UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN
University of California, Irvine
Medical Emergencies
Important Telephone Numbers for UC Irvine
Material Safety Data Sheets
Glove Selection Tool
Safety Training Registration
Laboratory Safety Guidelines
Fact Sheets for Hazardous Chemical Categories:
 General Labs
 Integrated Nanofab Research Facility (INRF)
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Example Library
CHP Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
FOREWORD
All UCI laboratory personnel who work with laboratory chemicals must know and follow the
standard operating procedures outlined in this plan. All laboratory operations involving
particularly hazardous chemicals must be planned and executed in accordance with the standard
operating procedures described in this plan. In addition, each laboratory worker is expected to
practice safe personal chemical hygiene habits aimed at reducing exposures to potential hazards.
This document was developed to comply with applicable federal and state requirements, and
professional standards, including California Code of Regulations 8CCR§5191 "Occupational
Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories". This Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) will be
reviewed and evaluated for effectiveness at least annually and updated as necessary. It must be
readily available to laboratory employees, their representatives and any regulatory agency
inspector during normal working hours.
Last Reviewed: June 2004
Chris Younghans-Haug, CIH, CSP, REHS
David Melitz for School of Biological Sciences & School of Social Ecology
Joe Rizkallah for School of Engineering
Rama Singh for School of Physical Sciences
John W. Chan, CIH
NOTE:
Contact your school’s EH&S Coordinator or Campus Chemical Hygiene Officer
at (949) 824-6200 with any corrections or suggestions for change in this
Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS FOR UC Irvine
EMERGENCIES
Fire ................................................................................................................... Dial 911
Medical Emergency ........................................................................................ Dial 911
Chemical Spills .................................................................... 824-6200, after hours 911
Radiation Incident ................................................................ 824-6200, after hours 911
Safety Incidents .................................................................... 824-6200, after hours 911
Student Health Services .................................................................................. 824-5301
Maintenance Emergency................................................................................. 824-5444
Poison Control ..................................................................................... 1-800-876-4766
UCI Emergency Information (Activated only during a disaster)..... 1-866-IRV-NEWS
EH&S SERVICES
EH&S Information
General Safety
Asbestos & Lead Information
EH&S Coordinator Biological Sciences
EH&S Coordinator College of Medicine
EH&S Coordinator School of Engineering
EH&S Coordinator Physical Sciences
Biosafety
Bloodborne Pathogens
Chemical Hygiene Officer
Ergonomics
Emergency Management Information
Environmental Protection Information
Fire Safety Information & Assistance
Food & Water Sanitation
Hazardous Materials Spill Response
Hazardous (Chemical & Radioactive) Waste Pick-up
Industrial Hygiene Information
Injury & Illness Prevention Program
Laboratory Safety Information & Assistance
Laser Safety Information & Assistance
MSDS Information
Occupational Health & Surveillance
Personal Protection Equipment
Radiation Safety Information & Assistance
Radioactive Shipments
Respiratory Protection Program
Training Information & Assistance
824-6200
824-9940
824-8791
824-2221
824-4660
824-6579
824-2518
824-9888
824-9888
824-5730
824-2945
824-7147
824-4578
824-4077
824-4170
824-6200
824-4578
824-8342
824-9940
824-5730
824-6098
824-4817
824-8024
824-9940
824-6904 or 824-8772
824-7100
824-4817
824-6634
Anonymous Hazard Reporting: To anonymously report a hazard or health and safety concern,
call 824-6200. If you are concerned about the caller ID system, consider using a pay phone.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
OBTAINING MEDICAL CARE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF APPENDICES
1.0
Scope of Operations
1.1
Applicability
1.2
Exclusions
2.0
2.1
Chemical Hygiene Responsibilities
Laboratory Supervisor
2.2
Environmental Health & Safety Coordinator
2.3
Group Chemical Coordinator
2.4
Laboratory Employees & Workers
2.5
Campus Chemical Hygiene Officer
2.6
UCI Facilities Manager
3.0
Identification and Classification of Hazardous Substances
3.1
Carcinogens
3.2
Reproductive Toxins
3.3
Toxic and Highly Toxic Agents
3.4
Hazardous Substances with Toxic Effects on Specific Organs
3.5
Sensitizers
3.6
Irritants
3.7
Corrosive Substances
3.8
Flammable and Potentially Explosive Substances
3.9
Select Agents (Toxins of Biological Origin)
4.0
Standard Operating Procedure for Working with Hazardous
Substances
4.1
Chemical Procurement
4.2
Hazardous Chemical Storage
4.3
Handling Hazardous Chemicals
4.4
Handling Flammable and Potentially Explosive Substances
4.5
Segregation of Incompatible Substances
4.6
Handling Compressed Gases
4.7
Laboratory Use of Anesthetics
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.8
Laboratory Equipment and Glassware
4.9
Personal Protective Equipment
4.10 Personal Work Practices
4.11 Container Labeling
4.12 Disposal
4.13 Inventory Maintenance
4.14 Source Reduction and Waste Minimization
5.1
Standard Operating Procedures for Working with Particularly
Hazardous Substances
Working with Select Carcinogens
5.2
Working with Embryotoxins (Special Precautions)
5.3
Working with Compounds with a High Degree of Acute Toxicity
5.4
Standard Operating Procedures for Work with Particularly Hazardous
Substances
5.5
Working with Select Agents (Toxins of Biological Origin)
6.0
6.1
Standard Operating Procedures Applying to All Hazardous Chemical
Work
Industrial Hygiene Evaluation
6.2
Clean Areas
6.3
Housekeeping
6.4
Safety and Emergency Equipment
6.5
Unattended Operations
7.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Engineering Controls
7.1
Intent
7.2
Modification
7.3
Improper Function
7.4
Usage
8.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Laboratory Worker Information
and Training
8.1
Hazard Information
8.2
Forms
8.3
Training
9.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Medical Consultations and
Examinations
5.0
10.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Laboratory Activities Requiring
Prior Approval
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
10.1 Off-Hours Work
10.2 Working Alone
10.3 Hazardous Work
10.4 Restricted Chemicals Requiring Prior Approval
10.5 Laboratory/Equipment Relocation or Vacancy
11.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Record Keeping
12.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Fires, Chemical Spills, Releases
and Accidents
12.1 Control of Fires
12.2 Personnel Exposures and Contamination
12.3 Contamination of Equipment/Facilities
12.4 Release to the Environment (Air, Water, Soil)
13.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Annual Chemical Hygiene Plan
Audit
14.0 References and Recommended Reading
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
APPENDICES
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.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
What to do in case of a Medical Emergency flyer
Laboratory Safety Guidelines
Safety Representative (SR)
Laboratory Hazard Assessment
Work Unit Safety Training & Awareness Documentation form for Laboratories
Voluntary Laboratory Inspection Form & Key
Lists of Known & Suspected Carcinogens
How to Access MSDS Information
Standard Operating Procedures Guidelines & Template
Procedures for Detecting and Removing Peroxide Contamination
Table of Common Incompatible Substances
Compressed Gas Safety Awareness Training & Supplemental Information
Controlling Exposure to Waste Anesthetic Gases at UC Irvine
Glove Selection Guidelines & Resources
Hazardous Waste Management Information for UC Irvine
UC Irvine Hazardous Waste Guidelines (8 ½ x 14 paper)
Chemical Waste Pick Up Requests
Special Handling Procedures for Some Particularly Hazardous Substances
Cal/OSHA Reportable Hazardous Chemicals
Supplemental Information Form for Chemical Requiring Cal/OSHA Registration
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Library
Designated Controlled Areas
Select Toxins List
Select Agent Program
Emergency Notification Information sign for lab doors (for general Campus use)
Emergency Notification Information sign for lab doors (for School of Physical Sciences use)
Cal/OSHA Section 5191, Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories
Cal/OSHA Section 5155, Airborne Contaminants (Permissible Exposure Limit Tables)
Location of Required Safety Information sign
Classes of Hazardous Chemicals—General Laboratories
Classes of Hazardous Chemical—Integrated Nanofab Research Facility (INRF)
Hazardous Materials Incidents
UCI Emergency Procedures (Blue Flipchart)
Circumstances Requiring Prior Approval Form
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
1.0
Scope of Operations
1.1
Applicability
This Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) applies to all personnel handling hazardous
chemicals in research laboratories at UC Irvine. The CHP provides written safety
procedures for conducting research laboratory chemical operations in a manner
that protects people from harmful chemical exposures.
1.2
Exclusions
The CHP does not cover work with radiation-producing devices, radioactive
materials, biological agents, or the disposal of these wastes. Use of radioactive
materials and biological agents must have prior approval of the UCI Radiation
Safety Committee or Institutional Biosafety Committee. Permit forms and
procedures can be obtained from EH&S at 824-6200. Please consult the UCI
Radiation Safety Manual or UCI Biosafety Manual and related documents for
additional information.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
2.0
Chemical Hygiene Responsibilities
2.1
2.2
Laboratory Supervisor
The Supervisor's duties are the responsibility of the faculty member (Principal
Investigator or Instructor) in charge of each laboratory. The Supervisor has direct
responsibility for the health and safety of all personnel under his/her direction.
The Supervisor's duties include the following:
1.
Ensure that all laboratory workers under their control receive instructions
and training to work safely with hazardous chemicals, respond
appropriately when chemical accidents occur, and how to report injury and
illnesses associated with occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals.
2.
When injuries or illnesses occur at work, follow procedures outlined in the
What to do in a Medical Emergency flyer. For non-emergencies,
employee injuries and illnesses must still be reported: please visit the
Worker’s Compensation website for details. The Supervisor should
investigate all accidents and near-misses and take measures to help
prevent reoccurrence, with consultation from the School's EH&S
Coordinator when necessary.
3.
Assist the school’s EH&S Coordinator with the execution of his/her duties
whenever necessary.
4.
Seek ways to improve chemical hygiene and laboratory safety.
5.
