General Safety for
Students in Laboratories
August 2012
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Objectives for safety training
• To become familiar with regulations related to
laboratories
•To become familiar with sources of chemical
information
•To become familiar with ways to detect and protect
from chemical hazards
•To become familiar with proper fume hood practices
•To become familiar with emergency procedures
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Objectives for safety training
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To recognize hazardous waste
To know Tulane University’s policies concerning
hazardous waste
To know how to properly label hazardous waste
To know how to store hazardous waste
To know how to minimize hazardous waste
Office of Environmental Health & Safety
WEBSITE
http://tulane.edu/oehs
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OEHS Website Topics
These are some of the topics and info that can be found on the OEHS website:
• Safety Data Sheets
• Chemical Safety
• Hazardous Materials
& Waste
• Fire Safety
• Departmental Safety
Representative
Program
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Biological Safety
Laser Safety
Radiation Safety
Ergonomics
General Safety
OEHS Policies &
Procedures Manual
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OEHS Website –Safety Data Sheets
(SDS) Link
• Safety Data Sheets are available on the
OEHS website under the following link :
http://tulane.edu/oehs/safety/materialsafetyd
atasheets.cfm
• SDSs are documents provided by the
manufacturer that tell you about a chemical
and how to protect yourself
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OEHS Website - Chemical Safety Link
This is some of the information available under the Chemical Safety
link of the OEHS website:
• Incompatible Chemical
• Annual Lab Safety
List
Documentation Forms
• Lab Hoods
• OSHA Formaldehyde
Standard Guide
• Lab Door Labels
• OSHA Hazard
• Compressed Gas
Communication Standard
Cylinders
Guide
• Ethyl Ether
• OSHA Lab
Standard/Chemical
Hygiene Plan Guide
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Prudent Practices in the
Laboratory
National Research Council
This is an excellent, highly recommended
reference of laboratory safety information- now
available online at
http://www.nap.edu/catalog.php?record_id=12654
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories
Less is Better: Laboratory Chemical
Management for Waste Reduction
Publications from the American Chemical Society Available online at
http://portal.acs.org/portal/PublicWebSite/about/governance/com
mittees/chemicalsafety/publications/WPCP_012294
http://portal.acs.org/portal/PublicWebSite/about/governance/com
mittees/chemicalsafety/publications/WPCP_012290
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Hawley’s Condensed Chemical
Dictionary
The Merck Index
Chemical Abstracts
These are additional sources of chemical safety information.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Regulatory Websites
These sites contain safety information and references to regulations.
Some, like OSHA, even provide online training on various topics.
• www.osha.gov – Occupational Safety and Health
Administration website
• www.epa.gov – Environmental Protection Agency
website
• www.bt.cdc.gov – bioterrorism site of Centers for
Disease Control
• www.cdc.gov/niosh - Centers for Disease Control/
NIOSH website
• www.dot.gov – Department of Transportation
website
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
• Purpose: to protect laboratory
workers from health hazards
associated with chemical exposure
in the laboratory
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN (CHP)
• Requires a written Chemical
Hygiene Plan (CHP)
• See Laboratory Safety section
(section 30) of the OEHS
Policies & Procedures Manual
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN (CHP)
• Tulane’s CHP is a generic plan
• It is supplemented by annually
updated Standard Operating
Procedures (SOPs) developed by
laboratory supervisors/principal
investigators discussing safety
practices and procedures specific
to the laboratory
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
CHEMICAL HYGIENE OFFICER (CHO)
• The Lab Standard also requires each
employer with laboratories to appoint
a Chemical Hygiene Officer.
• The certified CHO for Tulane
University is Pam Fatland of OEHS.
