School of Biological Sciences
Safety Information
for
Staff and Students
January 2013
Table of Contents
1
Introduction ........................................................................................ 1
2
Emergency Contact Officers ................................................................ 2
3
Emergency Procedures ....................................................................... 5
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
School Safety Staff ....................................................................................... 2
School First Aiders ....................................................................................... 2
Emergency Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus ........................................... 3
Advanced Resuscitation ............................................................................... 4
Defibrillation................................................................................................. 4
OHS Contacts .............................................................................................. 4
Radiation Contacts ....................................................................................... 4
Field trip Safety Contacts .............................................................................. 4
If you are first on the scene of an emergency .................................................. 5
Evacuation .................................................................................................. 6
3.2.1
Building Information ...................................................................... 6
3.2.2
Weekend or After Hours Evacuation ............................................... 7
First Aid Procedures ..................................................................................... 7
Safety Aids .................................................................................................. 7
3.4.1
Fire Extinguishers ......................................................................... 7
3.4.2
First Aid Kits ................................................................................. 7
3.4.3
Safety Showers / Eye wash ........................................................... 8
3.4.4
Wheel Chair ................................................................................. 8
4
Security............................................................................................... 9
5
Other Safety-related Information ........................................................ 11
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
Contact phone numbers................................................................................ 9
Security and Traffic Office ............................................................................. 9
Theft ........................................................................................................... 9
Security Escort Service ................................................................................. 9
Campus Buses .......................................................................................... 10
4.5.1
Security Buses ........................................................................... 10
4.5.2
Car Park Shuttle Service ............................................................. 10
4.5.3
Inter-Campus bus ....................................................................... 10
Health Service ............................................................................................11
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions ...................................................................11
Insurance Cover For Students and Staff ........................................................11
Volunteer Workers.......................................................................................11
Children in the Workplace ............................................................................11
6
OHSE Training .................................................................................. 13
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
Induction and Essential Training .................................................................. 13
Specific Training......................................................................................... 13
Laboratory Inductions .................................................................................14
Training Aggreements................................................................................. 15
6.4.1
Training for Equipment ................................................................ 15
6.4.2
Training for Hazardous Substances .............................................. 16
Risk Assessments ...................................................................................... 16
7
Inspections and Audits ...................................................................... 17
8
Electrical Testing............................................................................... 19
7.1
7.2
8.1
8.2
In-house OHS Inspections...........................................................................17
External Audits ...........................................................................................17
7.2.1
OHS External Audits....................................................................17
7.2.2
Worksafe inspections ..................................................................17
7.2.3
OGTR Inspections....................................................................... 18
7.2.4
Quarantine Inspections ................................................................ 18
7.2.5
Drugs and Poisons Audit ............................................................. 18
Residual Currency Devices (RCD‟s) ............................................................. 19
Testing, Tagging and Repairing Electrical Equipment .................................... 19
9
Testing Emergency Eye wash and Safety Showers ............................. 21
10
Hazards and Risk Areas within the School ......................................... 22
11
Hazard & Incident Reporting & Investigation ......................................24
12
Risk Management .............................................................................. 25
13
Immunisation ................................................................................... 27
14
Safe Laboratory Practices.................................................................. 28
9.1
9.2
10.1
12.1
12.2
14.1
14.2
14.3
Testing Emergency Eye Wash ..................................................................... 21
Testing Safety Showers .............................................................................. 21
Health and Safety Issue Resolution..............................................................23
Responsibilities ..........................................................................................25
The Risk Assessment Process ....................................................................25
12.2.1
Helpful Hints .............................................................................. 26
What each Laboratory needs to do and have ................................................ 28
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) .......................................................... 29
14.2.1
Footwear .................................................................................... 29
14.2.2
Protective Clothing / Lab Coats .................................................... 29
14.2.3
Eye Protection ............................................................................ 30
14.2.4
Hearing Protection ...................................................................... 30
14.2.5
Hand Protection .......................................................................... 30
14.2.6
Respirators ................................................................................. 30
Ergonomics in your Workspace
31
14.4
15
Chemical Safety ............................................................................... 34
15.1
15.2
15.3
15.4
15.5
15.6
16
14.3.1
Computer/Office Work Stations .................................................... 31
14.3.2
Laboratory.................................................................................. 31
14.3.3
Pipetting..................................................................................... 31
14.3.4
Microscope................................................................................. 32
14.3.5
Laboratory Hoods ....................................................................... 32
14.3.6
Other Laboratory Tasks ............................................................... 32
Unattended Experiments............................................................................. 33
Definitions and Legislative Requirements .....................................................34
15.1.1 Dangerous Goods.......................................................................34
15.1.2 Hazardous Substances ...............................................................34
15.1.3 Controlled Substances (Drugs and Poisons) ................................. 35
15.1.4 Purchase and Storage of Scheduled Poisons ................................. 35
15.1.5 Working with Scheduled Carcinogens ........................................... 35
Maintenance and Requirement of Chemical lists and Material
Safety Data Sheets ....................................................................................37
15.2.1 School Responsibilities................................................................37
15.2.2 What does EVERYONE need to do? ............................................ 38
Storage Limits for Dangerous Goods in Laboratories ..................................... 38
15.3.1 Special Items.............................................................................. 38
15.3.2 Storage of Dangerous Goods in
Refrigerators/Coldrooms.............................................................. 39
15.3.3 Gas Cylinders in the Laboratory ................................................... 39
Chemical Waste Disposal Procedures.......................................................... 41
15.4.1 User Responsibility ..................................................................... 41
15.4.2 Disposal of Chemical Waste ........................................................ 41
Spill Management Procedures .....................................................................42
15.5.1 Spill Kits .....................................................................................43
15.5.2 Mercury Spills.............................................................................43
15.5.3 Chemical Spill Response Procedure .............................................45
Weighing Toxic/Hazardous Substances ...................................................... 46
Biosafety .......................................................................................... 47
16.1
16.2
16.3
16.4
Operating Procedures................................................................................ 47
16.1.1 PC1 and PC2 Laboratories ......................................................... 47
16.1.2 Bacteriological Work ................................................................... 48
16.1.3 Class II – Biological Safety Cabinets............................................. 48
Biological Hazards and Spills ...................................................................... 49
16.2.1 Spills Outside a Biological Safety Cabinet ..................................... 49
16.2.2 Cleaning Up a Biological Spill ...................................................... 49
PC2 and Quarantine Glasshouses ............................................................... 50
16.3.1 Operating Procedures ................................................................. 51
16.3.2 Containment Precautions ............................................................ 51
Handling and Disposal of Products of Biological Origin .................................. 52
16.4.1 Compliance with AQIS Importation Guidelines............................... 52
16.5
17
16.4.2
Disposal of Quarantine Waste ......................................................52
16.4.3
Disposal of Biological Waste ........................................................52
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Regulations ............................ 54
Working with Radiation ..................................................................... 55
17.1
17.2
17.3
17.4
17.5
Useful contacts...........................................................................................55
Purchase of Radioisotopes ..........................................................................55
Storage and Use of Radioisotopes ...............................................................55
17.3.1
Radioisotope Laboratories ...........................................................55
17.3.2
Authorisation ..............................................................................55
17.3.3
Radiation Safety Procedures ....................................................... 56
17.3.4
Personal Radiation Monitors ....................................................... 57
17.3.5
Working outside normal working hours ......................................... 57
Accidents and Spills................................................................................... 57
Disposal of Radioactive Materials ................................................................58
18
Liquid Nitrogen ................................................................................. 59
19
Field Trip Safety ................................................................................ 60
18.1
18.2
19.1
19.2
19.3
20
Safety........................................................................................................ 59
Re-filling Dewars............................................. …………………………………………59
Communications......................................................................................... 60
19.1.1
Essential Planning....................................................................... 60
19.1.2
Communications ........................................................................ 61
Parking of Private Cars whilst on Field Trips ................................................ 61
Scuba Diving & Boating Safety ................................................................... 61
Equipment Safety, Training and Maintenance....................................62
20.1
20.2
20.3
20.4
20.5
20.6
20.7
20.8
20.9
20.10
20.11
20.12
Isolation of Unsafe Machinery or Equipment ............................................... 62
School Facilities ........................................................................................ 63
Autoclaves ................................................................................................ 63
20.3.1
Training..................................................................................... 63
20.3.2
Hazards, Faults and Maintenance ............................................... 65
Centrifuges ............................................................................................... 66
Fume Hood and Laminar Flow .................................................................... 66
20.5.1
Fume Hood Training................................................................... 66
20.5.2
Laminar Flow Training .................................................................67
Incubators and Ovens .................................................................................67
Constant Temperature (CT) Cabinets and Rooms .........................................68
Fridges and Freezers ..................................................................................68
Balances – Calibration and Cleaning ............................................................68
Pipettes .....................................................................................................69
20.10.1 Ergonomic Use ...........................................................................69
20.10.2 Calibration and Cleaning of Manual Plunger-Operated
Pipettes ......................................................................................69
Specialised Laboratory Equipment ...............................................................70
Equipment Responsibilities and Training....................................................70
20.12.2
21
Equipment Training ................................................................................... 70
Policies, Procedures & Guidelines………………………………………….72
21.1
Emergency Response Procedures –Business Hours.....................................72
21.2
Emergency Response Procedures – After Hours.......................................... 73
21.3
Fire Extinguishers ......................................................................................74
21.4
First Aid Treatment .................................................................................... 75
21.5
Screen-Based Equipment Guidelines .......................................................... 76
21.5.1 Screen-Based Equipment Exercises .........................................................77
21.6
Insurance .................................................................................................. 78
21.6.1 Student Personal Accident Insurance Policy.................................. ……………….78
21.7
Use of headphones, earphones, ear buds in the Workplace ........................... 79
21.8
Other OHSE Policies and Documents .......................................................... 80
1
1 Introduction
Under the Occupational Health & Safety Act (1985), the University is required to provide a healthy and safe
working environment for all employees and students and to promote safe working practices.
In fulfilling this obligation, the School of Biological Sciences adheres to the policies of Occupational Health,
Safety and Environment (OHSE) at Monash University. The School also requires that staff and students
conduct themselves in a responsible manner when working in all areas of the school, and comply with any
instructions given to them by the Safety Officer or other responsible staff.
The School has an OHSE Committee that meets four times per year. The Head of School is the Chair of this
Committee.
The information in this manual provides details on various safety issues that will affect you during your time
with the School. Please keep this manual where it is readily accessible and refer to it as required. It is only
a general reference manual, and should not be regarded as a substitute for training and for consulting with
appropriate personnel.
Further information may be obtained from the following locations:
School of Biological Sciences (V drive):
V:\OHSE
Faculty of Science:
http://www.sci.monash.edu.au
Occupational Health, Safety and Environment branch
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/
“Ask Monash” is an on-line service which allows you to find out the answers to your health and safety
questions (and other questions) quickly and conveniently by searching a database of frequently asked
questions. If a suitable answer cannot be found, you can submit the inquiry to OHSE for resolution.
http://www.adm.monash.edu.au/askmonash/about.html
1
2
Emergency Contact Officers
2.1 School Safety Staff
Position
Name
Extension
Room
Safety Officer
Leesa Hughes
20384
18-104a
Health and Safety Representative
John Arvanitakis
53877
18-104a
20384
18-104a
17-235
First Aid Co-coordinator
Leesa Hughes
Radiation Safety Officer
Prof John Beardall
55601
Biosafety Officer
Dr Richard Burke
59531
Environmental Officer
Leesa Hughes
20384
53-109
18-104a
2.2 School First Aiders
The following members of staff have received formal training in First Aid, and can be
contacted at any time when assistance is required. Please note a number of our first aiders are also trained in
Mental Health First Aid please contact one of the Safety Officers for more information.
Building Number
Building 17
Building 18
Building 22
Building 53
* Mental Health First Aid Trained
Staff Member
Rohan Clarke
Tim Cavagnaro
Cecilia Blomstedt
Nga Dang-Lien *
Christa Meek*
Caitlin Johnston *
David Chapple
Richard Reina
Bruce Weir
Jodi Neary
Sherrie Caarels
Emily Skoda
Ricardo San Martin
John Arvanitakis
Leesa Hughes *
Gerry Rayner
Yardenah Brickman
Chris Wilson *
Inaki Iturbe-Ormaetxe
Jyotika DeBruyne
Nichola Kenny
Extension
51968
55793
54481
51511
51511
51511
53015
55600
55660
50512
51637
24630
55637
53877
20384
55629
55671
55624
20177
20101
50049
Room Number
G16
233a
317
337
337
337
G19
G20
112
114
114
114
117
104a
104a
118
G06
G06
106
116
136
After hours contact for first aid assistance: Security Ext 333 , Security from Mobile phone 99053333
2
2.3 Emergency Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus
Two units are located on the second floor of building 17, opposite the lift entrance.
Staff currently trained in the use of Breathing Apparatus are:
Building Number
Building 18
Staff Member
John Arvanitakis
Leesa Hughes
Sherrie Caarels
Emily Skoda
Extension Number
53877
20384
51637
24630
Room Number
104a
104a
114
114
3
2.4
Advanced Resuscitation
This must be available when anyone is doing any work that may generate cyanide gases or any
diving. It can be booked through the Netscape calendar. Staff currently trained in the use of
SOS apparatus are:
Building Number
Building 17
Building 18
Staff Member
Ee Ling Ng
Bruce Weir
Jodi Neary
Richard Reina
Ricardo San Martin
Sherrie Caarels
Jyotika Taneja De Bruyne
Nichola Kenny
Building 53
Extension Number
55680
55660
50512
55600
55637
51637
20101
20101
Room Number
137
112
114
G20
117
114
115
115
2.5 Defibrillation
The nearest defibrillator is located in the Faculty of Science Student Services Reception
Building 19 room G26A. Security also have a unit and should be contacted if a unit is needed
out of normal working hours.
2.6 OHS Contacts
Biological Sciences OHSE consultant Debra Bartolo ext. 50222 or Debra.Bartolo@monash.edu
General OHS branch ext. 51016 or ohsehelpline@monash.edu
2.7 Radiation Contacts
Prof John Beardall
Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)
ext. 55611
John Arvanitakis
Buildings and Infrastructure Officer
ext. 53877
Margaret Rendell
OHS&E Radiation Protection Officer
ext. 51016
2.8 Field trip Safety Contacts
Mr. Ric San Martin
School Boating and Diving Safety Officer
18-117 ext. 55637
Mr. Bruce Weir
Deputy School Boating and Diving Safety Officer 18-114 ext. 55660
4
3 Emergency Procedures
3.1 If you are first on the scene of an emergency
If you are first on the scene of an emergency:
For fire, activate a break glass alarm
Lift a Red ‘E’ phone and advise Security
For medical emergencies during normal hours, contact a first aider or lift a Red ‘E’ phone
and advise Security
If hazardous substances, radiation or biological materials are involved during normal
working hours, contact the Safety Officer
If a serious accident occurs involving; fire, toxic gas or chemicals, it is important to activate the
nearest fire alarm immediately. This:
Shuts down the plenum ventilation, thus preventing the dispersion of fumes throughout
the building
Activates the fire alarm, notifying Security and the Fire Brigade
Sounds the building alarm, prompting the wardens to evacuate the building
After activating the fire alarm, immediately turn off any electrical equipment you are using and
then, if time permits, notify the School Manager (ext. 55610) of the nature of emergency and
then follow evacuation procedures.