Inform non-laboratory personnel (e.g., UCI Facilities Management and
contract workers) of potential hazards when non-laboratory personnel are
required to work in the laboratory environment. These laboratory hazards
must be mitigated to provide a reasonably safe environment for repairs
and renovations.
6.
Identify hazardous conditions or operations, determine safe procedures
and controls, and implement and enforce standard safety procedures.
7.
Ensure that engineering controls (e.g., fume hoods, emergency showers
and eyewashes) are operable and that personal protective equipment is
available and used properly by laboratory staff working with hazardous
chemicals.
8.
Ensure delegated safety duties are completed on a timely basis.
EH&S Coordinator
UC Irvine EH&S Coordinator’s responsibility is to support the Laboratory
Supervisor to implement the policies and procedures described in this CHP.
These duties include the following:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
2.3
1.
Review standard operating procedures for work involving hazardous
substances upon request.
2.
Conduct periodic laboratory safety surveys and safety survey follow-ups.
3.
Assist Lab Supervisors and Laboratory Workers to implement EH&S
policies and procedures.
4.
Investigate accidents and provide written reports to EH&S Workers
Compensation when appropriate.
5.
Consult with the Laboratory Supervisor and the Campus Chemical
Hygiene Officer (CHO) on hazard assessment and control in labs.
6.
Consult with Facilities Management and contractors regarding potential
lab hazards and provide information to minimize their risk of exposure to
hazardous substances.
Safety Representative
A Safety Representative (SR) may be designated by the lab supervisor to be
responsible for ensuring that hazardous chemicals are handled, stored, and
disposed in accordance with this CHP.
1.
Be designated by the Laboratory Supervisor.
2.
Ensure completion of the Lab Hazard Assessment.
3.
Develop standard operating procedures for avoiding lab hazards as
needed.
Assist with providing and documenting Work-Unit Specific Safety
Awareness & Training beyond EH&S provided courses.
4.
2.4
5.
Conduct laboratory safety self-assessments as needed.
6.
Assist with maintaining the Chemical Inventory Database.
7.
Monitor the disposal of chemicals used in laboratory operations.
Laboratory Employees & Workers
All persons working with laboratory chemicals must know how to work safely
with the chemicals they use and are responsible for following prudent chemical
safety practices. If any person is unsure of a chemical hazard or safety procedure,
he/she should consult with his/her supervisor. While the California Code of
Regulations 8CCR§5191 "Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in
Laboratories" imposes standards on employers and employees, UC Irvine
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
attempts to have all persons working with hazardous chemicals in research
laboratories implement the prudent practices described in this Chemical Hygiene
Plan, including students and volunteers.
2.5
Campus Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO)
The Campus Chemical Hygiene Officer is responsible for the development,
implementation, and periodic review of the Chemical Hygiene Plan to comply
with state and federal standards concerning occupational exposure to hazardous
chemicals in laboratories.
2.6
School Facilities Manager/Director
The School Facilities Manager/Director is responsible for coordinating activities
related to building repairs, maintenance, improvements, and laboratory moves and
closures. The School Facilities Manager/Director will inform the EH&S
Coordinator or EH&S of building repairs, maintenance, improvements, and
laboratory moves and closures so that safety assessments can be performed. The
Facilities Manager/Director has the responsibility for communicating to outside
contractors and UC Irvine maintenance staff about potential hazards in the
laboratories.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
3.0
Identification and Classification of Hazardous Substances
Substances in the laboratory have properties that could cause harm to laboratory workers
and others if handled improperly. Many lab chemicals are toxic or corrosive, or both.
Compounds that are potentially explosive and/or highly flammable pose another
significant hazard in laboratories. New and untested substances may be hazardous. The
most important guideline for chemical safety is to treat all compounds as potentially
harmful and minimize your chemical exposure. Before starting an experiment using
hazardous chemicals, learn about its hazards and use this knowledge to plan the
experiment. Hazards of two combined substances may be significantly greater than the
hazards of either substance alone (e.g. toxic synergism).
3.1
Carcinogens
Carcinogens are chemical or physical agents that cause cancer. Carcinogens are
toxic substances causing damage to cells after repeated or chronic exposure.
Their effects may only become evident after a long latency period and may cause
no immediate harmful effects.
Carcinogens are classified as “Particularly Hazardous Substances” and must be
handled using the special precautions described in Section 5. Comprehensive lists
of known & suspected carcinogens from peer-reviewed authoritative sources are
available on the Internet. Many other compounds have limited evidence of
carcinogenicity from animal studies. These compounds should be handled using
the general procedures for work with hazardous substances outlined in Section 4.
Lab workers should recognize that many chemicals in research laboratories have
not been tested for carcinogenicity. Researchers should be familiar with the
specific classes of compounds and functional group types that have been
correlated to carcinogenic activity. The following section lists representative
compounds in each class that are “reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens”
based on animal tests. All new and untested compounds should be treated as
hazardous substances and handled using to the procedures described in Section 4.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Classes of Carcinogenic Compounds
Alkylating Agents
Organohalogen compounds
α-Halo ethers:
*bis (chloromethyl) ether
*methyl chloromethyl ether
*1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane
*mustard gas
(bis(2-chloroethyl)sulfide)
*vinyl chloride
carbon tetrachloride
chloroform
3-chloro-2-methylpropene
1,2-dibromoethane
1,4-dichlorobenzene
1,2-dichloroethane
2,2-dichloroethane
1,3-dichloropropene
hexachlorobenzene
methyl iodide
tetrachloroethylene
trichloroethylene
2,4,6-trichlorophenol
sulfonates:
*1,4-butanediol dimethanesulfonate
diethyl sulfate
dimethyl sulfate
ethyl methanesulfonate
methyl methanesulfonate
methyl triflouromethanesulfonate
1,3-propanesulfone
epoxides:
*ethylene oxide
diepoxybutane
epichlorohydrin
propylene oxide
styrene oxide
aziridines:
*ethylenimine
2-methylaziridine
diazo, Azo, and Azoxy compounds:
4-dimethylaminoazobenzene
electrophilic Alkenes and Alkynes:
*acrylonitrile
acrolein
ethyl acrylate
N-Nitroso Compounds
*N-nitrosodimethylamine
N-nitroso-n-alkylurea
Aromatic amines:
*4-aminobiphenyl
*benzidine (p,p-diaminobiphenyl)
*α-naphthylamine
*β-naphthylamine
aniline
o-anisidine (2-methoxyaniline)
2,4-diaminotoluene
o-toluidine
Acylating agents
Aromatic hydrocarbons
β-Propiolactone
β-Butyrolactone
Dimethylcarbamoyl Chloride
*benzene
benz {a} anthracene
benzo {a} pyrene
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Natural Products (including anti-tumor drugs)
Hydrazines
Hydrazine (and hydrazine salts)
1,2-Diethylhydrazine
1,1-Dimethylhydrazine
1,2-dimethylhydrazine
adriamycin
cisplatin
aflatoxins
bleomycin
safrole
progesterone
reserpine
Miscellaneous Inorganic compounds:
Miscellaneous organic compounds:
*arsenic and certain arsenic compounds
*chromium and certain chromium compounds
chromium dioxide
beryllium and certain beryllium compounds
cadmium and certain cadmium compounds
lead and certain lead compounds
nickel and certain nickel compounds
selenium sulfide
*formaldehyde (gas)
acetaldehyde
1,4-dioxane
ethyl carbamate (urethane)
hexamethylphosphoramide (HMPA)
2-nitropropane
styrene
thioacetamide
*Cal/OSHA regulated (Section 5.5 applies)
Exposure to certain combinations of compounds (not necessarily simultaneously)
can cause cancer even at exposure levels where neither of the individual
compounds would have been carcinogenic. 1,8,9- trihydroxyanthracene and
certain phorbol esters are examples of “tumor promoters” that while not
themselves carcinogenic can dramatically amplify the carcinogenicity of other
compounds.
3.2
Reproductive Toxins
Reproductive toxins include substances that cause chromosomal damage
(mutations) and substances causing lethal or malformation effects on fetuses
(teratogenesis). Many reproductive toxins cause damage after repeated low-level
exposures. Effects only become evident after long latency periods.
Information on reproductive toxicity of a specified chemical may be obtained
from the Material Safety Data Sheets. See Section 14 for additional references
and recommended reading.
The following table lists materials present in some UC Irvine research labs that
are suspected or known to be reproductive toxins:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
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Table of Contents
Appendices
Partial List of Reproductive Toxins
Acrylic acid
Aniline
Benzene
Cadmium
Carbon Disulfide
N,N-Dimethylacetamide
Dimethylformamide (DMF)
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Diphenylamine
Estradiol
Formaldehyde
Formamide
Hexachlorobenzene
Iodoacetic Acid
Lead compounds
Mercury Compounds
Nitrobenzene
Nitrous Oxide
Phenol
Polychlorinated biphenyls
(PCBS)
Polybrominated biphenyls
(PBBS)
Toluene
Vinyl chloride
Xylene
The above list is not complete. The Laboratory Supervisor determines whether a
chemical should be handled as a reproductive toxin. Laboratory workers should
also consult with their personal physician regarding concerns about reproductive
toxins.
3.3
Toxic and Highly Toxic Agents
The California Code of Regulations 8CCR§5194 defines toxic and highly toxic
agents as substances with median lethal dose (LD50) values in the following
ranges:
Route of Exposure
Oral LD50 (albino
rats)
Skin Contact LD50
(albino rabbits)
Inhalation LD50
(albino rats)
3.4
Toxic
50-500 mg/kg
Highly Toxic
<50 mg/kg
200-1000 mg/kg
<200 mg/kg
200-2000 ppm/air
<200 ppm/air
Hazardous Substances with Toxic Effects on Specific Organs
Substances included in this category are:
1.
Hepatotoxins - substances that produce liver damage (e.g. nitrosamines,
carbon tetrachloride).
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
8.
Nephrotoxins - agents causing damage to the kidneys (e.g. certain
halogenated hydrocarbons).
9.
Neurotoxins - substances that produce their primary toxic effects on the
nervous system (e.g. mercury, acrylamide, carbon disulfide).
