leakage.
P 0 .0 1 atm

negative positive
pressure ventilation

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Ventilation - Airflow Measurement

Velometer - can accurately

measure air velocity.
For hoods, must measure at
several locations and with
different sash locations.

Ventilation Elephant Trunks

Provides a movable
ventilation source that
can be located very
close to emission
sources.

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Safety Showers / Eyewashes

Useful for fires and chemical spills.

For chemical spills, clothing must be

removed.

Must be used, with assistance, for 15

min.
Minimum flows: Eyewash: 4 gpm
Shower: 30 gpm

Both must be tested regularly.

Area around unit must be unobstructed.
Required within the lab if chemicals are used.

Safety Showers / Eyewashes

Water must continue to flow
once handle is released.
Current OSHA standard
requires water temperature
control.
Problems with:
Dirty water
Rust from pipes
Water temperature

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Flammable Storage Cabinets

Offers protection from
external fire.

Must be electrically
grounded to prevent
static accumulation.

Vent hole is left closed, unless stored materials have an

odor, in which case the vent is connected to the
ventilation system.
Do not store anything on the top.
Store only flammables, nothing else.

Corrosive Storage Cabinets

Used to store acids and other

corrosives.
Do not store anything on top of
cabinet.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Safety Cans

Use to store bulk flammable solvents.

Container provides protection from external fire.
Difficult to pour into and out of.

Eye Protection
Provide eye protection against
flying objects, liquid
chemicals, light radiation, etc.
Safety glasses must be ANSI
rated (ANSI Z87).
Must include permanently
affixed side shields.
Must be worn at all times in
the lab.
Contact lens usage is unclear.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Eye Protection - Goggles

These provide additional protection over safety

glasses.
Can be worn over safety glasses.
Come in vented and unvented styles.

Eye Protection - Face Shield

Provides additional, full face

protection.
Can wear over safety
glasses or goggles for
additional protection.

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Eye Protection - Accessibility

This storage rack is

mounted near the door of
the laboratory. It
provides access to safety
glasses for all who enter.

Skin Protection - Gloves

Gloves protect the hands

against chemical,
mechanical, electrical and
thermal hazards.
Come in many styles,
shapes and materials.
Must be compatible with
chemical used. See chart in
Safety Manual.

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Spill Kits

Provide materials to clean

up chemical spills.
Required if you use
chemicals in the
laboratory.

Spill Kits
Usually includes:
* Absorbent spill blankets
* Spill dams or pigs.
* PPE for cleanup.
* Disposal materials.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright 2012 D. A. Crowl

Fire Extinguishers
Several Types:
A: Wood, cloth, paper.
B: Gas, liquid, grease
C: Electrical fires
Our labs have type ABC.
Must be sized correctly for lab
area
Must be inspected monthly.
Must be free of obstructions.

Fire Extinguisher Usage

Must direct fire

extinguisher discharge at
base of flames, not at the
flames.
PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze,
Sweep

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Broken Glass Disposal

The box is disposed of
directly so that the janitor
is protected from the
broken glass contents.
Get box from Chemical
Stores.

Glass Storage

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Labeling of All Power Boxes

MSDS Library
Required by
regulation.

Must be
available to
workers at
all times.

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Labeling of All Chemical Storage

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Student Responsibilities
Responsible for safety of their own actions and
coworkers.
Must attend all training and meetings for safety.
Must follow proper work procedures.
Must wear assigned personal protective equip.
Must report all hazardous situations.
Safety is a requirement for employment!

Faculty / Staff Responsibilities

1. Integrate safety, health, and environmental
protection into the daily activities of students,
employees, and any other persons they supervise.
2. Provide training and information to students,
employees, and all others they supervise as
requested by department administration and as
required under University programs and policies.
3. Review new equipment and procedures for
recognized safety, health, and environmental
hazards and take appropriate precautions before
they are used or implemented.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright2012 D. A. Crowl

Faculty / Staff Responsibilities

4. Investigate all incidents resulting in injury or

property damage and report them to their
department administrator and Occupational Safety
and Health Services, OSHS. Close calls must also
be investigated and reported if they are found to
have had the potential for personal injury or
property damage. All employee fatalities must be
reported immediately to OSHS regardless of cause.
5. Enforce safety rules and review work areas daily.
6. Maintain a written record of the content of each
training session and the identification of the trainer
and all attendees.

Chemical Hygiene Officer-CHO

Responsibilities of CHO include:
Coordinate and update dept. safety manual
annually.
Act as a technical resource.
Meet with dept. Space and Safety Committee on
issues related to safety.
Work with MTU Occupational Safety and Health
Department.
Current CHO: David Zei
Manager of Laboratory Facilities: Dave Caspary

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright2012 D. A. Crowl

Prior Approval for Hazardous Operations

Operations involving special approval:

Use or storage of regulated chemicals.
Temperatures exceeding 1000oC or equipment
design specs.
Pressures exceeding 35 atm (515 psi) or
equipment design specs.
Class 3b or 4 lasers.
Need to obtain approval from CHO and Dave
Caspary prior to any hazardous operation.

