TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................... 1
MISSION STATEMENT ............................................................................................................................ 2
SECTION I: RESPONSIBILITY
1.0 HEALTH CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION, MATH AND SCIENCE
1.0.1 RG Campus Dean ...................................................................................................................... 3
1.0.2 Health Career Program Coordinators ..................................................................................... 3
1.0.3 Health Career Instructors .......................................................................................................... 3
1.0.4 Health Career Staff/ Laboratory Assistants ........................................................................... 3
1.1 EPCC OFFICE OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY (ORMS) .................................. 4
1.1.1 EPCC Safety Corps .................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 EPCC SAFETY POLICY 5.01.05.34 (Copy).................................................................................... 5
1.3 EPCC PREVENTION OF HEALTH-RELATED EXPOSURE TO COMMUNICABLE
DISEASES 2.01.03.22 (Copy) .............................................................................................................. 6
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
SECTION II: SAFETY TRAINING
SAFETY AWARENESS ...................................................................................................................... 8
SAFETY TRAINING............................................................................................................................ 9
EPCC- OFFICE OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY TRAINING ........................... 9
SAFETY CONCERNS/COMPLAINTS ........................................................................................ 10
SAFETY INSPECTIONS................................................................................................................... 11
2.4.1 Inspection Checklist (sample) .................................................................................................. 12
ACCIDENT PREVENTION ............................................................................................................. 13
HAZARD CATEGORIES ................................................................................................................. 13
2.6.1 Unsafe Acts ................................................................................................................................. 13
2.6.2 Unsafe Conditions ..................................................................................................................... 13
THE TEXAS HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD (Copy) ..................................... 14
SECTION III: PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND LABORATORY
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
3.0 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) ..................................................................... 17
3.0.1 Safety Goggles .......................................................................................................................... 17
3.0.2 Hearing Conservation (Ear Protection) ............................................................................... 17
3.0.3 Gloves........................................................................................................................................ 17
3.0.4 Face Masks ............................................................................................................................... 17
3.0.5 Protective Clothing ................................................................................................................. 17
3.1 SAFETY EQUIPMENT ....................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.1 Eye Wash Station .................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.2 First Aid Kit ............................................................................................................................. 18
3.1.3 Safety Cabinets ........................................................................................................................ 18
3.1.4 Fume Hood .............................................................................................................................. 19
3.1.5 Fire Blankets ............................................................................................................................ 19
SECTION IV – GENERAL SAFETY CONCERNS AND PROCEDURES
4.0 LABORATORY SAFETY AND HAZARDOUS COMMUNICATION SIGNS .................. 20
4.1 PERSONAL HYGIENE ....................................................................................................................... 21
4.2 CUTS AND PUNCTURES ................................................................................................................ 22
4.3 DISPOSAL OF BROKEN GLASS AND SHARPS .................................................................... 22
4.4 STORAGE .............................................................................................................................................. 23
4.5 ELECTRICAL CONCERNS ............................................................................................................. 23
4.6 SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS PREVENTION ............................................................................. 25
4.7 PROPER LIFTING ............................................................................................................................ 26
4.8 OFFICE SAFETY ............................................................................................................................. 26
4.9 ACCIDENT REPORTING ................................................................................................................ 27
4.9.1 Steps to Report an Accident ................................................................................................... 27
4.10 ACCIDENT REPORTING SAMPLE FORMS ........................................................................... 28
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
SECTION V – EMERGENCIES AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS ................................................................................... 35
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY EMERGENCIES PREPARATION .................................. 35
EMERGENCY MEASURES ............................................................................................................. 35
FIRE PREVENTION .......................................................................................................................... 36
5.3.1 Fire Prevention Safety Checklist............................................................................................ 36
FIRE EXTINGUISHER .................................................................................................................... 37
5.4.1 Fire Extinguisher Classification ............................................................................................. 37
5.4.2 Fire Extinguisher Operation .................................................................................................. 38
SECTION VI – EVACUATION PLAN
6.0 EVACUATION AND EMERGENCY PLANNING .................................................................... 39
6.1 FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDURES .......................................................................................... 39
6.2 CLASSROOM EVACUATION PROCEDURES ........................................................................ 40
6.2.1 Helping Persons with Disabilities .......................................................................................... 40
6.3 BUILDING EVACUATION PROCEDURES ............................................................................. 40
6.4 RECEIVING SUSPICIOUS MAIL .................................................................................................. 41
6.5 BOMB THREAT ................................................................................................................................... 41
6.6 RADIOLOGICAL HAZARDS ......................................................................................................... 42
6.7 BIOLOGICAL OR CHEMICAL EXPOUSURE ......................................................................... 42
6.8 NATURAL DISASTERS ................................................................................................................... 42
SECTION VII – DEALING WITH BIOLOGICAL SPILLS
7.0 BIOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES ..................................................................................................... 43
7.0.1 Small Spills ................................................................................................................................... 43
7.0.2 Large Spills ................................................................................................................................... 43
SECTION VIII - DEALING WITH CHEMICALS EMERGENCIES
8.0 CHEMICAL SPILLS PREVENTION ............................................................................................ 44
8.1 CHEMICAL SPILLS AND LEAKS ................................................................................................ 44
8.1.01 Small Non-Flammable Spills ..................................................................................................... 45
8.1.02 Flammable Spills ......................................................................................................................... 45
8.1.03 Hazardous Chemical Spills ........................................................................................................ 46
8.2 CHEMICAL SPILLS ON PERSONS ............................................................................................. 46
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
CHEMICAL ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PERSONAL INJURY........................................... 47
PROPER STORAGE OF CHEMICALS........................................................................................ 47
SAFETY TRAINING ON CHEMICAL HAZARDS .................................................................. 47
CHEMICAL LIST LOCATION ....................................................................................................... 47
“RIGHT TO KNOW” REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO EMPLOYEES ....................... 47
SECTION IX- MERCURY SPILLS
9.0 SOURCES OF MERCURY ............................................................................................................... 48
9.1 WHAT NEVER TO DO ABOUT MERCURY SPILLS ............................................................. 48
9.2 WHAT TO DO AFTER MERCURY SPILLS .............................................................................. 48
SECTION X - GLOBALLY HARMONIZED SYSTEM CLASSIFICATION (GHS)
10.0 GHS CHANGES ................................................................................................................................. 49
10.1 REQUIRED INFORMATION ON SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS's)................................ 51
10.2 LOCATION OF SDS's ...................................................................................................................... 52
SECTION XI - DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE
11.0 IDENTIFYING HAZARDOUS WASTE ..................................................................................... 53
11.1 SAFE DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE .......................................................................... 53
11.2 CHEMICAL LIST AND SAFETY MEASURES FOR HEALTH CAREER
PROGRAMS ........................................................................................................................................ 54
REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................................. 56
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division. It is the intent of the
Division to assist all faculty and staff in accomplishing your safety goals and be an example to our Health
Career, Math and Science students while we are here.
This Division Health Career's Safety Manual was developed for your guidance and information and it is
intended to serve as starting point for good safety practices and basic safety measures within our
programs and academic community.
One of the goals of Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division is to provide skills
training and promote a safe and efficient environment in which to learn and work. Health Career's Safety
Manual is designated to minimize exposure of students, faculty and staff to hazardous situations in the
academic setting. Please work with the program to create and maintain this environment.
This Health Career's Safety Manual applies to all departments that are exposed to potentially hazardous
situations, and is directed towards students who participate in our classes that require the use of harmful
materials. Students have the right to know about hazardous situations that may exist in the instructional
setting; therefore, all faculty, staff and students are required to exercise caution and common sense when
working in our campus and laboratory spaces. Each employee has the responsibility for his/her safety, as
well as the safety of his/her fellow employees. This can be achieved through the continuous efforts of all
employees becoming familiar with the hazards of his/her job and taking proper precautions to insure
his/her safety. As in any occupation that requires the use of moving parts, chemicals, and electricity, all
faculty, staff and students are required to exercise caution and common sense when working in our campus and
laboratory spaces.
This commitment to safety will enhance the success of the College’s Safety Program and its commitment
to safety in the workplace. Please read it and become familiar with the procedures to be undertaken in the
case of an injury or an emergency.
REMEMBER THAT COMMON SENSE AND RESPECT FOR OTHERS IS A GOOD STARTING
POINT IN AVOIDING INJURIES AND ACCIDENTS.
Dr. Paula R. Mitchell
Dean RG Campus
Health Career & Technical
Education, Math and Science
Health Career's Safety Manual
Page 1
EL PASO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
HEALTH CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION
MATH & SCIENCES DIVISION
MISSION STATEMENT
Mission
It is the mission of the Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division to provide educational
opportunities that prepare individuals to improve their personal quality of life and to contribute to their economically
and culturally diverse community.
Vision
The Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division is the primary source of technologically advanced
health professional education for a growing and culturally diverse border population, a local resource for community
health care services; and a contributor to medical/science research as appropriate for a community college.
Philosophy
The Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division meets the community’s need by providing
opportunities for individuals to become qualified members of a health care profession or to pursue a career related to
math or science. The Division provides quality education utilizing state of the art instructional methodologies,
equipment, and lifelong learning. The Division of Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science offer a variety
of state and nationally accredited programs. Library services at the Rio Grande campus are an integral part of the
services provided to the community and our students.
Goals
 Provide a standard of excellence in the education of students seeking careers related to healthcare, math, or
science.
 Provide the community with qualified members of a health care profession.
 Provide educational and professional health care services to the community.
 Provide effective, innovative and alternative instructional methodologies in the implementation of quality
education in the Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Programs.
 Develop and coordinate an effective system for the recruitment of students into Health Career & Technical
Education, Math and Science courses/programs.
 Improve student retention, program completion and student skill development in the Health Career & Technical
Education, Math and Science courses/programs.
 Provide an on-going systematic faculty and staff development plan which promotes the goals of the Division of
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science.
 Assist in the planning, and implementation of projects related to border health.
 Promote articulation and dual credit opportunities with area secondary and post-secondary institutions.
 Provide competency-based education in Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science
courses/programs.
 Support life-long learning and career progression.
 Encourage activities which promote effective utilization of personnel, space, supplies and equipment in
expanding and maintaining quality courses/programs.
 Recruit and retain qualified faculty in math, science and health career and technical education courses/programs.
 Support research efforts affecting border health issues
 Provide a solid foundation in math and science courses which enables students to transfer to an associate degree
in a math or science related area of concentration eligible for mid-level technical positions in business and
industry.
 Provide instructional support through excellent library services and resources.
 Provide quality healthcare to the public in selected areas through the Rio Grande Board Health Clinic.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 2
SECTION I
RESPONSIBILITY
1.0
HEALTH CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION, MATH AND SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
RG Dean has taken the responsibility to establish and maintain an effective safety program and to
arrange and promote a safe instructional environment throughout RG campus. She has developed a
safety manual that is applicable to every department. The purpose is to provide safety information, to
communicate safe laboratory practices, and proper waste disposal safety. It is the RG Deans’ goal to
have a safety physical environment throughout RG campus to observe EPCC safety regulations and to
be in compliance with state laws. Records identifying facilities and equipment that present a health
or safety hazard must be reported to the RG Dean in case it becomes necessary to replace, upgrade,
or add additional items of equipment. RG Dean in conjunction with program coordinators oversees
that safety recommendations are followed to ensure a proper and safe working environment. RG
Dean must budget and pass this information to the next higher level of administration.
1.0.1 Health Career Program Coordinators are responsible for developing a student safety
program. Each department is responsible for writing operational procedures to safeguard the
student. Student safety manual should cover specific materials used within that particular
department, including SDS sheets. All departments should include in their safety manual what to do
in case of fire, and/or an emergency evacuation.
1.0.2 Division Instructors of Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, and Health Career
Programs are responsible for the supervision of a safety program. Instructors must participate in
appropriate training programs and are responsible for performing their jobs safely. Untrained
students should not be permitted to work with chemicals, hazardous materials and other materials
used during laboratory classes. Instructors should be responsible for no more than twenty-five
students at one time for the safety of a laboratory classes. The instructor and/or laboratory assistant
should be in the laboratory for the entire class period while students are doing laboratory work.