5.
Agents that act on the hematopoietic system - substances that decrease
hemoglobin function and deprive the body tissues of oxygen (e.g. carbon
monoxide, cyanides).
6.
Agents that damage lung tissue - (e.g. asbestos, silica).
3.5
Sensitizers
A sensitizer (allergen) is a substance that causes exposed people to develop an
allergic reaction in normal tissue after repeated exposure to the substance.
Examples of sensitizers used in some UC Irvine labs include chromium, nickel,
formaldehyde, isocyanates, arylhydrazines, diazomethane, benzylic and allylic
halides and many phenol derivatives.
3.6
Irritants
Irritants are defined as chemicals that cause reversible inflammatory effects on
living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. A wide variety of organic
and inorganic compounds are irritants and consequently skin contact with all
laboratory chemicals should always be avoided.
3.7
Corrosive Substances
Corrosive substances cause visible irreversible destruction of, or visible
alterations in living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. Major classes
of corrosive substances include strong acids (e.g., sulfuric, nitric, phosphoric,
hydrochloric, and hydrofluoric acids), strong bases (sodium hydroxide,
phosphoric potassium hydroxide, and ammonium hydroxide), and dehydrating
agents (sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, phosphorus pentoxide, and calcium
oxide).`
3.8
Flammables and Potentially Explosive Substances
A number of highly flammable substances are in common use in UC Irvine
laboratories. Potentially explosive substances are materials that decompose under
conditions of mechanical shock, elevated temperature, or chemical action, with
the release of large volumes of gases and heat.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
3.9
Select Agents (Toxins of Biological Origin)
In recognition of the growing number of microbiological and biomedical
laboratories working with toxins of biological origin, the following list of select
agent toxins requires authorization from the campus Biosafety Officer (824-9888)
prior to purchase or transfer of the material.
Abrin
Aflatoxins
Botulinum Toxins
Clostridium Perfringens Epsilon Toxin
Conotoxins
Diacetoxyscirpenol
Ricin
Saxotoxin
Shigatoxin
Staphylococcal Enterotoxins
Tetrodotoxin
T-2 toxin
All users must obtain a Biological Use Authorization Number (BUA). The BUA
is designed to track the acquisition and transfer of these specific agents and to
establish a system of safeguards to be followed when specific agents are in use.
Select Agents fall under the category of Particularly Hazardous Substances.
Special handling procedures must be followed as listed under Section 5.0 and 5.5.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Working with Hazardous
Chemicals in UCI Laboratories
4.1
Chemical Procurement
To minimize the duplication of hazardous chemicals within research groups, use
chemicals currently available in the group's inventory. Furthermore, use
hazardous chemicals from other research groups when possible. Both procedures
are cost-effective and will reduce the quantity of hazardous chemicals stored and
help minimize hazardous waste.
1.
The decision to buy a hazardous chemical must be a commitment to
handle and use the chemical safely from receipt to disposal.
2.
Prior to the purchase of a new hazardous chemical, check your lab's
current inventory or, when reasonably feasible, in the inventories of other
research groups. Everyone has an obligation to reduce workplace
exposures and environmental releases of hazardous chemicals to the
lowest achievable levels (See Section 4.14 for more information on source
reduction and waste minimization).
3.
Checking in hazardous chemical shipments must follow these procedures:
a.
Any package showing signs of leakage or breakage should not be
accepted. If the damage to the package is minor or if the damage
to the inside chemical container is uncertain, do not accept the
package until it is opened in a fume hood by lab staff. If the
delivery person insists on leaving the package, sign for the package
but also record on the receipt that the package is damaged.
b.
Chemical containers must not be accepted without legible and
intact labels.
c.
Staff working with the chemical must be familiar with the
information on the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). This
information must be maintained for employees to access at all
times when working with hazardous chemicals. See Accessing
Material Safety Data Sheets. If you have problems with Internet
access, contact MSDS Specialist at 824-6200.
d.
All peroxide-forming chemicals containers should be marked with
the manufacturer’s expiration date. The researcher should write on
the container the date when it is first opened.
e.
Chemicals that have limited shelf life should be labeled “Dispose
after (date)”
f.
All containers of ether should be labeled “Use by (6 months from
receipt) or Dispose.”
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.
4.2
Shipping of hazardous chemicals should only be performed by trained
staff or under the direction of trained staff. See the Shipping Dangerous
Goods webpage for details.
Hazardous Chemical Storage
1.
Chemicals received must be moved as soon as possible to the designated
storage area. Glass containers larger than 1 liter (L) must be placed in
carrying containers or kept in shipping containers during transportation.
2.
The storage area must be well illuminated and have local exhaust
ventilation, with all storage maintained below eye level. Bottles larger
than 4 L must be stored on the lowest shelf of the storage area. All storage
areas must have seismic safety restraints.
3.
Chemicals must be segregated by hazard classification and compatibility
in a well-identified area, as follows:
a.
Oxidizing acids, including mineral acids, must be separated from
flammable and combustible materials. Acid-resistant trays must be
placed under bottles of acids.
b.
Cyanides and sulfides must be separated from acids or protected
from contact with acids.
c.
Oxidizers must be separated from flammables, organic materials
and oxidizable inorganic substances.
d.
Acids and bases must be separated from each other.
e.
Chemicals that exhibit air and moisture sensitivity (e.g.,
organometallics, metal hydrides, etc) must be stored in a
segregated area with provisions made to minimize the possibility
of breakage, and other air or moisture contact.
f.
Carcinogens, suspected carcinogens, and other highly toxic
materials must be stored in a secure area with restricted access.
6.
Chemical storage areas must not be used as a preparation or repackaging
area.
7.
The storage area must be accessible during normal working hours. The
storage area must be under the control of the Safety Representative (SR).
8.
The amount of chemicals at the laboratory bench must be as small as
possible. The container size must be selected to keep amounts of
chemicals to the minimum needed to work efficiently. Exposure to
sunlight or heat must be minimized.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
9.
Stored chemicals must be checked by the SR for deterioration and
container integrity, and by lab workers before each use. The inspection
must also determine whether any corrosion, deterioration, or damage has
occurred to the storage facility as a result of leaking chemicals. The SR
must notify the Principal Investigator of any problems.
10.
Inventories must be maintained in the laboratory and be updated at least
annually. A copy of the inventory must be delivered to EH&S for the
campus to keep permits current. If necessary, consult with the School
EHS Coordinator for procedural updates for submitting chemical
inventories.
11.
The SR must conduct inspections of the laboratory for chemicals outside
of the storage area. Chemicals not in current use must be returned to the
storage area.
12.
Substances that have been synthesized for the first time in the research
laboratory must be stored in a manner consistent with their potential
hazard as determined by analogy to known chemicals of similar
composition.
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
4.3 Handling Hazardous Chemicals
General precautions to be followed for the handling and use of all laboratory
chemicals are:
1.
Inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact with all chemicals must be avoided.
2.
All laboratory workers must wash all areas of skin that may have been
exposed to chemicals prior to leaving the laboratory.
3.
Pipetting or siphoning by mouth is prohibited.
4.
Eating, drinking, smoking, gum chewing, and application of cosmetics in
areas where laboratory chemicals are present must be avoided. See Clean
Area procedures. Hands must be washed thoroughly prior to performing
these activities in clean areas or outside of the lab.
5.
Refrigerators, glassware, containers, and utensils used for laboratory
operations must never be used for the storage, handling, or consumption of
food. Mark items “NOT FOR FOOD USE” or equivalent to prevent
inadvertent use of laboratory items for food.
6.
Substances of unknown hazards must be assumed to be hazardous, and
any chemical mixture must be assumed to be as hazardous as its most
hazardous component.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.4
7.
Laboratory workers must be familiar with the chemical's hazard
information from the container label, the Material Safety Data Sheet and
other appropriate references. This familiarization must include symptoms
of exposure and the precautions necessary to prevent exposure.
8.
Specific precautions based on the hazardous characteristics of individual
chemicals must be implemented as deemed necessary by Principal
Investigator/Laboratory Supervisor.
9.
If warranted, any lab specific practices can be documented in a written
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP); complete sections 1-7 of the
Standard Operating Procedure Template.
Handling Flammable and Potentially Explosive Substances
1.
Flammable Substances
Flammable substances are among the most common of the hazardous
materials found in UC Irvine laboratories. Flammable substances are
materials that readily catch fire and burn in air. A flammable liquid itself
does not burn; rather it is the vapors from the liquid that burn. The rate at
which different liquids produce flammable vapors depends on their vapor
pressure and increases with temperature. The degree of fire hazard also
depends on the ability to form combustible or explosive mixtures with air,
the ease of ignition of these mixtures, and the relative densities of the
liquid with respect to water and of the gas with respect to air.
To illustrate this point, an open beaker of diethyl ether set on the
laboratory bench next to a Bunsen burner will ignite, whereas a similar
beaker of diethyl phthalate will not. Ether has a much lower flash point.
The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off vapor
in sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the
surface of the liquid. Many common laboratory solvents and chemicals
have flash points that are lower than room temperature and have the
potential to ignite and burn.
Solvent
Acetone
Benzene
Carbon
disulfide
Cyclohexane
Diethyl ether
Flash
(°C)
-17.8
-11.1
-30.0
Point Solvent
Ethanol
Hexane
Methanol
Flash Point
(°C)
12.8
-21.7
11.1
-20.0
-45.0
Pentane
Toluene
-40. 0
4.4
These following basic precautions should be followed in handling
flammable substances:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
2.
a.
Flammable substances should only be handled in areas that are free
of ignition sources. Ignition sources include: open flames,
electrical equipment (especially motors), static electricity, and hot
surfaces.
b.
If you will be using a hot plate, stirring plate or heating mantle, do
not proceed with your laboratory work until you know the
autoignition temperatures of the chemicals likely to be released
and can ensure that the temperatures of all exposed surfaces are
less than those autoignition temperatures. Make certain that the
temperature control device and the stirring/ventilating motor (if
present) do not spark.
c.