The Biology and Zoology Building, S7/S8 Lecture Theatres, 1st Year Biology and the Zoology
Annexe are on three separate emergency evacuation alarm systems. This means that one
building may have to evacuate when the others do not. Please find detailed below the different
sets of emergency procedures for these buildings. Please be sure you know what to do,
depending which building you are in.
5
3.2 Evacuation
3.2.1 Building Information
Building
Warden
Deputy Warden (s)
Assembly area
Biology (17)
Mary Pantzikis
TBA
The grassed area to the north
of building 17, between the
Workshop and Microbiology.
Zoology (18)
Jodie Weller
TBA
Lawn area adjacent to First
Year Chemistry building (not in
the undercroft!)
First Year Biology
(22) and Lecture
theatres S7 & S8
(21)
Chris Wilson
TBA
Lawn area adjacent to First
Year Chemistry building (not in
the undercroft!)
NB: The Zoology Annexe is on the evacuation system controlled by Central Sciences (OHS
Zone 13). The Building Warden from Building 18 can communicate with the Floor Wardens in
that area and give instructions.
In addition, wardens are assigned to each floor of each building, to ensure that evacuations
proceed smoothly, correct procedures are followed and all personnel vacate the building.
ON THE ALERT TONE (regular beeping) prepare to leave:
LISTEN FOR ANNOUNCEMENTS OVER THE PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEM
Turn off all electrical equipment
Store hazardous materials safely
Close doors and windows
DO NOT EVACUATE UNTIL YOU HEAR THE EVACUATE TONE
ON THE EVACUATE TONE (a whooping noise) leave the building by the nearest available
emergency exit:
Follow instructions from floor wardens or emergency personnel
Do not lock your lab or office door as you leave - in the event of a genuine
emergency this will serious hamper rescue efforts.
DO NOT USE THE LIFT
Go to the nominated assembly area away from buildings, and DO NOT leave that
area until you are advised by the wardens that you may do so, even if the alarm
tone stops sounding.
DO NOT DELAY OR PUT YOURSELF AT RISK
6
3.2.2 Weekend or After Hours Evacuation
If the emergency evacuation system is activated outside normal working hours, an ALERT tone
is sounded. If no intervention occurs within two minutes the evacuation signal is automatically
activated and Security is alerted. If this should occur, you should:
Secure your work area turning off all electrical equipment, close but do not lock
doors and windows
If using a fume hood, ensure that it remains ON
Leave the building by the nearest available emergency exit, using stairs NOT lifts
Assemble in designated areas
3.3 First Aid Procedures
For a quick-reference guide to the correct procedures to be followed if an accident or
emergency occurs; please refer to the flow charts in sections 19.1 and 19.2 of this Manual.
3.4 Safety Aids
3.4.1 Fire Extinguishers
These can be found in the corridors and laboratories. Please be aware what extinguishers are
in your area and under what circumstances each particular type of extinguisher should be used
(see section 19.3).
Courses on the correct use of these fire extinguishers are available during the year, and all
members of School will be advised of the dates. All staff and students are required to attend
one of these courses when they first join the School and then at least once every five years
thereafter.
3.4.2 First Aid Kits
These are placed at strategic locations throughout the School and in all School vehicles. Kits
are for emergency use only. Basic kits are located in each laboratory or in close proximity to
laboratories, and a more comprehensive kit is located in a signposted central location on
alternate floors. Please advise the technician in charge of your area or the First Aid
Coordinator if you use any item from these boxes so that replacements can be organised.
A list of first aid trained staff, together with room and phone numbers, is contained in this
manual and will also be posted on each emergency evacuation floor plan.
In addition the School has:
Two extended “remote area” field trip first aid boxes. These are more comprehensively
fitted out and are intended for staff and students on longer field trips in areas where the
nearest medical assistance is some distance away
A number of small “bum bag” first aid kits for use on undergraduate field trips
7
The remote area kits can be booked via the online calendar. Both the remote area kits and the
bum bags can be collected from the First Aid Co-coordinator. Upon return from any trip,
please report to the First Aid Co-coordinator any items which will need replacement.
3.4.3 Safety Showers / Eye wash
These are located in the various locations around the school. Please know the location of the
closest safety shower and eye wash facility. Water in copious amounts is the best antidote for
any chemical splashes on you or in your eye.
In the case of a chemical splash to the eye, irrigate immediately with running water (including
under the lids) for at least 20 minutes and seek medical attention. All labs should make sure
that this can readily be done with taps and hoses available.
3.4.4 Wheel Chair
A wheel chair is located on the 1st floor, near 17-143 and the vending machines. Push glass to
access the key. Please ensure the chair is returned after use.
8
4 Security
4.1 Contact phone numbers
Emergency 333
or
53059
4.2 Security and Traffic Office
The office is located in Building 61 and is operational 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
They can be contacted by:
Using the Red E phones
Dialing 333 from any internal phone
Dialing 9905-3059 from any external or mobile phone
4.3 Theft
Unfortunately, theft is a common occurrence throughout the University. To help prevent it
happening to you:
Keep valuables (bags, wallets, laptop computers, mobile phones, etc.) under lock
and key at all times.
Always lock your office or laboratory when leaving, even during normal working
hours and even if you will only be away for a short time. There have been instances
in this School of laptops being stolen from desks during working hours when their
owner went to a lab across the corridor for a few minutes!
Report any suspicious occurrences to the School Manager, even if you are not
certain whether anything was stolen.
4.4 Security Escort Service
Clayton security patrols are available each night to escort you to your car, bus loop, Halls of
Residence or other locations on Campus. The service is free. To arrange it, contact Security
on ext. 53059.
9
4.5 Campus Buses
4.5.1 Security Buses
A free security bus service runs on the Clayton campus in the evenings, Monday to Friday, all
year round. Bus stops are clearly marked on a Clayton Campus Map. The first service leaves
the Main Library at 5.30pm and buses run every 30 minutes until midnight. It runs a short
distance into the residential areas near the western and southern side of the University.
For more information on all of these services, see the webpage at:
http://www.fsd.monash.edu.au/security/your-campus
Or contact the Clayton Campus Services Manager on 9905-4082
4.5.2 Car Park Shuttle Service
For those people who find they have to park in the “free park” on Blackburn Rd, there is a
shuttle bus service which runs from 7.45am to 6.45pm. The pick-up point is at the Blackburn
Rd entrance where there is also a phone in case of emergency.
4.5.3 Inter-Campus bus
A shuttle bus runs approximately every thirty minutes between the Clayton and Caulfield
campuses.
The departure points are:
Clayton: Wellington Road bus loop
Caulfield: bus shelter in Queens Avenue
http://fsd.monash.edu.au/travel-parking/travel/inter-campus-shuttle-bus
10
5 Other Safety-related Information
5.1 Health Service
This is located in the Campus Centre (Building 10), at the west end of the central
concourse, and is open during normal working hours.
5.2 Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Staff and students are requested to advise the school of any pre-existing condition
which may be relevant to your evacuation in an emergency, or to your treatment in the
event of a medical emergency. In accordance with current Privacy legislation, the
provision of this information by you is voluntary. However, it is in your own best
interests to supply any relevant information so that the School can ensure that
appropriate action is taken.
5.3 Insurance Cover for Students and Staff
See the Biological Science School Guide and section 21.6.1 of this manual.
5.4 Volunteer Workers
All volunteer workers MUST register with the School Manager, to ensure that they are
aware of all relevant OH&S requirements and are covered by appropriate insurance
policies.
Provided this is done, voluntary workers are covered under the University’s Personal
Accident Insurance Policy. The coverage differs for those who earn an income and
those that do not. A copy of the policy can be obtained from the School Manager.
In addition, registered volunteers are covered by the University’s public and general
indemnity insurance policies.
5.5 Children in the Workplace
The School recognises that despite the range of childcare options available at the
University, in order to meet their work and/or study commitments staff members and
students may occasionally, in unforeseen situations, temporarily need to bring
children to their workplace.
However, when children are introduced to environments which are not designed to
cater for them, issues of safety, supervision, productivity and legal liability arise.
11
All members of the School are strongly advised whenever possible to avoid
bringing children into any of the School’s buildings. When it is essential to do
so, please refer to the relevant University information at:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/hazard-alerts/children-on-campus.html
12
6 OHSE Training
The Occupational Health Safety & Environment branch conducts a number of training courses
throughout the year. The Safety Officer is responsible for maintaining a database of the
courses attended by staff and students and will liaise with individuals regarding the training as
required.
6.1 Induction and Essential Training
The School is required to provide a formal induction to all new members of the School (including
staff, students and visitors) when they first join the School. Induction Sessions are organised in
February-March and July of each year for commencing research students. All new staff
members, including casual and sessional staff, should receive a folder of induction information,
and should also be personally introduced to their work area and key staff by their supervisor.
Monash Faculty of Science provides an induction checklist at:
http://sci.monash.edu/safety/docs/facultycheck.pdf
For information on Laboratory Inductions, see section 6.3 below.
If you did not receive a formal induction, or if you feel it was inadequate in any way, please
discuss it with your supervisor, the Safety Officer, or the Head of School.
All members of School are strongly encouraged (and in some cases may be required) to
undertake the following courses conducted by OHSE:
Risk Management
Chemical Safety
6.2 Specific Training
The school has a very diverse range of research and teaching activities. Depending on the
type of work you are involved in, it may be necessary for you to undertake a number of different
courses in order to comply with University policy.
The School is required to ensure that a suitable number of staff are trained as First Aiders
(either level 1 or level 2), and in other OHS roles, to cope with any situations that may arise
during normal teaching and research activities. The School will arrange the necessary training
and updates as required, and the dates will be publicised through the School.
If you are interested in being trained in any of these roles, please discuss it with your supervisor
or the Safety officer.
The available courses include:
Emergency Warden Training and Evacuation Exercises
First Aid Level 1 - Basic Life Support
First Aid Level 2 - Emergency First Aid
Breathing Apparatus
Radiation - Unsealed sources
13
Radiation - X-ray, Irradiating Apparatus & Sealed sources
Biosafety
Oxygen Resuscitation
Safety Inspections and Audits
Training of First Aiders
A list of the School’s trained OHS staff is in section 2 of this Manual.
For further information, see:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/management-system/training-at-monash.pdf
6.3 Laboratory Inductions
A Laboratory Induction should be completed BEFORE the commencement of laboratory work.
The supervisor or designated qualified person should run through the “Supervisor‟ section of
the Monash OHSE induction checklist:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/training/safety-induction-program.html
If the Supervisor needs further information to assist in explanation of any points on the
checklist, they should consult the appropriate section of this manual or ask the Safety Officer.
Additional points to cover during the induction are:
Is the laboratory a PC2 (Physical Containment level 2) facility? If so, read the PC2 sign
on the door and familiarise yourself with the rules of a PC2 laboratory. PC2 facilities are
bound by OGTR (Office of Gene Technology Regulator) rules for GMOs (Genetically
Modified Organisms) as explained on the door sign. PC2 training courses are run twice
yearly (emails will be sent in advance), make sure the trainee attends the next one.
Food or drink for human consumption must never be stored in the Laboratory. If
necessary to store food or drink for experimental purposes, clearly mark “Not for human
consumption”.
Before using most Equipment, Procedures and Hazardous Substances in the laboratory,
you are required to complete a Training Agreement (and read the Risk Assessment). If
you are unsure of which Equipment, Procedures or Hazardous Substances this applies
to, ask your Supervisor or the Safety Officer. NEVER GO AHEAD IF YOU ARE UNSURE,
ASK!
Completed Risk Assessments are stored electronically on the V drive and the hard
copies in the Red folder – Safety Folder 2.
V:\Health, Safety and Environment\Risk Management
MSDS‟s are also available electronically on Chemwatch:
http://jr.chemwatch.net/chemffx/
Supervisor to show the basic functions of the Chemical Database on the V drive:
V:\Resources\Chemical Lists\Chemical Database
14
When acquiring or disposing of chemicals a “Change to Chemical Database Notification”
form must be filled in and placed in the appropriate place (specific to each laboratory).
Forms can be found on the V drive:
V:\OHSE\Labels, Signs & Templates\Templates\Change to Chemical Database
Notification
Supervisors are to highlight the importance of correct chemical storage. Show how to find
correct storage on MSDS. Importance of only putting flammables in “intrinsically safe‟
fridge/freezers. Incorrect storage could result in a reaction producing an explosion, fire or
emission of poisonous gasses.
Supervisors to explain Waste Management procedures specific to the laboratory.
Biological waste, sharps, chemical waste (no glass containers used), quarantine – AQIS
guidelines for disposal of waste.
Any other laboratory-specific procedures? Gas bottle management? Acid bath
maintenance?
6.4 Training Agreements
6.4.1 Training for Equipment
Any piece of equipment that is specific to your laboratory and requires training of new
users should have a training agreement.
Each piece of equipment must have a responsible person appointed and their name(s) posted
on it. This person is responsible for:
 Training users – this should include:
 Familiarity with the machine, its controls and the requirements of the manufacturer’s
handbook
 Operating rules and limitations
 Emergency shutdown procedures and incident reporting
 Record keeping, log books
 Other requirements related to chemical or biological safety
 Keeping Records of authorised users:
 Name, date trained and authorised
 Ensuring records are maintained
 Maintenance.
All staff and students trained to use this piece of equipment must also read the Risk
Assessment (complete a new one if not available, see section 12.2) and complete a Training
Agreement in Safety Folder 2.
15
6.4.2 Training for Hazardous Substances
The trainee should read the MSDS and direct any questions to their trainer. The trainer should
explain any safety guidelines for using the Hazardous Substance, including PPE, usage
conditions, spill procedure and waste disposal.
After training, the trainee must know:
Correct PPE to wear
Where it can be used (i.e. open laboratory, fume
hood) Decontamination/clean up procedures
Disposal procedure
Spill procedure
First Aid (i.e. Skin, eye or respiratory contact)
All staff and students trained to use this Hazardous Substance must also read the Risk
Assessment (complete a new one if not available, see section 12.2) and complete a Training
Agreement in Safety Folder 2.
6.5 Risk Assessments
Risk assessments for all research projects that include procedures using any Laboratory
Equipment, Processes or Substances that are a possible risk should be completed BEFORE
commencement of any research work. These need to be regularly updated as projects
progress.
For guidelines on how to complete a risk assessment, see section 12.2 of this manual.
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7 Inspections and Audits
7.1 In-house OHS Inspections
OHS inspections should be completed twice per year by the designated laboratory member.
