Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
This Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool (LHAT) facilitates identification of hazards and identifies the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be
used during the specified work activities. The LHAT must be updated as hazards and personnel change, and at least once every 12 months,
irrespective of changes to hazards or personnel. The LHAT will provide a summary report of hazards present in the laboratory and the PPE
recommended for laboratory workers.
Objectives for the Principal Investigator (PI)*:
 Identify hazards that are present in the lab
 Communicate lab hazards to personnel
 Identify the PPE to be used based on the hazard assessment
 Provide PPE training to lab personnel
 Maintain records of PPE assessment and training
Objectives for Lab Personnel:
 Receive information about hazards present in the lab
 Receive information about PPE to be used to work in the lab
 Receive and demonstrate understanding of the training on the recommended PPE
 Receive voucher for PPE to be used.
Objectives for Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S):
 Receive a hazard assessment from each lab
 Record information about the types of labs and types of hazards present on campus
 Enable allocation of resources based on hazards present in labs
 Record training of PIs and Lab Workers on PPE
 Enable distribution of systemwide-funded PPE to lab workers
*For the purposes of this LHAT the term “Principal Investigator” is used very broadly. It refers to the individual responsible for the oversight of a
laboratory and may include individuals with the title of Faculty Principal Investigators, Laboratory Supervisors, Department Laboratory Coordinators,
Laboratory Directors, Instrumentation Laboratory Supervisors, and Laboratory Administrators. .
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Page 1 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
The PI must conduct hazard assessments specific to activities in their laboratories, including when new activities are adopted, or there is a modification of
activities. A hazard assessment must occur at least once each calendar year. The Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool identifies hazards to personnel and
specifies personal protective equipment (PPE) to be used during work activities. The PI must certify that the LHAT is complete and reflective of activities in their
laboratories.
EH&S personnel are available to assist with completing the Hazard Assessment form or with reviewing it once it has been completed. Your campus EH&S may
also be consulted for specific questions regarding PPE requirements.
Principal Investigator:
Department:
Principal Investigator phone:
Principal Investigator email:
Laboratory Safety Contact:
Laboratory Safety Contact phone:
Laboratory Safety Contact email:
Laboratory name:
Laboratory Locations: building(s) / room(s):
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Page 2 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity Hazard Assessment
In this section, the Principal Investigator will:


Conduct a hazard assessment of this laboratory to identify activities when PPE is needed to protect the laboratory personnel
Certify the hazard assessment for the laboratory
The final assessment report will summarize the PPE applicable for the hazards identified in the laboratory.
The LHAT is a PPE selection tool only; administrative and engineering controls for specific activities are contained in your laboratory specific or local SOPs.
For activities that are described in a laboratory specific Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) or for activities where a Use Authorization (UA) has been issued
by a campus safety committee, the PPE specified in that SOP/UA shall take precedence.
All Laboratories
 This laboratory has been designated and posted as free of physical or chemical hazards. Skip all other sections.
Active Researcher
Adjacent Individuals
Attire
Attire
(direct manipulation)


Full length pants or equivalent
Closed-toed/closed-heel shoes
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Full length pants or equivalent
 Closed-toed/closed-heel shoes
Under UC Policy, full length pants (or equivalent) and closed-toed/closed-heel shoes must be worn at all times by all individuals who are occupying or entering a
laboratory or technical area.
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents
Page 3 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Chemical Hazards
Activity
performed
Yes
I certify that all activities listed in the Chemical Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory.
No
Activity in lab
Working with hazardous
 C01.
chemicals (solid, liquid, or gas)
 Skin or eye damage,
potential poisoning through
skin contact.
 