Never heat a flammable substance with an open flame.
d.
When transferring flammable liquids to and from metal containers,
use bonding and grounding wires to avoid static-generated sparks.
e.
Ventilation is one of the most effective ways to prevent the
formation of flammable mixtures. A laboratory hood should be
used whenever any more than a few milliliters (mL) of flammable
substances are handled in any way that produces vapors.
Potentially Explosive Substances
Potentially explosive substances are materials that decompose under
conditions of mechanical shock, elevated temperature, or chemical action,
with the release of large volumes of gases and heat. Special precautions
are required for the safe use of potentially explosive materials. Each
researcher must evaluate the explosive hazards involved in his/her work
and consult with the Laboratory Supervisor to develop adequate standard
operating procedures. Work with potentially explosive materials will
require the use of special protective apparel (face shields, goggles, gloves,
laboratory coats) and protective devices such as explosion shields and
barriers. Place the shields in suitable positions to protect yourself and
others. Be sure that the shields are stabilized with weights or fasteners so
that they cannot be knocked over.
Organic peroxides are among the most hazardous substances handled in
research laboratories. As a hazard class, they are low-power explosives,
and hazardous because of their sensitivity to shock, sparks, and even
friction (as little as a cap being twisted open). Many peroxides that are
routinely handled in laboratories are far more sensitive to shock than most
primary explosives such as trinitrotoluene (TNT). All organic peroxides
are highly flammable, and most are sensitive to heat, friction, impact,
light, as well as strong oxidizing and reducing agents. Organic peroxide
procedures should be carried out only by knowledgeable laboratory
workers..
Some peroxides in use at UC Irvine are commercial compounds such as
m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid, benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and t-
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
butyl hydroperoxide. However, common solvents and reagents are known
to form peroxides on exposure to air, and these chemicals often become
contaminated with sufficient peroxides to pose a serious hazard. Classes
of compounds that form peroxides by auto oxidation include:
a.
Ethers with primary and/or secondary alkyl groups, including
acyclic and cyclic ethers, acetals, and ketals. Examples include
diethyl ether, diisopropyl ether, dioxane, dimethyl ether,
tetrahydrofuran, ethyl vinyl ether and alcohols protected as
tetrahydropyran ethers.
b.
Hydrocarbons with allylic, benzylic, or propargylic hydrogens.
Examples of this class of peroxide-formers include cyclohexene,
cyclooctene, methyl acetylene, isopropylbenzene (cumene), and
tetralin (tetrahydronaphthalene).
c.
Conjugated and unconjugated dienes and terpenes among which
divinylacetylene is particularly hazardous.
d.
Saturated hydrocarbons with exposed tertiary hydrogens; common
peroxide-formers include decalin (decahydronaphthalene) and 2,5dimethylhexane.
e.
Aldehydes including acetaldehyde and benzaldehyde
Compounds belonging to the classes listed above cannot form peroxides
without exposure to oxygen (or other oxidizers). After use and prior to
storing these materials, flush the container with an inert gas such as
nitrogen or argon before sealing. If the compound is not volatile, it may
be advisable to degas the sample by vacuum or bubbling techniques. In
some cases it may be appropriate to add an oxidation inhibitor, such as
hydroquinone or BHT (2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenol), to the sample.
Containers should be tightly sealed and dated.
Do not attempt to open bottles of liquid ethers (e.g. diisopropyl ether)
containing crystallized material; contact EH&S for disposal.
3.
Visual Identifiers
Organic solvents in glass bottles provide the investigator with the ability
to visually inspect the container and its contents. A flashlight can be used
to either backlight or sidelight the bottle. Look for the following signs:
a.
Gross Contamination
Hard crystal formation in the form of chips, ice-like structures,
crystals, solid mass or cloudy media, are critical signs of gross
organic peroxide contamination. Do not handle the container.
Contact EH&S for proper disposal.
b.
Contamination
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Clear liquid presenting wisp-like structures floating in suspension
indicate early signs of peroxide contamination.
Peroxide crystals may be found on the bottom of the container, side walls
of the glass, threaded cap, and may also be found on the outside of the
container. If an old container is found, every attempt should be made to
inspect the container without picking up or moving the container.
4.
Detection and Removal of Peroxides
Refer to Procedures for Detecting and Removing Peroxide Contamination
for specific procedures. Most labs will find it easier and more economical
to use inventory management to prevent the problem of undesirable
peroxide formation.
5.
Labeling of Peroxidizable Compounds
Many compounds form explosive peroxides or can be explosively
polymerized by the presence of peroxides. Commercially available
samples of these compounds normally contain stabilizers or inhibitors to
extend the shelf storage lifetime. Upon long term storage, the effect of the
stabilizer becomes depleted. In addition, most distillation and purification
steps normally separate stabilizers from the peroxidizable compound.
Test samples of potential peroxide former before each use, especially if
you intend to distill or concentrate a large volume (greater than one liter)
of the solvent.
Use the following lists as guidance for storage times. If a compound
stored longer than the indicated periods is not disposed immediately,
samples must be tested for peroxides before each use, especially if
distillation is being planned.
Ethers have limited shelf life and should be purchased in the smallest
practical containers. Each container should have the manufacturer’s
expiration date and date when first opened.
For isopropyl and diethyl ethers, even unopened containers should be
disposed prior to the manufacturer’s expiration date. Containers of
isopropyl ether, divinyl acetylene, and vinylidene chloride should be
tested for peroxide every 3 months after opening or should be discarded.
If the peroxide concentration is within acceptable limits, the container can
be closed and re-dated for the next scheduled test.
Other peroxidizable compounds, such as ethyl ether, dioxane,
tetrahydrofuran, etc. should be tested every 6 months after opening or
discarded. If peroxide concentration is within acceptable limits, the
container can be closed and re-dated for the next scheduled test.
Contact EH&S for assistance in disposing of peroxides or other
explosive materials.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
For additional information about peroxides and peroxide forming
chemicals, refer to NFPA 43B, “Code of Organic Peroxide
Formulations”. The following recommendations for discard or
testing timeframes were obtained from Prudent Practices for
Disposal of Chemicals from Laboratories, Appendix I, National
Academy Press, Washington D.C., 1983, pp.245-246.
LIST A
Severe peroxide hazard on storage with exposure to air. Discard within 3 months.
Name
CAS #
Diisopropyl ether (isopropyl ether)
108-20-3
DivinylacetyleneA
821-08-9
Potassium metal
7440-09-7
Potassium amide
17242-52-3
Sodium amide (sodamide)
7782-92-5
A
Vinylidene chloride (1,1-Dichloroethylene)
75-35-4
LIST B
Peroxide hazard on concentration; do not distill or evaporate without first testing for the presence of
peroxides. Discard or test for peroxides after 6 months after opening.
Name
CAS #
Acetaldehyde diethyl acetal (acetal)
105-57-7
Cumene (isopropylbenzene)
98-82-3
Cyclohexene
110-83-8
Cyclooctene
931-88-4
Cyclopentene
142-29-0
Decalin (decahydronaphthalene)
91-17-8
Diacetylene (butadiene)
106-99-0
Dicyclopentadiene
77-73-6
Diethyl ether (ether or ethyl ether)
60-29-7
Diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (diglyme)
111-96-6
Dioxane (1, 4-dioxane)
123-91-1
Ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (glyme)
629-14-1
Ethylene glycol ether acetates
Ethylene glycol monoethers (cellosolves)
Furan
110-00-9
Methylacetylene
74-99-7
Methylcyclopentane
96-37-7
Methyl isobutyl ketone
108-10-1
Tetrahydrofuran
109-99-9
Tetralin (tetrahydronaphthalene)
119-64-2
A
Vinyl ethers
A
Polymerizable monomers should be stored with a polymerization inhibitor which the monomer
can be separated by distillation just before use.
A
Polymerizable monomers should be stored with a polymerization inhibitor which the monomer can be
separated by distillation just before use.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
LIST C
Hazard of rapid polymerization initiated by internally formed peroxides. A
Normal liquids; discard or test for peroxides after 6 months after opening.B
Name
Chloroprene (2-chloro-1,3-butadiene)C
Styrene
Vinyl acetate
Vinylpyridine
Normal gases; discard after 12 months.B
Name
ButadieneC
TetrafluoroethyleneC
VinylacetyleneC
Vinyl chloride
6.
CAS #
126-99-8
100-42-5
108-05-4
CAS #
106-99-0
116-14-3
689-97-4
75-01-4
Specific Hazards that May Lead to Fires or Explosions
(See Section 12 for Control of Fires)
The combination of certain compounds or classes of compounds can result
in a violent chemical reaction leading to an explosion or fire. Other
compounds pose explosion or fire hazards when exposed to heat, shock, or
other conditions. Some of the specific compounds and combinations of
compounds that may pose explosion or fire hazards and may be
encountered in laboratories are listed below. This list is not complete.
Researchers are expected to learn about the hazardous properties of
chemicals involved in their research before using them. Use explosion
shields to protect yourself and others.
A
Polymerizable monomers should be stored with a polymerization inhibitor which the monomer can be
separated by distillation just before use.
B
Although air will not enter a gas cylinder in which gases are stored under pressure, these gases are
sometimes transferred from the original cylinder to another in the laboratory, and it is difficult to be sure
that there is no residual air in the receiving cylinder. An inhibitor should be put into any such secondary
cylinder before one of these gases is transferred; the supplier can suggest inhibitors to be used. The hazard
posed by these gases is much greater if there is a liquid phase in such a secondary container, and even
inhibited gases that have been put into a secondary container under conditions that create a liquid phase
should be discarded within 12 months
C
The hazard from peroxides in these compounds is substantially greater when they are stored in the
liquid phase and, if so stored without inhibitors, they should be considered as in List A.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
a.
Acetylenic compounds are explosive in mixtures of 2.5%-80%
with air. At pressures of 2 or more atmospheres, acetylene
subjected to an electrical discharge or high temperature decomposes with explosive violence. Dry acetylides can detonate with
the slightest shock. Many heavy metal acetylides are also shock
sensitive explosives.
b.