Instructors have a professional and moral obligation to minimize hazardous before an exercise is
presented to a student. All instructors should be knowledgeable about the hazards in the course they
are teaching. Instructions will be documented in the syllabus for the course, with an indication of the
time devoted to such laboratory class. A manual or handouts used in the course must indicate the
existence of the hazardous as part of the written procedure. Any manual or handouts lacking
information as an integral written part of the procedure must be supplemented with the necessary
information
1.0.3. Division Staff/Laboratory Assistants are expected to have knowledge on College safety
policies, procedures and responsibilities. They are responsible for updating SDSs for the use of
chemicals, hazardous equipment and material in their labs. They will allocate time to safety handle
hazardous materials when setting up experiments. They have the responsibility to report any
equipment malfunction and/or correct any conditions that may result in personal injury. They have
the responsibility to notify EPCC Office of Risk Management and Safety (ORMS) of any significant
accident and/or incident which results in the exposure to chemicals and/or pathogens to personal
and/or the environment. They must document any case of personal injury to a student. Record all
accidents, whether to personnel or equipment or facility in their notebooks and on separate report
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 3
sheets to be submitted to their supervisors. Must supervise and take care of a safety problem before
every laboratory class, making sure there are no potential hazardous that might affect the students
when using our Health Career laboratories.
1.1
EPCC OFFICE OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY (ORMS)
Develops procedures for implementation of the Safety Program with input from the District
Safety Committee members.
Submit the final recommendations to the President for approval.
Recommend and publish changes to Safety Program, the Safety Manual, and Procedures.
Periodically monitor information published by government and other agencies in order to
maintain up to date training programs and materials necessary for compliance.
Establish reporting systems to monitor and coordinate staff training.
Ensure a safe working environment for College employees.
Ensure that safe work and practices are understood followed by all personnel, oversees that
proper administrative controls are in place to reduce exposure to hazardous substances, and
that appropriate protective equipment is provided and utilized by employees.
Maintain and supply necessary first aid supplies for use by employees in the safe conduct of
their work.
Evaluate reports of unsafe conditions or practices and safety complaints to determine
whether any corrective action is required. Submit recommendations to the appropriate
department or administrator for correction.
Make recommendation for safety procedures, equipment, facilities, tools, personal protective
equipment, etc.
Provides safety orientation concerning the College's Safety Policy to all newly hired
employees.
Laboratory personnel will receive training concerning safety procedures through continuing
education or by corresponding supervisor prior to working in the lab.
In the event that a complaint of eminent hazard to persons or property is found. The Safety
Office will order immediate correction of the unsafe condition.
1.1.1 EPCC Safety Corps - Safety Corps work with and are supervised by the Office of Risk
Management and Safety by maintaining a safe workplace. They attend safety training and their
responsibility rest jointly with instructors, immediate laboratory supervisors and students. The
safety Corps consists of members who are college employees (full time/part time; faculty/staff)
that volunteer to be the “hands and hearts of the college”. In case of an emergency situation, they
will assist and follow EPCC PD instructions. THEY ASSIST when evacuating a building in the event
of a fire, bomb threat, or other emergency. THEY HELP BY Guiding employees, students, visitors,
faculty and staff to safe areas, and NOTIFY THEM WHEN to re-enter the building. Their
instructions must be followed during an emergency and/or evacuation.
Health Career's Safety Manual
Page 4
Copy of EPCC Policy 5.01.05.34 Safety Program
Health Career's Safety Manual
Page 5
EL PASO COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROCEDURE
For information, contact Institutional
Effectiveness: (915) 831-2614
Copy of EPCC Procedure: 2.01.03.22
Prevention of Health-Related Exposure to Communicable Diseases
OBJECTIVE:
To outline guidelines to protect students, faculty, and staff from unnecessary risk of communicable disease exposure.
PROCEDURE:
The most recent guidelines on standard precautions from Centers for Disease Control will be followed in all oncampus and off-campus clinical learning experiences. If affiliate procedures exceed minimum recommendations,
affiliate procedures will be followed. The following general preventive guidelines apply in all situations.
I.
Students, faculty, and staff participating in situations requiring direct (patient) contact will utilize protective accessories such as
gloves, masks, gowns, and eye goggles. Use of these accessories is necessary when there is potential contact with blood or
other body fluids.
II.
Protective devices will be available in appropriate instructional laboratories and clinical affiliates. In certain circumstances,
students may be required to purchase items through the College bookstore or other locations.
III.
Storage devices for needles or other objects that are contaminated by blood or other body fluids will be disposed of in
biohazard containers as provided by the College and/or the clinical affiliate.
IV.
Faculty, staff, and students at risk of contracting infectious diseases because of their possible high exposure to them will be
familiar with the sources and methods of transmissions as well as the proper techniques to utilize in preventing their
transmission.
V.
All students and faculty in health-related programs must complete the on-line community orientation annually.
VI.
All personnel will utilize the following standard precautions when providing patient care during clinical or laboratory
experience:
A.
Obtain an adequate medical history. Although it is important to take a medical history, the health care provider
should treat all patients as potential sources of infection even when the medical history is negative.
B.
Use protective attire and barrier techniques. The health care provider will use protective attire and barrier techniques
whenever there is a possibility of coming in contact with body fluids such as blood or saliva, exudates from wounds
or sores, and body excrements, or when touching mucous membranes or infected tissues. These barrier techniques
include the use of gloves; gowns, surgical masks, and protective eye wear or face shields.
C.
Hand washing. Always scrub using an approved technique before the first patient, between patient contacts, after
touching inanimate objects likely to be contaminated by blood or saliva from patient and before leaving the patient
treatment area. Hand sanitizers may be used in lieu of hand washing if there are no visible sores on the hand.
D.
Appropriate use and care of sharp instruments. Items such as needles, scalpels, blades, and sharp instruments should
be considered as potentially infective and must be handled with extraordinary care to prevent unintentional injuries.
For instance:
E.
1.
Use disposable instruments such as needles and scalpel blades whenever possible and then dispose of these
items in such a way as to prevent possible injury and infection to all persons, (including the janitorial staff)
that might come in contact with these instruments. Sharp instruments should be placed in punctureresistant containers for disposal.
2.
Prevent needle sticks by recapping needles even if the treatment provider might want to reuse the needle
later during the same treatment procedure on the patient not recapping needles and promptly disposing of
needles in appropriate Bio Hazard containers.
3.
Use heavy duty rubber gloves when cleaning contaminated sharp instruments of gross debris. Use
ultrasonic cleaners whenever possible.
Disinfect or sterilize instruments.
1.
Safety Manual
Instruments that normally penetrate soft tissue and/or bone must be cleaned and sterilized after each use.
The sterilization should be accomplished by approved methods using manufacturer’s recommendations
vapor. The adequacy of these sterilizers should be verified by the periodic use of spore-testing devices.
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 6
2.
Instruments that are not intended to penetrate soft tissue, but may come in contact with soft tissue should be
sterilized if possible. If such sterilization is not feasible these instruments should at least receive a highlevel disinfection. The disinfectant should be one that is registered with the EPA as a high level
disinfectant. Check the label.
F.
Decontaminate environmental surfaces at the completion of work activities on each patient. All surfaces that may
have become contaminated with patient fluids or exudates should be wiped with an absorbent toweling to remove
extraneous organic material and then disinfected with a suitable germicide. This germicide should be registered with
the EPA and classified as tuberculocidal.
G.
Cover surfaces that may be contaminated by blood or other body fluids with impervious-backed paper, aluminum
foil, or clear plastic wrap. Remove, discard, and replace these coverings between patients.
H.
Dispose of contaminated wastes. All sharp instruments to be discarded, and any material such as gauze that has been
contaminated with blood or other material from the patient should be disposed of with special precaution.
Contaminated fluids may be poured into a drain connected to the sewer system. Contaminated wastes should be
disposed of in accordance with local or state environmental regulatory agency requirements.
VII.
Students and faculty with exudative lesions should avoid direct patient care or handling of patient care equipment until the
condition is resolved.
VIII.
Chemical germicides at manufacturer’s recommended dilutions will be used to decontaminate spins of blood and other body
fluids. Gloves will be worn during the cleaning procedures.
IX.
Soiled linen will be handled as little as possible and bagged.
X.
Waste which includes blood, exudates, or secretions will be placed in a red, plastic bag to be incinerated or autoclaved.
XI.
An individual with exposure (parenteral or mucous membrane) to blood or other body fluids should obtain serologic tests for
hepatitis or HIV infection and medical follow-up for any febrile illness occurring within 12 weeks. All medical treatments and
tests will be at the individual's expense or as covered by individual health insurance. An incident report should be completed at
the affiliate and at the College. A written counseling form indicating the individual has been advised of the need for medical
follow up and testing will be placed in the student’s program file.
XII.
Fit-Testing and Purchase of N-95 Masks
A.
Students and faculty will be required to be fit-tested for an appropriate sized N-95 Mask for use as required by
clinical affiliates and /or in preparation for emergency situations.
B.
Fit-Testing will be performed by trained faculty and staff in the Emergency Medical Technology Program.
C.
N-95 Masks will be purchased at the student’s expense as one of the mandatory equipment requirement for identified
health career programs.
D.
The cost of faculty and staff N-95 Masks will be charged to the appropriate program budget through a journal entry.
E.
Safety Manual
Students and faculty will adhere to procedures at assigned clinical affiliates for appropriate use of N-95 Masks.
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 7
SECTION II
SAFETY TRAINING
2.0
SAFETY AWARNESS
It is a professional responsibility to train students in safe laboratory practices. Students are
expected to comply with the safety rules and to participate conscientiously in any training
exercises. Furthermore, students have the responsibility to seek advice and guidance whenever
they are in doubt about safety procedures or potential hazards in their laboratory work.
In order to keep a safety environment during classes, students, faculty and staff must be educated
and aware of hazardous materials used during laboratory exercises/sessions.
Training is required for faculty, staff and students who are exposed to hazardous materials as well
as in the safe handling and disposal of chemicals during clinics and laboratory sessions.
SDS Sheets must be available in every laboratory and labels must be understood.
The involvement of students in laboratory classes should be supervised closely, but, of course, not
obstructively; discuss the hazards involved in the assignments/experiments; mention hazards
that in the hands of a beginner could have fatal consequences.
It is the responsibility of the Instructor and/or Lab Assistant to be attentive to new students using
the laboratory for the first time and to recognize potential dangers in the laboratory
experiments/work students plan to carry out to ensure that appropriate precautions are followed.
A safety memorandum must be developed by each program and kept in a special folder for
accreditation purposes. Program coordinator must keep training records and signed
memorandums of students, work-studies, new full and part time faculty and staff within
the department for 5 years. (All safety memorandums should be signed and dated).
SAFETY MEMORANDUM
(Print Name) I _______________________________ have read and will comply with the instructions
regarding safety in the laboratory, the wearing of personal protective equipment; and I am aware
of the significance and the necessity of the Safety Data Sheets.
Program/Class Name: _______________________________
Student Signature: ___________________________
Coordinator/Instructor’s Name: __________________________________
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Date: ________________
Page 8
2.1
SAFETY TRAINING
Each Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science discipline is responsible for detailing
the specific safety training required for its faculty and staff. A Safety Manual is available to faculty
and staff trough RG Division office.
Program Coordinators are responsible for a full safety program implementation, but EPCC-ORMS
is always available for consultation and development of specialized training programs.
It is important that discipline coordinators and faculty know how to train and supervise students
in the safe and proper ways to perform laboratory assignments. All students must be given
sufficient instruction with respect to laboratory assignments to enable them to understand the
tasks to be performed.
2.2
EPCC- OFFICE OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND SAFETY (ORMS) TRAINING
The EPCC-ORMS will gladly offer assistance to any department that needs help in selecting or
using training aids, such as: Films, slides, DVD's and videotapes (such training materials are
intended to complement a departmental training session, and should not be substituted as the
entire core of a safety training session). Printed materials such as: General safety, pamphlets,
posters, signs and stickers are available free of charge. However, more expensive training media
may be acquired by individual departments. Most of these items may be ordered from outside
agencies such as the National Safety Council, Texas Safety Association, or the National Fire
Protection Association.
Faculty and staff commitment to safety begins with their initiative to attend safety training
programs designed to improve the workplace and the environment. Coordinators should take
an active role in planning training for their faculty and staff. Contact the ORMS to schedule
training sessions at least two weeks in advance. The ORMS offers the following training classes:
Fire Safety - this course is designed to help employees prevent fires and to learn the
evacuation process, whether at work or at home.
Office Safety - The employee will learn to recognize and avoid potentially harmful
office practices.
Office Ergonomics - this course assists the supervisor in being able to recognize improper
work practices and to learn methods to create a safe work area for employees, helps the
employee in adjusting their workstation for comfort health, and safety.
Portable Fire Extinguisher Use - this course is designed to instruct the employee on the
proper use of a portable fire extinguisher and when to use a portable fire extinguisher.
Emergency Evacuations - this course is designed to educate the employee in safe
evacuation in case of fire or other emergency.
Heat Stress - this course helps the employee to know the symptoms and remedies of heat
stress.
Proper Lifting - this course teaches the employee not only how to lift safely but various
types of lifting techniques.
Hazardous Communications - this course is designed to enable the employee to safely
work with some hazardous materials.