 Poisoning increased
potential for eye and skin
damage
Working with small volumes
 C03.
(≤ 4L) of corrosive liquids or solids
 Eye or skin damage
 Low probability for a splash
hazard
Working with large volumes
 C04.
(>4L) of corrosive liquids or solids
 Eye or skin damage.
 Low probability for a splash
hazard
C05. Working with small volumes
(≤ 1L) of flammable
solvents/materials when no
reasonable ignition sources are
present
 Skin or eye damage,
potential poisoning through
skin contact
C02. Working with hazardous liquids
or other materials which create a
splash hazard
 
C06. Working with large volumes
 (> 1L) of flammable
solvents/materials
C07. Working with any quantity of
flammable solvents/materials when
there are reasonable ignition sources
present; or Working in areas where
flammable concentrations of vapors
or gas may be present
 
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazards
 Major Fire.
 Major skin or eye damage,
potential poisoning through
skin contact
 Major Fire.
 Major skin or eye damage,
potential poisoning through
skin contact
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents








Safety glasses (chemical
splash goggles for large
quantities)
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Chemical splash safety
goggles
Face shield should be
considered
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Chemical-resistant apron
should be considered
Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Chemical-resistant apron



Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat


Safety glasses
Flame-resistant outer gloves
should be considered
Chemical-resistant gloves
Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
Safety glasses
Flame-resistant outer gloves
highly recommended
Chemical-resistant gloves
Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)













Adjacent Individuals
PPE
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:


Safety glasses
Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
Page 4 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Chemical Hazards
Activity
performed
Yes
I certify that all activities listed in the Chemical Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory.
No
Activity in lab
Working with Category 1 or 2
 C08.
acutely toxic chemicals
C09. Working with known or suspect
human carcinogens
 
C10. Working with reproductive
hazard chemicals (including
reproductive toxicants and germ cell
mutagens)
 


C11. Working with pyrophoric (air
reactive) chemicals or chemicals that
in contact with water release
flammable gasses (water reactive)
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazards
 Spills, splashes, ingestion,
inhalation, absorption
 Chemicals pose a high level
of immediate health risk
 Spills, splashes, ingestion,
inhalation, absorption
 High hazard cancer-causing
agents
 Spills, splashes, ingestion,
inhalation, absorption
 Agents that affect
reproductive capabilities,
cause mutation and
adversely affect fetal
development
 Severe skin and eye
damage
 Fire
Adjacent Individuals
PPE




Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Chemical protective apron
for H310
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat



Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat



Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
For work outside glove boxes:
 Safety glasses
 Face shield should be
considered
 FR rated outer gloves should
be considered
 Chemical-resistant gloves
 Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
Work in inert atmosphere when possible.




C12. Working with potentially
explosive chemicals.
 Splash, detonation, flying
debris, skin and eye
damage, fire
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents



Safety glasses
Face shield should be
considered
Blast shield should be
considered
Chemical-resistant gloves
Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses (or chemical
splash goggles)
 Flame resistant lab coat
(NFPA 2112)
Page 5 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Chemical Hazards
Activity
performed
Yes
I certify that all activities listed in the Chemical Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory.
No
Activity in lab
Potential Hazards
Working with Category 2 or
 C13.
higher engineered nanomaterials
 Inhalation, exposure, dermal
exposure
 
 Skin or eye damage,
respiratory damage
 C15. Major chemical spill cleanup
 Multiple hazards
C14. Minor chemical spill cleanup








Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Shoe covers
Chemical-resistant apron
Lab coat
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
Call for EH&S assistance
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
All personnel must evacuate lab
Note: In all cases, chemical splash goggles can be substituted for safety glasses and provide a higher level of protection when working with large quantities
of material. For splash or impact protection, either chemical splash goggles or safety glasses need to be worn under face shields.
Note: All chemical spills need careful evaluation for the hazards presented and course of action. “Minor” and “Major” chemical spills might be determined
by the quantities of material spilled or the health hazard presented.
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents
Page 6 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity
performed
Yes
No
Physical Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Physical Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Activity in lab
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard

 P01. Working with cryogenic liquids
 Major skin, tissue, or eye
damage
Working with very cold
 P02.
equipment, samples, or dry ice
 Frostbite, hypothermia
Removing sealed vials from
 P03.
liquid nitrogen
 Vials may explode upon
rapid warming
 Cuts to face/neck and
frostbite to hands
P04. Working with scalding liquids or
 hot equipment (e.g., autoclave, water
bath, oil bath)
 P05. Glassware washing
 