Medical Consultations
Medical exams are required if:
Respirators are used (annual physical).
Documented exposures have occurred.
Signs or symptoms of exposures have occurred.
Exposures due to spills, leaks, or explosions.
See Safety Manual for more details.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright2012 D. A. Crowl

Unattended Operation
Unattended operation is discouraged. If
necessary, complete the form in the Safety
Manual and post on outside of laboratory
door.

Laboratory Work Late at Night

Laboratory work late at night is highly
discouraged. If a problem arises, no one is in
the building to assist!

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Laboratory Clothing
Long pants required, no shorts.
No neckties, dangling clothes or dangling jewelry.
Long sleeve shirts recommended.
Tie-up long hair to prevent from entanglement.
Non-porous shoes, no sandals.

Electrical Safety

Do not work on electrically activated equipment.

All outlets near sinks must be Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) plugs.
Do not use excessive extension cords.
No frayed power or extension cords.
Use three-prong plugs on all units. Make sure
they are wired properly.

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright2012 D. A. Crowl

GFCI

Circuit trips open when

current on ground
detected by GFCI.

Plugs and Adapters

Should not be used in laboratory.

Three prong plugs are

recommended.
Hot
Neutral or ground
Safety ground

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Laboratory Safety Study Notes Copyright2012 D. A. Crowl

Outlets / Extension Cords

Do not overload outlets.

Do not use home-made
extension cords.
Minimize extension cord use.

Drying Ovens
Two types of ovens:
1. Natural convection or direct drying heating
element is exposed and within the drying chamber.
These types require approval from CHO for use.
2. Indirect drying a fan moves heat from an external
heating source.
All drying ovens require an
operating log book.
See Safety Manual.

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Drying Ovens

Gas Cylinders

Transport using a cylinder cart. Cylinder cap must

be in place for transport.
All cylinders must be secured prior to use.
All cylinders must have a regulator and a shut-off
valve downstream of the regulator.
Cylinder fittings depend on material in cylinder
these fittings cannot be mixed!

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Gas Cylinders

Gas Cylinders
Common gases such as nitrogen, oxygen,
and helium are supplied at pressures of
around 3,000 psi (pounds per square inch)
when full.
Enough internal energy to kill.
Should a cylinder valve sheer off
accidentally, the net force is approximately
3,000 lbs more than enough to accelerate a
150 lb cylinder very rapidly.
A torpedo!

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Case History

Case History

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Many gases are liquids stored

under their vapor pressure

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is the most

common and is used for beverage
dispensers around the world.
Propane (C3H8)
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)
A mixture of propane and butane
Butane (C4H10)
Take a look at a butane lighter for
example

Gases stored as liquids

These cylinders will reach their vapor

pressure at ambient temperature
Should filled cylinders be exposed to heat,
hydrostating (complete liquid filling) can
occur most large cylinders have relief
systems built into the valve to prevent
explosion
Another heating outcome is a BLEVE:
Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion
Many lives have been lost to this phenomena
propane and LPG cylinders are the most common

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Cylinders have a Rupture Disk

Near Main Valve

Should pressure
exceed a certain limit, Main Valve

rupture disk will pop.

This prevents the
cylinder from
rupturing which can
cause great damage Rupture Disk

Two Stage Regulator

for Nitrogen

The Gas Cylinder Regulator

Stage 2 reduces
Handle
outlet pressure to
Often 2 stage 10 to 100 psi
Not a flow regulator
Maintains constant
outlet pressure
Fittings are
standardized to the
gas being metered
Brass regulators
cannot be used with
corrosive gases Stage 1 reduces
pressure to 300-500 psi
Diagram source: [Link]

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Regulators have special fittings

for the gas they service
Some fittings
are left
handed
threads and
OXYGEN some are right
handed!
NITROGEN
Cannot mix
regulator in
oxygen
service with
regulator in
fuel service.

AMMONIA

CYLINDER RENTALS
Typically, cylinders are owned by a gas
manufacturer/supplier
When the customer's cylinder is
depleted or use is discontinued, the
remaining contents, and the cylinder,
are not considered a waste under
RCRA, Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act, at the your site

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Cylinder Rentals (cont.)

This is because the cylinder is the
property of the gas
manufacturer/supplier and the reason
for the return shipment is to return the
manufacturer's/ supplier's property,
NOT to discard the cylinder or it's
contents (residual gases)

Gas Cylinders

Cylinders must be
secured during usage.

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Gas Cylinders

Must have a
shut-off valve
after regulator.

Refrigerators in Labs
Food or drink must never be stored in a
refrigerator containing chemicals.
Refrigerators storing flammable materials must
be specially designed for this purpose a regular
refrigerator cannot be modified for this.
Flammable Material vapor on inside only,
no sparks on inside
Explosion-proof - flammable vapors on
inside and outside.

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Refrigerators in Labs

Laser Safety

Laser Classes:
1: Incapable of producing damaging radiation.
2: Emits accessible, visible radiation at levels
where damage from chronic exposure is
possible.
3: Biological damage to human tissue is possible
from acute exposure. Two subclasses: a, b.
4: Significant human tissue damage possible.
See Safety Manual for protection requirements.

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Chemical Handling

Most Important Fact

A commitment to purchase a chemical

is a commitment to handle and store
the chemical safely and to dispose of
the chemical in an environmentally
acceptable fashion.

The technology and management systems exist to

handle all chemicals safely.