Aluminum chloride should be considered a potentially dangerous
material. If moisture is present, there may be sufficient
decomposition (generating hydrochloric acid (HCl)) to build up
considerable pressure. If a bottle is to be opened after long
standing, it should be completely enclosed in a heavy towel.
c.
Ammonia reacts with iodine to give nitrogen triiodide, which is
explosive, and with hypochlorites to give chlorine. Mixtures of
ammonia and organic halides sometimes react violently when
heated under pressure.
d.
Dry benzoyl peroxide is easily ignited and sensitive to shock and
may decompose spontaneously at temperatures above 50 °C. It has
reported to be desensitized by the addition of water to 20%.
e.
Carbon disulfide is both very toxic and very flammable; mixed
with air, its vapors can be ignited by a steam bath or steam pipe, a
hot plate, or a glowing light bulb.
f.
Chlorine may react violently with hydrogen or with hydrocarbons
when exposed to sunlight.
g.
Diazomethane and related compounds should be treated with
extreme caution. They are very toxic (potent carcinogens), and the
pure gases and liquids explode readily.
h.
Dimethyl sulfoxide decomposes violently on contact with a wide
variety of active halogen compounds. Explosions from contact
with active metal hydrides have been reported.
i.
Diethyl, diisopropyl, and other ethers (particularly the branchedchain type) sometimes explode during heating or refluxing because
of the presence of peroxides. Ferrous salts or sodium bisulfite can
be used to decompose these peroxides, and passage over basic
active alumina will remove most of the peroxidic material. In
general, however, old samples of ethers should be disposed
properly through EH&S.
j.
Ethylene oxide has been known to explode when heated in a closed
vessel. Experiments using ethylene oxide under pressure should be
carried out behind suitable barricades.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
k.
Halogenated compounds such as chloroform, carbon tetrachloride,
and other halogenated solvents should not be dried with sodium,
potassium, or other active metals. Violent explosions are usually
the result of such attempts.
l.
Hydrogen peroxide in concentrations greater than 3% can be
dangerous. Contact with the skin may cause severe burns. Thirty
percent (30%) hydrogen peroxide may decompose violently if
contaminated with iron, copper, chromium, or other metals or their
salts.
m.
Liquid-nitrogen cooled traps that are open to the atmosphere
rapidly condense liquid air. When the coolant is removed, an
explosive pressure buildup occurs, usually with enough force to
shatter glass equipment. Only sealed or evacuated equipment
should be cooled.
n.
Lithium aluminum hydride should not be used to dry methyl ethers
or tetrahydrofuran. Fires from this practice are very likely. The
products of a LiAlH4 reaction with carbon dioxide have been
reported to be explosive. Carbon dioxide or bicarbonate
extinguishers should not be used on lithium aluminum hydride
fires, which should be smothered with sand or some other inert
substance. LiAlH4 reactions should be carried out in a fume hood,
behind an explosion shield, and with proper safeguards to avoid
exposure of the effluent hydrogen gas to spark or flame. Any
stirring device must be spark-proof.
o.
Oxygen cylinders: Serious explosions have resulted from contact
between oil and high-pressure oxygen. Oil should not be used on
connections to any cylinder.
p.
Ozone is a highly reactive and toxic gas. Ozone is formed by the
action of ultraviolet light on oxygen (air) and, therefore, certain
ultraviolet sources may require venting to the exhaust hood. Liquid
and solid ozone are explosive substances.
q.
Palladium on carbon, platinum on carbon, platinum oxide, Raney
nickel, and other catalysts should be filtered from catalytic
hydrogenation reaction mixtures carefully. The recovered catalyst
is usually saturated with hydrogen and highly reactive and, thus,
will inflame spontaneously on exposure to air. Particularly in
large-scale reactions, the filter cake should not be allowed to
become dry. The funnel containing the still-moist catalyst filter
cake should be put into a water bath immediately after completion
of the filtration.
Another hazard in working with such catalysts is the danger of
explosion if additional catalyst is added to a flask in which
hydrogen is present.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
r.
Parr bombs used for hydrogenations have been known to explode.
Parr bombs should be handled with care behind explosion shields,
and the operator should wear goggles.
s.
Perchlorates: The use of perchlorates should be avoided whenever
possible. Perchlorates should not be used as drying agents if there
is a possibility of contact with organic compounds, or in proximity
to a dehydrating acid strong enough to concentrate the perchloric
acid to more than 70% strength (e.g., in a drying train that has a
bubble counter containing sulfuric acid). Safer drying agents
should be used. Seventy-percent perchloric acid can be boiled
safely at approximately 200C, but contact of the boiling undiluted
acid or the hot vapor with organic matter, or even easily oxidized
inorganic matter (such as compounds of trivalent antimony), will
lead to serious explosions. Perchlorate esters have the same
shattering explosive effect as nitroglycerine.
Oxidizable
substances must never be allowed to contact perchloric acid.
Beaker tongs, rather than rubber gloves, should be used when
handling fuming perchloric acid. Perchloric acid evaporations
should be carried out in a hood that has a good draft and a built-in
water spray for the ductwork behind the baffle. After use, washing
out the hood and ventilator ducts with water is necessary to avoid
danger of spontaneous combustion.
t.
Permanganates are explosive when treated with sulfuric acid.
When both compounds are used in an absorption train, an empty
trap should be placed between them.
u.
Peroxides (inorganic): When mixed with combustible materials,
barium, sodium, and potassium peroxides form explosives that
ignite easily.
v.
Phosphorus (red and white) forms explosive mixtures with
oxidizing agents. White phosphorus should be stored under water
because it is spontaneously flammable in air. The reaction of
phosphorus with aqueous hydroxides forms phosphine, which may
ignite spontaneously in air or explode.
w.
Phosphorus trichloride reacts with water to form phosphorous acid,
which decomposes on heating to form phosphine, which may
ignite spontaneously or explode. Care should be taken in opening
containers of phosphorous trichloride, and samples that have been
exposed to moisture should not be heated without adequate
explosion shielding to protect the operator.
x.
Potassium is in general more reactive than sodium. It ignites
quickly upon exposure to humid air and, therefore, should be
handled under the surface of a hydrocarbon solvent such as mineral
oil or toluene. Oxidized coatings should be very carefully scraped
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
away before cutting the metal (explosions can otherwise occur).
Potassium metal can form explosive peroxides. Metal that has
formed a yellow oxide coating from exposure to air should not be
cut with a knife, even when wet with a hydrocarbon, because an
explosion can be promoted.
y.
Residues from vacuum distillations have been known to explode
when the still was vented to the air before the residue was cool.
Such explosions can be avoided by venting the still pot with
nitrogen, by cooling it before venting, or by restoring the pressure
slowly.
z.
Sodium should be stored in a closed container under kerosene,
toluene, or mineral oil. Scraps of sodium or potassium should be
destroyed by reaction with n-butyl alcohol. Contact with water
should be avoided because sodium reacts violently with water to
create explosions and fire. Reactions with sodium should be
carried out in a fume hood, behind an explosion shield, and with
proper safeguards to avoid exposing the effluent gas hydrogen to
spark or flame. Any stirring device must be spark-proof. Carbon
dioxide, bicarbonate, and carbon tetrachloride fire extinguishers
should not be used on alkali metal fires.
aa.
m-chloroperbenzoic acid should only be stored in plastic
containers. Researchers should take special care to do this after
purifying commercial material to 99%. A sample of 99+%
material stored in a glass sample bottle exploded in a laboratory in
1995 causing an injury to a researcher.
7. If warranted, any lab specific practices can be documented in a written
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP); complete sections 1-7 of the Standard
Operating Procedure Template. Also, examples of SOPs for many hazardous
chemicals are located in the SOP Library .
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
4.5
Segregation of Incompatible Substances
When transporting, storing, using, or disposing of any chemical, ensure that the
substance cannot accidentally come in contact with an incompatible material.
Such contact could result in a serious explosion, the formation of substances that
are highly toxic or flammable or both. See Table of Common Incompatibilities
for more examples.
4.6
Handling Compressed Gases
Because of their high pressure, cylinders of compressed gases present physical
hazards. Guidelines for handling compressed gas cylinders follow:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
1.
Except during transportation (see Section 4.6.4 below), compressed gas
cylinders of all sizes must be restrained at all times by straps, chains, or a
suitable stand to prevent the cylinder from falling.
2.
When a cylinder is empty, mark it "EMPTY" or "MT" or use the tag
system supplied by the vendor. Close the valve and replace the valve
protection cap. Cylinders should not block egress from the laboratory.
3.
During transportation of cylinders, the protective caps must be securely in
place. For cylinders over 2 feet, an appropriate cart must be used.
4.
Compressed gas cylinders must not be exposed to temperatures higher
than 50°C (122°F).
5.
Lecture bottles of reagent gases must be used according to the following
guidelines:
6.
a.
Whenever possible, lecture bottles must be purchased from a
supplier that allows the return of partially filled or empty cylinders.
b.
Compatible regulators must always be used, taking into account
any properties of the gas.
c.
At least once a year, the SR must inspect the stored lecture bottles
for signs of leakage and/or corrosion. The SR must determine
which lecture bottles will not be used during the next 12 months
and return these to a supplier for proper reuse or disposal.
Leaking cylinders of flammable, oxidizing, corrosive or toxic gases
represent a serious hazard, and must be handled according to the following
procedures:
a.
DO NOT transport leaking cylinders of toxic gases in elevators or
hallways. Leave the area and call EH&S for assistance.
b.
If a minor leak is suspected, a flammable gas leak detector or a
soapy solution (Snoop) must be used; under no circumstances
must a flame be used for leak detection.
c.
Shut off the main cylinder valve upon confirmation of a minor
leak, the cylinder must be immediately transported to a fume hood
or gas cabinet. EH&S must then be notified of the leak.
d.
If a major leak of a hazardous gas develops, all personnel must be
evacuated from the area (see Section 12 for further details).
e.