Ladder Safety - this course teaches employees how to select and properly use ladders.
***NOTE: Topics are subject to change.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 9
2.3
SAFETY CONCERNS/COMPLAINTS
As any occupation that requires the use of moving parts, chemicals, and electricity, all faculty, staff
and students are required to exercise caution and common sense when working in our campuses
and laboratory spaces to make our classrooms an enjoyable place to learn. Please work with the
program to create and maintain this environment. Any employee or student should report
suspected unsafe conditions or practices to their supervisor, department head, instructor, or
ORMS.
When contacting the ORMS, the following information should be made available by the person
filing the complaint:
Description of the unsafe condition or practice.
Location of the condition or practice (campus, building, room number, etc.)
What effect the condition of practice has had or what effect it is likely to have on persons
or property.
Complainant's name and telephone number for follow-up purposes.
If necessary, ORMS will investigate suspected unsafe condition or practice and:
Will recommend any corrective action.
Will contact the complainant and advise them of the ORMS's findings and
recommendations.
Will follow-up to ensure compliance with corrective recommendations.
NOTE: Physical Plant should be notified first concerning College sites that are unsafe or areas in need of repair
or replacement parts.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 10
2.4
SAFETY INSPECTIONS
Every well-managed laboratory conducts safety inspections on an organized and planned basis.
Typically, after a dramatic close call or a serious accident, other laboratories conduct safety
inspections. The purpose in either case is the same: to prevent future accidents. This requires that
a safety inspection be effective; but every laboratory is unique, and only a safety inspection
designed to fit the needs of the individual laboratory is likely to prevent accidents effectively.
Each laboratory is different, and no fixed inspection can be recommended. Guidelines for such
detailed particulars cannot be found in any book, but must be developed by each Health Program
coordinator, instructors and persons involved, in their own laboratory environment
A safety inspection is typically a walk-through by ORMS and program representative who pause
here and there, noting violations of published safety rules and marking off items on a checklist.
A safety inspection should be up to date with good safety practices. It is helpful if in addition to
noting infractions, the inspecting team commends observed exemplary safe acts and conditions.
The ORMS inspects facilities, equipment, and practices to determine the levels of safety at
the College. These can be regularly scheduled inspections, inspections required by codes
or ordinances, or inspections done in response to accidents, or safety complaints, or assist
in the accrediting process. Regularly scheduled inspections should be performed no less
than semi-annually.
In the event that conditions of imminent threat to persons or property are found, the
ORMS will order immediate correction of the unsafe condition.
As a part of the inspection process, fire drills are conducted periodically in order to
evaluate the evacuation process and insure that the alarm systems are functioning
properly. The fire drills are conducted at all College District facilities.
Every safety inspection should have a follow-up to ensure that recommendations of that
inspection are implemented. A safety inspection is not solely to improve safety; it is also to
improve safety in such a manner that eventually good safety is practiced whether or not an
announced inspection is imminent.
POINTED QUESTIONS
A general way to develop safety audits and to carry out safety inspections is to prepare detailed
written answers to a short set of pointed questions, such as the following.
What problem or what area should be inspected or audited?
Why should this problem or area receive priority?
What arc the critical factors involved in the problem or area?
What are other factors that arc involved? Clarify why they are not critical.
Who will develop the audit or carry out the inspection? Justify the selection of the person
or assigned person to the task.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 11
2.4.1 Safety Inspection Checklist (Sample)
Facilities Safety and Housekeeping Inspection Report This listing is not intended to be complete.
Use it as a guide when preparing a similar list for your use that applies to your situation.
Date_______________
Program Name__________________________ Bldg. /Room #__________
Areas of inspection
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Comments and recommendations*
Bench tops
Areas under sinks
Cabinets, drawers, shelves
(Chemicals properly stored)
Hoods and Other ventilation
Window ledges
Walls and floors
Safety glasses, face shields,
Protective clothing
Fire extinguishers
Compressed gas cylinders
Broken glassware: Destroy? Repair?
Tubing and hoses: condition? Proper use?
"No Smoking" and "No Eating" signs
Guards on moving equipment
Interlocks
Condition of equipment
Refrigerators
Electric cords, other wiring
Eye washes and safety showers
Storage of peroxide-forming chemicals
Storage of chemicals in work area
Storage of chemicals in storage area
Evaluation of amount of supplies and equipment
Laboratory desks, bookshelves
SDS's availability
Office housekeeping
Other
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
Actions taken and other recommendations:
_______________________________
Inspection made by:
_______________________________
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 12
2.5
ACCIDENT PREVENTION
Prevention of accidents is a two-step process:
Identification of hazards
Control or elimination of the identified hazard.
An accident which is about to happen may be fatal or a near miss or somewhere in between:
It is wiser to identify and control or eliminate hazards with regular safety inspections and
audits in advance of the event rather than after an injury.
2.6
HAZARD CATEGORIES
Hazards are often classified into two categories, those due to unsafe acts by persons and those
due to unsafe conditions in the workplace.
2.6.1 Unsafe Acts
Hazards arising from unsafe acts are more prevalent than hazards related to unsafe conditions.
These laboratory examples of unsafe acts are illustrative.
Violations of safety rules
Operating equipment without proper training or without authority.
Altering safety devices so as to make them inoperative.
Using equipment that is in a defective condition.
Servicing or altering equipment while it is electrically energized.
Using unsuitable protective equipment or clothing, or not using suitable equipment or
clothing.
Taking shortcuts.
Horseplay.
Failure to warn or to protect coworkers while adequately protecting oneself.
Poor record keeping.
2.6.2 Unsafe Conditions
Examples of unsafe conditions include the following.
Inoperative emergency equipment (fire extinguishers, eyewash fountains).
Unsatisfactory training in the use of emergency equipment.
Poor housekeeping.
Narrow clearances in passageways, spaces between laboratory benches or between bench
and wall, near exit doorways, or in an area where emergency equipment is located. Often
associated with temporary placement (that has become permanent) of bulky objects and
cartons.
Improperly designed storage areas, inadequate shelving.
Insufficient illumination.
Crowded lab bench surfaces.
Improper electrical wiring.
Inoperative warning systems.
Mechanical equipment operating marginally due to inadequate maintenance.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 13
2.7
THE TEXAS HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD (copy)
The Texas Hazard Communication Act, codified as Chapter 502 of the Texas Health and Safety
Code, requires all public employers in Texas to provide their employees with information
regarding hazardous chemicals to which employees may be exposed in their workplace.
Under the Act, all educational institutions within Texas, as well as any other employers, have the
following responsibilities:
1. As of January 1, 1986, employers must provide notice of the Act and its provisions to
employees.
2. As of January 1, 1986, employers must provide to the Fire Chief of the City Fire
Department and the Local Emergency Planning Committee having jurisdiction over the
workplace, a written list of the names and telephone numbers of knowledgeable
representatives of the employer who can be contacted in case of emergency.
3. As of January 1, 1986, employers must obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all hazardous
chemicals in the workplace. These sheets must be readily available for reference by
employees and laboratory students. A file of SDS's should be kept in each department
where hazardous materials are stored or used.
4. As of January 1. 1986, employers must obtain appropriate labels for containers of
hazardous chemicals.
5. As of September 1, 1993, employers must provide an education and training program for
employees who use or handle hazardous chemicals, provide additional instruction to an
employee when the potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals in the employee's work
area increases significantly or when the employee receives new and significant
information concerning the hazards of a chemical in the employee's work area, and
provide training to new or newly assigned employee before the employee works with or
in a work area containing a hazardous chemical.
The College must:
1. Post ''Notice to Employees" posters in conspicuous places to inform employees of their
rights in the workplace.
2. Have a comprehensive list of all potentially hazardous chemicals used or stored at the
workplace by taking an inventory.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Safety Manual
Ensure that the chemical list is updated as necessary, but not less frequently as
annually.
Ensure that the workplace chemical list is readily available to employees and to
authorized local, state, or federal officials on request.
Ensure that newly assigned employees be made aware of the location of the chemical
list.
Maintain the chemical list for 30 years.
Submit one copy of the chemical list and the updates to Physical Plant.
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 14
3. Obtain and maintain a current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for any chemical on the list.
a.
Ensure that a SDS for any chemical is readily accessible to employees and authorized
local, state, or federal officials on request.
b.
Ensure that each SDS is in English and that the SDS includes:
1.
Product Identification
2.
Hazardous Ingredients
3.
Physical & Chemical Characteristics
4.
Physical Hazards
5.
Reactivity Data
6.
Health Hazards
7.
Precautions for Safe Handling, Storage, and Use
8.
Control Measures
9.
Emergency phone number
4. Ensure that all hazardous chemicals are properly labeled. Labels must remain in place at all
times from initial packaging through disposal. Ensure that all hazardous substances are
labeled when they arrive at the College facility and remain labeled throughout their use.
a.
Labels must contain the following information:
1. Identity of the chemical
2. Appropriate hazard warning
3. Name and address of the chemical manufacturer, importer, or other responsible
party
4. Emergency phone number
b.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) labels may, and are encouraged, to be
used in addition to the original container label.
c.
It is not required to label portable containers into which hazardous chemicals are
transferred from labeled containers to a smaller container to be immediately used by
the employee who performs the transfer. But, the new container must never be left
unattended. If it will be left unattended, it must be labeled.
5. Provide "Right to Know" Education and Training
a.
Safety Manual
The Hazard Communication Standard requires that employees who use or handle
hazardous substances (regardless of quantity) receive training on an as needed basis.
Addition training is required "when the potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals
in the employee's work area increases significantly or when the employer receives
new and significant information concerning the hazards of a material in the
employee's work area". There must be additional training whenever a new chemical is
brought into your area. The new chemical must be included in your chemical list
inventory. New or newly assigned employees must be trained before they are placed
in environments where hazardous substances are being used.
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 15
b.
The training program must be in written form. It should outline:
1. The nature of the hazard.
2. What protective measures have been, are being, or need to be taken.
3. The location/locations where hazardous substances are stored or where they are
used.
4. How to read, understand, and make use of SDS and chemical warning labels.
5. Protective measures that employees can should or must take.
6. Proper precautions for handling the hazardous substances.
7. Required personal protective equipment, if any.
8. Methods to prevent or minimize accidents such as spills, leaks, and explosions.
9. Clean up procedures for small spills and leaks.
10. Emergency procedures to follow in the event of an accident.
c.
A detailed, written hazardous communication program must be developed by each
supervisor or manager that falls under this standard and the program must be
accessible to employees and officials.
d.
All supervisors and managers that come under the Hazard Communication Standard
must familiarize themselves with the Act
6. The supervisor or manager shall:
Safety Manual
a.
Inform outside contractors who are expected to work in your area where chemicals
are used, of any potential hazards they or their employees may face while working
there. This may be done in writing or orally to the foreman or person in charge.
b.
Supply the contractor with:
Chemical inventory for the area where the contractor will be working, copies of
appropriate SDS's and any additional information on materials that can be made
available to the contractor for training his employees.
c.
Outside contractors must provide the College with an MSDS for each chemical brought
onto College property. This can be arranged in the contract agreement.
d.
When the College contracts for the services of outside contracts, the College is
responsible for training only employees of the College, not the contractor's employee.
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 16
SAFETY MANUAL
SECTION III
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT AND
LABORATORY SAFETY EQUIPMENT
3.0
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
Safe laboratory procedures are the best protection, and the recommendations that follow reflect a
precautionary approach. Faculty and staff must enforce the use of protective equipment while
teaching in laboratory settings. Syllabus must instruct students to follow proper attire during
laboratory hours. Aprons, lab coats, gloves, and other protective clothing appropriate for the type
of laboratory, should be readily available and used (compare the properties of different clothing
materials before buying. **Note that most lab coats and aprons are made of substances that will
burn).
Experiments or processes involving corrosive or reactive materials, such as strong acids or bases,
require use of safety goggles and perhaps face shields. Gloves must provide sufficient arm
protection to minimize the chance of spilled chemicals making contact with the skin. Examine the
manufacturers' claims and test data carefully and use the gloves only under the conditions and
with the chemicals for which they are intended
3.0.1
Safety Goggles is described as made of polycarbonate lenses to meet ANSI
Standard Z87.1-1989 approved material. Hazardous could come from any direction.
Protective eyewear should provide sufficient angular coverage.
3.0.2
Hearing Conservation (Ear Protection) a sign should be posted where hearing
protection is needed. Hearing conservation should be practiced through proper design of equipment,
modifications of existing sources of noise, and the use of ear protection.
3.0.3
Gloves (Use protective gloves when necessary). Thick leather gloves prevent
injury when inserting glass tubing into and removing it from rubber stoppers; such gloves are
less clumsy than the often thick cotton gloves are usually awkward to use when handling large
heavy objects than hot mitts, hot pads, or tongs.