You may contact her if you have
questions.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA HAZARD
COMMUNICATION STANDARD
• Recently revised regulation (globally harmonized
system of classification and labeling)
• Purpose: To understand chemical hazards in the
workplace and how to protect yourself
• Tulane written Hazard Communication Plan
located in Section 12 of the OEHS Policies and
Procedures Manual
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA HAZARD
COMMUNICATION STANDARD
• Under the OSHA HAZCOM standard,
manufacturers of chemicals are required to
classify the chemicals they produce and
transmit that information to customers on
labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Become Familiar with Chemicals in
Your Laboratory
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Chemical Inventory
Container Labels
Laboratory Door Signs
Safety Data Sheets
Reference Materials
Training
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
PURPOSE OF UPDATING
CHEMICAL INVENTORY
• To verify that you have the Safety Data Sheets
(SDSs) you need in the work area and that OEHS
library of SDSs is complete
• Emergency Responders need inventory for
emergencies, such as fires and spills, and for
planning purposes
• To perform a hazard evaluation of the area,
obtain appropriate PPE, verify proper storage
and that containers are in good condition and not
expired
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
PURPOSE OF UPDATING
CHEMICAL INVENTORY
• Tulane is required to report inventory to local,
state, and federal agencies such as the EPA, the
State Police, and the Fire Department
• Fees based on the inventory must be paid to
regulatory agencies (Example: City of New
Orleans Hazardous Materials Tax which helps to
support the Fire Dept’s HAZMAT unit)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
NEW CHEMICAL LABELS –
Required Information
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Product Identifier (full chemical name)
GHS Pictograms
Signal Words
Hazard Statements
Precautionary Statements
Supplier Information
Supplementary Information
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Transfer Containers
Required Information
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Product Identifier (full chemical name)
Words, Pictures, Symbols
General hazard information
Specific information about
physical and health hazards
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
NEW CHEMICAL LABELS
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CHEMICAL LABELS –
General Information
• Required on all incoming containers, all transfer
containers that will be left for a period of time, and
on all containers that will be used by more than one
person
• You can label an entire shelf instead of each
individual container if all containers on the shelf
contain the same thing (Ex. specimen containers of
ethanol)
• Labels must be legible, in English with the full name
of the chemical spelled out (no symbols or
abbreviations)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CHEMICAL LABELS –
Required Information
• The purpose of labeling is to identify the
material and to become aware of the hazards
and the methods of protection
• Sometimes OSHA requires special wording to
appear on the label of certain chemicals or at
the entrance to a regulated area (Ex.
Formaldehyde containers must say “Irritant
and Potential Cancer Hazard”)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Chemical Labeling Systems
Optional information which may be found on a container label:
• The National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) uses a colorcoded diamond with a numerical
rating system to identify the degree of
health (blue), fire (red), or reactivity
(yellow) hazards associated with a
chemical in a fire situation. A zero
means minimal hazards whereas a four
indicates severe hazards.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Chemical Labeling Systems
Optional information which may be found on a container label:
• The National Paint and Coatings
Association uses the Hazardous
Materials Identification System
(HMIS), a similar system of labeling
which rates chemicals from zero to
four on their health (blue),
flammability (red), reactivity (yellow),
and also gives personal protective
equipment designations.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Improper Labeling
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Improper Labeling - Abbreviations
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
LABORATORY DOOR SIGNS
Signage for laboratory doors stating the hazards found in the lab
and emergency contact information are available from OEHS
• Door sign request forms available on OEHS website at
http://tulane.edu/oehs/safety/lab-door-labels.cfm – form can also
be used for updates of current signs
• Signs contain stickers relating to hazards found in that
laboratory (Example: Flammable, Corrosive, Water Reactive)
• Signs also contain authorized admittance/emergency contact
information which should be used before entering a lab or
during an emergency to contact appropriate personnel
• Copies of signage forms are kept in OEHS for emergency
response purposes
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
DEFINITIONS
Familiarize yourself with terms found on chemical labels/SDSs
SDS HyperGlossary http://www.ilpi.com/msds/ref/
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
DEFINITIONS
CARCINOGEN - Can cause cancer
CORROSIVE - Can cause destruction of
living tissue (e.g., acids, caustics)
EXPLOSIVE - Can cause release of pressure,
gas, and heat
FLAMMABLE - Can burn when ignition
source and air are present
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
DEFINITIONS
IRRITANT - Can cause reversible
inflammatory effect (e.g., eyes
water, itching)
OXIDIZER - Promotes combustion =
oxygen
SENSITIZER - Can cause an allergic
reaction in some people
TOXIC - Can cause health effect
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Physical Hazards
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Flammable
Combustible
Oxidizer
Organic Peroxide
Water Reactive
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Explosive
Reactive
Pyrophoric
Compressed gas
Radioactive
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Health Hazards
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Irritant
Sensitizer
Corrosive
Toxic – Acute,
Chronic
• Carcinogen
• Reproductive Toxin
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
ROUTES OF ENTRY
Chemicals can enter the body in a number of ways. Depending
on how the chemical enters the body, you may need respiratory
protection, skin protection such as gloves or aprons, or face and
eye protection such as face shields and goggles.