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Steps in Chemical Handling

1. What are the hazardous properties of the

chemical?
2. How much to purchase?
3. How do I keep track of the chemical?
4. How do I store the chemical?
5. How do I handle the chemical?
6. How do I dispose of the chemical?
7. What do I do if a chemical spill occurs?

Step 1: What are the hazardous properties

of the chemical?

Sources of information:
MSDS sheets, either on-line, from manufacturer
or other.
What do these hazardous properties mean?
Can we handle this chemical safely?
Is the chemical regulated?

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MSDS

Provide critical safety data.

Manufacturer of chemical is required by law to
provide an MSDS.
Data on MSDS is not confirmed.
Many times data fields are blank.
I would recommend reviewing data from a number of
different sources.

MSDS

MSDS library must be in

the lab in an easily
accessible and visible
location.
In my lab, I also include
department Safety Manual
and JSA sheets for
procedures in laboratory.

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MSDS

Parts of a typical MSDS:

Physical / Chemical Characteristics: Boiling point,
vapor pressure, specific gravity, appearance.
Fire and Explosion hazard data: Flash point,
flammable limits, fire fighting procedures,
explosion hazards.
Reactivity data: stability, incompatibility,
decomposition by-products.
Health Hazard Data: Routes of entry, signs and
symptoms of exposure

MSDS

Precautions for safe handling and use: waste

disposal, storage
Control Measures: Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)

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Ratings: 0-4
0 : no hazard Used for
NFPA Diamond 4: max. haz. firefighters

NFPA Diamond

Acetone
3

1 0

See Safety Manual

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Can we handle the chemical safely?

Depends on your capability, the condition of

your laboratory facility, the equipment
available, and the confidence in managing
the chemical properly.

Some chemicals I will not handle: phosgene,

ethylene oxide, regulated chemicals, others.

Regulated Chemicals

OSHA publishes a list of about 30 regulated

chemicals.
Each chemical has a standard (see [Link])
Most require explicit measurement of exposure
concentrations.
Most require annual medical physicals for
workers potentially exposed.
Common chemicals on list: benzene, benzidene,
ethyleneimine, acrylonitrile, formaldehyde, 1,3
butadiene, methylene chloride

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Step 2: How much to purchase?

Order only what you need! Keep inventories

to a minimum. Remember, what you dont
have cant hurt you!

Step 3: How do I keep track of the chemical?

Chemical
Inventory

Acetone
Labeling of
container

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Chemical Inventory
Not required by regulation but an excellent idea.
Software programs are available (one is on your CD).
Laboratory user must take ownership of the
inventory.
Should track chemicals from acquisition to disposal.
Should include same information as chemical label.

Chemical Inventory Program

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Chemical Inventory Program

Label printed by program

Chemical Inventory Program

Inventory printed by program.

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Chemical Labeling
A chemical label is required for any chemical or
sample that will not be in your physical
possession at any time.
Parts of the label:
Identity of contents
Date chemical was acquired
Disposal date (for unstable chemicals)
Responsible person
Hazardous characteristics
Other pertinent safety information.

Chemical Labeling
Label container prior to use.
Chemical label must be legible, in English.
Must have actual chemical name, not a
number.
Must not obscure existing labels or safety
information.

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Chemical Labeling
Hazards Laboratory
Chemical Name:_______________________
Date Rec'd :__/__/__ Disposal Date:__/__/__
Dept:____ ______ Location:__ _________
Responsible Party:_______________________
Safety Inf o:_________ Remarks:__________
________ ___________ _________________
________ ___________ _________________
________ ___________ _________________
Fire

Health Reactivity

Step 4: How do I store the chemical?

MSDS sheets must be available for all chemicals.

All chemicals must be properly labeled and inventoried.
Do not store chemicals on top of lab benches, out in open,
or above eye level.
Storage in hoods is not recommended.
Keep incompatible chemicals separated (see table in safety
manual).
Flammables stored in flammable storage cabinet.
All cabinets containing chemicals must be labeled.

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Chemical Storage Acids and Bases

Chemical Storage - Flammables

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Chemical Storage

Identify locations in lab

where chemicals are
stored.

Chemical Storage - Signs

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Chemical Storage - Signs

Chemical
Storage -
Signs

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Step 5: How do I handle the chemical?

Depends on properties of chemical.

Usually involves personal protective equipment.
Gloves (see compatibility chart in Safety
Manual)
Aprons
Others
Try to minimize exposure by minimizing transport
and handling.

Chemical Transport

This method
provides stability
and containment.

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Step 6: How do I dispose of the chemical?

Michigan Tech has a waste disposal program,
however, they collect and dispose of chemicals on
an infrequent basis, dependent on volume. The user
must pay for the service. This service is very costly
if the material is unknown (factor of ten).
See Chemical Engineering Waste Disposal Manual.
This will be discussed later.

Step 7: What do I do if a chemical spill occurs?

If spill is minor, you may be capable of clean-up or

response - see Safety Manual. Spill kits are very
valuable here.
If spill is major, leave spill site immediately and call
Public Safety at 9-1-1.

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Legal Requirements

MTU is a State institution, so we do not come

under Federal OSHA authority.
However, we are under Michigan OSHA authority.
Michigan is an OSHA certified state, meaning that
all regulations are consistent with Federal
regulations.
Two major regulations:
* Hazard Communication
* Hazardous Work in Laboratories

Hazard Communication

Designed to make information about hazardous

chemicals available to exposed employees.
Applies to any business that uses hazardous
chemicals.
Does not depend on number of employees.