Compressed gas cylinders that are leaking inside gas cabinets must
be left in place and reported to the EH&S Emergency Response
Team by dialing 824-6200 during normal working hours (M-F,
8AM-5PM) or 911 after hours.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
7.
Flashback or flame arresters are recommended when working with highly
flammable fuel gases such as acetylene and hydrogen gas.
8.
Ensure equipment is grounded when working around flammable gases.
A comprehensive Compressed Gas Safety Awareness Training Supplement is provided in
the Appendices.
4.7
4.8
Laboratory Use of Anesthetics
Anesthesia commonly used in some research laboratories include: nitrous oxide,
halothane, enflurane, methoxyflurane, trichloroethylene, and urethane. Exposure
to waste anesthetic gases and vapors during surgical procedures is harmful to
researchers. Open bench surgeries involving gaseous anesthetics should employ
waste gas scavenging systems that are connected to non-recirculating exhaust
systems.
1.
Refer to the Controlling Waste Anesthetic Gases for procedures to
minimize exposure to waste anesthetic gases.
2.
Exhaust systems must be used in conjunction with scavenger systems.
Contact EH&S prior to installation of scavenger systems to existing
building ventilation.
Laboratory Equipment and Glassware
Each laboratory worker must keep the work area clean and uncluttered. All
chemicals and equipment must be properly labeled in accordance with Section
4.11. The work area must be regularly cleaned and all equipment properly
cleaned and stored.
The following procedures must apply to the use of laboratory equipment and
glassware:
1.
Laboratory equipment must be used only for its intended purpose.
2.
All glassware will be handled and stored with care to minimize breakage;
glassware must be disposed of in the following ways:
a.
All broken glassware, Pasteur pipettes, slides, cover slips and other
glassware which could puncture that are not contaminated with
infectious material, radioactive material, or hazardous material
must be placed in the assigned broken glass container in each
laboratory. This container must be labeled both in English and
Spanish with the words "BROKEN GLASS/VIDRIO ROTO”.
b.
Pasteur Pipettes, slides and cover slips that are contaminated with
infectious material must be disposed of in one of the following
ways:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.9
i.
Sterilized in an autoclave permitted by Orange County
Health Agency and EH&S and then disposed of in the
broken glass container.
ii.
Decontaminated with bleach or other appropriate
decontaminant and then disposed of in the broken glass
container.
iii.
Transferred to a medical waste disposal site in a sharps
disposal container.
3.
All needles, scalpels, and blades must be disposed of in a sharps disposal
container. Full sharp containers are brought to medical waste disposal
sites for pickup and destruction off-campus.
4.
All glass apparatus must be carefully inspected for cracks and other flaws
before evacuation. Whenever feasible, evacuated or pressurized glassware
must be taped or a shield placed between the glassware and the operator to
contain glass fragments and chemicals in the event of implosion.
5.
All laboratory equipment must be inspected on a regular basis by the
laboratory workers, and replaced or repaired as necessary.
6.
Frozen ground glass joints should be taken to the Glass Shop in Rowland
Hall for “unsticking”. Cooling the glassware is sometimes effective.
Serious cuts have occurred from researchers trying to do this themselves.
7.
Use proper traps (filters or adsorbants) to protect house vacuum lines.
Personal Protective Equipment
1.
Safety glasses meeting ANSI Z87.1 are required for laboratory workers
and visitors to the laboratory as procedures dictate and will be worn at all
times when in the laboratory.
2.
Chemical goggles and/or a full-face shield must be worn during chemical
transfer and handling operations as procedures dictate.
3.
Laboratory coats are provided and must be worn at all times in the
laboratory. Laboratory coats must be removed immediately upon
discovery of significant contamination.
4.
Appropriate chemical-resistant gloves must be worn at all times when skin
contact with chemicals may occur. Wear two layers of gloves when added
protection is needed.
Reusable gloves must be inspected and washed prior to re-use. Replace
damaged or deteriorated gloves immediately. Gloves must be washed
prior to removal from the hands.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Remove gloves immediately after working with toxic solvents that are
readily absorbed through skin, such as phenol or carbon disulfide.
Many researchers use latex gloves for work with hazardous chemicals due
to the wide availability of this type of glove. About 10% of the population
will exhibit an allergic sensitivity to latex products.
Generally, nitrile gloves are preferable over latex and vinyl for most
hazardous chemical work, but it is important to consult the Glove
Selection Guidelines and Resources document, chemical vendor, or EH&S
when selecting the proper glove for hazardous chemical work.
5.
Thermal-resistant gloves must be worn for operations involving the
handling of heated materials and exothermic reaction vessels. Thermalresistant gloves must be asbestos free and should be replaced when
damaged or deteriorated.
6.
All personnel using respirators must obtain prior approval from EH&S and
participate in the UC Irvine Respiratory Protection Program.
7.
Remove all contaminated personal protective equipment before leaving
the laboratory.
8.
Refer to Personal Protective Equipment in the Laboratory Safety
Guidelines for more information. Consult with your School EH&S
Coordinator for assistance.
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
4.10
Personal Work Practices
1.
The Laboratory Supervisor must ensure that each laboratory worker
knows and follows the rules and procedures established in this plan. The
Work-Unit Specific Awareness and Training template is used to design a
consistent and lab-specific laboratory worker training, in support of
communicating the rules and procedures established in this plan.
2.
All laboratory workers must remain vigilant to unsafe practices and
conditions in the laboratory and must immediately report such practices
and/or conditions to the Laboratory Supervisor.
The Laboratory
Supervisor must correct unsafe practices and/or conditions promptly.
Recurring hazardous situations and unsafe practices should be
incorporated into the Work-Unit Specific Awareness and Training to
increase laboratory workers understanding in the problematic areas.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.11
3.
Long hair and loose-fitting clothing must be confined close to the body or
tied back to avoid being caught in moving machine/equipment parts and
contaminated.
4.
Do not wear high-heeled shoes, open-toed shoes, sandals, or shoes made
of woven material.
5.
Never perform unauthorized experiments.
6.
Do not work alone in the laboratory without authorization.
6.
Shorts, cutoffs, and miniskirts unnecessarily expose your skin to potential
corrosives and are not safe.
7.
Jewelry including rings, bracelets, and wristwatches in the laboratory can
become contaminated and damaged by chemicals increasing chances of
chemical exposure. Also, wearing jewelry increases probability of
accidental contact with electrical sources or catch-points on equipment
causing accidents.
8.
Use volatiles inside the chemical fume hood.
9.
Exposure to any laboratory chemical by any route--dermal, inhalation,
ingestion, injection--must be avoided.
10.
Chemicals must never be deliberately tasted or smelled.
11.
Loose fitting, insulated gloves must be worn when handling cryogenics.
Where splashing could occur during transfer of cryogenics, safety goggles
and face shields should be worn. Boiling and splashing always occur
when charging a warm container or when inserting warm objects into the
liquid.
12.
Never wear or bring lab aprons or lab coats or jackets into areas where
food is consumed.
13.
Do not prepare or store (even temporarily) food or beverages in the same
area as hazardous chemicals. Never consume any food or beverage when
you are in a chemical area. Do not chew gum or tobacco, and do not
smoke or apply cosmetics in the laboratory.
14.
Wash hands thoroughly after working with hazardous chemicals and
before leaving the lab.
Container Labeling
1.
All chemical containers in the laboratory must be labeled including waste
containers. The label must be informative and durable, and at a minimum,
will identify contents and hazards.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.12
2.
When hazardous chemicals are transferred out of the original container, a
completed Hazardous Materials label must be affixed to the unlabeled
container. View an example of a blank EH&S Hazardous Materials label
at the EHS Website. EH&S recommends using the preprinted labels
available in various electronic file formats from the Hazardous Waste
Management website. Be careful to use the label designed for materials,
not waste.
3.
All waste container labels must include the words “Hazardous Waste,” the
chemical name(s) of all constituents and the weight percentage, the
Principal Investigator's name, department location (building name, room
number and telephone number), and the date waste was first generated.
View an example of a blank EH&S Hazardous Material Waste label at the
EHS website. The EH&S preprinted waste labels—various electronic file
formats available from the Hazardous Waste Management website-provide space for all required information. See Hazardous Waste
Guidelines for an example of waste labeling (printable on 8 ½” X 14”
legal size paper).
4.
Exceptions for labeling requirements can be made for the following:
a.
Chemical transfers from a labeled container into a container that is
intended only for the immediate use of the laboratory worker who
performed the transfer. Such chemicals must be used up before
container is left unattended.
b.
Synthetic intermediates prepared in the laboratory by the
researcher must be labeled with either the chemical structure or a
number that serves to uniquely identify the substance. Any known
or suspected hazards must also be indicated on the label.
5.
Portable containers must be labeled by the individual using it.
6.
All chemical containers must be periodically inspected by the SR to
ensure that labels have not been defaced or removed.
Disposal
Disposal of all hazardous materials and wastes must be arranged through EH&S.
Utilize the on-line chemical waste pick-up request service.
Intentional
environmental discharges of hazardous materials and wastes to land, air, or water
are prohibited. No hazardous chemicals and wastes may be disposed in trashcans,
drains or by evaporation.
1.
Certain hazardous wastes are either too reactive or too toxic for disposal
with the solvent waste. These wastes must be properly segregated and
transferred to EH&S. Chemical treatment of reactive (and some toxic)
hazardous waste may render it non-reactive (or non-toxic), and suitable for
disposal. Prudent Practices for Handling Chemicals in Laboratories
contains detailed instructions for the destruction and subsequent disposal
of many hazardous wastes. However, California regulations prohibit the
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
treatment of hazardous waste without specific approval by a regulatory
agency. Therefore, chemical treatment should not be performed without
prior consultation with the EH&S. Examples of hazardous wastes that
must be segregated from other incompatible waste include:
a.
Acids of pH 2 or less (Do not mix different acids);
b.
Acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, and related compounds;
c.