This person’s name should be written in Safety Folder 1 on the “Laboratory Maintenance and
Training Responsibilities” sheet in the appropriate place. An email will be sent informing of the
date in which the inspection must be completed by. The designated person should work
through the relevant sections of the Monash University Workplace Inspection Program found on
the V drive:
V:\OHSE\Inspections\workplace-inspection-program
A summary of the inspection should then be completed using the template:
V:\OHSE\Inspections\Inspection Worksheet Template
This inspection summary must then be saved in the appropriate folder, using the Supervisor’s
name as the file name. Summary folders are found at:
V:\OHSE\Inspections
If you have any difficulties completing the inspection or questions regarding the inspection,
consult the Safety Officer.
7.2 External Audits
7.2.1 OHS External Audits
Monash University arranges a team of OHS staff (from outside of the School of Biological
Sciences) to perform an OHS Audit annually. The best way to prepare for this audit is to work
through the relevant sections of the Monash University Workplace Inspection Program found on
the V drive (as used for in-house audits):
V:\OHSE\Inspections\workplace-inspection-program
7.2.2 Worksafe inspections
Worksafe inspectors can come in and inspect at any time.
An inspection checklist with information that all lab members should know is available on the V
drive:
V:\OHSE\Inspections\Worksafe Inspection Checklist
17
7.2.3 OGTR Inspections
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) Compliance & Investigation team usually
perform inspections annually at an arranged time, however can also inspect anytime without
warning.
OGTR staff review practices with regards to the following areas:
Transport, Storage and Disposal
Notices, Notifications and Records
People management
On the day of an audit, OGTR staff may select ANY dealing from our OGTR database of
current projects and ask researchers to show/explain:
How the GMOs are used
Where GMOs are stored
How GMOs are disposed
They will also be required to show records/provide details of:
• Transport relating to GMOs
• GMO records
• Training records for Biosafety, OHS and laboratory inductions
The OGTR undoubtedly also observe people’s practices and behaviour’s within the laboratories
during their visit.
Should you have any questions or concerns relating to an OGTR audit, please do not hesitate
to contact the Research Compliance Office on 9905 5162.
7.2.4 Quarantine Inspections
AQIS (Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service) usually inspect biannually on announced
visits, however they may also inspect anytime unannounced. Groups should ensure they
meet/follow the criteria for their QAP at all times. This criterion is available on the website:
http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/import/general-info/qap/qapcriteria
If you have any further questions, see the Safety Officer.
7.2.5 Drugs and Poisons Audit
Department of Human Services occasionally perform a Drugs and Poisons Audit. The School
has a Poisons Control Plan (PCP) that outlines the requirements to comply with School permit
conditions. It is available on the V drive:
V:\Resources\Permits - AQIS, DSE, DPI, EA, Poisons\Poisons\Poisons Control Plan\Current
18
8 Electrical Testing
8.1 Residual Currency Devices (RCD’s)
Residual Currency Devices (RCD’s) have been installed in laboratories. RCD’s monitor the
residual current in a circuit to earth and cut off the power when the earth leakage reaches a
predetermined current, generally 10, 30 or 100 milli amps. To comply with Australian Standards
the RCD needs to be tested “regularly”. One RCD protects one circuit. Each RCD circuit is
numbered.
You will know if a circuit has been fitted with a RCD by the presence of an extra button between
the two power switches. Not all equipment should run off RCD protected circuits. Equipment not
recommended to be connected to RCD’s are items that may contain perishables such as
refrigerators, freezers, etc. and protection devices requiring permanent power, as any
interruption to supply due to tripping may defrost or render protection devices inoperable.
Each section MUST test the RCD’s in their area in March and October each year and recorded
in the table in the “Safety Equipment Testing” section of Safety Folder 1 – “Safety, Training and
General Information”.
RCD’s are tested with a simple “push button test‟. Before performing the test, remove or turn off
any equipment from the circuit which may be affected by a temporary power loss. Take a lamp
(or any other electrical device), plug it in to any point within the circuit and turn it on. Push the
“test” button and observe the instant loss of power. Push the reset button, record the test in the
“Safety Equipment Testing” section of Safety Folder 1 and move to the next circuit. If the power
did not terminate as expected, report the fault to the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer.
8.2 Testing, Tagging and Repairing Electrical Equipment
Testing and tagging of office and laboratory equipment is carried out yearly. A group email is
sent to everyone in the department to inform them of when this will take place. Equipment
which is not free to be tested (i.e. being used in an experiment), needs to be logged as a job
and taken to the workshop when it is free.
Electrical appliances brought in by contractors or from home for use on a Monash site are
subject to the same testing and tagging procedure for appliances owned or leased by the
University. Appliances should be tested and tagged prior to their use on university premises.
While there is no requirement to test and tag personal laptops, staff and students are
encouraged to have their laptops tested and tagged using an approved person or company.
In both situations above the testing and tagging is the responsibility and expense of the owner.
If the expense is to be covered by the Office or Laboratory where the item is to be used, a job
can be logged using the relevant fund code and the item taken to the workshop (or an on -site
job requested if the item is too large to be moved).
19
For further information, see OHS Information Sheet # 13 – Inspection, testing, tagging &
repairing electrical equipment.
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/onfo-sheets/testing-tagging-repair.html
20
9 Testing Emergency Eye wash and Safety
Showers
9.1 Testing Emergency Eye Wash
To test the emergency eye wash, remove the rubber caps from and run water at full pressure
for 20 seconds or until water runs clear. This should be repeated fortnightly.
Record testing in the “Safety Equipment Testing” section of Safety Folder 1 – “Safety, Training
and General Information”.
9.2 Testing Safety Showers
Testing of Safety Showers does not need to be performed by laboratory members. Facilities
and Services Staff test them twice per year.
21
10 Hazards and Risk Areas within the School
The following section details items of special relevance to this School:
Risk / Hazard
Causes / Effects
Management
Comments
Burns
Excessive heat
Hold the burnt area
Chemicals Electricity under cold gentle
Radiation
running water.
Seek medical advice.
Do not apply lotions
or break blisters
Frost Bite
-70 °C Freezer
Liquid Nitrogen
Contact First Aider
Rewarm the area by
body heat. Never
rewarm with direct
heat or rub the
frostbitten area.
Needle stick injuries Syringes with
needles
Do not recap
needles
Control bleeding with
pressure bandage.
Contact First Aider.
Cuts, Lacerations
Rubber Bulbs or
Pi-Pumps with glass
pipettes or Pasteur
pipettes
Avoid using glass
As above
pipettes where
possible, especially if
the graduations are
faded. Use safety
pipette fillers and or
plastic pipettes
UV Radiation,
causing sunburn,
skin cancers, eye
damage
UV lights in laminar
flow cabinets, transilluminators, solar
radiation
Labs: UV safe
Not all lab safety
glasses, face shields glasses are UV safe
and Perspex
screens.
Outdoors:
Sunscreen, sun hat,
sun glasses
Contact lenses
Chemicals and
chemical vapours
can get trapped
under the eyelid
Contact lenses
should not be worn
when working in the
laboratory.
Goggles or
Prescription safety
glasses
Acrylamide
Toxic and suspected If splashed on skin or Refer to MSDS.
carcinogen.
in eyes, immediately Wear safety glasses,
wash with water and gloves
call first aider.
22
Risk / Hazard
Causes / Effects
Chloroform
Toxic by inhalation - If splashed on skin or
drowsiness, nausea in eyes - immediately
wash with water and
and vomiting
call first aider.
Diethyl
Pyrocarbonate
Produces hazardous
vapours and a
suspected
carcinogen
In case of contact,
Refer to MSDS. Use
immediately flush
is discouraged
eyes or skin, remove
contaminated
clothing
Ethidium Bromide
Mutagen, irritating to
mucous membranes
and upper
respiratory tract
If splashed on skin or
in eyes, immediately
wash with water and
call first aider.
Refer to MSDS.
Wear safety glasses,
gloves and lab coat.
Weigh out powder in
fume hood.
Phenol
Poison and burns
If splashed on skin or
in eyes, immediately
wash with water and
call first aider.
Refer to MSDS.
Wear safety glasses,
gloves and lab coat.
Weigh out powder in
fume hood.
Pesticide &
Herbicide Spraying
Many health
problems
Use appropriate
protective clothing.
Protective clothing
available from the
Botany Experimental
Area.
Electrical Work
Electrocution
Any modifications to
electrical equipment
must be carried out
by a qualified
person.
Zoonoses, including Illness and allergies
Q-Fever, Lyssa Virus
For females,
(see Appendix 7)
additional dangers
during pregnancy
Management
Animal Care
Precautions,
appropriate
vaccinations,
specified hygiene
routines.
Comments
Refer to MSDS.
Wear safety glasses,
gloves and lab coat.
Use in fume hood
Notify your supervisor
if you are feeling ill or
suspect you may be
pregnant
10.1 Health and Safety Issue Resolution
For clear, step-by-step directions on Health and Safety Issue Resolution for an immediate
or non-immediate Health or Safety Hazard, see the flow charts presented in the below
OHS document:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/procedures/issue-resolution.pdf
23
11 Hazard & Incident Reporting &
Investigation
The University has an Incident Reporting Policy, whereby all accidents, incidents and
hazards are reported and recorded. The reporting of these incidents is important to assist
the continual effort made by the University to maintain a safe working environment.
Corrective action may then be taken from the reports to prevent any recurrence of an
injury or situation.
The School asks all staff and students to be proactive in this. Please do not be hesitant
about reporting an incident in case someone gets into trouble: instead, please think of it
as a way of fixing a hazard or a problem BEFORE anyone gets into trouble! The report
form can be downloaded from the OHS&E website at
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/forms/index.html (Download: Hazard incident report form)
All incidents and hazards should be reported to the Safety Officer as soon as practicable.
They will assist with the processing of documents required to satisfy the University’s
Incident Reporting System and Work Cover Act requirements. If the accident is serious
enough to warrant first aid, the attending first aider can also assist in the completion of
Incident Reports.
Although the prime concern of safety officers and safety codes is the protection of
persons, an additional function is the protection of scientific and structural assets.
Accidents do not just happen: they are caused, and one of the main causes is poor
housekeeping. So please keep your work area tidy and the floor uncluttered.
24
12 Risk Management
12.1 Responsibilities
Monash University’s Victorian campuses are all covered by the Victorian OHS Act 1985
and its subordinate regulations and codes of practice.
An essential part of all of this modern OHS legislation is the requirement for
workplaces to undertake risk assessments on all of its activities which may impact
the health and safety of the employees, visitors, contractors and students.
All staff and students are expected to play a role in this. In particular:
All staff and research students must undergo a formal induction process when
they first join the School.
All staff and research students must attend a training session in the
Identification and Management of Risk. These sessions are run regularly and
the dates are widely publicised throughout the School. Special sessions are
run in February and July for commencing Honours students.
All Honours and postgraduate students must complete a written risk
assessment and ensure it is approved by your Supervisor before they begin
work on their project.
All staff involved in field work, especially in remote areas, must complete a
written risk assessment and ensure it is approved by your Supervisor before
undertaking their first field trip.
Staff and students wishing to carry out overseas field work must seek special
authorisation from the Head of School and comply with additional special
requirements.
12.2 The Risk Assessment Process
The risk assessment process at Monash University is outlined in Reference sheets
developed by OHSE:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/forms/risk-management-program.pdf
The School has developed templates for this purpose (on the V drive).
V:\OHSE\Risk Assessments\ a How to- & Template
These forms are designed to assist assessment teams to follow the standard risk
assessment process of Identification, Assessment & Control for all of the major hazard
groups that are present at Monash University. However, please also bear in mind that
additional information may be needed to allow your Supervisor to determine whether you
have adequately addressed all the risks associated with your project.
The major hazard groups you will need to consider are:
Manual Handling Hazards
25
Equipment & Process Hazards
Chemical Exposure Hazards
Biological Exposure Hazards
Radiation Exposure Hazards
Environmental Hazards
By reviewing your work area and activities against each of the major hazard groups, a
comprehensive assessment will be produced that incorporates all of the OHS legislative
requirements and University standards.
The reference sheets have been designed to allow assessment teams to quickly and
comprehensively identify and assess the hazards in the workplace, rank them in terms of
priority and provide guidance for the development of appropriate control measures. The
greatest amount of time and energy should be spent on selecting an appropriate control
measure and instigating it. One person from within the group should be responsible for
following through and ensuring the controls are put in place by the work area or support
services as appropriate.
Completed Risk Assessment projects should be uploaded to the V drive (choose the
appropriate folder):
V:\OHSE\Risk Assessments
12.2.1 Helpful Hints
Some completed assessments are available for reference on the V drive.
Be sure to read and refer to existing Monash University and School Guidelines, Policies
and Procedures.
26
13 Immunisation
If you fall into one of the following categories, you should consult with the Safety Officer
and OHSE Physician regarding your individual immunisation program:
First aider
Work with Animals
Work with Human Subjects or Bodily Fluids
The following are some of the standard immunisations that you may be advised to take:
Tetanus
Hepatitis B
Q-Fever
Tuberculosis
Rabies
Immunisations may also be available at the School’s cost to other staff or students who
feel they may be exposed to potential infections through their work or studies. If you wish
to discuss this possibility, please contact the Safety Officer.
Also see:
http://www.monash.edu/ohs/topics/procedures/immunisation.pdf
27
14 Safe Laboratory Practices
The following rules apply at all times in all laboratories:
No eating or drinking
No smoking
Appropriate closed-in footwear must be worn - bare feet or open toed sandals
are not permitted
Observe safety precautions - use fume cupboards, wear lab coats, gloves,
safety glasses as necessary
Never undertake any work unless you are aware of all known and possible
hazards have adopted appropriate safety precautions
Clean up all spills and breakages immediately
Do not work in isolation - ensure a second person is within call
Label all your solutions, samples etc. with exact contents, your name and the
date. Unlabeled items will be thrown out
Post warning signs for unusual hazards such as flammable materials,
biohazards or other specific hazards
Thoroughly wash and rinse all glassware as soon as you have finished with it do not let it accumulate on the sink. Replace in correct location in cupboards
or drawers
Keep your equipment etc. together and minimise your area of spread.
Use equipment only for its designated purpose
Leave laboratory equipment (microscopes etc.) free when you are not using
them so that others may do so
Wash skin areas which have come into contact with chemicals, irrespective of
concentration
Never adopt a casual attitude and always be conscious of potential hazards
The following “housekeeping” practices should also be adhered to:
Eliminate safety hazards by maintaining laboratory work areas in a good state
of order
Always keep tables, fume cupboards, floors, aisles and desks clear of
unnecessary material
Wipe down bench tops and other laboratory surfaces after each use with an
appropriate cleaning agent or disinfectant
Each laboratory will have a Safety Information and Training Agreement Folder.
This folder contains relevant information on the day to day functioning of the
lab - be sure to use it
14.1 What each Laboratory needs to do and have
1.
Prepare a one-page Laboratory Induction program, which must be given to
new staff and students that will be working in the lab
2.
Conduct an actual induction to the workings of the laboratory
28
3.
Maintain the information in the Laboratory Safety Information and Training
Agreement Folder
4.