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Part 42: Hazard Communication

The program must include a written hazard

communication document, which addresses:
1. Container labeling.
2. Employee training.
3. MSDSs library development and maintenance.
4. A list of hazardous chemicals.
5. Informing employees about the hazards of non-
routine tasks, such as maintenance or repair.
6. Information exchange between employees, sites
and contractors.

Part 42: Hazard Communication

In addition, the program must address:

1. Employee training in the identification, use, and
hazards of chemicals they may work with.
2. MSDS sheets must be maintained in an orderly
fashion.
3. Containers and pipes must be labeled.

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Part 431: Hazardous Work in Laboratories

Major Parts:
1. Exposure Monitoring
2. Chemical Hygiene Plan
3. Employee Information and Training
4. Medical Surveillance
5. Hazard Identification
6. Respiratory Protection
7. Record keeping

1. Exposure Monitoring

Must measure exposure to any regulated chemicals

and notify the employee within 15 working days of
results.

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2. Chemical Hygiene Plan

Chemical hygiene plan must:

1. provide the means of protecting employees from
chemical exposures.
2. provide methods to keep exposures below limits.
3. be readily accessible.
4. have the following elements:
a. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
b. Criteria for control measures
c. methods to insure lab hood functions

2. Chemical Hygiene Plan (contd)

d. employee information and training.
e. prior approval for hazardous operations.
f. provisions for medical consultations.
g. assignment of chemical hygiene officer.
h. provisions for working with particularly
hazardous substances.
i. designation of exposure areas, including
usage of hoods, waste removal and
decontamination procedures.
5. Must review and update plan annually.

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3. Employee Information and Training

1. Employee must know and understand the hazards
of chemicals in the workplace.
2. Information and training must be provided prior to
chemical use and must be updated for new
exposure situations.
3. Employees shall be informed of the following:
a. The chemical hygiene plan.
b. The PELs for workplace chemicals
c. Signs and symptoms of exposure.
d. The availability of reference materials.

3. Employee Information and Training (contd)

4. Employee training must include the following:

a. Methods used to detect chemicals in
workplace.
b. Physical and health hazards of chemicals.
c. Protection methods.
5. The employee must be trained on the employers
chemical hygiene plan.

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4. Medical Surveillance

1. Employers must provide the following medical

services:
a. appropriate medical examination after
exposures.
b. if exposures are above required levels for
regulated chemicals, then medical surveillance
must be established.
2. Medical examinations must be provided without
cost to the employee.
3. The employer must provide to the physician:
a. the identity of the chemical

4. Medical Surveillance (contd)

b. a description of the conditions under which

the exposure occurred.
c. a description of the signs and symptoms of
exposure.
4. Employer must obtain a written report of the
examining physician.

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5. Hazard Identification

1. Existing labels on containers must not be defaced

or removed.
2. MSDS sheets must be maintained and available to
employees.
3. Unknown chemicals must be treated as
hazardous until proper determinations are made.

6. Use of Respiratory Equipment

Respiratory equipment must be provided at no cost

to employee.

This also applies to any safety equipment required

for the job.

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7. Record Keeping

1. Employers must maintain accurate records of

exposure measurements, medical consultations,
and medical tests.
2. Must be protected from unauthorized disclosure.

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Laboratory Inspections

Laboratory Inspections
In the Department of Chemical Engineering, we have
mandatory annual inspections of all laboratories in
the department. The purpose of this inspection is to
assess the safety program - not to correct problems
in the lab. Inspection of the laboratory on a day-to-
day basis is the responsibility of the laboratory user.
The results of the inspections are documented,
signed by the department head, and distributed
throughout the department.

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Laboratory Inspections

If a laboratory has very serious safety problems, the

laboratory may be shut and locked.
The department chemical hygiene officer and
laboratory manager may inspect a lab at any time,
and recommend corrective action.
Normal, annual inspections are done by Chemical
Engineering faculty.

Lab Inspections
I do a laboratory inspection every time I walk into a
lab (even if it is someone elses lab). If I find a
problem in my lab, I usually take immediate
corrective action.
Lab inspections require skills in hazard identification.
Annual lab inspections in our department use an
inspection form (which changes from year to year).
I consider the inspection form to be a minimum
requirement for safety, and we can all do much better.
It is easier to keep the lab safe on a day-to-day basis
than it is to fix it up once a year for the annual
inspection.

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Hazards Identification
Best done with more than one person.
Requires awareness, attention to detail, and
technical understanding.
There is always something that can be improved!
Some Usual Places to Look:
Look in every cabinet and drawer.
Look at chemical storage.
Look at a few chemical labels.
Look at MSDS library for a few chemicals.
Look at general housekeeping and organization.

Hazards Identification

Example of an unknown chemical that has corroded

the container and is spilling out into the lab.

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Hazards Identification
A safety shower that
cannot be used since a
bookshelf is in the way.

Hazards Identification
A fire extinguisher and fire
blanket that cannot be used
since they are obstructed by
wires.

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Hazards Identification
A chair obstructing a fire
extinguisher.

Hazards Identification

Lots of things here!