 
P06. Working with loud equipment,
noises, sounds, alarms, etc.
P07. Working with a high-powered
sonicator
 Burns resulting in skin or
eye damage
 Lacerations, chemical
splash
 Potential ear damage and
hearing loss
 Ear damage, tissue
damage
















In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
N/A
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
N/A
N/A

Hearing protection (consult
EH&S for SNR factor
needed)
In adjacent area:
 Hearing protection (consult
EH&S for SNR factor
needed)



Safety glasses
Disposable gloves
Hearing protection, as
necessary (consult EH&S for
SNR factor needed)
Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Hearing protection (consult
EH&S for SNR factor
needed)

UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Safety glasses (chemical
splash goggles for large
volumes)
Face shield should be
considered
Cryogenic protective gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Cryogenic protective gloves
Lab coat (possibly warm
clothing)
Safety glasses
Face shield should be
considered
Cryogenic protective gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses (chemical
splash goggles for large
volumes)
Thermal protective gloves
(impermeable insulated
gloves for liquids and steam)
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
Page 7 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Physical Hazards
Activity
performed
Yes
No
I certify that all activities listed in the Physical Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Activity in lab
 P08. Working with a centrifuge
 
P09. Working with sharps (e.g.
needles, razor blades and broken
glass)
P10. Working with an apparatus
 Imbalanced rotor can lead
to broken vials, cuts,
exposure, projectiles
 Cuts, exposure








 containing materials under pressure
 Eye or skin damage
 Projectiles
 P11. Working with a microtome
 Cuts, pinch and exposure
or vacuum
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard






Safety glasses
Disposable gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Cut resistant gloves should
be considered
Lab coat
Safety glasses
Face shield should be
considered for high risk
activities
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Chemical-resistant apron (for
high risk activities)
Safety glasses
Cut resistant gloves
Lab coat
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
N/A
N/A
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
N/A
Note: In all cases, chemical splash goggles can be substituted for safety glasses and provide a higher level of protection when working with large quantities
of material. For splash or impact protection, either chemical splash goggles or safety glasses need to be worn under face shields.
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents
Page 8 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity
performed
Yes
No
Biological Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Biological Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Activity in lab
Potential Hazard

 
B01. Working with human or nonhuman primate blood, body fluids,
tissues, cells or other potentially
infectious material (OPIM) which
may contain human bloodborne
pathogens (BBP)
 Exposure to infectious
material, sharps injuries
 
B02. Working with microbial agents
(bacteria, virus, parasites, yeast,
fungi, prions), recombinant DNA and/
or biological materials (cells, tissues,
fluids) exposed to or likely to contain
Risk Group 1 microbial agents or
recombinant DNA (BSL-1)
 Eye irritation, sharps injury
 Exposure of infectious
material to those who may
have personal health issues
which make them more
susceptible to infection;
cross contamination of
animal or extra laboratory
areas
 
 
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
B03. Working with microbial agents,
recombinant DNA and/or biological
materials (cells, tissues, fluids)
exposed to or likely to contain Risk
Group 2 microbial agents or
recombinant DNA (BSL-2)
 Exposure to infectious
material, particularly through
broken skin or mucous
membranes, sharps injuries
B04. Working microbial agents,
recombinant DNA and/or biological
materials (cells, tissues, fluids)
exposed to or likely to contain Risk
Group 2 microbial agents or
recombinant DNA for which
Biosafety Level 3 practices are
required (BSL-2+)
 Exposure to infectious
materials with high risk of
exposure by contact with
skin or mucous membranes
and/ other potential or
unknown routs of entry and
or increased consequences
of exposure
 Sharps injuries
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents





Eye and mucous membrane
protection (as appropriate for
operations)
Disposable gloves
Barrier lab coat impervious
to fluids
Safety glasses
Disposable gloves
Lab coat
Additional PPE may be required based
on risk assessment by the IBC



Safety glasses
Double layer of disposable
gloves
Lab coat
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
Additional PPE may be required based
on risk assessment by the IBC



Safety glasses
Double layer disposable
gloves
Lab coat or Barrier lab coat
impervious to fluids
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat or disposable lab
coat
Additional PPE may be required based
on risk assessment by the IBC
Page 9 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity
performed
Yes
No
Biological Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Biological Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Activity in lab
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard


 
B05. Working with microbial agents,
recombinant DNA and/or biological
materials (cells, tissues, fluids)
exposed to or likely to contain Risk
Group 3 microbial agents or
recombinant DNA (BSL-3)

 Exposure to infectious
materials with high risk of
exposure, particularly
through the inhalation route


Safety glasses
Double layer disposable
gloves
Shoe covers or dedicated
shoes
Disposable closed front lab
coat or coveralls (preferred)
Respirator (for some work a
higher level may be required
N95 minimum)
Additional PPE may be required based
on risk assessment by the IBC
 
 
B06. Working with live animals- only
or in conjunction with Risk Group 1
microbial agents or recombinant
DNA (ABSL-1)
B07. Working infected or potentially
infectious live animals—alone or in
conjunction with Risk Group 2
microbial agents or recombinant
DNA (ABSL-2)
 Animal bites, allergies, eye
irritation, sharps injury
 Exposure of infectious
material to those who may
have personal health issues
which make them more
susceptible to infection;
cross contamination of
animal or extra laboratory
areas
 Animal bites, exposure to
infectious material, allergies,
sharps injury
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents



Safety glasses
Disposable gloves
Lab coat
Additional PPE (e.g. puncture resistant
gloves) may be required based on risk
assessment by the IBC & IACUC.
Additional gowning (shoe covers, face
mask) may be required for animal
welfare purposes.




Safety glasses
Disposable gloves
Bouffant cap
Lab coat
Additional PPE (e.g. puncture resistant
gloves) may be required based on risk
assessment by the IBC & IACUC.
Additional gowning (shoe covers, face
mask) may be required for animal
welfare purposes.
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Double layer disposable
gloves
 Disposable shoe covers or
dedicated shoes
 Closed front Barrier lab coat
impervious to fluids or
coveralls (preferred)
 Respirator (for some work a
higher level may be required
N95 minimum,)
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
All personnel in laboratory room:
 Safety glasses
 Bouffant cap
 Lab coat
Page 10 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Radiological Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Radiological Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Yes
No
 
Activity in lab
R01. Working with unsealed
radioactive materials including
generally licensed radioactive
material or devices (e.g., uranyl
32
acetate, thorium nitrate, P-labeled
biomolecules)
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard
 Cell damage, potential
spread of radioactive
materials




 
R02. Working with unsealed
radioactive materials in hazardous
chemicals (corrosives, flammables,
liquids, powders, etc.)
 Cell damage or spread of
contamination plus hazards
for the specific chemical


Safety glasses
Impermeable gloves or
chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Safety glasses (chemical
splash goggles for splash
hazard)
Chemical-resistant gloves
Lab coat
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
Note: Select gloves for applicable
chemical hazards above.
 
R03. Working with sealed radioactive
sources or devices containing
sources of radioactive materials
(e.g., liquid scintillation counters, gas
chromatographs/electron capture
detectors, static eliminators, etc.)
 If sealed source is
compromised due to
removal from equipment or
physical abuse: cell
damage, potential spread of
radioactive materials
PPE is not necessary under
normal operating instructions
N/A
Note: Source may not be removed form
device except by EH&S or manufacturer.
Note: In all cases, chemical splash goggles can be substituted for safety glasses and provide a higher level of protection when working with large quantities
of material. For splash or impact protection, either chemical splash goggles or safety glasses need to be worn under face shields.
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Page 11 of 28
Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity
performed
Yes
No
Laser Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Laser Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
Activity in lab
 
L01. Open Beam- Performing
alignment, trouble-shooting or
maintenance that requires working
with an open beam and/or defeating
the interlock (s) on any Class 3 or
Class 4 laser system
 
L02. Open Beam- Viewing a
Class 3R laser beam with magnifying
optics
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard

Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
All personnel in laser use room:
 Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters

Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
N/A
 Eye damage
 Eye damage

 
L03. Open Beam- Working with a
Class 3B laser open beam system
with the potential for producing direct
or specular reflections
 Eye damage


 
 
 
 