Ensure new staff and students are trained in the use of chemicals and
equipment, and that this is documented
5.
Maintain the V: drive chemical register and MSDS file
6.
Complete and file Risk Assessments for designated Hazardous Substances
and all procedures
7.
Ensure appropriate Personal Protective Equipment is available, maintained and
used
8.
Understand the requirements of the Regulatory bodies that govern activities in
the laboratory (i.e. AQIS, OGTR etc.)
9.
Label all solutions with:
Name and Concentration of Solution
Date made
Lab code as per coloured labels
The owner’s name
10. Maintain good housekeeping standards at all times
14.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Enclosed footwear
must be worn
in this area
Personal Protective Equipment is an important part of your work environment. If you have
difficulty locating the appropriate pieces of equipment, please speak with the Safety
Officer.
14.2.1 Footwear
Shoes must be worn at all times in these buildings. Shoes with enclosed toes are
mandatory for all student practical classes and any workshop or laboratory work involving
any chemical/hazards. Thongs or sandals are not acceptable footwear in any laboratory.
14.2.2 Protective Clothing / Lab Coats
Lab coats MUST be worn at all times when working in a laboratory classified as PC1 or
PC2, or in a Radiation Laboratory.
It is also strongly recommended that fastened lab coats are worn during any laboratory
procedure. Providing your supervisor (if appropriate) agrees, a second-hand lab coat may
be available from the Store (if there is not one in your size, the purchase price of a new
one is borne by your section).
The laundering of lab coats can be arranged through the Faculty of Science Store. The
cost of this is charged to your section.
29
14.2.3 Eye Protection
“An estimated 90% of eye injuries can be prevented with the proper use of
protective eye wear.”
Safety glasses/goggles or a face shield MUST be worn whenever there is a potential
hazard source such as chemicals, dust, flying fragments.
Each laboratory has safety glasses available for general use. If these do not fit you or are
otherwise unsuitable, please consult the Technician in charge of your area or the Safety
Officer, who has a catalogue available and may be able to recommend suitable glasses.
14.2.4 Hearing Protection
There are recommended exposure levels (dBA or decibels /hour) for the workplace
environment. If you are working with “noisy” equipment, regardless of the exposure time,
you should wear hearing protection.
If you believe you are at risk from exposure to high noise levels, consult with the Safety
Officer who will arrange with OHS&E for further tests to be carried out.
14.2.5 Hand Protection
Protective gloves should be worn when working in a laboratory when handling Hazardous
Substances or Dangerous Goods.
It is also strongly recommended that suitable gloves are worn during any laboratory
procedure.
However, it is important that you select gloves on the basis of the material being handled.
For example:
PVC protects against mild corrosives and irritants
Latex provides only light protection against irritants
Neoprene is ideal for working with solvents, oils or mild corrosive materials
Cotton absorbs perspiration and helps keep objects clean
For more information, consult the Ansell Chemical Resistance Guide at
http://ansellpro.com/download/Ansell_8thEditionChemicalResistanceGuide.pdf
14.2.6 Respirators
Staff and students working in close contact with insects should be aware of potential
allergies. Precautionary measures should be discussed with the Safety Officer and/or
OHSE. The school owns a respirator that should be used when there is a risk identified.
Individual/personal face pieces for this may be purchased as required, at a cost to your
section.
The Faculty of Science Workshop (on the ground floor of Building 17) has a well-equipped
wood shop with high-quality dust extraction system. Subject to the approval of the
Workshop Manager, staff and students are welcome to make use of this for any jobs which
generate large amounts of dust.
30
Disposable dust masks can be purchased through the Science Faculty Store for any
smaller dusty job.
Respirators must be cleaned with Hibitane or an equivalent disinfectant between uses.
14.3 Ergonomics in your Work Space
Having an ergonomic work space is important to lessen the likelihood of workplace injury
and provide an environment where you are at your most productive.
14.3.1 Computer/Office Work Stations
The Monash OHS team created “Computer User Guidelines‟ which provides helpful hints
for setting up your desk area, computer and chair. It also contains exercises for office
based workers. See section 21.5 for “Screen Based Equipment Guidelines and Exercises‟
and see:
www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/guidelines/computer-user.pdf
14.3.2 Laboratory
Such principles are fundamentally similar when working in the laboratory. Tasks which
require frequent awkward posture are the most common causes of Repetitive Strain Injury
(RSI). Pipetting, microscope work and hood work are generally the most repetitive tasks in
laboratory work and are therefore likely to be associated with reported injuries.
14.3.3 Pipetting
The manual plunger-operated pipette can cause RSI and other muscle strains. Some tips
when choosing and using the pipette:
Before ordering a particular pipette, try to find one to borrow to see if the size,
weight, shape and position of mechanisms are comfortable for you
Replace a manual plunge-operated pipette with an electronic multi-channel (or
single channel) pipette whenever possible
If a manual plunge-operated pipette needs to be used; take regular breaks and try
to swap hands or fingers using the plunger
Try not to rotate your wrist while pipetting and hold with a relaxed grip using minimal
force
Position your containers/tubes/waste in such a way that you do not have to overreach, twist or bend repetitively to complete the task
31
14.3.4 Microscope
Operating a microscope for long hours can cause strains in the neck, shoulders, eyes,
back arms and wrists. The likelihood of such strains occurring can be greatly reduced by:
Your microscope must be set up at a height
Position the microscope towards the edge of the bench allowing adequate forearm
support. Ensure there is legroom directly under the microscope
Adjust the height of your microscope so that when you are sitting straight backed in
your chair and looking straight ahead, the eye pieces the same height as your
eyes and angled 30-45˚ below your line of sight. If the height of your microscope is
not adjustable, stack blocks of solid material under the scope to achieve the
desired height
Take regular breaks. Get up and move around every 30-60 minutes. Set a timer to
remind yourself!
Rest your eyes. Focus on something distant at least every 15 minutes. Cup your
hands gently over your eyes to rest them from the light for a minute. Do not rub
your eyes
Check the surrounding environment for sources of excessive glare/reflection and
reduce them accordingly. Excessive glare/reflection results in using more
illumination when using the microscope and can cause eye strain
14.3.5 Laboratory Hoods
The forward head and extended arm positions can cause neck, shoulder, back and arm
injuries. To minimise risk of strains:
Position materials in a way that avoids excessive reaching (without compromising
the containment of the cabinet)
If sitting, use a fully adjustable chair and adjust it to a supportive position. Use a foot
rest (not the ring of the chair) to provide a stable support when leaning forward to
work
If standing, use an anti-fatigue mat and wear supportive shoes
Keep the viewing window clean and un-obstructed
Take frequent breaks
14.3.6 Other Laboratory Tasks
Although laboratory tasks vary, keep the following basic guidelines in mind to reduce your
risk of injury:
Set up your work space ergonomically specific to your needs (i.e. posture, support)
Try to reduce twisting and awkward positions by strategically placing materials
32
Take frequent breaks
If you need any further information or would like to arrange a personal ergonomic
assessment, contact your local OHSE consultant or the general OHS branch.
14.4 Unattended Experiments
Consideration must be given to alternatives to running equipment, ovens and experiments
overnight based on risk.
A manually resetting over-temperature cut-off switch, which is set to operate at a
temperature slightly higher than the upper limit of the controlled temperature, must be
fitted to all thermostatically controlled equipment.
Electrical equipment left on after hours should carry a 'Do not switch off' notice, giving the
name of the person leaving the equipment and contact details.
Each lab has laminated “experiment in progress” signs to use which are located in the
front cover of Safety Folder 1 “Safety, Training and General Information”. More can be
printed from the V drive:
V:\OHSE\Labels, Signs & Record Sheets\Signs\Experiment in Progress
The experiment should also be entered into a book at a central point in the unit/entity by 4
pm of the day of the experiment, listing the details described in section 9.2.1 of this
procedure. A representative of the unit/entity should then notify Security & Traffic, in
writing, before 5 pm of all unattended experiments.
Before initial use and on redesign of apparatus to be used in unattended experiments,
staff and students must get the apparatus checked and the card initialed by their
supervisor or an experienced person before leaving for the day.
The person responsible for the experiment should attend when the apparatus is started.
Frequent checking of the apparatus and/or experiment should then be carried out for a
sufficient period to ensure that the apparatus is working well and to identify and rectify any
problems.
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/index.html (Select “After hours work”)
33
15 Chemical Safety
15.1 Definitions and Legislative Requirements
The management of Chemicals is regulated by three legislatives acts:
Dangerous Goods
Hazardous Substances
Controlled Substances (Drugs and Poisons)
These Acts all operate independently of one another and so chemicals may fall into all of
these categories, or one or two, or none.
For further information on the topics below, see:
www.monash.edu.au/ohs/management-system/using-chemicals.pdf
15.1.1 Dangerous Goods
The Dangerous Goods Act deals with the physical properties of the chemical, such as
whether it is flammable, corrosive, explosive, etc. All goods which fall within this Act are
divided into Chemical Classes, as follows:
Class number
Class name
2
Gases
3
Flammable Liquids
4.1
Flammable Solids
4.2
Substances Liable to Spontaneous Combustion
4.3
Substances when wet with water evolve flammable gases or
spontaneous ignite
5
Oxidising substances and Organic Peroxides
6.1
Poisonous and Toxic Substances
7
Radioactive Material
8
Corrosive substances
9
Miscellaneous dangerous goods and articles
15.1.2 Hazardous Substances
The Hazardous Substances Regulations deal with the health effects of a chemical. A
hazardous substance is defined as a substance which may be hazardous to health due to
either its acute toxicity or the potential for chronic adverse health effects. A defined
34
hazardous substance is classified by “R“ (risk) phrases, such as “R34: Causes burns” or
“R36/38: Irritating to eyes and skin.”
Hazardous substances may also be classified by use of “S” or safety phrases such as
“S15: Keep away from heat” or “S7/8: Keep container tightly closed and dry.” These
phrases may also apply to chemicals not defined as Hazardous Substances.
Occupational Health and Safety (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 1999 came into
effect 1st June 1999. These regulations are additional to existing legislation for the safe
management of chemicals, Dangerous Goods and Controlled Substances. They include
four main requirements:
Development and maintenance of a register of hazardous substances used
and copies of Material Safety Data Sheets for these substances must be held.
Assessment is required for all hazardous substances and must take into
account the method of use. Appropriate risk controls must be implemented
based on the outcome of the risk assessment.
Appropriate training must be provided to all staff and students who use
hazardous substances.
Licensing and notification is required for use of a specified list of carcinogens.
Further information on the above can be found in the Safety Information and Training
Agreement Folder in your lab.
15.1.3 Controlled Substances (Drugs and Poisons)
This category covers a wide range of chemicals, including but not limited to those which:
Are prescription-only or pharmacy-only medicines
Are, or may be used in the manufacture of, legal or illegal drugs of addiction
Are used for medical or veterinary purposes
Are used as agricultural, industrial or household herbicides or pesticides
The School holds a Poisons Permit which allows us to purchase some (but not all) subclasses of controlled substances.
15.1.4 Purchase and Storage of Scheduled Poisons
People commonly use the term “poison‟ to describe many different chemicals. These may
be dangerous goods, hazardous substances and/or scheduled poisons. For a list of
categories and the corresponding storage method, see:
www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/poisons.pdf
15.1.5 Working with Scheduled Carcinogens
Carcinogenic substances are hazardous substances that can cause cancer. Use of such
substances should be eliminated whenever possible, and/or a safer alternative sought.
A carcinogenic substance must not be ordered without the Supervisor’s advice and
specific approval. Following this, a risk assessment must be complete and approved by
the Supervisor PRIOR TO WORK.
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Two schedules of carcinogenic substances are restricted under part 4.2 of the Occupational
Health and Safety Regulations 2007.
Two schedules of carcinogenic substances are restricted under part 4.2 of
the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2007.
Schedule 1 carcinogenic substances
The use of Schedule 1 carcinogenic substances is only permitted in laboratories after a
license is obtained from WorkSafe Victoria. Use of these substances in workplaces other
than laboratories is prohibited.
2-Acetylaminofluorene
Aflatoxins
4-Aminodiphenyl
Benzidine and its salts
Bis(chloromethyl) ether
Chloromethyl methyl ether (technical grade)
4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene
2-Naphthylamine and its salts
4-Nitrodiphenyl
Schedule 2 carcinogenic substances
The use of Schedule 2 carcinogenic substances is only permitted in workplaces (including
laboratories) after a license is obtained from WorkSafe Victoria.
Schedule 2 carcinogenic substances are:
Acrylonitrile
Benzene – when used as a feedstock containing more than 50% benzene by
volume
3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine and its salts
Diethyl sulfate
Dimethyl sulfate
Ethylene dibromide – when used as a fumigant
4,4'-Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline)
2-Propiolactone
o-Toluidine and o-Toluidine hydrochloride
Vinyl chloride monomer
Further information can be found at: http://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au
36
15.2 Maintenance and Requirement of Chemical lists and
Material Safety Data Sheets
The University is required by law to comply with strict requirements relating to the storage,
handling and documentation of chemicals, and is regularly audited by WorkCover
inspectors. The co-operation of all members of the School is essential to ensure that
requirements are met.
All details relating to the hazardous nature and dangerous goods class of any chemical
can be found on the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for that chemical. The School is
required to maintain copies of the MSDS’s for all chemicals held in the School, whether or
not they fall under any of the relevant legislation.
The MSDS’s for chemicals in each laboratory in the school are held available on the V
drive:
v:\Resources\Chemical Lists\MSDS
A hard copy of a Mini MSDS’s for each chemical is available:
17-2 corridor (opposite lifts)
18-107 Utilities Room
The School is also required to maintain a list of all chemicals held within the School,
specifying the quantities of each, the Dangerous Goods class, and other relevant
information.
If you bring a new chemical into any laboratory (whether borrowed from another laboratory
or obtained from outside the School) then you MUST follow the procedures below to
ensure that an MSDS for it is placed on file, and that it is recorded in the Chemicals list.
15.2.1 School Responsibilities
As users of chemicals we are required by law to:
Maintain a register of chemicals held in the School
Obtain a brand specific MSDS for the chemical (no older than 5 yrs)
Understand and follow the storage, handling and disposal requirements of the
chemical
For all designated hazardous substances, complete a written risk assessment
Train new staff and students in the use of chemicals and document that this
training has taken place
In 2004, the School invested significant resources to ensure all laboratory chemical lists
and MSDS files were up to date. Each laboratory must now ensure chemical lists and
MSDS files are maintained to comply with the legislative requirements. The School cannot
afford to audit chemicals every year!
In order to identify what chemicals are already in the database, all chemicals in each lab
will be labeled, with a coloured label and lab name, identifying the lab that owns the
chemical. The School has a central database for chemicals, which is held on the V drive.
Each lab must have a designated person who is responsible for maintaining the list. An
instruction sheet for using the chemical data base can also be found on the V drive:
37
V:\Resources\Chemical Lists\Chemical Database
Also available in the V-drive folder will be electronic copies of some common MSDS’s.