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INHALATION = Nose
INGESTION = Mouth
SKIN CONTACT = Skin, Eyes
INJECTION = Skin (subcutaneous vs.
dermal)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDSs)
• Documents that inform you of the hazards
associated with a chemical and how to protect
yourself from those hazards
• SDSs must be readily accessible to employees in
the work area where the chemicals are used
• Each company publishes its own SDSs with
their address and emergency contact
information. Thus if you have a chemical such
as acetone from two different manufacturers,
you will need an SDS from each company
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDSs)
(The following lists information that required on an SDS)
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Identity
Hazard identification
Ingredients/composition
First aid measures
Fire fighting info
Accident release info
Handling & storage
Exposure controls/PPE
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Physical/chemical properties
Stability/reactivity
Toxicology info
Ecological info
Disposal info
Transport info
Regulatory info
Other info/any revisions
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
SAFETY DATA SHEETS –
ACQUISITION
Ways to Obtain SDSs at Tulane:
• On OEHS Website at the following link:
http://tulane.edu/oehs/safety/materialsafetydatasheets.cfm
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Online SDS collections
Online Manufacturer Links
Manufacturer FAX numbers
Other University Websites
OEHS Library of hard copies of SDSs
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
ELECTRONIC SAFETY DATA
SHEETS
OSHA recognizes that SDSs can be kept electronically in the
work area as long as there are no barriers to immediate access.
• All in work area must be trained on how to
obtain SDSs
• You must be able to print SDSs
• You must have an alternative to obtaining
SDSs in the event of power loss or other
emergency (contact OEHS – library of SDSs)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
TRAINING & INFORMATION TOPICS
The OSHA Lab Standard States that you must be familiar with the following:
• Methods to detect hazardous chemicals
in the work area
• Signs and symptoms of exposure to
chemicals
• Methods to reduce exposure
• Physical & health hazards of chemicals
used in the work area
• PPE and emergency procedures
• CHP/SOPs & reference materials
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
Detecting Hazardous Chemicals
• Permissible Exposure Limits
• Signs & symptoms of exposure to
chemicals
• Odors/Leaks/Spills
• Monitoring exposure
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL
There are three main ways to control exposure to chemicals:
• Engineering Controls (usually consists
of ventilation, safety showers/eyewash
units, etc.)
• Work Practices (handling, storage,
housekeeping, etc.)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
(gloves, eye/face protection, etc.)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CHEMICAL FUME HOODS
• Designed to protect the
worker from toxic or
hazardous chemicals
• 100% of air exhausted to
outside
• No recirculation of air
• Baffles in back should adjust
for work with chemicals of
different volatilities and
vapor densities
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CHEMICAL FUME HOODS
• All chemical fume hoods at
Tulane must have an alarm or
airflow indicator device on
them to show that they are
operating properly
• Most chemical fume hoods
should have a face velocity in
the range of 80-100 fpm
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CHEMICAL FUME HOODS
• Do not assume that your fume
hood is operating properly.