Flammables not stored in flammable storage cabinet.
Improper waste disposal.
Incompatible chemicals stored together.

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Inspection Checklist
The inspection checklist includes a number of
mandatory items. These items are shown in red on the
following slides and are identified as Mandatory on
the inspection checklist.
The mandatory items must be corrected immediately,
otherwise the laboratory will be closed. All other items
on the list become mandatory at the next inspection.

Inspection Checklist
[Link]:
1. Completed emergency information labels posted
outside room
2. Exits not blocked
3. Window on laboratory door not covered
4. Emergency Exit route posted on inside of door
5. Fire Extinguisher: Available within laboratory
Clearly visible
Not blocked
Annual inspection is up-to-date
Correct for flammables present

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Inspection Checklist
6. Safety shower: Available within laboratory
Clearly visible
Not blocked
Annual inspection is up-to-date
7. Eye wash: Available within laboratory
Clearly visible
Not blocked
Annual inspection is up-to-date
8. Spill kits: Available within laboratory if chemicals
present
Clearly visible
Not blocked
Appropriate for chemicals present
(includes mercury)

Inspection Checklist
B. Housekeeping
Counters and floor clear of clutter
No food or evidence for food
C. Compressed Gas
Manual shutoff valves provided at all points of
supply and use
Corrosive gases stored no more than 6-months
All cylinders secured in place
Pressure gauges in place
D. Mechanical Guarding
Machine guarding in place
Sharps disposal container available if hypodermic
needles present in lab

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Inspection Checklist

E. Electrical
Electrical cords - not pinched, broken, cracked,
or covered up
Circuits feeding potentially wet areas protected
by GFCI
No exposed and energized electrical parts
Electrical panels are not blocked
Electrical panels labeled, even when not in
service

Inspection Checklist
F. Ventilation
Laboratory hood sash is in working order - not
stuck, broken, or removed
Equipment or materials do not obstruct air flow
Hood interior is clean, uncluttered, and not used
as storage
Air flow rate is posted or flow gauge is present
(between 80 - 120 fpm)
Air flow indicator on hood shows positive
indication of hood function

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Inspection Checklist

G. Personal Protective Equipment

Appropriate safety eye wear is worn
Appropriate shoes worn
Necessary PPE available

Inspection Checklist

H. Chemical Storage
Chemicals in open kept to a minimum
Flammable/combustible liquids stored in safety cans
or flammable storage cabinets
Flammable storage cabinets grounded
Incompatible chemicals, i.e. acids and bases, stored
separately
Chemical containers are properly labeled
Chemical storage cabinets labeled

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Inspection Checklist

I. Chemical Waste Management

Chemical wastes stored in proper containers
and location
All chemical wastes in labeled containers
All chemical wastes in compatible groups
Chemical waste disposal done regularly

Inspection Checklist
J. Hazard Communication
MSDS sheets available for all non-R&D
chemicals in lab
Safety Manual accessible
Emergency response phone numbers
permanently marked on the phone
Chemical inventory is up-to-date and available
Standard operating procedures are available

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Inspection Checklist
K. Glassware
Properly stored
Chipped, broken, or scratched glassware is
disposed of
Broken glass container provided
L. Drying Ovens
JSAs for use are on file and followed.
A logbook is used to document use.
Direct-heated ovens are not used to dry
flammables.
Mercury thermometers are not used in ovens.
Ovens used to dry materials that off-gas toxic or
noxious vapors are located in a hood.

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Waste Disposal

General Concepts Waste Disposal

1. Return unused chemicals to Chem

Stores, if possible.
2. Keep all chemicals unmixed and labeled.
3. Keep waste storage to a minimum.
4. Do not dispose by evaporation in the
hood.
5. A few chemicals can be dumped down
the drain (need to be absolutely sure!)
6. Special waste code required on storage
container.

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Waste Disposal

A waste is any solid, liquid, or contained gaseous

material that you no longer use, and either recycle,
throw away, store, treat, dispose of or abandon.
Regardless of whether it is liquid, solid, or compressed
gas, these wastes are known as solid wastes.
Generators of solid waste are required to immediately
determine if their wastes are hazardous waste. If you
fail to determine that your waste is hazardous, then the
waste may be managed or accumulated improperly.
This is one of the most common generator mistakes
found.

Waste Disposal

Hazardous waste must be accumulated and stored at

the point of generation until removed by OSHS and
must be:

1. Collected in a container that is compatible with its

contents under all conditions it might be subjected
to during accumulation, storage, and shipment.

2. Kept tightly sealed except when adding waste to the

container.

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Waste Disposal

3. Handled only by personnel trained in the

requirements of the hazardous waste rules for
satellite accumulation of hazardous waste.

4. Removed from the accumulation area within three

days if the quantity of any one waste exceeds 55
gallons (from a safety perspective, no more than 5
gallons should be accumulated in a laboratory or
shop).

Waste Disposal - Labeling

Labeled properly according to the following:

1. Each container must have a label. The label

should be attached to the container when it is
initially used for waste. The label must contain the
words hazardous waste, the waste identification
number (see Section 3), the accumulation start
date, the name of the responsible person, room
number and building, and a chemical description
of the waste. The label must also contain the date
the container becomes full.