3.0.4
Face Masks limit exposures to hazardous vapors, dusts and mists. Devices should
be chosen to meet any regulatory requirements. Face masks should be kept in cabinets located
outside of the potential danger area.
3.0.5
Protective Clothing (lab coat, apron, or disposable garments). Rubberized
aprons provide protection against chemical spills; polyether disposable aprons provide
protection against most solvents, acids, detergents.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 17
3.1
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Eyewash station/First Aid Kit/Fume hood/Fire extinguisher/Fire blankets/Safety cabinets must
be available in any chemical laboratory. Instructors and laboratory assistants in a laboratory must
be familiar with the locations of, and procedures for using this equipment. Each laboratory has a
variety of equipment to be used in case an accident occurs. Every student should know the
location of the following equipment and how to operate them.
3.1.1 Eyewash Wash Station is not only the essential equipment of laboratory for student’s
protection, but also is an essential protective facility against poisonous and corrosive material. If
accidents happen, please reduce the hurt to the minimum degree by quickly spraying and washing
the hurt with the equipment then follow the necessary medical assistance.
If any substance is introduced into your eyes get IMMEDIATE assistance and go to the eyewash
station which is located in the prep room of every laboratory. Holding your eyes open, flush for at
least 15 minutes. Get medical attention as soon as possible. You will be instructed on how to use
the emergency eyewash station during your lab class introduction. There are also instructions
posted next to the station.
3.1.2 First Aid Kit -As faculty/staff you must be aware if you see anyone injured to take the
proper steps to obtain help first then assist if possible. If a student is injured, notify your campus
police department immediately.
All injuries, even minor cuts and bruises, should receive proper attention. Instruct students to
report any accidents, or irritation caused by dust, fluids or any other material to instructor or lab
assistant.
Major injuries must be reported to the campus police department. The college does not provide
medical treatment. An Emergency Number must be posted where students can see it: Dial 911 or
915-831-2200.
3.1.3 Safety Cabinets - Proper storage of flammables (such as acetone, neutralizer, or resin),
and combustible liquids require careful handling and proper storage at all times in order to
protect students from fire and other safety health hazards. Centrifugation should be carried out
using sealed centrifuge cups or rotors that are loaded and unloaded in a biological safety cabinet.
Containers of flammable or combustible liquids must remain tightly sealed except when
transferring, poured or applied. Remove only that portion of liquid in the storage container
required to accomplish a particular job.
Major areas in the laboratory must have cabinets, refrigerators, and freezers to store chemicals.
Every inside storage room must be provided with continuous exhaust ventilation to prevent
accumulation of vapors. Molecular biology, chemicals of general use, microbiological media, acids
and flammables must have their own cabinets. These places must be organized by compatibility
and by their storage codes found on their labels. Materials in each cabinet must be alphabetized.
Chemicals used in the laboratory can react violently when mixed. To avoid any dangerous
reactions chemicals must be stored in specific places. What you need to remember is simply to
PUT THINGS BACK EXACTLY WHERE YOU FOUND THEM.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 18
3.1.4 Fume Hood When using the fume hood the vertically sliding glass door should be pulled
down as far as possible allowing only enough space for you to be able to work. Then work with
hazardous vapors inside the fume hood and draws them into a filter. The vapors are filtered and
then disposed of properly. This is very important when working with solutions and chemicals that
need to be handled carefully.
3.1.5 Fire Blanket -Fire blankets should be used with caution because wrapping the body can
force flames toward the face and neck. Quickly remove any clothing contaminated with chemicals.
To prevent contamination of the eyes use caution when removing pullover shirts or sweaters.
Douse with water to remove heat, place clean wet cold cloths on burned areas. Wrap the injured
person to avoid shock and exposure. Get medical attention promptly. If a person's clothing is on
fire, that person should use the safety shower. If the shower is not readily available, douse the
individual with water or wrap the person in a coat, blanket, or whatever is available to extinguish
the fire and roll the person on the floor.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 19
SECTION IV
GENERAL SAFETY CONCERNS AND PROCEDURES
4.0
LABORATORY SAFETY AND HAZARDS COMMUNICATION SIGNS
Under the OSHA Laboratory Standard regulation (29 CFR 1910.1450), a specific set of safety rules
called a "Chemical Hygiene Plan" must be developed and communicated clearly to all students,
faculty/staff. Although nonemployee students are not covered by these regulations, each
laboratory class must have students attest by signature that he or she has read and
understands the safety rules at the start of every semester. These signatures must be
documented, and rules must be rigorously and impartially enforced as mentioned on section #2.
Faculty and staff must implement safety in the laboratory by example observing the
following regulations:
Wearing protective equipment where recommended
Being enthusiastic about safety
Conduct appropriate safety and evacuation drills on a regular basis.
Be alert for unsafe conditions.
Conduct frequent and thorough inspections.
Take effective corrective action promptly.
Maintain discipline and enforce regulations.
Children should not be allowed to enter a laboratory
Ensure that faculty, students, and staff have access to, understand, and are able to comply
with the information on the appropriate SDS's.
Carefully review all procedures for possible health, safety, and environmental problems
before any experiment or lab assignment begun.
Review the relevant SDS's before starting any laboratory procedures.
Be familiar with and keep up to date with publications on laboratory safety.
In addition to a growing awareness of the need for adequate safety precautions and training, there
has also been increased recognition of the health effects of prolonged, low-level exposure to many
chemicals. However, the latter subject is beyond the purpose and scope of this manual and the
reader is urged to seek specific guidance from appropriate federal and state agencies and
specialized reference works in this field.
Every laboratory must invest in safety signs and label covers to comply with OSHA safety
requirements. Aluminum signs give an attractive appearance both indoors and outdoors.
Laminated self-adhesive labels can be placed on walls, any machine, or smooth surfaces.
No food permitted signs MUST BE POSTED at the entrance of the laboratory and VISIBLE TO
STUDENTS to prevent ingestion of hazardous materials/chemicals used in the laboratory.
Example: “NO EATING or DRINKING IN THE LABORATORY” "DO NOT DISCARD ANY FOOD OR
BEVERAGE ITEMS IN THE LABORATORY TRASH CANS" "NEVER EAT, DRINK, AND CHEW
GUM IN THE LABORATORY" “NO SMOKING” Smoking is prohibited, “NO CHILDREN” Signs to
forbid children in the laboratory.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 20
4.1
PERSONAL HYGIENE
Clothing restrictions; the following are suggested rules for persons in all laboratories that apply:
Do not wear shorts, cut-offs, or miniskirts.
Do not wear high-heeled shoes, open-toed shoes, sandals, or shoes made of woven material.
To prevent spillage from direct contact always wear appropriate clothing; chemically
resistant lab coats or aprons are recommended.
Confine long hair and loose clothing. As a precaution, make sure to tie loose hair.
Remove all unnecessary jewelry it may become entangled in the moving parts of machinery,
wear clothing that is not too loose, also, and do not apply make-up while working in the
laboratory.
Always wear goggles when handling chemicals.
For severe exposure conditions, in addition to goggles wear a face shield where needed.
Always know the hazards and physical and chemical properties of the materials used (e.g.,
corrosively, flammability, reactivity, and toxicity).
All chemicals in the laboratory are to be considered dangerous. Avoid handling chemicals
with fingers. Always use tweezers.
When making an observation, keep at least 1 foot away from the specimen. Do not taste, or
smell any chemicals.
Always wash hands and arms with soap and water before leaving the work area. This
applies even if one has been wearing gloves.
Check the label on all chemical bottles twice before removing any of the contents. Take only
as much chemical as you need.
Never return unused chemicals to their original container.
Never remove chemicals or other materials from the laboratory area or other facility
without proper authorization.
Never perform any work when alone in the chemical laboratory. At least two people must be
present. Students must be supervised by an instructor or laboratory assistant at all times.
Never perform unauthorized work, preparations, or experiments.
Do not run or participate in horse-play while in the laboratory.
Never engage in horseplay, pranks, or other acts of mischief in chemical work areas.
In order to insure that all laboratory surfaces are properly disinfected prior to any
class/laboratory session, the following procedures will be utilized:
All solutions in any type of container will be capped after use. Bottles of solutions not
capped will be disposed if not used. Squirt bottles will be disposed of one month after being
opened as recommended by the manufacturer.
All surfaces of the tables used will be cleaned using soapy water and then with an
antibacterial solution to minimize contamination after every class/laboratory session.
Measuring instruments will be wiped clean with alcohol after each use. Those areas where
the student/patient has come in contact with the instrument will be especially targeted for
cleaning.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 21
SAFETY MANUAL
When working in the laboratory it is important to keep yourself and your work area clean
to avoid accidents and residual contamination.
Clear your workspace, leaving only what you need to complete your experiment. Keeping
the clutter down will reduce the chance of spills and breakage of equipment. You may
unknowingly come in contact with a chemical or evaporated solution on counter-tops or
other surfaces, or put someone else in danger of contamination. If there is a residual
chemical or solution on your hands, you will be in danger of ingesting or introducing the
material into your body by other means (eyes or mucous membranes).
You must ALWAYS thoroughly wash and scrub your hands after any and all laboratory or
clinic sessions, and before you leave the laboratory. There are sinks with liquid hand soap
and paper towels in every laboratory. Wash your hands, dry them with a paper towel and
then turn the faucet off using the paper towel to avoid re-contaminating your hands.
Do not place flammable materials or chemicals near heat sources, and keep space heaters
away from anything that can burn. Protect against noxious fumes by making sure that there
is proper ventilation. Always close the containers for such substances by closing the lids
properly. Remove skin irritants by washing the affected area with copious amounts of water
immediately.
Spilled water on the floor is dangerous. Please clean-up any liquids spills or report spills to
the lab assistant or instructor.
4.2
CUTS AND PUNCTURES
Handling glassware and pipets in the laboratory can be quite dangerous. Much of the laboratory
glassware is delicate and easily broken, which contributes to cuts and punctures. Many glass cuts
occur when attempting to force a pipet or force open a lid on a bottle or jar.
Avoid the use of unnecessary force.
Inspect glassware for chips and cracks which will weaken the glass.
Discard the damaged glass in the broken glass box and ask for new glassware.
Pay close attention to your instructor's demonstration on how to handle these items.
If you are washing glassware always use the brushes to clean the inside.
Avoid putting your hands inside beakers, graduated cylinders and other glass items.
Always wear rubber gloves for additional protection.
Take preclusion when handling sharps including razor blades, scalpels, and needles.
Always remember to cut away from your body.
4.3
DISPOSAL OF BROKEN GLASS AND SHARPS
(Control any bleeding and seek medical attention in case of an accident). If you break any type of
glassware, take care of yourself first, then CLEAN UP the broken glass to prevent others from
cutting themselves.
A broom and dustpan are located in each laboratory.
All broken glass is deposited in the blue and white broken glass box in the lab.
Sharps are disposed of in a separate box. This box is red plastic and labeled for sharps
disposal. It is usually located near the broken glass box in the lab.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 22
SAFETY MANUAL
4.4
STORAGE
All storage rooms must be maintained in an orderly manner. Stored materials should be kept to a
minimum. Following good housekeeping practices must be employed:
Loose storage like papers, books, or files must be kept off floors, put into boxes and
organized on shelves.
Aisles must be clear at least 24” wide, with free access to storage and clear of tripping
hazards at all times.
Storage may not be stocked within 18” of a sprinkler heads. If there are no sprinkling
heads storage must be 24 inches from the ceiling.
4.5
ELECTRICAL CONCERNS
Misused or damaged power and machines may cause serious electrical shocks. Any electrical unit
that is not properly grounded, has worn or frayed cords, or is malfunctioning should be reported
to the laboratory assistant or instructor.
Water and electricity make a dangerous combination.
Connect and disconnect all wiring by grasping the plug and not the wire.
Never use any electrical appliance on a wet surface.
Make sure your hands are dry when using any appliance.
Use electrical appliances with three-pronged plugs.
Use appliances with the Underwriters’ Laboratories (UL) symbol.
Do not place any object near an electric heater or hot plate.
Keep electric heaters at least four (4) feet from furniture and drapes.
Keep electric heaters on a level non-flammable surface.
Never place appliance cords where they will come into contact with heated surfaces.
Unplug all electrical appliances when not in use.
Unplug all electrical appliances before cleaning.
Unplug an appliance that has fallen into water before attempting to retrieve it.
Turn off a light before replacing the bulb.
Never pull out an electrical plug by the cord.
Do not touch an electrical appliance with a metal object.
Wires/Fuses/Outlets
Outlets, lights, and circuit breakers must be accessible at all times, free from damage and
appropriately covered.