Check the alarm indicator. At
the very least, use a piece of
tissue paper and make sure it is
drawn inward. IF NOT
OPERATING PROPERLY,
DISCONTINUE WORK
WITH HAZARDOUS OR
TOXIC CHEMICALS!
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Keep the sash as low as
possible
• Work at least 6 inches inside
hood
• Keep work surface clear of
unnecessary items
• Keep baffles clear of
obstructions – elevate large
equipment off work surface
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Avoid rapid movement into
and in front of hood
• Pedestrian traffic in front of
hood creates turbulence and
can pull vapors out of hood
and into operator’s breathing
zone
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Keep the amount of material in a
hood to a minimum – excessive
clutter increases turbulence and
reduces hood efficiency
• An airfoil helps to minimize
undesirable turbulence when air
entering the hood impacts the front
edge of the floor of the hood – be
sure airfoil is installed and side
panels are in place
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Secure loose lightweight
objects such as paper towels
• Run water in hood drains
often to reduce odors that
may develop in p-trap
• Ensure adequate illumination
in hood
• Be aware that opening and
closing lab doors can affect
hood performance
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Keep the sash clean and
unobstructed
• Place cords and hoses under
the airfoil so sash can be kept
closed
• Practice good housekeeping
• Clean chemical residues and
spills from interior hood
surfaces
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
FUME HOOD SAFETY TIPS
• Do not place absorbent paper
under heating appliances
• Do not place incompatible
chemicals together
• Remember – the emptier the
hood, the better air currents
can flow through it! Do not
use hood as storage cabinet.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
CANOPY VENTILATION
• May be 100% Exhausted to
outside, but not recommended
for chemical use
• Draws fumes past worker’s
breathing zone
• Best used for heat removal
such as in a kitchen
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL –
EYEWASHES/SHOWERS
• Eyewash fountains are required in
work areas where formaldehyde,
irritants, or corrosive chemicals are
used and there is the potential for a
splash to the eye.
• Eyewashes must be tested weekly by
the laboratory personnel. Showers
must be tested at least annually by
Facilities Services.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL –
EYEWASHES/SHOWERS
• Eyewash fountains are required in
work areas where formaldehyde,
irritants, or corrosive chemicals are
used and there is the potential for a
splash to the eye.
• Eyewashes must be tested weekly by
the laboratory personnel. Showers
must be tested at least annually by
Facilities Services.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL –
EYEWASHES/SHOWERS
• Emergency showers/eyewashes must
be readily accessible, clear of
obstructions, and clearly labeled.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
• Laboratory technique is important in
minimizing exposure to hazardous
chemicals.
• There is no substitute for adequate
planning and knowledge when using
hazardous materials.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
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Practice good housekeeping.
Maintain aisles/uncluttered work areas.
Properly store &handle chemicals.
Substitute less hazardous materials when
possible (such as non-mercury thermometers).
• Scale down experiments.
• Use secondary containment.
• Use good chemical hygiene practices.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Poor Housekeeping
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
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Obtaining Chemicals
Transporting Chemicals
Storing Chemicals
Minimizing Exposure
Proper Labeling
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
CHEMICAL STORAGE
• Minimize purchases; order
only what is needed
• Avoid storing on floor and in
fume hood; use secondary
containment
• Keep containers capped and
properly labeled
• Practice good housekeeping
• Use shelves with lips,
flammable cabinets if
available
• Segregate by hazard class
• Dispose of deteriorating, old,
or unneeded chemicals
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
GAS STORAGE
• Properly secure gas cylinders
• Make sure cylinders have protective cap in
place unless attached to a regulator
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – WORK PRACTICES
TOXIC/HIGH RISK CHEMICALS
• Use in a designated area
• Use containment devices such as
a fume hood
• Dispose of waste properly
• Decontaminate work area
• Have an emergency plan
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• PPE is used as a final alternative in the
event that engineering controls and work
practices do not adequately prevent
exposure to chemicals.