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Waste Disposal - Labeling

2. Wastes that are commingled must list all

components in the contents section, including
water and all trace materials.

3. Aqueous wastes should have the pH of the

solution recorded.

4. All used oils must also be marked with the words,

"used oil."

Waste Disposal - Labeling

Labeling must always be done in English!

These labels are what I use in my lab!

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Waste Disposal - Labeling

Waste Codes

Hazardous wastes are defined by the United States

Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) as either
listed (meaning that it is listed on a table) or defined
based on a particular characteristic of the material.

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Waste Codes K Listed

K-Listed Hazardous Wastes: K-listed hazardous

wastes are source-specific wastes that are generated
by specific industries such as iron and steel
production facilities. K-listed hazardous wastes are
not likely to be found in a laboratory and are not
discussed in detail here.

Waste Codes F Listed

F-Listed Hazardous Wastes: F-listed hazardous

wastes are non-specific source wastes that are
generated by particular industrial processes that
can occur in various industries. Industrial processes
that generate F-listed hazardous wastes include
wood preservation, electroplating and other metal
finishing processes, and processes that generate
waste solvents.

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Waste Codes F Listed

F-listed wastes that may be found in laboratories include the

following solvents or mixtures containing 10 percent or more
of the solvent (before use) when spent:

Acetone
Benzene
Carbon tetrachloride See complete table in
Hazardous Waste Manual!
Cyclohexanone
Ethyl acetate
Ethyl ether
Isobutanol
Methanol
Methyl ethyl ketone
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Xylene

Waste Codes U Listed

U-Listed Wastes are wastes regulated because they

are a discarded chemical product or are spill-debris
that contains a specific chemical compound which
is considered toxic.

There are over 300 U-listed hazardous wastes.

Please see Appendix VII in the Hazardous Waste
Manual for the complete list.

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Waste Codes U Listed

U-listed hazardous wastes most commonly found in

laboratories include the following:

Acetaldehyde
Acetone
Acetonitrile
Acrylonitrile See complete table in
Aniline Hazardous Waste Manual!
Benzene
1-Butanol
Carbon tetrachloride
Cyclohexane
Ethanol
Ethyl ether
Formaldehyde
Mercury
Methanol
Toluene

Waste Codes P Listed

P-Listed Wastes are also wastes regulated because

they are a discarded product or are spill-debris that
contains a specific chemical compound which is
considered acutely toxic. P listed wastes are
dangerous, even in small amounts, and are regulated
the same way as larger amounts of other hazardous
wastes. Dieldrin, endrin, epinephrine, and sodium
cyanide are examples of P-listed wastes. Even the
containers that hold these wastes are regulated as
hazardous waste until they have been emptied and
triple rinsed.

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Waste Codes P Listed

There are over 100 P-listed hazardous wastes. Please

see Appendix VI in the Hazardous Waste Manual for
the complete list.

The P-listed hazardous wastes most commonly found

in laboratories include the following:

Acrolein
Arsenic acid
Carbon disulfide
Chloroacetaldehyde
Cyanides
Phosgene
Potassium cyanide
Sodium azide
Sodium cyanide

Waste Codes Michigan Specific

Michigan Specific Wastes are listed in Appendix VIII of

the Hazardous Waste Manual. These wastes are
specifically listed for Michigan.

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Characteristic Wastes

Even if a waste does not appear on the EPA lists, it is

considered hazardous if it exhibits one or more of the
following characteristics:
Ignitability - Waste Class Number D001
Corrosivity - Waste Class Number D002
Reactivity - Waste Class Number D003
Toxicity - Waste Class Number D003 thru D043.

Characteristic Wastes - Ignitibility

Ignitability - Waste Class Number D001

A waste exhibits the characteristic of ignitability and

is identified by the hazardous waste number D001 if
a representative sample of the waste has any of the
following properties:

It is a liquid and has a flash point less than 60

degrees Centigrade (140 degrees Fahrenheit).

Plus other special circumstances (see Hazardous

Waste Manual).

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Characteristic Wastes - Corrosivity

Corrosivity - Waste Class Number D002

A waste exhibits the characteristic of corrosivity and is identified
by the hazardous waste number D002 if a representative sample
of the waste has either of the following properties:

It is aqueous and has a pH less than or equal to 2 or greater

than or equal to 12.5.

It is a liquid and corrodes steel (SAE 1020) at a rate of more

than 6.35 mm (0.250 inch) per year at a test temperature of 55
degrees Centigrade (130 degrees Fahrenheit) as determined by
the test method specified in the National Association of
Corrosion Engineers (NACE) standard TM -01-69.

Characteristic Wastes - Reactivity

Reactivity - Waste Class Number D003

A waste exhibits the characteristic of reactivity and

is identified by the hazardous waste number D003
if a representative sample of the waste has any of
the following properties:

It is normally unstable and readily undergoes

violent change without detonating.
It reacts violently with water.
It forms potentially explosive mixtures with water.
When mixed with water, it generates toxic gases,
vapors, or fumes in a quantity sufficient to present
a danger to human health or the environment.

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Characteristic Wastes - Reactivity

It is a cyanide or sulfide-bearing waste that, when

exposed to pH conditions between 2 and 12.5, can
generate toxic gases, vapors, or fumes in a
quantity sufficient to present a danger to human
health or the environment.
It is capable of detonation or explosive reaction if it
is subjected to a strong initiating source or if
heated under confinement.
It is readily capable of detonation or explosive
decomposition or reaction at standard temperature
and pressure.
It is a forbidden explosive.