MSDS’s are available from the Faculty Store for any chemicals purchased from there.
V:\Resources\Chemical Lists\MSDS
15.2.2 What does EVERYONE need to do?
When acquiring or disposing of chemicals by any mechanism, all members of the School
MUST:
Complete the notification form and leave in the designated tray in the
laboratory, so that the designated person in their laboratory can update the
Chemicals List and label the chemical.
If the MSDS is delivered with the chemical, attach it to the Notification form so
that the designated person can place it on file.
Non-compliance is a very serious issue, and any staff member
or student not taking reasonable steps to comply with the
requirements set out will face disciplinary action.
“Change Chemical Database Notification” sheets can be found at:
V:/OHSE/ChemicalSafety/Guidelines/
Maintenance and Requirement of Chemical Lists and Material Safety Data Sheets
15.3 Storage Limits for Dangerous Goods in Laboratories
These limits have been set up by OHSE to provide guidance on the maximum amount of
dangerous goods that are to be kept in laboratories at Monash University. The limits have
been set to achieve appropriate storage in accordance with the Dangerous Goods
(Storage and Handling) Regulations 1989. Three storage categories have been
designated - Low, Medium and High. The categories are based on mass/volume of a
substance to assist in the classification of laboratory storage. See table over page entitled
“Storing Dangerous Goods in Laboratories, Studios & Workshops”. It must always be
remembered that these limits are meant to be upper limits and if it is possible to keep less
than the amount specified this is desirable.
15.3.1 Special Items
There are some items, which will need additional storage restrictions due to their
hazardous nature and/or due to additional regulatory requirements. Advice is to be sought
from the MSDS and Safety Officer on the storage of the following items:
Scheduled Carcinogens
Acrylonitrile
Cyanides
38
Scheduled Poisons (as per Drugs and Poisons Regulations)
Radioactive isotopes
Perchloric Acid and its etchant mixtures
15.3.2 Storage of Dangerous Goods in Refrigerators/Coldrooms
Flammable chemicals in need of refrigeration must be stored only in intrinsically safe (i.e.
spark-free) appliances.
For further information see pages 10-11 of the School Guide
V:/Resourses/Induction Manuals/SchoolGuide
15.3.3 Gas Cylinders in the Laboratory
Cylinders must only be kept in laboratories when they are in regular use. Do not keep
spare cylinders “just in case”.
Cylinders should be kept in specially constructed dedicated cages or cupboards wherever
possible. Whether in a cage/cupboard or in the lab itself, all cylinders must be securely
anchored at all times, using appropriate chains or belts fitted to clamps on benches or
walls. On-the-spot fines of up to $3000 can be incurred if Worksafe Inspectors see an
unchained cylinder.
The correct regulators or valves must be fitted to cylinders. Obey the correct opening
sequence of the valves, and if you are not sure what this is ask the Safety Officer.
Make sure that valves are tightly shut after use. Keep oxygen away from flammable
solvents.
When moving a gas cylinder always ensure that it is carried on a suitable gas cylinder
trolley, preferably one of the three-wheeled yellow trolleys available from the Faculty Store,
and that the regulator is removed.
For further information see: “Guidelines for Gas Cylinder Safety”
V:/OHSE/ChemicalSafety/Guidelines/GasCylinderSafety
39
For an updated version of the above table see: www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/dangerous-goods-storage.pdf
40
15.4 Chemical Waste Disposal Procedures
15.4.1 User Responsibility
Environmental legislation relevant to activities at Monash is associated with land, air and
water quality as well as waste disposal. Under this legislation Monash has the following
broad environmental responsibilities:
Do not change or harm the environment
Do not cause pollution or allow potential pollution to occur
Minimise waste
Adhere to the Legislation and Regulations from Federal, State and Local
governments
Waste from laboratories, called Prescribed Waste, includes biohazards, radioactive waste
and chemicals which must be disposed of according to procedures provided by the
university. All Trade Waste discharged into the sewer must comply with prescribed quality
criteria which require the exclusion of laboratory substances.
During all waste disposal procedures, it is important to prevent incidental contact by others
(e.g. cleaners emptying bins or plumbers maintaining pipes).
Correct waste management (hazardous and non-hazardous) involves a structured
program to ensure that any wastes generated are correctly identified in terms of their
potential hazard to the environment and any staff handling them. It also ensures wastes
are correctly labeled, contained to ensure that they cannot spill, stored in a manner to
prevent off-site migration of wastes and non-authorised person’s access, transported
according to legislation and disposed of in accord with best-practice environmental
guidelines.
15.4.2 Disposal of Chemical Waste
Log the Waste to be Collected
Dangerous Goods and Hazardous Substances are disposed of through the Faculty of
Science Store. Collections are made every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month (there are no
collections in January). Waste must be logged on the system before 12pm the Friday prior
and taken to the store Monday afternoon:
http://cfapps.sci.monash.edu/store/index.cfm
Log in and select: Order
Stock Categories
Laboratory Waste
This link also provides list of each classes, units of volume accepted and price for
disposal.
Prepare the Waste
It is critical that you select a suitable container for the waste and the label accurately
reflects the contents of the container. Plastic containers are the preferred option (due to
41
the potential hazard of glass containers rupturing) unless there is a significant
incompatibility issue.
Waste labels must contain the following details:
• Name of generator and contact details: department and contact number
• Description of contents of container (including estimates of concentrations where
possible)
• Dangerous goods class and coloured diamond sticker (a photocopied version is not
acceptable)
• Date of generation
Templates for waste labels can be found on the V drive:
V:\OHSE\Labels, Signs & Record Sheets\Chemical waste labels
It is the laboratory’s responsibility to purchase label paper and print the labels when
needed.
Important Points
Check that waste can be disposed of BEFORE producing it
Dilution is NOT an acceptable means of overcoming appropriate disposal
Do not fill containers more than ¾ full
Keep containers closed when not in use
Segregate incompatible waste
Spill equipment should always be on hand
For further information on the above points, see:
www.sci.monash.edu/safety/docs/waste-disposal-guidelines.pdf
15.5 Spill Management Procedures
When a chemical is spilt, it must be cleaned up carefully and quickly.
All staff and students must ensure that they are familiar with the spill containment and
clean-up procedures for all chemicals with which they are working. This information is
detailed on the MSDS and also summarised on the chemicals list for your laboratory.
Consult the MSDS BEFORE you start using the chemical - DO NOT wait for a spill to
occur, as prompt action may be necessary to contain fumes or other hazards.
If you are not sure of the correct disposal or spill clean-up procedure for any spilt chemical,
if you are not sure what the spill consists of, or if there is anything else you are unsure
about, consult the Safety Officer BEFORE taking any other action.
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15.5.1 Spill Kits
There are a number of spill kits available in the School:
Small briefcase-sized kits in green plastic cases are located at sign-posted
locations throughout the School.
Larger high-volume kits in orange wheelie-bins are located near the main fair
panel in each building.
Please be sure to note the location of the closest kit to your lab, and make sure you know
how to use it. Specialised kits are available for formaldehyde and radioisotopes.
Safety goggles, gloves and boots are essential safety equipment to be worn when
cleaning up a hazardous chemical spill. Any spill must be reported to the laboratory
supervisor, the Safety Officer or the School Manager.
Depending on the size and type of spill, Breathing Apparatus (BA) may be required please contact a trained BA user.
15.5.2 Mercury Spills
The use of mercury thermometers should be strongly avoided because of the vulnerability
to breakage. However, we have not banned totally the use of mercury thermometers in
this School, because of their greater accuracy and sensitivity. Please assess your needs
at the outset of the work and be aware of the toxic nature of mercury and take great care if
mercury thermometers have to be used. Wherever possible, spirit thermometers should
be used in preference.
If a mercury spill occurs, the laboratory must be evacuated without delay and the
door locked and signposted to prevent unauthorised entry. DO NOT attempt to
clean up the spill unless you have been specifically trained to do so, including use
of the Breathing Apparatus (BA)
The person responsible for the spill should:
Notify all other persons working in the laboratory that a mercury spill has
occurred.
Switch on any fume cupboards or ventilation systems in the room, and leave on
whilst the room is in the evacuated state.
Contact the Safety Officer.
The person who does the clean-up must wear Breathing Apparatus (BA) and be trained in
its use and a second person who is also trained in the use of BA should be standing by
with a spare BA set ready to assist should the need arise. Rubber gloves must be worn
during all clean-up processes.
The suspected spill area should be sprinkled with zinc dust or the absorbent powder
provided in the recommended spill kit. All mercury-contaminated waste must be secured
in a plastic screw-top container in order that no vapour will leak out. The waste must be
disposed of via a waste disposal contractor, as chemical waste. Under no circumstances
should it be put in the ordinary garbage, radioactive or biological waste. Place in waste
container and label clearly, all waste is disposed of via Chemsal.
If a thermometer is broken in a full water bath, the water will be contaminated, so it must
not be tipped down the sink. Water should be poured into a suitable waste container and
sent to Chemsal to be discarded with other hazardous chemicals. If possible, clean up in
43
a fume hood to prevent inhalation of vapour.
Prior to re-opening the laboratory the atmosphere in the vicinity of the spill site should be
checked for contamination using an appropriate monitor. The OHS&E Branch can perform
this function at the conclusion of the clean-up. Calls should be directed to Margaret Rendell
(ext. 51016) or Richard Connelly (ext. 51034).
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15.5.3 Chemical Spill Response Procedure
Does the spill require evacuation?
You will know from completing the Risk Assessment and reading the MSDS before using the Hazardous
substance. Action depends on the chemical nature of the substance, the volume and location of the spill.
Yes
No
Chemical Hazard spills requiring evacuation:
1. If safe to do so ensure the immediate safety of anyone within the vicinity of the spill.
Ring 333 or use Red Emergency phone – You will need to give them your exact location
Notify Supervisor or Safety Officer and OHS – 51016
2. Evacuate – as directed by the emergency personnel to the designated assembly point.
3. Clean up – Do not re-enter the area until it has been decontaminated by personnel train specifically
in chemical safety.
Chemical Hazard spills NOT requiring evacuation
1. SAFETY FIRST – Before attempting to clean up the spill, identify the spill to confirm appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and clean up method. Refer to labels, MSDS‟, placards and
supervisor/s.
Wearing appropriate PPE:
If the spill is flammable: remove sources of ignition.
Caution: if lights or power points are "on" do not switch them “off" as this could cause sparks.
If breathing difficulties are involved- isolate the area and contact the Safety Officer or
somebody trained in using the Emergency Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus (See section
2.3 of Safety Manual).
2. Isolate the spill area (barricade tape and fold out danger signs supplied in larger spill kits).
3. Notify proper authorities (Supervisor, Safety Officer).
4. Prevent the spill from spreading.
SELECT CORRECT AGENT FROM SPILL KITS: (located near laboratories for easy access)
o Green kits
o Big Yellow “wheelie” building Spill kits
NOTE: Ensure that spill cannot enter drains by blocking potential pathway to drain with the clean-up agent.
5. Treat the spill.
- Contain spill by pouring agent from bag or bucket around the perimeter
- Cover spill by applying agent inward until all liquid is covered
- Carefully mix agent
6. Remove contaminated materials
- Make sure the contaminated material is sealed in a suitable container, correctly labeled and disposed of
as waste via the Faculty of Science Store.
- You may need to ask your supervisor/Safety Officer for assistance
45
15.6 Weighing Toxic/Hazardous Substances
When weighing any substance for the first time, consult the MSDS to review its physical and
hazardous properties. This will assist you in choosing suitable personal protective
equipment, a safe weighing environment (Fume hood may be necessary if fumes or
airborne particles are toxic/hazardous) and be aware of the spill cleanup procedure.
If you have any questions after reading the MSDS, consult your supervisor (or the Safety
Officer if your Supervisor is unable to answer your questions).
46
16 Biosafety
Work involving recombinant DNA may be undertaken only in registered PC1 or PC2
laboratories in accordance with the “Guidelines for small scale genetic manipulation work”
(January, 1993) issued by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR). A copy of
the Guidelines is available from the Biosafety Officer, Dr Richard Burke.
Further information can be obtained from Research, Grants and Ethics Branch or
http://www.monash.edu.au/researchoffice/biosafety/
16.1 Operating Procedures
16.1.1 PC1 and PC2 Laboratories
The following procedures must be followed at all times in PC1 and PC2 laboratories:
Laboratory doors must be closed when work is in progress.
Laboratory coats or gowns must be worn at all times, and removed before
leaving the laboratory.
Hands must be washed with soap and warm water when leaving the laboratory
and after handling cultures.
All microbiological waste must be sterilised before disposal.
Equipment used for handling cultures or contaminated material used which is not
readily steam sterilised must be disinfected after use. A suitable disinfectant for
glassware is a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution (for at least 30 minutes). The
sodium hypochlorite solution must be made up fresh daily, and items must be
soaked for 30 minutes.
Work benches and surfaces must be regularly decontaminated with a
disinfectant solution
Material to be taken from the laboratory must be carried in a closed, unbreakable
outer container.
All technical procedures must be performed in a way that minimises the creation
of aerosols.
All work done in the PC2 laboratory must follow PC2 procedures whether or not
genetic manipulation work is involved.
No one should enter a PC2 laboratory for servicing of equipment or any other
maintenance without the proper approval of the senior investigator in charge of
the facility. The work areas must be disinfected before any such maintenance is
carried out.
All Biological Safety Cabinets must be tested and certified annually
Refrigerators and Freezers should be labeled with a biohazard sticker if they
contain biological material
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16.1.2 Bacteriological Work
The necks of culture flasks or bottles and sterile solutions should be flamed
immediately after removal and before replacement of the tops.
All cultures should be labeled clearly with the name of the organism and the
user name.
Cultures no longer required should be autoclaved as soon as practicable.
Pipettes used for transfer of micro-organisms must be plugged with cotton wool
and discarded into sodium hypochlorite immediately after use. Subsequently,
plugs removed, then rinsed clean. Cotton wool plugs, should be removed from
the pipettes and discarded appropriately, not put down the sink.
Working with Pressurised Microbial Cultures – Syringe filters and French
Press
Safety glasses or face shields must be worn at all times when subjecting cultures to elevated
pressures during filtration processes or the operation of the French press. If it is necessary
to filter cultures to obtain sterile supernatants, the cultures should first be subjected to
appropriate centrifugation in order to pellet and remove most of the bacterial cells. The
supernatant should then be decanted, after which it can be filtered. If pre-filtration pelleting
is not an option, then the filtration procedure MUST be carried out in a Class II Biological
Safety Cabinet. Safety glasses or face shields must still be worn.
16.1.3 Class II – Biological Safety Cabinets











Cabinets should not be used for storage.
Ensure work area is clean by wiping down with 70% ethanol, a soluble phenol (do not
use hypochlorite solution as it will eventually corrode the stainless steel).
Plastic backed, absorbent sheeting (or trays) may be laid on work surface to facilitate
clean up between procedures.