• PPE must be adequate for the substance
being handled and must be available in
different sizes/styles (i.e., powdered &
unpowdered gloves).
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
• PPE must be inspected to make
sure it is in good condition.
• Personnel must be trained on PPE,
how and when to use it, how to
maintain and store it, etc.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• A Dartmouth researcher got one drop of
dimethylmercury on her latex glove and died from
the exposure. Latex was not appropriate for
protection for work with dimethylmercury.
• Latex or PVC gloves are not suitable for direct
contact with corrosive or highly toxic chemicals.
• Glove permeability charts are available from glove
manufacturers to help you decide which type of
glove is appropriate for use with different
chemicals. Contact OEHS for more information or
if you have questions.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• If gloves are reusable, clean and inspect them after
use. Store them in a manner in which they will not
become torn or damaged.
• If gloves are disposable, or if they are torn or in
poor condition, dispose of them in appropriate trash
container. Do not throw on floor or leave dirty
gloves on counters.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
• Respirators require a medical
evaluation and annual fit-testing.
• Respirators should only be used if
engineering and work practice
controls cannot adequately control
a chemical exposure.
• Contact OEHS immediately if you
feel a respirator may be needed in
your area.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
• Respirators require adherence to a
strict respiratory protection
program.
• When requested, OEHS will
monitor area to help determine if
respirators may be required. In
most cases, exposure to chemicals
can be controlled by alternative
methods.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• Regular prescription eyeglasses do not take
the place of safety glasses or goggles.
• The American Chemical Society has taken
the position that contact lenses may be worn
in the laboratory as long as appropriate eye
protection such as safety glasses or goggles,
as required of other workers in the
laboratory, is also worn.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
• Safety glasses and goggles should
be stored in a manner in which they
will not become dirty or scratched,
such as in a drawer or cabinet, or in
a plastic bag. They should not be
left on the counter or hung by their
straps.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EXPOSURE CONTROL – PERSONAL
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• In addition to wearing suitable PPE, a
laboratory worker must also dress
appropriately for their work. For example,
sandals/flip-flops, shorts, and tops with
exposed midriffs are inappropriate attire for
laboratory work with hazardous materials.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In the event of an emergency:
• Evacuate the area
• Contact Public Safety and OEHS
immediately
• Be familiar with your Emergency Action
Plan (EAP) – evacuation policy, procedures,
and escape routes – see your Departmental
Safety Representative for more information
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – FIRE
SUPPRESSION
Before using a fire extinguisher:
• Make sure you have an unobstructed
escape route at your back
• Fire should be small, confined, and not
spreading (e.g., trash can fire)
• Know that the extinguisher is the right type
for the job
• Know how to use an extinguisher
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – FIRE
SUPPRESSION
To use a portable fire extinguisher,
remember PASS:
• Pull the pin
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the handles
• Sweep from side to side
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES – FIRE
RESPONSE
HOW TO RESPOND TO A FIRE IN YOUR AREA
FOLLOW THE ACRONYM, E S C A P E
E = EVALUATE the situation
S = SECURE THE AREA – Remove occupants
C = CLOSE THE DOORS to contain the fire
A = ACTIVATE THE FIRE ALARM – use the nearest pull station
P = PHONE THE DESIGNATED EMERGENCY NUMBER
Uptown Campus – dial 865-5200 or X5200
E = EXTINGUISH THE FIRE – using a portable fire extinguisher, if
you determine it is safe to do so (fire is small and not
spreading, fire doesn’t come between you and the exit, etc.)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
BUILDING BLOCKS OF
LABORATORY SAFETY
• Make safety a top priority
• Make information available and accessible
(SDSs, safety literature, etc.)
• Use equipment appropriate for the task
• Be watchful during experiments – be ready for
unexpected events
• Substitute less hazardous substances when possible,
or use other methods such as robotics
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
BUILDING BLOCKS OF
LABORATORY SAFETY
• Avoid close calls and doing something “just this
once”
• Do not procrastinate (get equipment repaired, buy
needed PPE, etc.)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
What is a Hazardous Waste?