Alkaline basic solutions of pH 12.5 or greater (Do not mix
different bases);
d.
Alkali metals and other water reactive chemicals;
e.
Heavy metal solutions and salts;
f.
Halogenated organics; segregate non-flammable from flammable;
g.
Non-halogenated
flammable;
h.
Peroxide-forming chemicals;
i.
Strong oxidizers;
j.
Chemical carcinogens (See Section 5);
k.
Cyanides and sulfide containing solutions; and
l.
Other toxic materials.
organics:
segregate
non-flammable
from
REFERENCE: “Hazardous Waste Guidelines” flyer
2.
4.13
Empty containers can be reused as waste containers or disposed as regular
trash, providing they have not contained Particularly Hazardous
Substances (PHS). Empty is defined as drip free in the case of liquids, and
reasonably scraped clean in the case of solids. EH&S will accept empty
containers, especially those having plastic Safe-Cote® feature, for
redistribution to others as waste containers. Contact EH&S to arrange
empty container disposal or for disposal of containers previously holding
extremely hazardous materials.
Inventory Maintenance
Each research group must maintain an inventory of chemicals. This inventory
will be kept in a web-based computer database available from EH&S. The
inventory listing includes the full name of each chemical, its physical state (at
room temperature), the quantity on hand, the container size and container type,
and the storage location (by room number). Labs may have additional procedures
for chemical inventory maintenance; consult with the Lab Supervisor for labspecific procedures.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.14
Source Reduction and Waste Minimization
Laboratory workers are obligated to use the smallest amounts of hazardous
materials (called source reduction) and to generate the least amount of hazardous
wastes (called waste minimization) as is practical. This includes:
 an obligation to review experimental protocols to evaluate the potential
for substitution of non-hazardous or less hazardous reagents or analytical
techniques;
 using "micro scale" procedures; and
 using materials that can be easily neutralized and detoxified.
Current information on these subjects can be obtained from EH&S.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
5.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Working with Particularly
Hazardous Substances
The chemicals, concentrations, and forms commonly used in laboratories are classified as
hazardous substances, and the general operating procedures for working with these
chemicals are detailed in Section 4. However, some substances pose a significantly
higher threat to human health because of their toxicology, concentration, and form.
These high hazard materials are classified as "Particularly Hazardous Substances"
(PHSs). There are four categories of Particularly Hazardous Substances: select
carcinogens, reproductive toxins (embryotoxins), compounds with a high degree of acute
toxicity, and “select agents” (toxins that are biological in origin). General procedures for
working with particularly hazardous substances are presented in detail in Section 5.4 and
5.5. Special Handling Procedures for Certain PHS is provided in the Appendices.
5.1
Working with Carcinogens
Comprehensive lists of known & suspected carcinogens from peer-reviewed
authoritative sources are available on the Internet. The following is a partial list
of carcinogens found in laboratories at UC Irvine. This list is not complete. Each
laboratory worker (in consultation with the laboratory supervisor) must evaluate
each chemical involved in their work. Container labels and MSDSs communicate
whether a chemical is carcinogenic.
Acrylonitrile
Dimethylcarbamoyl
Methylene Chloride
Benzene
Cadmium Chloride
Cadmium Compounds
Chemotherapeutic
Agents
Chloromethyl Ether
1,2-Dibromoethane
Diaminobenzidine
Dimethyl Sulfate
N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea
Epichlorohydrin
Ethyleneimine
α-Naphthylamine
β-Naphthylamine
Propylene Oxide
Silica, (crystalline)
Ethylene Oxide
Formaldehyde
N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea
Styrene Oxide
Vinyl Bromide
Vinyl Chloride
NOTE: Some carcinogens must be reported to Cal/OSHA. Please see Cal/OSHA
Reportable Hazardous Chemicals to determine if the Supplemental Information
Form for Chemical Requiring Cal/OSHA Registration must be completed.
Contact EH&S at 824-6200 for assistance.
Carcinogens must be handled in accordance with the procedures described in
Section 5.4 .
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
5.2
Working with Reproductive Toxins
Below is a partial list of reproductive toxins uses in some UC Irvine research
laboratories:
Acrylic Acid
Aniline
Benzene
Carbon disulfide
Cadmium
N,N-Dimethylacetamide
Dimethylformamide
Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Formaldehyde
Formamide
Glycol Ethers (EGME,
EGEE, and their
acetates)
Hexachlorobenzene
Iodoacetic Acid
Lead Compounds
Mercury Compounds
Nitrobenzene
Nitrous Oxide
Phenol
Toluene
Vinyl Chloride
Xylene
The above list is not complete. Each laboratory worker (in consultation with the
laboratory supervisor) must evaluate each chemical involved in his/her work.
Container labels and MSDSs communicate whether a chemical is carcinogenic.
1.
Reproductive toxins will only be handled in fume hoods that have passed
the EH&S performance test within the last 12 month and utilizing
appropriate protective equipment (to prevent skin contact) prescribed by
the supervisor. Contact EH&S Fume Hood Testing at 824-6200 if fume
hood performance cannot be verified.
2.
Reproductive toxins will be stored in adequately ventilated areas with the
primary container placed inside an unbreakable sealed outer container.
3.
The Laboratory Supervisor must be notified of spills and other exposure
incidents. A brief written description of the incident should be shared
with lab staff.
These compounds must be handled in accordance with the procedures described in
Section 5.4 .
5.3
Working with Compounds with a High Degree of Acute Toxicity
Below is a partial list of compounds with a high degree of acute toxicity used in
some UC Irvine research laboratories.
Acrolein
Acrylic Acid
Acrylonitrile
Allyl Alcohol
Allylamine
Bromine
Chlorine
1,2-Dibromoethane
Dimethyl Sulfate
Ethylene Oxide
Hydrazine
Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen Fluoride
Hydrogen Sulfide
Nickel Carbonyl
Nitrogen Dioxide
Osmium Tetroxide
Ozone
Phosgene
Sodium Azide
Cyanide Salts
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Diazomethane
Diborane
Methyl Fluorosulfonate
Methyl Iodide
Arsine
The above list is not complete. Each laboratory worker (in consultation with the
laboratory supervisor) must evaluate each chemical involved in his/her work.
Container labels and MSDSs communicate whether a chemical is carcinogenic.
These compounds must be handled in accordance with the procedures described
in Section 5.4.
5.4
Work with Particularly Hazardous Substances (Written Standard Operating
Procedures—SOPs)
In addition to the general procedures for working with hazardous substances
described in Section 4, researchers should read and understand the SOP written by
the Laboratory Supervisor or SR to protect workers. If a material is being used
for the first time, the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator or SR should
coordinate with the user to write the SOP. EH&S maintains an SOP Library on
its website which can be tailored to meet the specifics of the laboratory. In
writing the SOP, the following procedures must be incorporated when working
with any Particularly Hazardous Substance (PHS) in a form or concentration that
poses an extreme health concern. Use the SOP Guidelines & Template as a
resource. Please complete all ten (10) sections of the SOP template.
1.
Information
Before beginning a laboratory operation involving a PHS, each researcher
must consult the manufacturer’s Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and
other appropriate literature (see Section 14 and Appendix J) for
information about the properties of the substances.
2.
Designated (Controlled) Work Areas
Special work areas should be designated for work with select PHSs,
embryotoxins, and compounds with high acute toxicity. The rooms,
including storage areas for the PHSs, should have restricted access. Signs
indicating "Authorized Personnel Only" should be posted at entrances to
these work areas, and if necessary, the areas should be locked. Only
personnel with special instruction on the hazards and safe handling of
PHSs should be permitted access to the areas. Designated areas must be
maintained at an air pressure less than that of surrounding areas.
3.
Engineered System Protection
All work involving PHSs should be done in fume hoods, glove boxes or
similar devices to reduce the risks of laboratory worker exposure.
4.
Handling of Contaminated Waste
Whenever possible PHSs should be detoxified by some procedure that can
be reasonably expected to convert essentially all of the toxic substances to
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
nontoxic substances (for a discussion, see Prudent Practices for Handling
Chemicals in Laboratories). As hazardous waste treatment is prohibited
without specific approval by a California regulatory agency, lab workers
must consult with EH&S prior to employing any waste treatment method.
If detoxification is not feasible, waste solvents and wastewater
contaminated with PHSs must be collected for disposal by EH&S in
closed, impervious containers. Transfers to waste containers must be
performed in the same hood in which the experiment was performed to
ensure that laboratory workers are not exposed to the material. These
containers must be properly labeled (as described in Section 4.11.3), waste
containing appreciable amounts of carcinogens must carry the warning:
CANCER AGENT.
5.5
5.
Personal Hygiene
Laboratory workers using PHSs must take extra precautions in
maintaining good personal hygiene. Dispose gloves and wash hands
before leaving the restricted area. No food, beverage or tobacco products
will be permitted in the restricted areas.
6.
Protection of Vacuum Systems
To protect vacuum lines and pumps, use the proper traps or filters. These
include High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters or high efficiency
scrubber.
7.
Protective Apparel
Lab coats, gloves and other appropriate protective apparel should be used
at all times when working with PHSs to prevent skin contact.
8.
Preparation for Accidents
Laboratory workers must take precautions to minimize the potential for
accidents or spills involving PHSs. Containers of such substances should
be stored in pans or trays made of polyethylene or other unbreakable
material. During an experiment involving the use of PHSs, the working
surface of the hood should be covered with a removable liner of adsorbent
plastic-backed paper. Work with PHSs should be done with the smallest
amounts possible. Purchases of the chemicals should be restricted to
minimal amounts necessary to prevent uninterrupted work.
9.
Prior Approval
For substances listed in Cal/OSHA Article 110, prior approval is required
from the Laboratory Supervisor. See Appendix C for a list of these
chemicals and the registration form.
Working with Select Agents (Toxins of Biological Origin)
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
1.
All researchers working with Select Agent Toxins (see Select Agent List)
must register with EH&S before any agent can be ordered. Follow
procedures in the Select Agent Program. Contact the Biosafety Officer at
824-6200 for assistance.