Do not overload outlets with too many appliances; make use of other outlets in the room.
Do not stick any object other than an electrical plug into an outlet.
Never force a plug into an outlet
All appliances and equipment must be directly plugged into wall outlets or power strips
equipped with either a fuse or circuit breaker.
Multi-plug adapters are prohibited, and extension cords may only be used on a
temporarily bases. Use extension cords minimally.
Report frayed or cracked electrical cords to the lab assistant.
Keep electrical cords out of traffic areas in the laboratory.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 23
Keep electrical cords out from under rugs and heavy equipment.
Know the location of the main electrical switch.
Call 911 for emergency help if someone is injured by electricity.
Do not touch a person in contact with a live electrical circuit. Disconnect the power first or
the rescuer may be seriously injured.
Stay away from wires on the ground and report fallen wires.
Never touch a power line. Touching a power line with any part of your body or any object
can result in serious injury or death. Remember that electricity can move through
conductive material, i.e., water, metal, wood, aluminum, string and plastics.
Be Prepared for Power Outages Keep flashlights handy around the laboratory, and have
extra batteries. Candles and matches must be used with extreme care and should never be left
unattended.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 24
SAFETY MANUAL
4.6
SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS PREVENTION
Slips and falls are one of the most frequent causes of accidents. To avoid getting hurt from falls,
avoid rushing and remember the following:
Watch Where You Walk- Be aware of where you are walking. Look down continuously for spilled
liquids, materials, changing surface levels, etc. Make sure the area is well-lit or use a flashlight if
lighting is poor.
Wear Proper Footwear-Be certain footwear is in good condition. Wear sturdy shoes with slip
resistant soles and heels.
Be Careful on Stairs-Do not run when going up or down stairs. Damaged steps or misplaced items
are major factors in trips. Use handrails when ascending or descending stairs. Avoid carrying large
loads when going up or down stairs and ensure that stairs are well-lit.
Use Ladders Correctly-Prevent a potential injury by cleaning up spills and wet floors. Keep isles
and walkways clear of clutter or obstructions. Never use broken or defective ladders. Make sure the
ladder is on solid footing and will not move when you climb upon it. Never stand on the top two
steps of a step ladder.
Do Not Jump off of Equipment-Eliminate the hazard when possible (i.e. broken chair, unstable
ladder, etc...). Practice good judgment - Don’t lean back in chairs, don’t climb on unstable shelving
or tables. Pick up objects and move extension cords to eliminate the potential for injury.
Protect others-If something is creating a potential slip, trip, or fall hazard fix it
Clean it up - move it.
Place signs to warn others of the potential hazard
If you cannot fix it - Place a work order so that maintenance department is aware of the
problem and alert your supervisor.
Report It-Employees should immediately report all work related injuries to their supervisor. State law,
and College Policy, requires that injuries be reported in writing. Place a work order immediately to get
the problem fixed.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 25
SAFETY MANUAL
4.7
PROPER LIFTING
(Please do not lift heavy materials. Ask your instructor or lab assistant for help). The
objects lifted need no to be heavy in order to cause a painful, incapacitating injury.
 Keep a wide base of support. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with one foot
slightly ahead of the other (karate stance). Squat down, bending at the hips and knees
only, if necessary, put one knee to the floor and your other knee in front of you, bent at a
right angle (half kneeling).
 Maintain good posture. Look straight ahead, and keep your back straight, your chest out,
and your shoulders back. This helps keep your upper back straight while maintaining a
slight arch in your lower back.
 Slowly lift by straightening your hips and knees (not your back). Keep your back straight,
and don't twist as you lift.
 Hold the load as close to your body as possible, at the level of your belly button.
 Use your feet to change direction, taking small steps, and be certain the floor is free of
spills, mud, water, grease, etc. Lifting or carrying loads on slippery floor is very hazardous.
 Wear sturdy shoes with slip resistant soles and heels. Do not lift heavy loads while
wearing high heel shoes.
 Lead with your hips as you change direction. Keep your shoulders in line with your hips as
you move.
 Set down your load carefully, squatting with the knees and hips only.
Keep in mind:
 Do not attempt to lift by bending forward.
 Bend your hips and knees to squat down to your load, keep it close to your body, and
straighten your legs to lift.
 Never lift a heavy object above shoulder level.
 Avoid turning or twisting your body while lifting or holding a heavy object
4.8
OFFICE SAFETY
Discomfort might result from incorrect computer workstation, the most common complaints
relate to the neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, and eyes. Poor chair and bad postures can cause
lower back strain, or a chair that is too high can cause circulation loss of legs and feet, some
characteristics had been identified and associated with increased risk of musculoskeletal
problems for example:
 Design of the workstation
 Nature of the task
 Repetitiveness of the job
 Degree of postural constraint
 Work pace
 Work/rest schedules
Most of these problems that result in repetitive injuries can be solved with sample, yet effective
solutions:
 The key to comfort is in maintaining the body in a relaxed neutral position.
 The ideal work position is to have the harms hanging relaxed from the shoulders.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 26
 If the keyboard is used, arms should be bent at right angles at the elbow, with the hands
held in a straight line with forearms and elbows close to the body.
 The head should be in line with the body and slightly forward.
 Small font sizes can strain your neck and vision, since we tend to pull forward the head to
view small print, solution: Adjust font size on PC by pressing CTRL & SCROLL, mouse up or
Down to increase or reduce size of page you are looking at.
4.9
ACCIDENT REPORTING
(ALL accidents involving personal injury or destruction of property must be reported properly to
the El Paso County Community College police department and to the appropriate supervisor
IMMEDIATELY).
All accidents and near misses should be reported. Accidents resulting in even minor medical
treatment or observation should be recorded. A formal written report of the accident should be
submitted to the administration and ORMS stating the causes and consequences of each accident
or near miss.
Recommendations for the prevention of recurrences should be discussed with ORMS. They should
take appropriate measures to prevent recurrence. A periodic review of these reports will often
reveal problem areas that need special attention. There are certain OSHA reporting requirements
that may apply depending on the institution and the nature of the accident.
4.9.1 Steps to Report an Accident:
 Call EPCC PD and give all requested information
 When the police officer arrives, give the officer all requested information
 The police are trained first responders and will administer first aid or call Emergency
Services as appropriate.
 If the accident is job related, notify the supervisor immediately. The employee and
supervisor are responsible for ensuring that the EPCC PD and workers’ Compensation
(Benefits Office) are notified. The supervisor will complete a “Supervisor’s Report of Injury
form” and the injured employee will complete the “Employee’s Report of Injury form”.
These reports are then forwarded to Benefits Office.
 If a student is involved while the student is under the authority of an instructor, the
instructor is responsible for contacting the EPCC PD to report the accident.
 EPCC PD will investigate the accident, complete a report on the injury/accident, and
prepare an “Emergency Care” and/or Liability Release form”. The EPCC PD will also make
any required follow-up investigations.
 Non-emergency accidents should also be reported to the EPCC PD as soon as possible.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 27
SAFETY MANUAL
4.10 Accident Reporting Sample Forms (EPCC website)
For College Procedure 2.01.03.22:
Prevention of Health Related Exposure
To Communicable Diseases
AFFILIATE INCIDENT REPORT FORM
General Information
Name of affiliate
Unit Assigned
Report prepared by
Address
Phone number
Email
Incident Report Information
Title of Report
Date of Incident
/
/
Duration
Location
Name of Incident
Brief Description
Person(s) Involved in Incident
Activities of above person at the time of incident
Any other outside party involved in incident
Contact Details
Witness of Incident, Name and Contact Details
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 28
Any Injury taken place, provide details
Any Police complaint filed, provide detail
Describe any actions taken after the incident
Signature
Date
/
/
Signature
Date
/
/
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Report Submitted to: Name
Page 29
For College Procedure 2.01.03.22:
Prevention of Health Related Exposure
To Communicable Diseases
SHARPS INJURY REPORTING FORM
Employee or Student Information
Name
EPCC ID
Address
Phone
Course
Incident
Date/Time of Incident
Date/Time of Reporting
Location
Procedure
Procedure at Time of Incident
Purpose Sharp was Used for
Implements Causing Injury
Implement Involved
Cause of Injury
Nature of Injury
Superficial 
Deep 
Moderate 
bleeding 
Glove Penetrated by Sharp 
Part of Body Injury
Type of Contamination
Blood 
Safety Manual
Blood Stained Fluid 
Non Blood Stained Fluid 
Unknown 
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 30
Risk Assessment/Treatment
First Aid
Yes  Advised 
Incident Report
N/A 
Risk Assessed
Yes  Advised  N/A 
Yes  No  N/A 
Gloves Worn
Yes  No  N/A 
Date of Last Hepatitis B Course/Booster/Anti HBS
Date of Last Tetanus
Information Regarding Source Patient
Known 
Unknown 
Follow Up Strategy/Comments
Signature
Date
/
/
Signature
Date
/
/
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 31
SAFETY MANUAL
WITNESS REPORT OF INJURY
El Paso Community College
P.O. Box 20500 El Paso, Texas 79998-0500
Witness Information
Witness name
Last:
First:
Residence address:
Home pone:
College Employee
Visitor
Student
Other
Work location:
Work phone:
On (date) ___________________________, at about (time) ___________ a.m. /p.m. I was in or at (clearly sate your
own location) __________________________________________________________________________________________
When an incident/accident involving (employee name) ________________________________ is alleged to have
occurred.
Check only one box.
I saw the accident.
The accident occurred in the following manner:
I did not see the accident
Information given to me by (name of the person) __________________________________ indicated the
Incident/accident occurred as follows:
I know nothing whatsoever about the occurrence
The afore mentioned information is true and correct to the best of my recollections
Signature:
Date:
Sign completed form and mail (College mail OK) to the Risk Management Department at ASC-B.
Fraud occurs when a person knowingly or intentionally conceals, misrepresents, or makes a false
statement to either deny or obtain workers' compensation benefits or insurance coverage, or
otherwise profit from the deceit.
Workers' Compensation fraud can result in termination of position; fines, restitution of fraudulent
monies received, and/or state jail time.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 32
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 33
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 34
SECTION V
EMERGENCIES AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
5.0
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS
El Paso Community College Police Department................................915-831-2200
Physical Plant.......................................................................................915-831-2280
Benefits (Texas Workers’ Compensation)...........................................915-831-6388
EPCC Office of Risk Management and Safety............................................915-831-6444
5.1
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY EMERGENCIES PREPARATION
This manual addresses minimal specific first aid treatment. Proper handling techniques are
discussed, as well as symptoms of overexposure to certain selected chemicals. If first aid
treatment is required, SDS sheets and competent medical authorities must be consulted in regards
to handling emergencies due to chemicals used in the laboratory.
In planning for potential emergencies, consult with local emergency personnel in advance and
establish plans for the handling of chemical emergencies. At a minimum, make the following
preparations:
Always have first aid equipment readily available.
Post the location of the SDS's file.
Train staff in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. CPR should be encouraged
for all personnel
Make arrangements to ensure that someone knowledgeable about the accident always
accompanies the injured person to medical assistance and a copy of the SDS of the
chemical(s) involved go with the victim if at all possible.
There are other preparations to be made in advance for medical handling of emergencies
involving laboratory chemicals. For example, if first aid treatment is not described in the SDS, a
recommended practice is to add this information to the SDS without delay. Examples of
emergencies that one should anticipate are:
Thermal, cryogenic, and chemical burns
Cuts and puncture wounds from glass or metal that is contaminated with chemicals
Chemicals (liquid, dust, glass) in the eye
Skin irritation by chemicals
Poisoning by ingestion, inhalation, skin absorption, or injection
Asphyxiation (chemical or electrical)
Lachrymatory vapor irritation
5.2
EMERGENCY MEASURES
If an emergency, injury or medical problem is of a serious or potentially serious nature, proceed as
follows:
If the person’s life is in danger (profuse bleeding, no breathing, no heartbeat, etc.).
If you know the appropriate first aid, RENDER IT.
Call the EPCC police Department at 915-831-2200, and advise them of the nature of the
emergency, the condition of the person, your name, and the location of the person
(campus, building, room number).
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 35
If you feel necessary you may call 9-911 and ask for an Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
unit.
Report the nature and location of the emergency to the instructor, to the appropriate fire
or medical facility, and give your name, telephone number, and address.
Tell where you will meet the emergency vehicle, ambulance or fire crews at the place you
indicated or send someone else if you cannot go.
If individuals are involved, report how many; whether they are unconscious, burned, or
trapped; whether an explosion has occurred; and whether there is or has been a chemical
or electrical fire.
Tell others in the area about the nature of the emergency.
Do not move any injured persons unless they are in immediate danger from chemical
exposure or fire. Keep them warm. Unnecessary movement can severely complicate neck
injuries and fractures.