Characteristic Wastes - Toxicity

Toxicity - Waste Class Number D003 thru D043.

See Tables 1 and in Appendix IV in Hazardous Waste Manual

A waste exhibits the toxicity characteristic if, using the toxicity

characteristic leaching procedure, the extract from a
representative sample of the waste contains any of the
contaminants listed in Table 1 at a concentration equal to or
greater than the respective values given in the table. If the waste
contains less than 0.5% filterable solids, then the waste itself, is
considered to be the extract for the purposes of this rule.

A waste exhibits the characteristic of severe toxicity if the waste

contains l part per million or more of a severely toxic substance
listed in Table 2.

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Form used to request pick-up

of hazardous waste.
Lab wastes are picked up on a
very irregular basis at MTU
(normally 2x per year).
Notify OSHS as soon as
possible.

Procedure Chemical Waste Labeling

1. See if chemical is on one of the lists. Some

chemicals appear on more than one list
select the list that best matches what you
are doing with the chemical.
2. If not on the list, see if the chemical can be
classified according to the characteristic of
the chemical.
3. Put waste code on label.

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Job Safety Assessment

Used to determine hazards associated with a
particular experiment / procedure and to control the
hazards.
Side benefit: excellent method to organize
experiment and procedure prior to operation.
Can be used as an appendix in thesis.
Need:
1. Complete diagram of lab, showing location of safety
equipment, chemical storage and experiment.
2. Complete flow diagram of apparatus, including
numbered valves.
3. MSDS sheets for all chemicals attached.

JSA Page 1

Used to identify location of

experiment.

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JSA Page 1

Provide a brief verbal description of

what this experiment is supposed to
do.

JSA Page 1

This should summarize all the personal protective

equipment required normally in the laboratory and PPE
required for this particular experiment. Equipment that
is required all the time (such as safety glasses) does
not need to be listed on each step of the JSA.

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JSA Page 1

Check all hazards that result due to this experiment.

Identify the one major source of the hazard.

JSA Page 1

List the expected normal, minimum and maximum

values for the temperature and pressure.

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JSA Page 2

Check all special operating conditions. If any of

these are checked, need to consult with Dave
Caspary, Manager of Laboratory Facilities.

JSA Page 2

List all equipment available within the laboratory and

their location. Show the locations on the attached
floor plan.

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JSA Page 2

List the location of the spill response equipment.

Show location on an attached laboratory diagram.

JSA Page 2

Provide all the attachments shown, and list any

additional attachments provided.

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JSA Page 3

List all chemicals (including reactants and

products) used for this experiment / procedure,
and additional information requested.

JSA Page 3

Provide information on the chemical toxicology,

regulation and disposal. List personal protective
equipment specific to this chemical.

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JSA Page 3

Provide information on the chemical reactions.

Include the stoichiometric equation, heat of reaction,
and any other information.

JSA Page 4

Need to be as detailed as possible. Refer to flow

diagram of equipment and floor layout. Safety
procedure should be as detailed as possible, not just
be safe or be careful.

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JSA Page 4
Emergency Shutdown:
List a few things you can do prior to evacuating the laboratory.
Start-Up Procedure:
List the steps to get ready to operate the experiment.
Run Time Procedure:
Steps required to operate the experiment.
Shut-down Procedure:
Steps required to normally terminate the experiment.
Clean-up / Waste Disposal:
Steps required to clean the equipment and dispose of all
chemical wastes.

JSA Example

Need to charge 10 ml of acetic anhydride into a test

cell. Acetic anhydride is stored in the flammable
storage cabinet in a 1-liter container.
First step get MSDS sheet!

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Acetic Anhydride MSDS

OSHA PEL: 5 PPM OSHA PEL Code: M
OSHA STEL: OSHA STEL Code:
ACGIH TLV: 5 PPM ACGIH TLV Code: M
ACGIH STEL: N/P ACGIH STEL Code:
EPA Reporting Quantity: 5000 LBS
DOT Reporting Quantity: 5000 LBS
Ozone Depleting Chemical: N

Acetic Anhydride MSDS

Health Hazards Acute & Chronic: ACUTE:INHAL:IRRITATION OF NOSE &
THROAT, SEVERE IRRITATION OF RESPIRATORY SYSTEM, COUGHING,
DIFFICULT BREATHING, CHEST PAINS, PULMONARY EDEMA. SKIN/EYE
CONTACT:BURNS. SKIN ABSORPTION:NONE IDENTIFIED.
INGEST:SEVERE BURNS TO MOUTH, THROAT & STOMACH, NAUSEA,
VOMITING, SHOCK. CHRONIC:NONE IDENTIFIED. (EFTS OF OVEREXP)

Signs & Symptoms of Overexposure:

HLTH HAZ:TARGET ORGANS:RESPIRATORY SYSTEM, LUNGS, EYES,
SKIN.

Medical Conditions Aggravated by Exposure:

NONE IDENTIFIED.