L04. Open Beam- Working with a
Class 4 laser open beam system
with the potential for producing
direct, specular or diffuse reflections
L05. Non-Beam - Handling dye laser
materials, such as dyes, chemicals,
and solvents
L06. Non-Beam- Maintaining and
repairing power sources for large
Class 3B and Class 4 lasers
L07. Enclosed Beam- Using a
Class 1 device housing a Class 3B
or Class 4 enclosed or embedded
laser with the potential for beam
exposure during a servicing event.
 Eye damage, skin damage

 Cancer, explosion, fire
 Electrocution, explosion fire




 Eye damage, skin damage
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Adjacent Individuals
PPE

Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
Lab coat
or appropriate clothes
Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
Lab coat
or appropriate clothes
Gloves, safety glasses,
NFPA 2112 flame-resistant
lab coat or coveralls
Electrical isolation mat
Electrical protection lab coat
(NPFA 70E) or coveralls
Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
Lab coat
or appropriate clothes
All personnel in laser use room:
 Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
 Lab coat or
appropriate clothes
All personnel in laser use room:
 Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
 Lab coat or appropriate
clothes
In adjacent area:
 Safety glasses
 Lab coat
N/A
All personnel in laser use room:
 Optical density and
wavelength specific safety
glasses based on individual
beam parameters
 Lab coat or appropriate
clothes
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Activity
performed
Yes
Non-Ionizing Radiation Hazards
I certify that all activities listed in the Non-Ionizing Radiation Hazards section below are NOT conducted in this laboratory
No
Activity in lab
Working with unshielded
 N01.
sources of ultraviolet radiation.
N02. Working with intense infrared
 emitting equipment (e.g. glass
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Potential Hazard
 Conjunctivitis, corneal
damage, skin redness