Do not make any other telephone calls unless it is related to the emergency.
When helping another person, remember to evaluate the potential danger to yourself
before taking action.
If a person's clothing catches fire, STOP DROP and ROLL. That person should use the
safety shower. If the shower is not readily available, douse the individual with water or
wrap the person in a coat, blanket, or whatever is available to extinguish the fire and roll
the person on the floor.
Fire blankets should be used with caution because wrapping the body can force flames
toward the face and neck. Quickly remove any clothing contaminated with chemicals.
To prevent contamination of the eyes use caution when removing pullover shirts or
sweaters.
Douse with water to remove heat and place clean, wet, cold cloths on burned areas. Wrap
the injured person to avoid shock and exposure. Get medical attention promptly.
5.3
FIRE PREVENTION
Evacuation routes should be prominently and permanent posted in every laboratory and at other
appropriate locations throughout the building.
Each student should know the location of the fire exits, alarms (and their operations), and
telephone available during regular school hours as well as after hours. Instructions in fire drills
should be scheduled on a regular basis.
EPCC Fire alarms are located in the hallway in front of the elevator doors
In case of a fire alarm exit the building through the back stairs or the stairs by the elevator.
In the presence of dense smoke crawl on the floor to the nearest exit.
The best way to fight a fire is to prevent it. Fires can be prevented and their severity considerably
reduced by proper housekeeping.
5.3.1
Safety Manual
Fire Prevention Safety Check List
Keep operational fire extinguishers handy
Maintain smoke detectors
Don’t let trash accumulate
Separation of flammable liquids from combustible material such as cardboard boxes and
paper towels, storage only of limited quantities of flammable material.
Avoid piling boxes and papers that spill onto an overheating extension cord, a clean and
neat workplace are more fire proof.
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 36
Don’t overload circuits
Don’t run extensions cords behind rugs or curtains, and do not use extension cords for
permanent use, piggy-backed surge protector, or lighted candles.
Exit doors should be unobstructed to be opened with no trouble from the inside
Aisles must be kept unobstructed
Storage boxes must be at least two feet away from the ceiling tiles.
Flammable liquids must be kept in proper containers and stored in fireproof cabinets
If flammable liquids are used in the laboratory, open windows or a continuous mechanical
exhaust ventilation systems must be provided to prevent accumulation of vapors.
Each student should know the location of the fire exits, alarms (and their operation), and
telephone available during regular school hours as well as after hours.
Instructions in fire drills should be scheduled on a regular basis (at least annually or as
otherwise specified by local regulations)
A fire drill will assist employees to practice what to do in case of emergency evacuation.
Fire extinguishers and fire hoses must have a least three foot clear area in front of them.
Make sure exit signs are properly working if not this should be reported to the EPD and
ORMS department immediately
Evacuation routes should be prominently and permanently posted in every laboratory and
at other appropriate locations thought-out the building; develop and memorize an escape
route.
Assign responsibility for evacuating students, faculty and staff
Choose meeting place outside the building to certain all your students are out of danger
Test every door to make sure there is no fire on the other side
Identify two ways out of the building
Faculty, staff and students must treat all fire alarms as real.
5.4
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
The El Paso Community College provides and maintains dry chemical Class ABC fire extinguishers
throughout the District and they have been placed according to fire code and evaluated.
All Rio Grande Campus laboratories must have one or two FIRE EXTINGUISHERS depending on
the laboratory size.
5.4.1 Fire Extinguisher Classification
Fires are classified into four general categories depending on the type of material or fuel involved.
The type of fire determines the type of extinguisher that should be used to extinguish it.
Classification markings will be located in the front of the shell above or below the extinguisher
nameplate.
1. Class A fires involve materials such wood, paper, and cloth, trash, and other ordinary
materials which produce glowing embers or char
2. Class B fires involve flammable gases and flammable liquids: oil, paint, and greases,
including gasoline and most hydrocarbon liquids which must be vaporized for combustion
to occur.
3. Class C fires involve fires in live electrical equipment or in materials near electrical
powered equipment.
4. Class D fires involve combustible metals and combustible metal alloys; such as
magnesium, zirconium, potassium, and sodium.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 37
Extinguishers must be selected according to the potential fire hazard, the construction and
occupancy of facilities, the asset to be protected, and other factors pertinent to the
situation.
5.4.2 Fire Extinguisher Operation
A fire extinguisher is located in every laboratory. In case of a fire notify someone and call the
college police department or dial 911.
No one is required to fight a fire as a part of his or her responsibility. However, voluntary use of a
fire extinguisher by employee, faculty, or staff that is properly trained can save lives and
expensive property loss. Nevertheless, faculty and staff members associated with a particular
laboratory must know the location of fire extinguishers and might be trained annually in the
proper operating method. EPCC-ORMS offers hands-on fire extinguisher training on a regular
basis.
Persons without the necessary hands-on training should not be permitted to operate a fire
extinguisher.
Do NOT attempt to use a fire extinguisher unless you have been trained in its use and
know that it is likely to extinguish the fire.
Fight the fire from a position from which you can escape, and only if you are confident that
you will be successful.
In case of a small fire faculty/staff must notify or have someone notify the EPCC PD at
extension 2200. You may use the unit to try to put out the fire.
When calling EPCC PD give location, type of fire and requested information must be given
to the dispatcher.
Small fires just starting often can be extinguished, but not always Fire to be extinguished
must be in its beginning stage and not have exceeded its point of origin.
When a fire occurs the following actions are recommended before using the fire extinguisher.
A fire contained in a small vessel can usually be suffocated by covering the vessel
Do not pick up the vessel
Do not cover with dry towels or cloths.
Do, for example, use a watch glass to suffocate a fire in a beaker.
Remove nearby flammable materials to avoid spread of the fire.
If not extinguished, a fire can quickly threaten your Life and that of your co-workers.
Remember, it is easy to underestimate a fire
If the fire is extinguished, the employee will remain in the room with the fire extinguisher
ready in case the fire re-ignites.
If the fire is burning over an area too large for the fire to be suffocated quickly and simply, all
persons should evacuate the area except those trained and equipped to fight fires.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 38
SECTION VI
EVACUATION PLAN
6.0
EVACUATION AND EMERGENCY PLANNING
Evacuation of college buildings will begin when the fire alarm sounds or when requested to do so
by EPCC PD, El Paso Fire Department, Instructors, or an EPCC Safety Corps member.
It is the instructor/laboratory assistant/ staff responsibility to know the location of at least two
emergency/escape routes and where are located, including exits, stairways, and telephone
location and elevator procedures. In an emergency evacuation occurs keep the following
guidelines in mind:
In any emergency activate alarm and call 911
Identifying the type of emergency and location to the operator
EPCC Police Department personnel are on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond
to any College emergency. To report an emergency on college property call 831-2200
In the event of emergency stay calm, and help students with disabilities first
Exercise evacuation plan evacuating of the building following emergency routes already
provided by EPCC-ORMS.
6.1
FIRE EVACUATION PROCEDUES (Do Not Run. Do Not Try To Gather Your Belongings).
ACTIVATE THE FIRE ALARM
Notify co-workers and instructors
Call the fire department
Close windows, turn off gas jets, and close doors as you leave
Follow evacuation procedures that have been already established and practiced during
prior fire drills.
Follow evacuation routes, go the nearest exit or stairway and proceed to a predesigned
area outside the building
Do not use elevators to leave the building; use the stairs.
Toxic gases and smoke may be present during a fire, and those persons trying to contain
the fire must avoid breathing gases and smoke. These fires should be fought only by
properly trained personnel equipped with self-contained breathing apparatus.
Everybody is expected to exit the building and remain outside until instructed and remain
outside until EPPD or Fire Department states that is safe to re-enter.
Smother fires involving very reactive metals with powdered graphite or with a fire
extinguisher designed for metal fires. Carbon dioxide and the usual dry chemical fire
extinguishers will intensify fires of alkali, alkaline earth, and certain other metals,
including aluminum, magnesium, zirconium, hafnium, thorium, and uranium.
Fire fighters should be informed what chemicals are involved or which chemicals may
become involved. A current inventory list is required and a copy should be readily
available outside the work area.
Chemical sparks-these sparks can result as a reaction of two or more substances. Fire
involving chemicals increases the possibility of explosions. Special care should be taken in
advance of a fire to keep the potential for fire or excessive heat as far as possible from
volatile solvents, compressed gas cylinders, reactive metals, and explosive compounds.
Immediately after the fire, all extinguishers that were used should be recharged or
replaced with full ones.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 39
The laboratory MUST have a plan for everyone to follow if an evacuation is ever necessary
Be sure that you know the main and alternate evacuation routes as well as the procedures for
accounting for each person in the laboratory.
6.2
CLASSROOM EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Know classroom fire extinguisher location, smoke detectors, and first aid kits.
Shut down any experiments, procedures, etc. that should not be left unattended
Know classroom location of shutoff for gas, water and electricity in any.
Gather personal belongs and immediately leave the classroom or office
Close but do not lock the doors behind you
Know classroom location of special equipment for students with disabilities
Assist disabled persons
6.2.1
Helping Persons with Disabilities
In case of an emergency the best procedure is to let professional emergency personnel assist
in the evacuation of this student. Naturally if there is imminent danger and evacuation cannot
be delayed, the student with disability should be carried or helped from the building in the
most efficient manner. Ask other students to assist you in case of an emergency, explain to
students that help might involve physically carrying and helping students with disability
evacuate the building. A person might be carried using a two person locked arm position, or
may sit in a sturdy chair, preferable one with arms. Remember that a wheelchair user may
have little or no strength.
**It is important that students with a mobility limitation not to be moved unnecessarily and
improperly, possible causing physical injury. If Disabled persons are not able to evacuate the
building, they must be assisted to a safe area and asked to notify EPCC Police Department
(831-2200) to report their location and keep in touch with the dispatcher.
6.3
BUILDING EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Learn the campus evacuation route; know where fire extinguishers are located. It’s good to know
the fastest way to get out of your building. All building occupants should move in a calm, orderly
fashion to the nearest stairway and proceed to the ground floor of the building.
At your desk or work area: In your own workspace, store a pair of good walking shoes under your
desk or wherever you keep personal items at work. You may also want to keep some snacks and
bottled water at your desk in case you find yourself stuck in your workplace for a long period of
time.
Other things you might think about storing at work: Coat, spare money, map of the town/city,
small flashlight, battery-operated radio, essential medications, spare glasses or contact lenses.
You may have to evacuate, but you might also have to stay in your building — it will depend
on the type of emergency:
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 40
6.4
RECEIVING SUSPICIOUS MAIL
If a suspicious object is discovered by faculty, staff or student -Do not attempt to touch or move
the object, notify EPCC PD at 831-2200 immediately. Pay attention to package following
structures:
1.
No return address
2. Restrictive markings
3. Possibly mailed from a foreign country
4. Excessive postage
5. Misspelled words
6. Addressed to title only, incorrect title, badly typed or written
7. Lopsided or uneven, rigid or bulky
8. Oily stains, discolorations, or strange odor
9. Crystallization on wrapper
10. Excessive tape or string
How to handle a suspicious letter or package:
1. Handle with care, don’t shake or bump.
2. Isolate it immediately
3. Don’t open, smell, touch or taste.
4. Treat it as suspect, call local law enforcement authorities
If a parcel is open and/or a threat is identified: Limit Exposure - Don’t Handle evacuate Area.
Shield Yourself From Object. Call Police. Contact Postal Inspectors. Call Local Fire Department
6.5
BOMB THREAT
Faculty/Staff receiving a bomb treat by mail while in campus; must be aware of the following:
IF BOMB THREAT IS RECEIVED BY MAIL
1. DO Not handle or open envelop or package
2. Call EPCC Police Department 831-2200
3. Leave office/classroom Immediately
4. Notify people around you
5. Stop anyone from entering the area where the package is located
6. Do Not activate the fire alarm
7. Contact Postal Inspectors
8. Call Local Fire Department/HAZMAT Unit (9-911)
IF BOMB THREAT IS RECEIVED BY PHONERecord the following information for EPCC PD: Time of call, date of call, exact words of the
person, gender, age, speech pattern, accent, and background noises.