Characteristic Waste: A substance that meets the
EPA classification(s) for any or all of the following
characteristics (40 CFR §261 Subpart C);
• Ignitability
• Corrosivity
• Reactivity
• Toxicity
Items received with hazardous shipping labels
will most likely become hazardous waste
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
What Is A Hazardous Waste?
Listed Waste: Waste that the EPA has listed as
“hazardous” regardless of its physical
characteristics.
• Commercial Chemical Products ( P and U Lists)
– P- List (40 CFR §261.33(e)): “acutely hazardous” wastes (e.g.
physostigmine, sodium azide, strychnine)
– U-List (40 CFR §261.33(f)): “non-acutely hazardous” wastes
(e.g. formaldehyde, xylene, toluene)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
P and U Lists
• P-Listed wastes are highly toxic; could be or are
fatal to humans and animals in low doses
• U-Listed wastes are toxic, but not considered
acutely toxic; carcinogens, mutagens, materials
that bioaccumulate
– Chemicals on the P and U lists are generally “toxic”
but can also be ignitable, corrosive, and reactive
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
What is a Hazardous Waste?
Listed Waste Cont’d:
• Process Wastes: Wastes from various sources that
EPA has determined should be regulated as
“hazardous.” ( F and K lists)
– F- List (40 CFR §261.31) : wastes from non-specific
sources (e.g. spent solvents)
– K-List (40 CFR §261.32) : industry specific wastes
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
How Do I Know if my Waste is
“Hazardous?”
• Properly characterizing waste streams can be a
complicated process, and must be done accurately
to ensure that waste is properly treated and
disposed.
• Please contact OEHS (504) 988-5486 for
questions regarding whether or not your waste is
“hazardous.”
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
What Is A Hazardous Waste?
Check the Safety
Data Sheet to help
determine if your
waste chemical is a
hazardous waste
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
What Is Hazardous Waste?
Any of these keywords usually indicate the
waste materials will be hazardous waste:
• Flammable
• Stench Agent
• Flashpoint (<140 F)
• Oxidizer
• Corrosive, Acid, Basic,
Caustic (pH <2 or >2.5)
• Water or air Reactive,
Pyrophoric, Peroxide
Former
• Explosive
• Poison
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Empty Containers
Generally speaking,
empty containers are not
considered “Hazardous
Waste” and may be
thrown away with
regular solid waste or in
a glass disposal box only
after the label has been
removed or defaced.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Rinsing Empty Containers
However, empty containers that previously
held “acutely hazardous waste” (P-listed
waste) must be triple-rinsed with an
appropriate solvent before disposal.
The solvent must then be disposed of as a
“Hazardous Waste.” Contact the OEHS (504)
988-5486, to determine if you are working
with any “acutely hazardous” materials.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Accumulating “Hazardous
Waste”
• Capture waste in rigid containers that
are compatible with the waste.
•
Keep all containers closed (capped)
except when hazardous waste is being
added to them.
• Do not store incompatible wastes
together.
• Outer containers should be clean and
free of residue
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Accumulating “Hazardous
Waste”
• Use Eco Funnels when possible to reduce emissions
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Accumulating “Hazardous
Waste”
Use secondary containment such as a tray or a tub to
contain hazardous waste in the event that the primary
container should leak.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Containerize Hazardous Waste
• Cans of paint without lids,
broken thermometers, and
chemically contaminated
items must be overpacked
into another container
which is free of leaks so
they can be disposed of
safely.