UV face-shield
Gloves
Lab coat
 Cataracts, burns to cornea


Appropriate shaded glasses
Lab coat
blowing).
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
In adjacent area with direct line
of sight:
 UV face-shield
 Lab coat
In adjacent area with direct line
of sight:
 Appropriate shaded glasses
 Lab coat
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Unique or Lab-Specific Activities
If your lab conducts any additional or unique activities that are not listed above, identify the potential hazards and appropriate PPE then add
these activities to the table below. If a lab activity is similar to but somewhat different than one of the common activities listed, include it in this
section as well.
Activity in lab
Potential Hazard
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Active Researcher
PPE
(Direct Manipulation)
Adjacent Individuals
PPE
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Certification of Hazard Assessment:
Pursuant to 8 CCR 3380(f), I certify that I have performed a hazard assessment for, on _________________date.”
Accept button to read “Certify on behalf of The Regents of the University of California”.
Name and title of person conducting assessment
Name:
Date assessment
completed:
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Title:
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
The following laboratory personnel have reviewed the Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool specific to this laboratory and
have received the following training: Maintain a copy of the signed hazard assessment with lab safety records.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
What hazards are present in this laboratory
When PPE is necessary
What PPE is recommended
How to properly don, doff, adjust and wear PPE
Limitations of PPE
Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of PPE
General PPE safety practices (e.g. not wearing PPE outside the laboratory)
Lab Name:
Name
UC Laboratory Hazard Assessment v11 © UC Regents
Training Date
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Definitions
Animal Biosafety Level 1 (ABSL-1)is assigned for animal work that does not involve
biological agents or involves well-characterized agents that are not known to cause disease in
immunocompetent humans, and that are of minimal potential hazard to laboratory personnel
and the environment.
Animal BioSafety Level (ABSL)
Animal Biosafety Level 2 (ABSL-2) is assigned for animal work with those agents
associated with human disease that pose moderate hazards to personnel and the environment.
ABSL-2 builds on the practices, procedures, containment equipment, and facility
requirements of ABSL-1.
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Acutely toxic chemicals may produce a debilitating condition or death after a single exposure or after multiple exposures within a
short period of time. They are labeled with a skull and cross bones. An individual may be exposed via any of the routes of
exposure shown. Acutely toxic materials are grouped into four categories based on their degree of toxicity by each of these
routes of exposure. Category 1, extremely toxic materials, and Category 2, highly toxic materials, present the greatest risk of
poisoning.
Acute toxins are classified in the US by measured toxicity: Category 1 (oral LD50 < 5 mg/kg; e.g. aflatoxin, ricin), Category 2 (oral
LD50 between 5 and 50 mg/kg; e.g. sodium cyanide), through Category 4 (oral LD50 between 300 and 2,000 mg/kg). The oral
LD50 for sodium chloride is 5000 mg/kg.
Includes GHS codes:
H300: Acute toxicity, oral - Fatal if swallowed, Category 1 and 2
H310: Acute toxicity, dermal - Fatal in contact with skin, Category 1 and 2
H330: Acute toxicity, inhalation - Fatal if inhaled, Category 1 and 2
acutely toxic chemicals
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
adjacent area
centrifuges
contact with water release
flammable gasses
corrosive liquids or solids
cryogenic liquids
The distance (radius) for the adjacent area depends on the material hazards, the lab activity, and the lab configuration. Each
laboratory can set distances according to their unique situation, but some examples of suggested distances are:
For pipetting small volumes (10 microliters) of acute toxins, the hazardous zone could be 1 meter.
For pouring small volumes (1 liter) of acidic solutions, the splash zone could be 2 meters.
For working with modest volumes (4 liters) of flammable liquids, the flash fire zone could be 3 meters.
For working with materials under pressure, the hazardous zone could be 10 meters.
For working with explosives, the danger zone is the entire laboratory.
Centrifuges separate materials based on density, and they employ a rotor that spins the sample at a high rate of rotation.
Centrifuge rotors that are damaged or unbalanced have resulted in injury, even death, because of the energy momentum
released due to failure.
Includes GHS codes:
H260: In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously
H261: In contact with water releases flammable gas
Examples include alkyllithium reagents, calcium carbide, Grignard reagent solutions
Corrosives are a classification of chemicals that have both physical and health hazards. A chemical which is corrosive to metals
will materially damage, or even destroy, metals by chemical action. A skin corrosive will cause irreversible damage to the skin;
namely, visible necrosis through the epidermis and into the dermis, following contact with the substance. Most strong acids
(aqueous solutions with a pH less than 2) or strong bases (aqueous solutions with a pH greater than 12.5) are corrosive. It is
equally important to know that there are numerous corrosive materials that have a neutral pH, examples include phenol and
triethylamine.