Allow cabinet to run for at least 5 minutes to purge work area of contaminates.
Plan procedure so as to place all required material and equipment in close proximity to
cabinet.
Check that UV lamp is off.
Place material and equipment in cabinet.
Remember to place work in the center of the work surface (items at the rear or front of
the grille can impair air barrier performance).
Vacuum services connected to the cabinet should incorporate an in-line microbiological
filter to prevent the evacuation of infectious aerosols (0.2 µm recommended).
Special care must be taken when using a Bunsen burner in proximity to solvents
(ethanol etc.) in cabinets due to the fire risk.
Avoid unnecessary removal of hands or material from the work area.
48
At the completion of work:
Any equipment removed from cabinet should be wiped over with a suitable disinfectant.
Wipe down the work area with disinfectant.
Allow cabinet to run for at least a further 5 minutes.
Switch on UV lamp (15 minutes before and after use is considered sufficient).
Waste must be bagged and disposed in the correct manner.
16.2 Biological Hazards and Spills
Spilt bacterial cultures require particular attention so that appropriate chemical (5% sodium
hypochlorite) disinfection can be carried out as quickly as possible.
All accidents and spills must be reported immediately to your supervisor, the Biosafety
Officer or the Safety Officer.
16.2.1 Spills Outside a Biological Safety Cabinet
If there is a spill of biological material outside Biosafety cabinet:
Leave the room immediately, and ensure that everyone else in the room does
the same.
Close the door and place “DO NOT ENTER” and “BIOHAZARD” signs
Remove all clothing that is grossly contaminated and place in a biohazard bag.
If shoes may be contaminated, remove and place in a separate biohazard bag
Wash hands and face and put on a clean laboratory gown
Warn others of the spill and to keep out of the area
Notify area supervisor or have someone do it for you
Stay out of the spillage area for at least 30 minutes
A full body shower is recommended
Consult the Biosafety Officer before commencing clean up
16.2.2 Cleaning Up a Biological Spill
The emergency response for an accidental spillage of biohazardous material in the
laboratory will depend upon the hazard of the material and the volume.
A minimally hazardous material that is spilled without generating significant aerosol may be
cleaned up with a paper towel soaked with an effective decontaminating agent.
A spill of a large volume of infectious material with the generation of aerosols will require
cleanup personnel wearing protective clothing and respiratory protection.
Other types of spills that may generate hazardous aerosols includes: spills within centrifuges
and the release of biohazardous materials within refrigerators, incubators, or shaker baths.
The same principles discussed apply.
General procedures for clean-up are as follows, but you should seek advice from the
Safety Officer or Biosafety Officer regarding your particular spill before taking action:
Wait a minimum of 30 minutes before re-entering the room.
Clean up personnel should wear gowns, rubber boots and rubber gloves.
Respiratory protection may be required.
49
The team should preferably consist of three people, one to stand back and observe
and direct the other two to contaminated areas.
Before commencing, observe the spill area to determine the area of contamination
Hypochlorite (5000mg/l chlorine) disinfectant is appropriate for many micro-organisms.
Pour the solution carefully around the outside of the spill and allow to flow into the spill.
Lay paper towels wet with disinfectant over the spill.
Wait 20-30 minutes to allow disinfectant to act.
Transfer all materials from the spill area to a metal pan for removal. Note: do not
autoclave hypochlorite solutions.
Wash and mop the adjacent areas, as well as the spill area itself, with fresh disinfectant
solution.
The decontamination team should wash their boots and gloves before removing them
and leaving the area. Any other protective clothing should be autoclaved or
decontaminated.
If a Person is contaminated:
Assess if it is safe to assist the affected person.
The affected person should be removed from the contaminated area, if it is safe to do
so.
Initially, physical removal of the microorganism can be carried out by flushing or
flooding contaminated skin with copious amounts of water, preferably using a safety
shower or appropriate hand-held nozzle. This process will significantly dilute or remove
the contamination agent.
Contaminated clothing should also be treated appropriately, either by treating with
sodium hypochlorite solution, an alcohol-based disinfectant or full steam sterilisation.
If it is deemed necessary, this step can be followed by decontamination of skin
surfaces (excluding the eyes and open wounds) using an appropriate alcohol-based
wash or using soap and water.
Containment of the wash effluent may be necessary if decontamination is necessary
prior to it being discharged into the sewer.
Biological Spills in Centrifuges
Any spill in a centrifuge rotor must be immediately mopped up and decontaminated with
70% Ethanol (NOT Sodium Hypochlorite). Major spills must be reported so that the
centrifuge can be inspected for potential damage to the drive assembly.
16.3 PC2 and Quarantine Glasshouses
The School has a number of glasshouse bays which are classified by the OGTR as PC2
and/or registered by AQIS for growth of quarantine plants. Special requirements apply to
these as detailed below, in addition to the usual rules governing safe use of School facilities.
A separate manual exists for the quarantine bays, and all users must ensure they are
familiar with it and comply with its requirements.
50
16.3.1 Operating Procedures
All rules applying to PC2 laboratories and/or quarantine areas (as appropriate) apply in
these glasshouse bays. Users must also comply with the following requirements:
The glasshouses must be inspected regularly to ensure that containment features are
intact, and any crack, chips or leaks noted must be reported to the Plant Resources
Officer immediately.
All doors to the plant house must be locked for the duration of the work except for
those periods when personnel are actually working inside it.
Hands must be washed with soap and water before leaving the plant house. Only
authorised persons are to enter these glasshouse bays. All such persons must be trained
to follow normal plant house routines as well as these operating procedures.
All plants in PC2 bays must be treated as containing recombinant DNA.
If quarantine plants are being grown, all plants in the quarantine bay must be treated as
being quarantinable.
Operations which may generate aerosols must be done in a biological safety cabinet
as specified for PC2 containment.
Plants and tissues taken into or out of the PC2 or quarantine bays must be carried in
closed containers. Waste plants, tissues, soil, soil substitutes and the containers must be
sterilised.
The floors should be swept/vacuumed and mopped regularly
Living plants or tissues must not be taken from the registered bay unless to a
PC2 laboratory or Quarantine Approved Premise (as appropriate).
Where the work permits, plants should be sprayed regularly with a systemic
insecticide.
The experimental materials must be inspected regularly for signs of arthropod
infestation.
Users of the PC2 should wear substantial footwear and take precautions to avoid
transferring transgenic seed or plant material in their clothing or footwear when leaving the
facility.
Users of the quarantine facility must either walk through the disinfectant footbath when
leaving or wear protective footwear whenever inside the facility and leave that footwear
behind when they leave.
16.3.2 Containment Precautions
If transgenic plant material is accidentally dropped or dispersed within the glasshouse bay,
all material (including seeds) should be carefully collected into a covered, sealable container
and autoclaved. A vacuum cleaner and portable electric vacuum brush should held in the
facility for this purpose. The area of the spill should then be swabbed carefully with 5%
sodium hypochlorite.
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16.4 Handling and Disposal of Products of Biological Origin
16.4.1 Compliance with AQIS Importation Guidelines
All products of biological origin entering Australia are subject to approval by the Australian
Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) regardless of whether the products are living or
extracted and purified. For further information contact the Monash Research Office,
Compliance Officer, quarantine@monash.edu.
http://www.monash.edu.au/researchoffice/quarantine/
Failure to comply with these regulations will compromise the continuation of AQIS
registration for this School and will be dealt with severely.
AQIS REDLINE NUMBER (24 hours) 1800 803 006
16.4.2 Disposal of Quarantine Waste
The autoclave in 17-249 is the only autoclave in the School suitable for autoclaving
quarantine waste. All quarantine waste must be disposed of via this autoclave and run
details recorded (to be audited). All users of the autoclave must be trained and have signed
a Training Agreement before use. See section 20.3 for details.
16.4.3 Disposal of Biological Waste
All biological wastes must be autoclaved and disposed of according to the requirements
currently set by the EPA. All waste of biological origin should be treated as potentially
contaminated and dealt with accordingly. The preferred disposal option is by autoclaving or
incineration. If this is impractical, waste should be treated with disinfectant e.g. 5% Sodium
hypochlorite.
Autoclave Procedure for Biological Waste:
1.
Place waste to be autoclaved into Biohazard bag.
2.
Label a Thermalog strip with the next load number from the autoclaved waste
record book.
Place a Thermalog strip in the most heat resistant part of the autoclave waste load.
E.g. Plates, tips etc - place Thermalog strip in glass jar together with biohazard bag
in the autoclave bucket.
3.
On completion of autoclaving, fill in the relevant sections in the Autoclave waste
record book.
This will include:
Date
Bag #
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Load contents
Thermalog result
Operators signature
Bag label checked
Supervisors signature
As required include results of counts of spore-forming bacteria.
4. Fill out adhesive labels as follows:
Biological Sciences
Monash University
Bag #
5. Have the supervisor check the Thermalog results, adhesive label and then sign the book.
Do not throw out the Thermalog until it has been checked.
6. Put autoclaved biohazard bag into black heavy duty garbage bag (i.e. double bagged) and
sealed with tape printed “sterile”.
7. Stick adhesive label with details (step 5) on to the garbage bag.
8. Put into rubbish bin.
9. Stick the print out of the autoclave run in the record book and label with bag number.
Currently the preferred methods of disposal within the School are:
Solid Biological Waste (Non-Quarantine)
All biologically contaminated waste from PC2 laboratories must be placed in labeled, baglined autoclave bins for decontamination. Currently most solid biological waste (non
quarantine) is disposed of via an external contractor. Waste must be sealed inside a
biological waste bag and placed into the yellow biological hazard bins. These bins must not
be overfilled as the lids need to be completely shut when not being filled.
There are currently bins at: Faculty Science Store, Building 53, 1 st floor and 17-212.
Alternatively, this waste can be autoclaved following the guidelines for quarantine waste
above.
Liquid Biological Waste
Liquid biohazardous waste such as bacterial cultures or other potentially contaminated
solutions can be treated with 5%hypochlorite (made up freshly) for 30 minutes or autoclaved
and tipped down the sink.
Sharps
All sharps containers are treated as biohazardous and disposed of though the Faculty of
Science Store. See section 15.4 “Chemical Waste Disposal‟ for the procedure of waste
disposal through the School Store.
****Note that autoclaves must be used ONLY by staffs that have been formally trained in
their safe operation. See section 20.3.1
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16.5 International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Regulations
There are strict regulations governing the transport of Dangerous Goods, including
biologicals, by post or air freight both within Australia and overseas. Failure to follow IATA
regulations will incur legal penalties.
There are specific packaging guidelines for different types of goods, each package must be
labeled correctly and specific documentation must be completed.
Several members of the technical staff have received specific training in IATA compliance,
and are able to assist on request. Contact the School Manager for details.
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17 Working with Radiation
17.1 Useful contacts
See Section 2.7 “Radiation Contacts”.
17.2 Purchase of Radioisotopes
These are governed by the Health (Radiation Safety) 1983 and Regulations 1984 (SR
191) Act. All School purchases are stored and used under such licences, and we are
obliged to inform OHSE of our Isotope holdings and any changes thereto.
The School RSO (or in their absence the deputy RSO) must authorise all requests to
purchase radioactive substances and irradiating apparatus within the school before an
order can be placed.
17.3 Storage and Use of Radioisotopes
17.3.1 Radioisotope Laboratories
Storage, dispensing, assaying and disposal of radio-isotopes may occur only in
designated areas. If you are considering using radioisotopes please discuss your
needs with the School Radiation Safety officer.
All operations with radioisotopes MUST be carried out in a designated area for this
type of work under the guidance of your supervisor.
17.3.2 Authorisation
Before beginning work with radioisotopes, staff and students will need to consult the
School’s Radiation Safety Officer. They must complete and pass training modules
(2) – a practical and theory component on unsealed sources (developed by the OHSE
branch).
They must read and sign a declaration form indicating they will abide by the rules of the
room and acquire a personal radiation monitor from the Buildings and Equipment Officer.
Staff and students will not be given a monitor until the modules have been satisfactorily
completed and a Risk Assessment completed. All new
55
users must be trained in experimental handling of radioactive material by the Buildings and
Infrastructure Officer and that training must be documented. Signed Training sheets are to
be kept.
Training, General Housekeeping and Facility Rules: Buildings and Infrastructure Officer
Specific procedures & protocols: Relevant lab staff
17.3.3 Radiation Safety Procedures
The following general laboratory regulations apply to the handling of unsealed radioactive
materials. Please note these procedures are currently under review.
General laboratory rules apply, plus:
On entry to the room, complete the user log sheets.
The room must be checked/scanned on entry and when you leave the room.
The standard of cleanliness in a radio- isotope laboratory should be much
higher than normal.
No music in the lab – including radios and iPods (or similar) see section 21.8.
Personal protective equipment reserved for radioactive work only shall be worn
at all times in the laboratory. This includes lab coats, gloves and safety
glasses must be worn at all times, and must be removed before leaving the
room.
All radioactive preparations shall be clearly marked with details of the chemical
compound, radionuclide, activity and date.
The working area must be thoroughly checked for contamination after every
experiment and decontaminated if necessary.
When leaving the laboratory, every worker should wash their hands thoroughly.
Hands, clothing and shoes shall be monitored before leaving the laboratory to
ensure that no contamination is present.
The following procedures must also be followed by all users of the Radiation Areas:
To ensure your own safety and that of other users, it is essential that at the
completion of your work you leave these rooms clean, uncontaminated and
free of leftover items from experiments.
If it is essential that you leave experiments running unattended, you must clean
up all wastes and non-essential items before you leave, and you must also
leave a notice giving details of the experiment, your name, and the time when
you will return. This is your responsibility, and persistent offenders will be
barred from performing this type of work.
You must check your work area before you start work and when you leave
using one of the Geiger-Muller counters available from the Building and
Infrastructure officer. The GM tube has a delicate window, so do not drop or
jolt it! Please treat the counter with respect!
Do not use gas flames. All heating must be carried out using electric
apparatus provided (i.e. heating blocks).
Boiling reactions must NEVER be left unattended.
Only o-ring tubes to be used
All samples must be labeled with: Name, isotope, date and contact #‟s
All items must be stored appropriately.
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17.3.4 Personal Radiation Monitors
All members of the School who work with radiation will be issued with a personal monitor
(badge, or TLD), supplied by the Australian Radiation Laboratory (ARL), which records the
amount of ionising radiation to which the wearer is exposed.
Badges are collected every 12 weeks and returned to ARL for processing, generating a
cumulative record of the wearer’s radiation exposure. Each user is given a unique number, which
allow life-time exposure records to be kept. When you leave the School
and/or Monash University, you should make a note of this number so that you can re-use it
if you re-join the monitoring scheme at another Australian institution.
You should wear your badge at all times when performing radiation work, whether or not
you are actually handling radiation yourself.
17.3.5 Working outside normal working hours
As far as possible, workers should try and limit their radiation work to the hours of 8am
to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Should it be necessary to work outside normal working hours, all safety precautions need
to be observed with extra care and the person undertaking the work MUST know what to
do (i.e. how to respond, who to contact etc) in the event of an emergency.