Try to keep caller on the phone as long as possible by asking the following questions:
1. Why did you place the bomb?
2. When is the bomb going to explode?
3. Where is the bomb right now?
4. What kind of bomb is it?
5. What does it looks like?
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 41
SAFETY MANUAL
6.6
RADIOLOGICAL HAZARD
1. Limit Exposure - Don’t Handle
2. Evacuate Area
3. Shield Yourself From Object
4. Call EPCC Police Department 831-2200
5. Contact Postal Inspectors
6. Call Local Fire Department/HAZMAT Unit
6.7
BIOLOGICAL OR CHEMICAL EXPOSURE
Isolate - Don’t Handle
Wash Your Hands with Soap and Warm Water
Evacuate Immediate Area
Call EPCC Police Department 831-2200
Contact Postal Inspectors
6. Call Local Fire Department/HAZMAT Unit
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.8
NATURAL DISASTERS
HIGH WINDS -All faculty staff and students should move in calm in orderly fashion to the nearest
stairway and proceed to the ground floor of the building.
FLOODS - INDOORS: Listen to the latest weather and news for emergency information; stay
inside, unless told to leave immediately. FLOODS - OUTDOOR: Go to the higher ground and stay
there, avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 42
SAFETY MANUAL
SECTION VII
DEALING WITH BIOLOGICAL SPILLS
7.0
BIOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES
In order to minimize consequences of any biological spill, a plastic bucket half full of absorbent
liner must be handy. A simple kit should be available, as well as Chlorine bleach or any other
concentrated disinfectant, paper towels, latex of nitrile gloves, and forceps to pick up broken
glass.
7.0.1 Small Spill
Put on gloves and lab coat
Cover spill with paper towels and gently apply disinfectant
Proceed from outer spell to the center.
Leave disinfectant for 20 minutes.
Pick up towels and discard into a bio hazardous waste container.
Use forceps to pick up any broken glass and place the pieces into a sharps container.
Re-wipe the spill area with disinfectant.
Remove gloves and thoroughly wash hands.
7.0.2
Safety Manual
Large Spill
HOLD YOUR BREATH AND LEAVE AREA IMMEDIATELY
Warn others to stay out of the spill area to prevent spread of contamination
Post a sign on the door warning others of the biological materials spill
Remove any contaminated clothing and put it into a bio hazard bag for later autoclaving
Wash hands and exposed skin and inform your PI or supervisor about the spill
Put on protective clothing (Lab coat, gloves, eye protection, shoe covers) and assemble
clean-up materials
Wait 30 minutes before re-entering the contaminated area to allow dissipation of
aerosols.
Cover the spill with paper towels and gently apply disinfectant, proceeding from the
outer edge of the spill to its center
Leave in place for 20 minutes
Collect all treated materials and discard in a bio hazardous waste container. Use forceps
to pick up any broken glass and place the pieces into a sharps container
Re-wipe the spill are with disinfectant
Remove gloves and was hands thoroughly
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 43
SECTION VIII
DEALING WITH CHEMICAL EMERGENCIES
8.0
CHEMICAL SPILLS PREVENTION
Instructor/laboratory assistants are responsible to take steps to prevent spills. Make sure proper
safety equipment is accessible to contain and control the spill, and understand how to use the
safety equipment. Plan on how to handle chemical spills should be part of a chemical laboratory
plan.
Store and dispense chemicals in unbreakable bottles.
Purchase minimum amounts, avoiding excess chemicals sitting on shelves year after year.
At the time of acquisition or preparation, assign expiration date to each container
Segregate incompatible chemicals.
Information shown on all chemical bottles labels helps identify hazards and safety
procedures.
Experiments should use the minimal amount of chemicals whenever possible.
Examples of classes that must be considered in safety planning include the following:
 oxidizing agents and reducing agents
 corrosives such as acids and bases
 water reactive chemicals
 air reactive chemicals
 highly toxic chemicals
There are four groups of chemicals subject to reporting under the Emergency Planning and
Community Right-To-Know Act.
 Extreme Hazardous Substances
 Hazardous Substances
 Hazardous Chemicals
 Toxic Chemicals, be aware of their extremely toxic properties to focus for chemical
emergency planning.
8.1
CHEMICAL SPILLS AND LEAKS
Chemical spill kits must be available for use on workbenches, next to machines and in the
laboratories to keep one at every work station. Commercially available or homemade spill control
kits can be useful here.
All spills should be cleaned up promptly, efficiently, and properly.
Notify the person in charge for help.
Warn all individuals at risk of involvement.
Not only will they be spared exposure to the hazard, but also the spread of the hazard will be
minimized.
Containing the spill rapidly is a primary concern, because the smaller the area involved, the
easier the cleanup.
An absorbent retaining material is recommended. After the spill has been contained, it can be
cleaned up with appropriate materials.
If there is no fire hazard and the material is not believed to be volatile or toxic, clean it up as
directed or refer to the appropriate SDS.
To facilitate cleaning up liquids; use an absorbent material that will neutralize the liquids if
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 44
possible (Trisodium phosphate, sand followed by sodium bicarbonate solution or powder for
acids, sodium thiosulfate solution for bromine, etc.).
Commercial absorbents (Kitty Litter or other satisfactory clay) can be used. Dry sand is less
effective.
A dustpan and brush should be used, and protective gloves should be worn. While wearing
gloves, clean the contaminated area with soap and water and mop it dry.
If the spill is on the floor, some absorbent should be sprinkled on the spot to prevent slipping.
If a volatile, flammable, or toxic material is spilled, immediately warn everyone to
extinguish flames and turn off spark producing equipment such as brush type motors.
Shut down all equipment and leave the area until it is decontaminated.
Clothing contaminated by spills or splashes should be immediately removed to prevent
skin penetration.
The instructor will be responsible for designating the extent of evacuation and the proper
cleanup procedure.
Most spills of solids can be brushed up and disposed of in appropriate solid waste
containers, but care must be exercised to avoid reactive combinations.
Do not leave paper towels or other materials used to clean up a spill in open trash cans in
the work area.
After cleanup, all materials, including paper towels used in the cleanup, must be disposed of as
wastes. Be particularly careful that flammable liquids absorbed during cleanup do not present a
continuing fire hazard.
8.1.01 Small Non-Flammable Spills
(SLIGHT HAZARD: Sucrose, Sodium Chloride, Acetic Acid, and Sodium Bicarbonate)
Move students out of the affected area
Call EPCC campus police and EPCC-ORMS
Contain the spill with absorbent material from the spill kit
If it is chemical or corrosive, neutralize it with an appropriate agent
Soak up area of the spill with absorbent material
Place contaminated materials in an appropriate disposal bag
Wash the area with water
Fill out a spill report for EPCC-ORMS and keep a copy for your records
8.1.02 Flammable Spills, (Ether, Acetone, Alcohol, Hydrocarbons):
Move students out of the affected area
If more than 8 liters of chemicals have spilled, evacuate immediate area
Call EPCC campus police and EPCC-ORMS and provide the following Information:
Your name, Department, classroom and building information
Provide type of chemical spilled and amount
Contain the spill with absorbent material from the spill kit
Turn on ignition sources
Open hood doors
Leave the room and do not enter the affected area until campus police has granted
permission for re-entry
Fill out a spill report for EPCC-ORMS and keep a copy for your records
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 45
8.1.03 Hazardous Chemical Spills: (i.e. cyanide or sulfide solution)
TOXIC- Acute: Inhalation, Ingestion, and Contact. Chronic: Carcinogens
Students, lab assistants and instructors must move out of the affected area
Open hood if possible and ensure all doors to the affected area are closed
Evacuate the surrounding areas
Notify EPCC campus police and EPCC-ORMS
Contain spill with absorbent material from the spill kit
Leave the room and do not enter the affected area until campus police has granted
permission for re-entry
Fill out a spill report for EPCC-ORMS and keep a copy for your records
8.2
CHEMICAL SPILLS ON PERSONS
For spills covering small amounts of skin, or if you get a substance on your hands or arms,
immediately flush with flowing cold water over the sink, no less than 15 minutes. If there is no
visible burn, wash with warm water and soap, removing any jewelry to facilitate removal of any
residual materials. Check SDS to see if any delayed effects should be expected. It is advisable to
seek medical attention for even minor chemical burns.
If there is a large amount of a substance spilled on you, IMMEDIATELY get assistance, remove any
contaminated clothing, and use the emergency eyewash. Rinse yourself for at least 15 minutes.
Get medical attention as soon as possible.
For spills on clothes, don't attempt to wipe or flush off clothes. Quickly remove all contaminated
clothing, shoes, and jewelry. Seconds count, and no time should be wasted. Be careful not to
spread the chemical on skin, or in the eyes. Prevent contamination use caution when removing
pullover shirts or sweaters. Immediately flood the affected body area with tempered water for at
least 15 minutes. Resume if pain returns. Do not use creams, lotions, or ointments; get medical
attention as soon as possible.
Instructor and/or laboratory assistant should make certain that medical personnel (including
physicians, nurses, and paramedics) understand exactly what chemicals are involved to recognize
and use proper treatment for that exposure; exact chemical name should be supplied.
For chemical spills on the skin or in the eyes, treatment must begin immediately. Often the
volume spilled is not as important as the toxicity of the substance. Immediately flush the eye with
tempered potable water from a gently flowing source for at least 15 minutes. Hold the eyelids
away from the eyeball, move the eye up and down and sideways to wash thoroughly behind the
eyelids.
An eyewash fountain should be used, but if one is not available, injured persons should be placed
on their backs and water gently poured into the corners of their eyes for at least 15 minutes.
Never work with chemicals in a laboratory that is not equipped with an eyewash fountain. First
aid for the eyes must always be followed by prompt treatment by a member of a medical staff or
an ophthalmologist acquainted with the management of chemical injuries to the eyes.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 46
SAFETY MANUAL
8.3
CHEMICAL ACCIDENTS INVOLVING PERSONAL INJURY
Anyone overwhelmed with smoke or fumes during a laboratory experiment must be taken to
uncontaminated air and treated for shock. Assess individual and describe the possibility of harm
to the rescuer before the rescuer enters to a toxic environment. If hazardous chemicals are
ingested, follow the first aid treatment shown on the label or in the SDS. Never give anything by
mouth to an unconscious person.
Learn exactly what substances were ingested, and inform the medical staff (while the victim is en
route to a hospital, if possible). Refer to the SDS for information regarding treatment.
If the injured person is not breathing, provide mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If there is no
pulse, administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
If an individual is bleeding severely, control the bleeding by compressing the wound with
a cloth or whatever is available. Elevate the injury above the level of the heart. If blood is
spurting, place a pad directly on the cut and apply firm pressure. Take reasonable
precautions to avoid contact with blood. Wrap the injured person to avoid shock and get
immediate medical attention.
In the case of a less severe occur, wash the cut and remove any pieces of glass, wrap the
injured person to avoid shock, and get medical attention. Pressure pad should be applied
firmly on the wound. Tourniquets should be used only by persons trained in first aid.
8.4
PROPER STORAGE OF CHEMICALS
In order to prevent fire, explosions, and toxic exposure incidents, chemicals must be segregate
into a few classes: Acids stored here, bases there, some distance away; flammables in another
storage area; oxidizers not stored near flammables; all organic compounds not classified into any
of the preceding groups in a different place. Limit storeroom and stockroom access to those few
persons who are directly responsible for inventory control.
8.5
SAFETY TRAINING ON CHEMICAL HAZARDS
Faculty and staff must receive training at the time of their initial job and after an exposure
situation. Discussion of topics must include: OSHA standards, signs and symptoms associated with
exposure to hazardous chemicals, location and availability of SDS, safe handling, storage, and
disposal of hazardous chemicals.
8.6
CHEMICAL LIST LOCATION
Every Laboratory must have a chemical list handy and available in case of an emergency. This
chemical list must also be provided to the Rio Grande Dean and to Office of Risk Management and
Services.
8.7
“RIGHT TO KNOW” REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO EMPLOYEES
OSHA’s Hazards Communication Standards (HCS), 29 CFR 1910.1200 affects directly or indirectly,
most U.S workplaces, including laboratories. The HCS establishes uniform requirements to ensure
that the hazards of all chemicals imported into, produced, or used in the workplace are evaluated
and that hazard information is transmitted to employers and employees. The regulation requires
that employees be informed of the hazardous properties and the appropriate precautions related
to chemicals to which they are exposed in the workplace.
Safety Manual
Health Career and Technical Education, Math & Science Division
Page 47
SECTION IX
MERCURY SPILLS
9.0
SOURCES OF MERCURY
Mercury metal is a dense silver-gray liquid which may be found in items such as: blood pressure
units, some thermometers, thermostats, barometers, electrical switches; “silver” dental fillings
and some medical equipment.
Exposure to mercury can occur when a device breaks and mercury beads scatter onto floors or
other surfaces. Spilled mercury is very hard to clean up, especially if it rolls into cracks, of it is on
fabric or porous material.
Breathing small amounts of mercury vapor can harm the nervous system of unborn babies.
Breathing larger amounts of mercury vapor can cause irritability, tremors, shortness of breath;
respiratory and eye irritation; chest pain; high blood pressure; kidney damage; memory loss.