Cryogens are substances cooled to very low temperatures. Liquid nitrogen is an example. These substances are considered
hazardous because of the potential for cryogenic burns, asphyxiation, and catastrophic container failure. Due to the large
coefficient of thermal expansion for cryogens, the large volume of gas evolved can quickly displace atmospheric oxygen.
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Engineered Nanomaterials (ENMs): An Engineered Nanomaterial is any intentionally produced material with any external
dimension in the nanoscale. It is noted that neither 1 nm nor 100 nm is a “bright line” and some materials are considered
engineered nanomaterials that fall outside this range. For example, Buckyballs are also included even though they have a size
<1 nm. Excluded are materials that are on the nanoscale, but do not have properties that differ from their bulk counterpart and
include micelles and single polymers.
engineered nanomaterials
For more information see: the UC Nanotoolkit - Working Safely with Engineered Nanomaterials in Academic Research Settings
http://www.ehs.ucr.edu/laboratory/nanotoolkit.pdf
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Flammable chemicals are materials that can ignite easily. Flammables may be either gas, aerosol, liquid, or solid. Flammable
liquid is defined under the new GHS standards as a liquid having a flash point of not more than 93 °C (200 °F). (Note that the
older US limit was 38 °C (100 °F).) The flash point of a volatile material is the lowest temperature at which the vapors form an
ignitable mixture in air.
Includes GHS codes:
H220: Flammable gases- Extremely flammable gas, Category 1
H221: Flammable gases - Flammable gas, Category 2
H222: Flammable aerosols - Extremely flammable aerosol, Category 1
H223: Flammable aerosols - Flammable aerosol, Category 2
H224: Flammable liquids - Extremely flammable liquid and vapor, Category 1
H225: Flammable liquids - Highly Flammable liquid and vapor, Category 2
H226: Flammable liquids - Flammable liquid and vapor, Category3
H227: Flammable liquids - Combustible liquid, Category 4
H228: Flammable solids - Flammable solid, Category 1 and 2
Examples:
flammable solvents/materials
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Full length pants or equivalent
Flash Point
Risk Group 1 microbial agents
Risk Group 2 microbial agents
Risk Group 3 microbial agents
hazardous chemicals
hazardous liquids
Full length pants or equivalent should cover all the skin down to one’s shoes to protect skin from spills. Loose fitting clothes are
best to avoid spilled material being held against skin. In all instances, cotton clothing is preferred over synthetic material that is
less chemical and flame resistant.
The flash point of a volatile material is the lowest temperature at which the vapors form an ignitable mixture in air.
Biological Agents are classified into four Risk Groups (RGs) according to their relative pathogenicity for healthy adult humans by
the following criteria:
 Risk Group 1 (RG1) agents are not associated with disease in healthy adult humans. Example: Bacillus subtillis.
 Risk Group 2 (RG2) agents are associated with human disease which is rarely serious and for which preventive or
therapeutic interventions are often available. Examples: Escherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus,
Adenoviruses, Rhinoviruses.
 Risk Group 3 (RG3) agents are associated with serious or lethal human disease for which preventive or therapeutic
interventions may be available. Examples: Human immunodeficiency virus, Yellow fever virus.
 Risk Group 4 (RG4) agents are likely to cause serious or lethal human disease for which preventive or therapeutic
interventions are not usually available. Example: Lassa virus. The University of California does not possess or use RG4
agents.
For a searchable database of infectious agents, see: http://www.absa.org/riskgroups/
The hazardous properties of chemicals can be broken into two broad divisions ‐ physical hazards and health hazards. Chemicals
with physical hazards could include reactives, flammables, oxidizers and chemicals that are corrosive to metals. Chemicals with
health hazards could include skin corrosives, sensitizers, toxic substances, and carcinogens.
Includes any GHS H code that begins with :
H2## – Physical Hazards
H3## – Health Hazards
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Carcinogens are chemical substances which induce cancer or increase its incidence. Carcinogens produce delayed health
effects that may take years to manifest. Many carcinogens cause malignant tumors in humans and animals. A chemical is
considered a select carcinogen if it has been evaluated and listed as a carcinogen by
- The International Agency for Research n Cancer (IARC)
- The National Toxicology Program (NTP)
- OSHA
Includes GHS codes:
H350: Carcinogenicity - May cause cancer, Category 1A, 1B
H351: Carcinogenicity - Suspected of causing cancer, Category 2
Examples:
Benzene
Dichloromethane (methylene chloride)
Formaldehyde
Lead
Asbestos
human carcinogens
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
ignition sources
microtome
An open flame or spark or even hot surfaces.
A microtome is a tool used to cut extremely thin sections, or slices, of a material. The very sharp blades necessary for a
microtome to section tissue can cause serious cuts during cleaning or sectioning. Mechanized microtomes can cause
pinch injuries.
Explosive chemicals can release tremendous amounts of destructive energy rapidly. If not handled properly, these chemicals
can pose a serious threat to the health and safety of laboratory personnel, building occupants, and chemical waste handlers.
Potentially explosive chemicals (PECs) are chemicals (or combinations thereof) that may cause a sudden release of energy and