For further information, see: http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/index.html (Download
“After hours work‟)
17.4 Accidents and Spills
Any accident, no matter how apparently trivial, must be reported. In most cases the report
should be made to The Radiation Safety Officer or in their absence, The Head of School.
The School’s emergency radiation clean up kits are located in each registered lab.Please
ensure you know where these are located.
In any incident involving radioactive contamination, practical common sense and careful
monitoring is essential. In any accident, presence of mind is desirable, absence of body is
preferable!
Immediate control measures in the event of a spill:
57
Minor spills of liquids should be carefully wiped up with paper towels or tissues
and the bench cloth removed by working from the uncontaminated area
inwards. The affected area should be monitored and further wiping or
scrubbing continued until the contamination is below the Derived Working Limit
(DWL).
Spills must be cleaned up by the responsible person.
More serious spills will probably require immediate evacuation of the area with
care being taken so as not to spread the contamination. The RSO and the
RPO should be notified immediately.
For personal contamination, affected areas should be washed with warm water
and soap. If this fails to remove contamination to below the DWL, the RPO
and/or the Health Service should be notified.
17.5 Disposal of Radioactive Materials
The University has strict procedures for disposing of waste radioactive substances. Each
laboratory will need to arrange disposal of Radioactive Waste to the Radioactive Waste
Store by contacting the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer. A key to this area is held by
the RSO and the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer.
Disposal guidelines for Low Level Solid Waste
SOLID NON-COMBUSTIBLE RADIO-ACTIVE waste must be packed into
disposal bags which have an inner plastic lining available from the Biology
Store.
Hypodermic syringes and needles, pasteur pipettes and other materials with
sharp surfaces must be adequately packed to ensure that the waste bag is not
perforated.
Solvent waste and scintillation fluid in small vials (<20ml) should be placed into
sealed and labeled 20-litre disposal pails, which are provided by Chemsal.
Low-level aqueous waste may be disposed of to the sewer, provided that prior
approval is obtained from either the RSO or RPO. Waste must be diluted with
water sufficiently to ensure that the maximum concentration in the regulations
are not exceeded, and drains must be clearly labeled with a radiation hazard
label.
All packages or containers of radioactive solid or solvent wastes should be
clearly labeled with the appropriate form, identifying the type and activity of
material and who is responsible for it.
All full waste containers must be labeled (including date). Containers and
labels are available in the room.
Waste containers must only be filled to ¾. Do not continue to fill bins past this
point.
For further information see the OHS website:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/radiation-users.html
Documents found at the above link include:
Using Ionising Radiation at Monash University
Monash Radiation Safety Manual
Procedures for disposal of radioactive waste
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18 Liquid Nitrogen
18.1 Safety
Liquid nitrogen is a cryogenic liquid and the hazards associated with it arise from either its
very low temperature (cold burns), the nature of the gas evolved when it boils at room
temperature (a powerful asphyxiant) or a combination of both (leading to fire or
explosions).
As liquid nitrogen vaporises it expands to 500 times its volume and can displace air. The
Nitrogen gas evolved is colourless, odourless and tasteless giving no detectable warning
that the atmosphere has become oxygen deficient. Therefore, liquid nitrogen work and
storage areas should always be well ventilated.
The hazard of cold burns can be reduced by wearing appropriate PPE. A lab coat, safety
goggles and gloves should always be worn when handling liquid NO 2.
Liquid NO2 must always be collected in a Liquid NO2 Dewar and the minimum amount for
an experiment decanted. Most labs have a Dewar which can withstand pressure and is
NOT completely sealable, to avoid explosion. If your lab does not have a liquid NO 2
Dewar, you can purchase one from a scientific supplier.
Further information can be found on: OHS Information Sheet No 41 - Handling and
Storage of Liquid Nitrogen
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/info-sheets/liquid-nitrogen.html
18.2 Re-filling the Dewar’s in Building 18 Room G06
If this is the first time that you have re-filled a dewar, BRING SOMEBODY WITH YOU who has
filled it before and knows how to do it (If you don’t know of anyone, see the Safety Officer).
Note: Take particular care navigating over uneven ground outside (going backwards over slight
rises is safer than trying to push it forwards over small bumps).
Wear the face mask and gloves provided when decanting the Liquid NO 2 into your
small dewar.
DO NOT take the lift on the way back to your lab, take the stairs.
In 2013 liquid nitrogen will be available from the School of Chemistry.
To arrange this you will need to contact the following persons and please provide plenty
notice.
Boujemma Moubaraki (safety officer) School of Chemistry ext. 54798,
Or Craig Forsyth on email: craig.forsyth@monash.edu
Liquid Nitrogen in Lifts – VERY IMPORTANT
Putting liquid NO2 in lifts should be avoided whenever possible. Take the stairs with
your small dewar. If lift transport is required for the large storage dewar; place a sign
“LIQUID NITROGEN TRANSPORT IN PROGRESS. DO NOT ENTER THE ELEVATOR” around the
neck of the dewar. Wheel it to the goods lift ONLY (i.e. do not use the north or south
lifts in building 17). IMPORTANT....DO NOT GET IN THE LIFT WITH THE DEWAR
(empty or full). Place the sign facing outwards (so anybody attempting to get in the lift
can see the sign) and send to the required floor. Take the stairs to the required floor
and remove the dewar from the lift
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19 Field Trip Safety
The School follows University Guidelines for all field trips. Guidelines for the health and
safety during field activities in various areas (rural/urban/international) are available on the
web at:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/off-campus-activities.html
And: http://www.sci.monash.edu.au/safety/field.html
19.1 Communications
19.1.1 Essential Planning
Field work necessarily entails some hazards, and so in order for the School to fulfill its
OH&S responsibilities towards you it is essential that we know the details of your proposed
field trips, as outlined below and detailed in the policies above. This will allow us to:
Alert you to external emergencies such as floods or fires; Notify
you regarding personal or work-related emergencies; Raise an
alarm if you fail to return at the scheduled time; and/or Take
other appropriate action to ensure your safety.
Before beginning any field project, you must complete a written risk assessment and
ensure that it is approved by your Supervisor. The assessment should include a map
showing the location of your field site(s). If necessary, a preliminary assessment can be
completed, and further maps and/or procedures appended to it as the project develops.
It is essential that you record the full details of each field trip, including your exact
destination(s) and expected date/time of return, both on the whiteboard in your laboratory
and in the folder by the car booking folder.
You should also have a nominated contact person for each trip. This may be either a work
colleague or a personal contact such as a partner, parent or housemate. If you will be
away overnight you should arrange to phone your contact person at an agreed time each
day. Your contact person should know your exact location and your expected date/time of
return. They should also know what to do if you fail to return or call in at the scheduled
time or if there are any incidents, including who to advise within this School.
Refer to the Safety Information and Training Agreement folder in your laboratory for more
details.
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19.1.2 Communications
There are a number of communication options available:
The School has two mobile phones which may be booked via the online
booking calendar.
If you intend to rely on a personal mobile phone, please ensure that you record
the number in your risk assessment, on the whiteboard in the lab, and on the
record sheets next to the vehicle booking folder.
19.2 Parking of Private Cars whilst on Field Trips
If you are using a school vehicle for a field trip, you may leave your car in the car parking
place usually occupied by the school vehicle.
You must obtain a red “Duty Vehicle” label from the General office to put on your
dashboard. Without this your vehicle will be booked for illegal parking. In either case,
owner onus for damage applies.
19.3 Scuba Diving & Boating Safety
The University has guidelines for snorkeling/diving and boating and copies of these documents are
available from the School Boating and Safety Officer. They are expected reading for any
staff or student undertaking projects involving boating and/or underwater diving. Please
report any faults to school diving and boating equipment, however minor, immediately to
the School Boating and Safety Officer or the Deputy School Boating and Diving Safety
Officer. See section 2.8 for contact details.
For further information see:
http://www.sci.monash.edu.au/safety/field.html
The above link provides documentation for:
Field activities in country and remote areas
International activities
Off-campus activities undertaken in urban areas
For Guidelines on boat usage, a boating checklist and log see:
V:\OHSE\Marine Safety
61
20 Equipment Safety, Training and
Maintenance
20.1 Isolation of Unsafe Machinery or Equipment
For further details, see: http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/procedures/isolation-ofequipment.pdf
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20.2 School Facilities
See the School Guide (pages 4-6) for general information on School equipment, the
loaning process and how to report faults and hazards.
V:/Resources/inductionManuals/School Guide
20.3 Autoclaves
Autoclaves must be used ONLY by staff or students who have been formally trained in
their safe operation.
20.3.1 Training
The autoclaves in the School are used for steam sterilisation of liquid and solid media,
equipment such as tips and tubes, and for decontamination of biological hazardous
material in compliance with standards set by the EPA, AQIS, the OGTR and other
regulatory bodies.
The autoclaves are monitored and calibrated regularly by the designated person in charge,
but all users are responsible for ensuring proper sterilisation of their own loads.
Autoclave tape is used routinely to confirm exposure to a potential sterilisation temperature
but it doesn't necessarily indicate that contents are sterile. Sterilisation time is the sum of
the “steam penetration time” (time required for whole load to reach the set temperature),
the “holding time” (minimum time required for complete sterilisation at the set temperature)
and a safety margin to allow for packaging, loading or operational faults that may not have
been detected.
Common reasons for the failure of sterilisation are:
• Insufficient sterilising time or temperature.
• Inappropriate loading of the chamber causing air to be trapped. Articles except those
containing aqueous solutions should be positioned so that air can escape by downward
displacement.
• Inappropriate packaging of articles to be sterilised. Packaging material must be
permeable to entry of steam and removal of air and must be contamination-proof during
subsequent storage. Volumes of liquid should be kept as small as possible.
Please remember that bottles should be filled only three-quarters full.
Commonly used sterilisation times are:
• Media, glassware, etc. - 20 mins at 121°C/15psi (101.3 kPa).
• Contaminated soil - 60 mins at 121°/15psi (101.3 kPa).
Autoclaving Biological Waste
Thermalog strips must be included in every waste load that goes through the autoclaves to
ensure that you are obtaining sterilisation. A waste load refers to anything that is to be
thrown in an ordinary rubbish bin or tipped down the sink after being autoclaved.
Thermalog strips use a chemical reaction to indicate “safe” and “unsafe” reactions. “Safe”
indicates sterilisation has occurred. “Unsafe” means that sterilisation wasn't attained.
63
Strips should be placed into the middle of loads to ensure that the entire load reaches
sterilisation.
Water
It is important to ensure that the Autoclave has adequate water before starting a run. Tap
water and distilled water can be used, but not MilliQ (as it is ion free). Specifications for refilling with water vary on different autoclaves. See the manufacturers‟ manual or ask a
trained person if you are unsure.
Safety
To safely open the door of an autoclave, the pressure must be at zero (kPa) and the
temperature below 60˚C.
Bottles must never be filled more than ¾ full and lids should be left on loosely to allow
steam to escape and prevent bottles exploding.
The department has several autoclaves varying in size and sophistication. Therefore,
although you have completed the basic training and signed the Training Agreement, it is
very important to seek advice from a trained person before using a different autoclave for
the first time.
Person appointed responsible for Training and Records
Each autoclave has a responsible person appointed and their name clearly visible on the
autoclave. This person is responsible for:
 Training users – this should include:
Familiarity with the machine, its controls and the requirements of the manufacturers
handbook
Operating rules and limitations
Emergency shutdown procedures and incident reporting
Record keeping, log books
Other requirements related to chemical or biological safety
 Keeping records of authorised users:
Name, date trained and authorised
 Ensuring records are maintained
 Inspecting the autoclave for wear and tear
 Maintenance, contacting the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer to arrange repairs
For information and guidelines on autoclaving waste, see:
For further information, instruction manuals for each autoclave can be found in the training
agreement folder (within close vicinity to the machine) or you can contact the Buildings
and Infrastructure Officer.
Trainees and the appointed Trainer must co-sign a Training Agreement in the appropriate
section of the laboratory folder before the Trainee using an Autoclave.
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20.3.2 Hazards, Faults and Maintenance
All autoclaves are on a maintenance agreement and serviced in January and July each
year. The person appointed responsible for the autoclave performs regular checks for
general wear and tear. It is the responsibility of the user to report any hazards or faults
observed during routine use.
Autoclaves are pressure vessels and are potentially very dangerous. Faults or potential
hazards must be reported immediately. To report a fault or hazard, contact the person
appointed responsible for that autoclave.
20.4 Centrifuges
The School has many centrifuges, varying in size, age and sophistication. These machines
are potentially dangerous and all first-time users MUST be trained by the person-incharge. For training on high speed centrifuges see the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer
or for training on bench top centrifuges see the laboratory’s staff.
Bench Top Centrifuges
Must be securely fixed to the bench top before use
Visually inspect the rotor prior to use
Hair nets to be used if hair is past chin level
Clean away any moisture on the rotor on each occasion the machine is used
Any spill in a centrifuge rotor must be immediately mopped up and decontaminated with
70% Ethanol (NOT Sodium Hypochlorite). Major spills must be reported so that the
centrifuge can be inspected for potential damage to the drive assembly.
Trainees and the appointed Trainer must co-sign a Training Agreement in the appropriate
section of the laboratory folder before the Trainee uses the Centrifuge.
Person appointed responsible for Training and Records is responsible for:
 Training users – this should include:
Familiarity with the machine, its controls and the requirements of the manufacturers
handbook
Operating rules and limitations, rotor maximum speed
Inspect the rotor prior to use
Load balancing placement and security
Emergency shutdown procedures and incident reporting
Record keeping, log books
Other requirements related to chemical or biological safety
65
 Keeping records of authorised users:
Name, date trained and authorised
 Ensuring records are maintained
 Inspecting rotors, interlocks of lids and interlocks to speed control and recording
 Maintenance (arrange servicing through the workshop every 2 years), contacting the
Buildings and Equipment Officer to arrange repairs
 Marking the maximum allowable rotor speed on the speed controller
20.5 Fume Hood and Laminar Flow
20.5.1 Fume Hood Training
A fume cupboard is essentially a ventilated box with an adjustable work opening. It
provides extraction to remove any fumes produced within the box. It is designed to have
laminar flow through the front opening, i.e. the flow is to be even and non-turbulent
through the open face of the cupboard
Whenever anything is placed within the fume cupboard, it introduces turbulence into the
cupboard. This means that the containment of fumes may be affected. If a fume cupboard
is not used in the proper manner then there may be situations in which fumes escape out
of the front of the fume cupboard towards the user instead of being drawn away from the
user, especially with heavier vapours such as formaldehyde.