9.1
WHAT NOT TO DO ABOUT MERCURY SPILLS
Never use an ordinary vacuum cleaner to clean up mercury. The vacuum will put mercury vapor
into the air and increase exposure. The vacuum cleaner will be contaminated and have to be
thrown away.
Never use a mop or broom to clean up mercury spill. It will break the mercury into smaller
droplets and spread them.
Never pour mercury down a drain. It may lodge in the plumbing and cause future problems
during plumbing repairs. If discharged, it can cause pollution of the septic tank or sewage
treatment plant.
Never wash mercury-contaminated items in a washing machine. Mercury may contaminate the
machine and/or pollute sewage.
Never use an ordinary vacuum cleaner to clean up mercury. The vacuum will put mercury vapor
into the air and increase exposure. The vacuum cleaner will be contaminated and have to be
thrown away.
Never use a mop or broom to clean up mercury spill. It will break the mercury into smaller
droplets and spread them.
9.2
WHAT TO DO AFTER MERCURY SPILLS
Avoid contact with the spilled mercury-it is recommended to call Office of Risk Management and
Services. Do not let students get in contact with spilled mercury.
A Mercury Spill Kit has everything needed for all the stages of a mercury spill clean-up, including
containment, removal and decontamination. It provides a quick, easy and a reliable safe way to
cleanup, store and dispose of mercury spills in laboratories.
A small amount of mercury in a fever thermometer or fluorescent bulb is not likely to cause
a problem, but should still be cleaned up.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 48
10.0
SECTION X
GLOBALLY HARMONIZED SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION
LABELING OF CHEMICALS (GHS)
SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS’s)
GHS CHANGES
GHS was created by United Nations (UN-1992) and Safety Data Sheets information was
standardized so all SDS can look the same. New pictograms will be available; "M" from MSDS will
be dropped to leave SDS.
Black hazard symbols on white backgrounds with red diamond borders to leave 9 in total, with
3 Categories of Classification:
 Health
 Physical
 Environmental
9 New Pictograms
 Physical Hazards: Compressed Gas, Explosives, Corrosive (also classified under Health),
Flammable, and Oxidizer.
 Health Hazards: Acute Toxicity, Health hazard, Irritant
 Environmental Hazards: Environmental Toxicity
Hazard Statements/Container labels
Acute toxicity Category: 4 levels
LEVEL 1 is more severe.
Think of a countdown: 4,3,2,1 BOOM!!!!!!!
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4
Hazardous Numbered Categories
Will NOT CHANGE for the NFPA Diamond
4 will still be more severe
Hazards Statements/Containing labels cont.
 Chemical or product name
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 49
 Signal word - “Danger”/”Warning”
 Standardized Hazard Statement (based on classification & based on classification and
category)
 Standardized Precautionary Statements
 Prevent exposure
 Storage requirements
 First aid procedures
 Spill response
 Disposal of chemical
 Supplier Information
 Name of manufacturer or distributor
 Address
 Telephone number
 Supplemental Information
 Directions for use
 Expiration date
 Pictograms
Secondary Labels
 Employee’s responsibility to label secondary containers
 Information must be consistent with Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
 Label should include Pictograms OR Product identifier and words, pictures, symbols,
or combination thereof
Deadline for full compliance will be June 1, 2016. SDS's are references to be used principally
for the training of faculty and staff concerning the hazards and precautionary measures applicable
to those particular chemicals that students, faculty and staff handle in their laboratory classes, its
effects on human beings, the symptoms they precipitate, and the actions that may be taken to
minimize adverse effects of those chemicals.
A SDS also describes other hazardous characteristics of a chemical or mixture. Thus, if a chemical
can be absorbed through the intact skin, the SDS will so state and will also prescribe the use of
protective equipment, such as gloves or full protective clothing, as appropriate. If the SDS does not
describe the material (e.g., rubber, neoprene, or polyethylene, for gloves) the supplier may be able
to suggest a suitable material.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 50
Health coordinators are responsible for providing SDS access to students within their particular
program and laboratory classes. Information of the location of all chemicals gathered in every
single laboratory must be included in their annual inventory and subsequent receipt of new
chemicals during the year, in case of an emergency.
SDS's should be available to students, faculty, and staff. Hazard and precautionary information
from SDS's should be incorporated as part of laboratory procedures. Student laboratory reports
should include safety and halo concerns, the management of hazardous situations and, where
appropriate, to proper disposal of both products and left-over reagents. Students should be tough
that the practical information found in the reactivity section of a SDS is very important in
designing safe experimental procedures. It is important for academic institutions to involve SDS's
in all aspects of laboratory work. It is equally important to instruct students so that later, after
graduation, they, and those whom they supervise, will handle chemicals safely.
Therefore, when properly prepared, a SDS is a useful tool in the training of users, including
students, who will use that chemical in their laboratory work. Note that although OSHA has no
authority to require the training of students concerning hazardous chemicals, faculty can take
advantage of the availability of the SDS's that is furnished by chemical suppliers and use these in
the training of students concerning chemical safety and health hazards and precautions.
10. 1
REQUIRED INFORMATION ON SDS’s
A database will always contain the same information in the same order. It provides the following
information in English about the hazardous chemicals:
Safety Data Sheets
1. Product & Company Name and Information–Ex: Methane or Ajax
Product Name WD40 Aerosol
Application
Anti-squeak, moisture repellant, releasing agent
Supplier
WD40 Company Limited
PO Box 440
Kiln Farm
Milton Keynes
MK11 3LF
Tel: 01908 555400
Fax: 01908 266900
Email: info@wd40.co,uk
Telephone
00 44 1908 555 400
2. Hazard Identification- Signal word, pictogram/classification, precautionary statements,
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Safety Manual
hazards diamond
Composition/Information - Product ingredients
First Aid Instructions - Includes most important symptoms an d effects, indicates if
immediate medical attention or special treatment is needed
Fire Fighting Instructions - Includes proper extinguishing techniques, specific hazards
from file and precautions for fire fighters
Accidental Release Measures - Instructions in case of accidental product release
Handling of Storage - Precautions for safe handling and storage of product
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 51
8. Exposure controls/Personal Protection - Instructions to handle exposure and what
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
10. 2
personal protective equipment to wear
Physical and Chemical Properties -Characteristics of Product
Stability and Reactivity - Chemical reactivity, possible hazardous reactions and
conditions to avoid
Toxicological Information - Describes the effects of the product on the body, informs of
the likely routes of exposure and treatment methods
Ecological Information -Describes the effects on the product on the environment
Disposal Considerations - Includes description of waste residues and handling/storage
instructions
Transport Information - Includes UN number, proper shipping name, transport hazards
classes, packing group, environmental hazards and special precautions
Regulatory Information - Includes health, safety and environmental regulations for
product
Other Information - Includes preparation and revision information of the SDS
LOCATION OF SDS’s
SDS's may be kept in any form; but must be available in a laboratory at all times
OSHA requires that, for every hazardous chemical on the premises, a SDS be readily available for
employees' review. Because there is some level of hazard associated with every chemical, OSHA
generally interprets all chemicals as hazardous. OSHA imposes no restriction on the sources of the
SDS's that are made available to the workers, but it does require all suppliers of hazardous
chemicals to furnish copies of SDS's to their customers. In some states, the SDS must be from the
supplier to fulfill the state legal requirements. Keep in mind that SDS is always a tertiary form of
information and not all SDS s are prepared from reliable sources. Therefore, some SDSs are less
accurate than others. Not all fully describe hazards that are not attributed to that chemical. It is
often helpful to compare SDS's from different suppliers for the same chemical.
To ensure that all laboratories have access to the SDSs, a section of the laboratory class syllabus
must be taught on the first day of laboratory training.
 Maintain paper copies.
 The web address of the major chemical companies must be provided in each laboratory. If
preferred, laboratory assistant might download the information on each chemical
available from a company from its website. SDS information is standard in sequence and
format. OSHA standard include information stored in a computer database provided that
the information can be accessed readily. The principal parts required in a SDS includes:
 Physical data
 Fire and explosion hazards
 Toxicity hazards, other health hazards, propensity to react vigorously (often called an
incompatible chemicals list or reactivity description),
 Spill and leak cleanup procedures, and above all, precautionary measures which, if
followed, will materially reduce the probability of harm when the chemical is used.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 52
SECTION XI
DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE
11.0
IDENTIFYING HAZARDOUS WASTE
Waste can be previously used or unused surplus chemicals. If you have an active inventory of
chemicals in your laboratory the following must be recorder in order to be in compliance with
waste management regulations.
 Date of purchase and condition of this material - each container of a chemical substance
should bear a label with the date of receipt.
 Use and disposal of chemical substances - quantities of chemicals consumed per class;
quantities of chemicals declared waste, and quantities of chemicals lost in the process.
 Have a material balance sheet for all chemicals entering, moving through, and leaving your
laboratory as waste.
 Listed waste is anything contained in the EPA (Environment Protection Agency) “F” list of
hazardous wastes, the “P” list of toxic wastes, or the “U” list of acutely hazardous wastes.
Statutory waste is anything that can cause harm too human health and the environment. It may
contain substances not currently federally regulated under characteristic or listed wastes.
Characteristic waste:
 Ignitable (i.e. capable of fire hazard under normal conditions or operations).
 Corrosive (i.e. capable of eating through normal containers).
 Reactive (i.e. tends to explode under normal use conditions, to react violently with water,
or to generate toxic gases under specified conditions).
 Toxic (i.e. contain certain toxic materials that can be released in acidic water).
Laboratories must identify chemical components of waste products, since waste disposal
contractors or collecting companies do not accept “unknown chemical disposal”
11.1
SAFE DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE
In order to eliminate, or at least minimize, potential or harmful effects of substances and
chemicals used in laboratories, elimination of substances that are by-products used during
chemical and biology laboratories classes, must meet or exceed all local, state, and
national laws and/or regulations; to ensure that students in the laboratory will be well
prepared to enter the workforce with this knowledge.
 All solutions in any type of container will be capped after use. Bottles of solutions
not capped will be disposed of and not used. Squirt bottles will be disposed of one
month after being opened or as recommended by the manufacturer.
 All surfaces of tables used will be cleaned using soapy water and then with an
antibacterial solution to minimize contamination after every class session.
 Measuring instruments will be wiped clean with alcohol. Laboratory areas where
students performed experiments will be especially targeted for cleaning.
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 53
11.2
CHEMICAL LIST AND SAFETY MEASURES FOR HEALTH CAREER & SCIENCE PROGRAMS
PROGRAM NAME
Use/Have
Is Information
Have Written Safety
Has a Safety Handbook available
Chemicals in
Available for
Measures &
for Students?
your
Students?
Procedures available for
Completed
Laboratory?
Students?
Dental Assisting
YES
YES
Dental Hygiene
YES
YES
Diagnostic Medical
Sonography
YES
YES
YES
YES (Copy of DMSO Student Guidelines
Handbook in H.C. Lab Assistant office)
YES
YES
YES
YES
Health Professions and
Related Courses
NO
N/A
N/A
N/A
Medical Assisting
YES
YES
YES
Have MSDS sheets in MDCA lab
YES-Under Laboratory Activities
Working on Safety Handbook
Emergency Medical Services
Medical Laboratory
Technology
YES
YES
Health Information
Technology
Pharmacy Technology
NO
N/A
N/A
N/A
YES
YES
Working on Safety Handbook
Physical Therapist
YES
YES
YES-Explained in the Lab Portion of
Classes
YES -Explained In Lab Portion Of
Classes
Biology Department
Safety Manual
YES
YES
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Working On
YES (Copy of Safety Handbook in H.C. Lab
Assistant’s office)
YES
Page 54
Radiation Therapy
Radiologic Technology
NO
N/A
YES
YES ( Copy of RADR Student Clinician’s
Handbook in H.C. Lab Assistant’s office)
YES
YES (Copy of RSPT Student Handbook in H.C.
Lab Assistant’s office)
Respiratory Care Technology
Surgical Technology
Safety Manual
YES
YES
Information available in the
Course Syllabus
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 55
Working on Student Procedures Handbook
REFERENCES
Society, A. C. (1995). Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories (SACL). Washington, D.C.: The
American Chemical Society Committee on Chemical Safety, 6th. Ed.
Young, J. A. (1991). Improving Safety in the Chemical Laboratory: A Practical Guide. New York:
Wiley-Interscience Publication.
(U.S. Department of Labor, 1990).
(Scientific, 2005) (Scientific, Right to Know* or Hazards Communication Standards, 2005)
STUDENT SAFETY PROGRAMS, University of Wyoming, (January 1, 2002).
EPCC SAFETY HANDBOOK
Safety Manual
Health Career & Technical Education, Math and Science Division
Page 56