• The OEHS will not accept
waste that is not properly
containerized.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
To Help Minimize Costs
DO NOT MIX WASTES
• Only compatible waste solvents should be mixed
together in appropriate waste containers
• Do not mix acids and flammable materials
together
• Do not mix biological and chemical waste
• Do not mix radiological and chemical waste
These practices can greatly reduce the cost of
hazardous waste disposal.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Labeling Waste Containers
The following information
must be on the label:
• The words “Hazardous
Waste”
• The full name of the
chemical(s) being placed in
the container (no
abbreviations or symbols)
• Associated hazards (such as
flammable, corrosive,
reactive, toxic)
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Labeling Waste Containers
(cont’d)
Do not rely on the EHS Specialist picking up your
waste to label your containers for you.
It is the waste generator’s responsibility to
properly identify and label waste and waste
containers.
The OEHS provides “Hazardous Waste” labels
upon request.
The OEHS does not accept unknowns or
unlabeled waste for disposal
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
“Hazardous Waste” Disposal
Procedures
• Maintain waste in your area until collected by OEHS or
brought to the OEHS storage facility.
• To schedule a waste pickup, submit an online
“Hazardous Waste Pickup Request Form;”
http://tulane.edu/oehs/hazard/hazwastepickuprequest.cfm.
•Please allow ~ 1 week from the time of form submission
to have your waste picked up.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
“Hazardous Waste” Disposal
Procedures
• Tulane is not a licensed disposal facility - NEVER
dispose of “Hazardous Waste” by pouring it down
the drain or placing it in the trash.
• Do not use evaporation as a disposal method.
• Under no circumstances may anyone place chemicals
in the OEHS waste storage areas unless directed by
OEHS personnel.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Disposal Costs
• The OEHS is responsible for the cost of disposal
associated with chemical waste from laboratories
and other areas that is generated through normal
research and work activities.
• The OEHS is not responsible for the cost of
disposing of unwanted/old chemicals from
principle investigators/researchers/others
separating from the University.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Lab Cleanouts
• Any department which needs disposal of chemicals that are
generated due to a lab or other area closing down or being
renovated must bear the cost for disposal of those
chemicals.
• OEHS must receive a signed IT before it makes any
arrangements with a commercial disposal company for
removal and disposal of such chemicals.
• You must go through OEHS for disposal of all “Hazardous
Waste”. Contact OEHS for estimates if needed.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Minimizing “Hazardous Waste”
By law, a Waste minimization program is required. Waste
minimization is accomplished by:
• Source reduction (ordering less & only what is needed)
• Surplus chemical redistribution
• Labeling all containers (disposal of unknowns is
expensive)
• Redistilling solvents
• Using mercury-free instruments
• Substituting hazardous chemicals with non-hazardous or
less hazardous chemicals
• Reducing the scale of experiments
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Chemical Waste Handling Procedures
• For a poster on chemical waste handling
procedures which can be placed in your lab or
other area for convenient reference, please go
to the following link:
http://tulane.edu/oehs/hazard/upload/ChemWasteProce.pdf
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Radioactive Waste
Radioactive waste is regulated separately
from “Hazardous Waste” by the Nuclear
Regulatory Committee (NRC).
For questions regarding radioactive waste,
contact the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO),
Charles Reindl, at 988-2867 or email
creindl@tulane.edu.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Medical Waste
Medical waste is regulated by the EPA, but
collection and disposal of medical waste is
coordinated through Facilities Services.
Please contact Facilities Services on your
campus for questions regarding medical
waste and to schedule pick-ups.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Waste Disposal Summary
•
Those who generate “Hazardous Waste” must adhere
to Tulane University’s Policies & Procedures
concerning hazardous waste.
•
All “Hazardous Waste” must be properly accumulated,
labeled, and disposed.
•
“Hazardous Waste” generation can be minimized by
using less toxic materials, substituting the hazardous
material with non-toxic material, or recycling the
material.
Tulane University - Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Tulane University
Office of Environmental Health & Safety (OEHS)
Pam Fatland
Manager, Safety
(504)988-2800 / (504)988-2865
pfatlan@tulane.edu / mkopaigo@tulane.edu
Proceed to Quiz
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https://audubon.tulane.edu/ehs/enterssn.cfm?testnum=127