ALL TRAINEES MUST PRINT THE DOCUMENT BELOW PRIOR TO THE TRAINING
SESSION:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/info-sheets/fume-cupboards.html
Guidelines for working in fume cupboards
The following details need to be considered to ensure that the fume cupboard's
performance is not compromised:
Do not work within 10 centimetres of the leading edge. The larger the item, the
further back it needs to be within the fume cupboard to overcome the turbulence
created
Do not place storage items behind the area you are working in. This is of particular
importance where a Perspex screen or lead bricks are used for radioisotope work
Minimise the number of items stored within the fume cupboard. If hazardous
materials must be stored, secondary containment (e.g., a spill tray) must be used
to ensure compliance with trade waste agreements in case of accidental spillage
Do not put large equipment, such as ovens, in the fume cupboard, as they block
the baffles and produce regions of zero or low flow in the workspace
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Always have the sash at the recommended height when the cupboard is in use.
This is marked on a yellow sticker at the side of cupboard
Minimise traffic past the front of the fume cupboard as this can cause turbulence,
which may result in fume escape
Do not use fume cupboards with a porous bench surface (e.g. terracotta tiles) for
work with radioactive material
Do not open windows, which may create draughts in the vicinity of the fume
cupboard
If doors are within 1 metre of fume cupboards they should be kept closed during
use of the fume cupboard
The make-up air supply and room ventilation should be switched on whenever the
fume cupboard is in use
Trainees and the appointed Trainer must co-sign a Training Agreement in the appropriate
section of the laboratory folder before the Trainee uses the Laminar Flow cabinet.
20.5.2 Laminar Flow Training
A laminar flow cabinet is an enclosed bench which blows sterile air in a laminar flow
towards the user to prevent contamination of a sample. As the air leaving the cabinet flows
directly out of the cabinet without filtration, it is essential that the work performed in the
cabinet does not present a hazard to the user, other laboratory members or the
environment.
Ethanol is commonly used to clean the bench and a flame in the cabinet as part of a sterile
technique. DO NOT KEEP THE ETHANOL IN THE CABINET (FIRE HAZARD).
The cabinet is fitted with a UV light to sterilise the contents when not in use. This should
be switched off before removing the cabinet cover.
Any questions unable to be answered by your supervisor or appointed trainer, please
contact the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer.
Trainees and the appointed Trainer must co-sign a Training Agreement in the appropriate
section of the laboratory folder before the Trainee uses the Laminar Flow cabinet.
20.6 Incubators and Ovens
There are a number of incubators in the School, some of which are connected to CO2
cylinders for controlled-atmosphere tissue culture work. Some manuals describing their
care are kept in the Manuals Library, located in the Utilities Room. When starting an
incubator all the switches should never be put on simultaneously; ensure you follow the
correct sequence as detailed in the manual.
All newly purchased incubators/ovens MUST be fitted with over temperature cut-off
switches. See the Safety Officer for further information.
Malfunctions can be reported to the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer.
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20.7 Constant Temperature (CT) Cabinets and Rooms
For information on alarm systems, power supply issues, changing the settings and use of
freezer rooms and cold rooms, see the School Guide pages 8-9. It is not necessary to
complete a Training Agreement to use these facilities, however it is important that you
read the School Guide to understand safety procedure and comply with facility etiquette.
20.8 Fridges and Freezers
Intrinsically safe refrigerators/freezers have no sources of ignition within the cabinet, i.e. all
thermostats, light and door switches, defrosting heaters, recirculating fans and motors are
located in an isolated position outside the refrigerator/freezer cabinet. These
refrigerators/freezers are safe for the storage of flammable liquids.
All refrigerators/freezers must be labeled with the approved labels, denoting whether they
are intrinsically safe or not intrinsically safe. These labels are available from the Safety
Officer.
- Chest freezers are intrinsically safe
- Cold rooms must not be labeled as intrinsically safe
See the Safety Officer if you are unsure of the classification of your fridge or freezer.
20.9 Balances – Calibration and Cleaning
Balances should be kept clean for optimum performance. A paint brush can be used to
brush away spills of dry chemicals which can then be cleaned from the bench in
accordance to the specific chemicals’ clean up procedure (see MSDS if Hazardous).
There is a set of calibration weights kept in the office of the Buildings and Infrastructure
Officer. Calibration instructions are specific to the make and model of your balance and
should be found in the manufacturer’s instruction manual.
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20.10 Pipettes
20.10.1 Ergonomic Use
Manual Plunger-Operated Pipettes
For advice on selecting the right pipette for you and using it in an ergonomic way, see
section 14.3 “Ergonomics in your work space”.
Glass Pipettes
Glass pipettes a source of common lab injuries. For information on safe use, alternative
equipment and training, see the Monash University Hazard Alert:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/hazard-alerts/glass-pipettes.html
20.10.2 Calibration and Cleaning of Manual Plunger-Operated Pipettes
It is always best to read the manufacturer’s instructions before attempting to clean or
calibrate pipettes. Most companies offer a cleaning and calibration service to maintain
original accuracy and performance (see appropriate website). As a general guide:
Cleaning (For common brands such as Gilson or similar).
Wear gloves, lab coat and goggles. Dismantle the pipette in a tray by removing the tip
ejector and unscrewing the shaft. As the shaft comes off take careful notice of the
positioning of all parts to assist with re-assembling later. Be careful not to lose the small
parts which become free (spring, o-ring, ejector button).
To clean, soak all parts except the main body of the pipette in 96% ethanol. There are
small bushes to use in the calibration/cleaning kit. Dry all parts.
Examine the piston and o-ring before re-assembly. If there are any marks, blemishes or
corrosion on the piston, the pipette is less likely to be accurate and reliable. A damaged
piston is not usually replaceable and rather the whole pipette is replaced if accuracy is low.
If the o-ring looks worn (even slightly) replace it. If it looks like new, do not replace it (for
cost reasons). Re-assemble the pipette.
Calibration
The kit containing the calibration tool (for Gilson) and instructions on how to calibrate are
in the Buildings and Infrastructure Officer’s office.
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20.11 Specialised Laboratory Equipment
Any piece of equipment that is specific to your laboratory and requires training of new
users must have an Equipment Training Agreement. New sheets can be found in the
“Training Agreement‟ section of Safety Folder 1 (Safety, Training and General Information)
or V drive:
V:\OHSE\Labels, Signs & Templates\Templates\Equipment Training Agreement
Requirements of the Trainee in section 20.12.2 (below) must be met before the Training
Agreement is signed and equipment is used.
If you have a new piece of equipment and are unsure of whether users need to sign a
Training Agreement, contact the Safety Officer.
20.12 Equipment Responsibilities and Training
20.12.1
Equipment Responsibilities
Each piece of equipment must have a responsible person appointed and their name in the
designated space of the first page of Safety Folder 1 (Safety, Training and General
Information).
This appointed person is responsible for:
Training users – see below.
Keeping records of authorised users (Training Agreements)
Ensuring records are maintained
Maintenance
20.12.2
Equipment Training
Trainees and the appointed Trainer must co-sign a Training Agreement in the appropriate
section of Laboratory Safety Folder 2 before the Trainee uses the Laboratory Equipment.
As a part of the training for common laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, centrifuges,
fume hoods and laminar flows the trainee MUST read the appropriate section of this
manual. If you have training instructions for any piece of equipment which you think should
be included in this Safety Manual, please email the School Manager with the suggestion.
After the explanation of safety and user guidelines by the trainer, the trainee must display
with competence:
Familiarity with the machine, its controls and the requirements of the manufacturers
handbook
Operating rules and limitations
Emergency shutdown procedures and incident reporting
Record keeping, log books
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Other requirements related to chemical or biological safety
Day-to-day maintenance
The trainee must sign an Equipment Training Agreement in Safety Folder 2 BEFORE
using the equipment.
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21 Policies, Procedures & Guidelines
21.1 Emergency Response Procedures - Business Hours
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21.2 Emergency Response Procedures – After Hours
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21.3 Fire Extinguishers
Source: http://a.cdn.fpaa.com.au/information/docs/Portable%20Fire%20Extinguisher%20Guide.pdf
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21.4 First Aid Treatment
Speed is important
Remember DRSABCD:
• Danger (to you, the injured person or anyone else?)
• Response (is the injured person conscious?)
• Send for help (Call 000 for an ambulance)
• Airway (is it clear?)
• Breathing (is the injured person breathing?)
• CPR (If not breathing, start CPR)
• Defibrillation (apply defibrillator)
Protect from further damage
Immediately remove contaminated clothing
Flush the affected area with plenty of water
Do not give first aid, expired air resuscitation (EAR) or cardiopulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) unless you have been appropriately trained to do so
Eyes – First Priority!
Wash continuously for 20 minutes with eye stream or water
Flush well under the eye lids
Do not use PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) in eyes!
Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Skin
Inhalation
After flushing the affected area with plenty of water apply PEG 300 or 400
(polyethylene glycol), massaging well into skin using lint cloth.
Change the PEG solution frequently by thoroughly washing the lint cloth or
replacing it.
Alternate PEG with methylated spirits (Health Service or Ambulance only)
Continue treatment until the skin returns to its original colour. If the skin is broken, cover with a dressing.
Seek urgent medical advice if a large area of skin is exposed, skin colour does
not return or treatment has been delayed.
Continue to use PEG until medical attention is obtained.
Fresh Air
Oxygen treatment and send to hospital if breathing is difficult
Swallowed
Give a Glass of Water and send to hospital urgently.
NB: A Phenol First Aid Kit containing the MSDS and a first aider should accompany
all injured people to the hospital or doctor.
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21.5 Screen-Based Equipment Exercises
One of the more common complaints which staff experience and is reported to the
Safety Officer for investigation are problems associated with spending long periods at
a computer, microscope, laminar flow or other static task. If you are to avoid aching
muscles and tired eyes, it is important that you adopt certain work practices.
The following may help:
Check your posture
Adjust the chair height so that your arms are approximately parallel with the
floor
If the front of the chair is causing pressure on the back of your thighs or behind
your knees, you may need a footstool.
Adjust the chair backrest to support the lower back while you sit in the typing
posture
Locate the computer screen approximately one full arm’s length away and
position it so that your line of sight to the screen is slightly below horizontal
Relax the shoulder muscle and check your wrist and forearms are still
approximately parallel with the floor, then commence typing.
Relax those muscles!
As muscles tire from holding the keying posture they need to relax regularly
during the day. 2-3 minute breaks are recommended every 15-20 minutes
When muscles feel tight or tired, it is good to stretch, relax, stretch, and relax
the muscle area to relieve the tiredness
Exercise can be done regularly and unobtrusively when required.
A total of 4 hours (not including breaks) of intensive keyboard work is the
maximum time recommended each day.
Are your eyes tired?
General room lighting is usually suitable for working at a computer.
The computer should be located so that you do not face directly at a window
when looking at the screen, nor should a window be directly behind you.
If overhead lights are reflected in the screen, tilt the screen forwards to
minimise the reflections.
The eyes need to relax from working at a fixed focal length hence look away
from the computer screen regularly.
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21.5.1 Screen-Based Equipment Exercises
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/index.html (Download Computer use and
Ergonomics).
Ergonomics - Computer user guidelines
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21.6 Insurance
21.6.1 Student Personal Accident Insurance Policy
All enrolled students at Monash University are automatically members of a personal
accident insurance scheme, which is funded through the Amenities Fee paid by all
students.
The current policy is restricted to claims resulting from accidents while a student is
engaged in university/course-related activities. The policy is designed to assist in minimising
the financial burden associated with “physical or bodily injury which happens as a result of external violence”.
Costs associated with illness or disease are not covered under the terms of the policy.
Benefits include:
Reimbursement of non-Medicare expenses to a maximum of $2,000
Overseas medical expenses to a maximum of $50,000
Weekly injury benefits for income earners
Domestic help and/or childcare for non-income earners
Home tutorial benefits for full-time students
Bed care benefits
An excess of $150 per claim applies, together with a number of other conditions. For more
details, contact the Sports and Recreation Office on 9905-4118 or see
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/insurance-support.html
Other Forms of Insurance
Public liability and general indemnity insurance is provided to all Monash students whilst
they are engaged in activities relating to their studies at Monash. This includes Honours
and postgraduate students engaged in laboratory work and off-site field work, and
provides the same level of cover as is given to staff.
Travel insurance for postgraduate students on authorised business travel (e.g. conference
attendances or overseas field work) is provided under the University’s Travel insurance
policy. For more details, see:
http://sci.monash.edu/postgrad/travel1.html
Private travel insurance, including hospital and medical insurance, is available from the
STA Travel offices on the Caulfield and Clayton campuses.
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21.7 Use of headphones, earphones, ear buds in the
Workplace
Monash University has a duty of care for the health and safety of staff, students,
contractors and visitors. It recognises that many staff and students use audio equipment
(audio-visual & multi-media production etc.) and other devices (MP3 players, iPods etc.)
with headphones/earphones/earbuds and that this may be directly associated with work or
study.
This information sheet aims to provide advice to ensure that the use of these devices does
not impact on the health and safety of users and others at Monash University.
The following points should be considered by all University staff and students to minimise
the potential health and safety impacts associated with the use of audio
headphones/earphones/earbuds.
General
• If the wearer’s situational awareness is reduced to the extent that their health and safety
is compromised by the use of these devices e.g. they cannot hear emergency alarms, calls
for help etc., these devices must not be used.
• The use of high volumes can cause permanent noise-induced hearing loss. If someone
standing nearby can hear what the wearer is listening to, the volume is too loud.
• Staff and students should consider using a single ear piece whenever possible, to assist
in maintaining awareness of what is happening around them.
• Headphones/earphones/earbuds should be maintained in a clean and hygienic state. It is
important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning these devices due to the
potential for damage to the electrical/electronic components contained in the unit.
• Internal units such as earbuds should be single user only due to hygiene issues.
Activities requiring the use of headphones/earphones/earbuds
• Where activities require the wearing of headphones/earphones/earbuds, a risk
assessment must be completed prior to their use. This is especially important in
laboratories, workshops, studios or any other area where harmful biological, chemical or
other substances and materials e.g. infectious or toxic substances, metal particles etc are
used.
• If a risk assessment indicates there is no alternative but to use the
headphones/earphones/earbuds, approval must be obtained from area managers,
supervisors, etc, prior to the use of any such items in the workplace.
• Headphones/earphones/earbuds must be stored in such a way that minimises the risk of
them being contaminated by biological, chemical or other substances and materials.
• Ideally external units such as headphones and earphones should be single user. Where
this is not practical it is important to insure that the units are cleaned according to
manufacturer’s instructions prior to transfer between individuals.
• Headphones/earphones/earbuds must not be repeatedly touched, adjusted or re-fitted to
the ear where there is risk of contamination from biological, chemical or other substances
and materials
For further information see:
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/info-sheets/headphones.html
Or contact your local OHS&E Consultant or Occupational Health and Safety by phone on
990 51016 or by email on ohsehelpline@adm.monash.edu.au.
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21.8 Other OHSE Policies and Documents
For a complete list of OHS&E policies, and other related documentation, see
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/topics/index.html
A number of useful links are also available the following web sites:
School of Biological Sciences:
V:\OHSE
Faculty of Science
http://www.sci.monash.edu.au
Occupational Health, Safety and Environment branch
http://www.monash.edu.au/ohs/
“Ask Monash”
https://monash.custhelp.com/
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