heat when subjected to sudden shock, pressure, or high temperature. Most chemicals that are used in research and teaching
laboratories are stable and non-explosive at the time of purchase. Over time, some chemicals can oxidize, become
contaminated, dry out, or otherwise destabilize to become PECs (e.g., isopropyl ether, and picric acid).
potentially explosive chemicals
May include GHS codes:
H201: Explosives - Explosive; mass explosion hazard, Division 1.1
H202: Explosives - Explosive; severe projection hazard, Division 1.2
H203: Explosives - Explosive; fire, blast or projection hazard, Division 1.1
H240: Self-reactive substances and mixtures; and Organic peroxides - Heating may cause an explosion, Type A
H241: Self-reactive substances and mixtures; and Organic peroxides - Heating may cause a fire or explosion, Type B
H271: Oxidizing liquids; or Oxidizing solids - May cause fire or explosion; strong oxidizer, Category 1
Pyrophorics are liable to ignite upon contact with air.
pyrophoric
Includes GHS codes:
H250: Pyrophoric liquids; or Pyrorophoric solids - Catches fire spontaneously if exposed to air, Category 1
H251: Self-heating substances and mixtures - Self-heating; may catch fire, Category 1
H252: Self-heating substances and mixtures - Self-heating in large quantities; may catch fire, Category 2
Examples include tert-butyllithium solutions, potassium metal, triethylborane, white phosphorous
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Reproductive Hazard chemicals are either classified as Germ Cell Mutagens or Toxic to Reproduction. These materials can
affect reproductive health in both men and women. Adverse effects include impotence, low spec count, infertility, miscarriage and
birth defects.
Includes GHS codes:
H340: Germ cell mutagenicity - May cause genetic defects, Category 1A, 1B
H341: Germ cell mutagenicity - Suspected of causing genetic defects, Category 2
H360: Reproductive toxicity - May damage fertility or the unborn child, Category 1A, 1B
H361: Reproductive toxicity - Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child, Category 2
H362 Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation - May cause harm to breast-fed children
Examples: carbon disulfide, many anticancer agents, lead, thalidomide
For a list, see: http://ehs.ucla.edu/Pub/CompleteToxinsList.pdf
reproductive hazards.
open beam
In an open beam laser the entire beam path is not totally enclosed.
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Laser Hazard Class
Lasers have been classified by wavelength and maximum output power into four classes and a few subclasses. These are
typically identified with a warning label on the laser device indicating the hazard class. Laser pointers are in Class 3R.
Laser Hazard Class
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3R
Class 3B
Class 4
A Class 1 laser is safe under all conditions of normal use.
A Class 2 laser is safe because the blink reflex will limit the exposure to no more than 0.25 seconds. It only
applies to visible-light lasers (400–700 nm).
A Class 3R laser is considered safe if handled carefully, with restricted beam viewing.
A Class 3B laser is hazardous if the eye is exposed directly, but diffuse reflections such as those from paper or
other matte surfaces are not harmful
Class 4 is the highest and most dangerous class of laser. By definition, a class 4 laser can burn the skin, or
cause devastating and permanent eye damage as a result of direct, diffuse or indirect beam viewing. These
lasers may ignite combustible materials, and thus may represent a fire risk.
Each laboratory space where biohazardous materials are used is assigned one of three internationally
recognized biosafety levels (BSL). The biosafety level is commensurate with the degree of risk posed by the
biohazardous materials and the activities carried out with those materials.
Biosafety Level
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
other potentially infectious
material (OPIM)
Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM) include semen, vaginal secretions and pericardial fluid which entail potential risk for
Bloodborne Pathogen exposure. According to the CDC, over 200 different diseases can result from exposure to blood. The most
common Bloodborne pathogens are HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV)
Servicing event
It should be noted that during periods of service or maintenance, controls appropriate to the class of the embedded laser may be
compromised (perhaps on a temporary basis) when the beam enclosures are removed and beam access is possible. Beam
access during maintenance or service procedures will not alter the Class I status of the laser during operation.
UC Laboratory Activity Hazard Assessment 11 © UC Regents
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Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool
Information Page
1) This Laboratory Hazard Assessment Tool is modeled after one developed at UCLA. It was created by the Information Technology Services group working at
UC Davis.
2) Chemical hazards are classified according to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).
http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/ghs.html
3) This link provides a listing of GHS Hazard Codes.
http://www.sigmaaldrich.com/etc/medialib/docs/promo/General_Information/1/h_overview.Par.0001.File.tmp/h_overview.pdf
4) This Hazard Assessment Tool focuses on PPE for specific hazards. Principal investigators and lab personnel also must use Engineering Controls,
Administrative Controls, and safe work practices to minimize risks posed by hazardous materials.
5) For information on working safely with engineered nanomaterials, see:
http://www.cein.ucla.edu/new//file_uploads/nano_toolkit_2012_0419.pdf
OR http://www.ehs.uci.edu/programs/sop_library/Nanotoolkit.pdf
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