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Acetic Anhydride MSDS

Route of Entry Indicators:

Inhalation: YES
Skin: YES
Ingestion: YES

Repiratory Protection:
RESP PROT REQUIRED IF AIRBORNE CONC EXCEEDS TLV. AT
CONCS UP TO 250 PPM, A NIOSH/MSHA APPRVD CHEM
CARTRIDGE RESP W/ACID/ORGANIC CARTRIDGE IS REC. ABOVE
THIS LEVEL, A NIOSH/MSHA APPRVD SCBA IS ADVISED.
Ventilation:
USE GENERAL OR LOCAL EXHAUST VENTILATION TO MEET TLV
REQUIREMENTS. VENT HOOD.

Acetic Anhydride MSDS

Protective Gloves:
NEOPRENE GLOVES.
Eye Protection: SAFETY GOGGLES & FACE SHIELD.
Other Protective Equipment: UNIFORM & PROTECTIVE SUIT ARE
RECOMMENDED. LAB COAT & APRON.
Work Hygenic Practices: WASH THOROUGHLY AFTER HANDLING.

Flash Point: Flash Point Text: 118F,48C

Autoignition Temperature:
Autoignition Temperature Text: N/A
Lower Limit(s): 2.7%
Upper Limit(s): 10.3%

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Conclusions from MSDS

1. Perform all open bottle transfer operations in

hood.
2. Wear Neoprene gloves for all operations.
3. Wear face shield and safety goggles.
4. Use lab coat.
5. Wash hands thoroughly after all transfers.

JSA Steps

Step Hazard Safety Proc. PPE

1. Remove acetic anhydride from storage cabinet and place in tub on cart.
Spill Tub to contain Face Shield
Spill kit in lab Neoprene Gloves
Lab Coat
Safety Shower in lab
Fire and Explosion Fire Extinguisher on wall near door.
Safety Shower in NE corner of lab.
2. Move cart to hood
3. Move acetic anhydride from cart to tub in hood.

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JSA Steps

Step Hazard Safety Proc. PPE

4. Remove cap from bottle and pour 10 ml into measuring flask.

5. Pour into test cell.

6. Place cap on bottle, return to cart, transport to storage cabinet.

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Biosafety
Considers infectious exposures

What is Biosafety?

Principlesandpracticesemployedtoprotect
laboratorypersonnelandtheenvironmentfrom
exposureorinfectionwhileworkingwithliving
organisms,biologicalmaterials,oragents.

Includedareanymaterialsthatmaybepotentially
infectious.
IncludesrecombinantDNAresearch

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LaboratoryAcquiredInfections(LAI)

Bacterial: 76%fromclinicallabs,8%from
researchlabs
Exposure:60%acquiredfrominhalation

Otherexposuresinclude:
digestion,
inoculation ([Link]),
splashes,
directandindirectcontact

Whatnottodo!

BiologicalRisk
NeedtoUnderstand:
thebiologyoftheagent
susceptibilityandtransmissionwithinthe
host
hazardsassociatedwithequipmentand
procedures
Goal:
Providethehighestpracticalprotectionand
thelowestpracticalexposure

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WorldHealthOrganization
WHO

AssignedRiskGroupsforBiologicalAgents
RG1Unlikelytocausediseaseinhumansor
animals
lowindividualorcommunityrisk
RG2Maycausediseasebuttypicallynotserious
individualrisk,lowcommunityrisk,treatable
RG3Maycauseseriousdisease,usuallytreatable
Highindividualbutlowcommunityrisk,seriousrespiratoryagents
RG4Seriousorfatal,oftennottreatable,
Easytransmission,highindividualandcommunityrisk

BiosafetyLevels(BSL)
DifferentconceptthantheRiskGroups!
Riskgroupsusedinriskassessment
BSLsareusedinriskmanagement
BSLarewaystocontrol theagent
facilities,safetyequipment,practices,PPE,etc.
Onceriskisassessedthentheappropriate
BSLisdetermined
RG1 BSL1butdoesnotalways
corresponddirectly!

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BioSafety Level1
RG1:Wellcharacterized,non
pathogenicorganismsoragents

Openbench nocontainment

Usegoodlaboratorypractices,waste
disposal,andaseptictechniques

Example:[Link]

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BioSafety Level2
RG2:Agentsofmoderatehazardto
personnelorenvironment

Basiclab,butrestrictedaccess,containmentduring
certainprocesses([Link],largevolumes,etc.)

AutoclaveandBiologicalSafetyCabinetdesired

Usegoodlaboratorypractices,wastedisposal,and
aseptictechniques

Example:mostnonrespiratory,nonlethal,agents

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BioSafety Level2Equipment

[Link] Module%202%20-%[Link]

BioSafety Level2Equipment

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BioSafety Level3
FORGETABOUTITATMTU!

RG3:Agentsofhighhazardtopersonnelorenvironment
Respiratoryexoticorindigenousagentswhichareeasily
transmissiblecausingseriousorlethaldisease
Allworkiscontained,engineeringcontrolsandcontrolled
environmentswecurrentlydonothavethefacilitiesto
handle.

Example:Mycobacterium tuberculosis,SARS,etc.

BioSafety Level4
FORGETABOUTIT!!!

RG4:Hemorrhagicfever,deadlyviruses,etc.
Totalcontainment,airtightlabs,submarinedoors,
airpumps,watertreatment,HEPAfiltration,etc.
Positivepressuremoonsuits