2.
Special Practices
Standard practices listed under Biosafety Level 2 and Biosafety Level 3
(for reference see Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical
Laboratories, USDHHS, CDC/NIH, 4th Edition, pages 20 and 27)
(www.cdc.gov/od/ohs/biosfty/bmbl4/b4ai.htm) should be reviewed and
incorporated as appropriate into protocols for work with toxins.
a.
Training specific to the toxin is required and must be documented
for all laboratory workers.
b.
Approved users must maintain an inventory control.
c.
Toxins must be stored in locked storage rooms, cabinets or
freezers.
d.
Access to areas containing toxins should be restricted to those
whose work assignments require access.
e.
Preparation of primary containers of toxin stock solutions and
manipulations of primary containers of dry forms of toxins should
be conducted in a chemical fume hood, glove box, or a biological
safety cabinet.
f.
Users should verify that hood or biological safety cabinet is
working properly before initiating work.
g.
All work should be done within the effective zone of the hood or
biological safety cabinet. The effective zone is 6 or more inches
into the hood or cabinet.
h.
When toxins are in use, the room should be posted to indicate
“Toxins In Use – Authorized Personnel Only”.
i.
All high risks operations should be conducted with two
knowledgeable individuals present. Each must be familiar with the
procedures, maintain visual contact with the other and be ready to
assist in the event of an accident.
j.
The interior of the hood, glove box, or cabinet should be
decontaminated periodically, for example, at the end of a series of
related experiments. Until decontaminated, the hood, box, or
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
cabinet should be posted to indicate that toxins are in use, and
access to the equipment and apparatus must be restricted to
necessary, authorized personnel.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
k.
Lab coats and eye protection should be worn when working in an
open front containment system.
l.
When handling dry forms of toxins that can easily become
electrostatically charged:
i.
Do not wear latex gloves that help to generate static
electricity.
ii.
Use a glove bag within a hood or biosafety cabinet, glove
box, or class III biosafety cabinet.
m.
When handling toxins that are also irritants, necrotizing to skin, or
extremely toxic from dermal exposure, select gloves that are
known to be impervious to the toxin.
n.
Consider both toxin and diluents when selecting gloves.
o.
Protect vacuum lines with HEPA filters to prevent entry of toxins
into the lines.
p.
Sink drains should be protected by HEPA filters when water aspirators
are used.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
6.0
Standard Operating Procedures Applying to All Hazardous Chemical
Work
6.1
6.2
Chemical Exposure Evaluation
1.
Chemical exposure evaluations will be conducted by EH&S personnel as
necessary.
2.
Air sampling will be conducted if there is reason to believe that exposure
levels for regulated substances may exceed the action level, or in the
absence of an action level, the Cal/OSHA Permissible Exposure Level
(PEL). Cal/OSHA has established action levels for a few chemicals.
Some examples are in Cal/OSHA Reportable Chemicals.
3.
Results of air sampling studies performed in the laboratory will be
maintained by EH&S.
4.
When laboratory personnel have identified a potential for chemical
exposure, EH&S may be requested to conduct an industrial hygiene
evaluation of the workplace.
Clean Areas
Eating, drinking, smoking, gum chewing, and application of cosmetics must occur
in designated Clean Areas. See Clean Area procedures. Hands must be washed
thoroughly prior to performing these activities in clean areas or outside of the lab.
6.3
Housekeeping
1.
Each laboratory worker is responsible for the cleanliness of his or her
workspace, and is jointly responsible for common areas of the laboratory.
The Supervisor/Principal Investigator must insist lab areas are kept neat
and orderly.
2.
The following standard operating procedures apply to the housekeeping
standards of the laboratory:
a.
All apparatus must be thoroughly cleaned and returned to storage
after use.
b.
All aisles, exits, fire-extinguishing equipment, eyewashes,
showers, electrical disconnects and other emergency equipment
must remain unobstructed.
c.
All chemical wastes will be disposed in accordance with Section
4.12.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
6.4
Safety and Emergency Equipment
1.
Telephone numbers of emergency personnel, supervisors and other
contacts should be posted near phones and kept updated.
2.
The Emergency Notification Information (ENI) placard on the lab door
should be updated by lab staff as needed to maintain accuracy. New
placards are available from the School EH&S Coordinator, by calling 8246200, or downloading them from Internet: use the one for the General
Campus or for School of Physical Sciences.
3.
All laboratory personnel will be trained in the proper use of fire
extinguishers when hired and receive refresher training as needed. Prior to
the procurement of new classes of hazardous chemicals, the laboratory
workers must verify that existing extinguishers and other emergency
equipment are appropriate for such chemicals.
4.
All laboratory workers who might be exposed to chemical splashes must
be instructed in the location and proper usage of emergency showers and
eyewashes.
a. Facilities Management (FM) in accordance with ANSI Z358.1 and
manufacturer’s specifications must perform inspections of emergency
showers and eyewashes and maintain inspection records.
b. Equipment is tagged with the most recent inspection dates.
c. Location signs for safety and emergency equipment must be posted.
d. A minimum space of thirty inches (30) must be maintained clear of
any obstructions in front of emergency equipment.
6.5
Unattended Operations
When laboratory operations are left unattended (continuous operations, overnight
reactions, etc.), the following standard operating procedures will be employed:
1. The laboratory worker and the Principal Investigator/Laboratory Supervisor
will review work procedures to ensure the safe completion of the operation.
2. Provisions must be made for interruption of utility service during the
unattended operation (loss of water pressure, electricity, etc.).
3. Automatic temperature shut-off controls should be employed where run-away
temperatures would lead to fire, explosion, or generation of toxic gases.
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Table of Contents
Appendices
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
7.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Engineering Controls
7.1
Intent
The engineering controls installed in the laboratory are intended to minimize
laboratory worker exposure to chemical and physical hazards in the workplace.
These controls must be maintained in proper working order for this goal to be
met.
7.2
Modification
Engineering controls must not be modified unless testing by EH&S indicates that
worker protection will continue to be adequate.
7.3
Improper Function
Improperly functioning engineering controls must be reported immediately to the
Supervisor/Principal Investigator immediately and the Facilities Management.
The system must be taken out of service until repairs have been completed and
adequate performance re-verified by EH&S.
7.4
Usage
All laboratory workers must follow proper work practices when using the
engineering controls.
1.
2.
Local Exhaust Ventilation
The following procedures must apply to the use of local exhaust
ventilation:
a.
Openings of local exhaust vents must be placed as close as
possible to sources of the air contaminant.
b.
When the vents are in the open position, the exhaust fans must be
kept on.
c.
After the completion of work, the fan must be left on for an
additional amount of time sufficient to clear residual contaminants
from the ductwork.
d.
Periodic inspections of the ventilation system will be conducted by
EH&S. A record of each inspection must be maintained by EH&S,
and the last test date posted on the system.
Laboratory Hoods
The laboratory fume hoods must be utilized for chemical procedures that
could release hazardous chemical vapors or dust. Fume hoods must be left
on at all times (except for maintenance).
The following work practices must apply to the use of fume hoods:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
3.
a.
Adequate fume hood ventilation performance must be confirmed
prior to opening chemical containers inside the hood. An inward
flow of air can be confirmed by holding a piece of tissue paper at
the face of the hood and observing the movement of the paper.
b.
The sash of the hood must be closed when is not in use for safety
reasons as well as energy conservation. At all other times, the sash
height must be maintained as low as possible, never above the
position marked by EH&S on the fume hood itself.
c.
Storage of chemicals and equipment inside the hood must be kept
to a minimum to maintain optimal fume hood performance.
d.
Interference with the inward flow of air into the hood must be
minimized.
e.
Each fume hood will be tested annually. The fume hood must
provide an average open face velocity of 100 linear feet per minute
(lfpm) with a minimum of 80 lfpm at any point. A record of each
inspection must be maintained by the EH&S office, and the last
inspection date posted on the hood.
g.
Evaporation in the hood must not be used for the disposal of
volatile chemicals.
h.
Report fume hood performance problems to EH&S at 824-6200.
Cold Rooms
In the event of an electrical failure in a cold room, the following
provisions will be followed:
The emergency personnel listed on the "In Case of Emergency Contact"
sheet must be immediately notified and be asked to report any hazards
associated with the loss of electricity and warming of the cold room.
Appropriate measures must be undertaken to restore power. Dry ice must
not be used inside cold rooms. This practice could result in the
displacement of oxygen and cause asphyxiation.
4.
Hazardous Materials Storage Cabinets
When approved storage cabinets are used, the following prudent safety
practices must be followed:
a.
Only compatible materials must be stored inside the cabinet.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Top of CHP
Table of Contents
Appendices
b.
Chemicals of similar vapor density must be stored together when
using mechanical ventilation (e.g., heavier than air vapors are
vented through the bottom vent and lighter than air vapors through
the top vent).
c.
Paper or cardboard must not be stored inside cabinets with
chemicals.
d.
Storage cabinets must not be overloaded. Doors must be able to
close, and double stacking of hazardous chemicals prohibited.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
8.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Laboratory Worker Information
and Training
8.1
8.2
Hazard Information
8.1.1
“Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories”,
California Code of Regulations Title 8, Section 5191. Visit this web page
to access the Cal/OSHA regulation relating to protecting employees from
occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals.
8.1.2
The location of the UC Irvine Chemical Hygiene Plan as well as other
required safety information is provided on the Location of Required Safety
Information flyer. The Chemical Hygiene Plan provides written safety
procedures for protecting employees from occupational exposure to
hazardous chemicals.
8.1.3
“Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) for Chemical Contaminants”,
California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 5155. Visit this web page
for regulatory exposure limits for many airborne contaminants; the actual
values are in Table AC-1, under the “View Graphic” links. Please contact
EH&S for exposure limits where there is no applicable Cal/OSHA
regulation.
8.1.4
Staff response to chemical spills is described in Section 12.2 of the
Chemical Hygiene Plan as well as in Hazardous Materials Incidents within
the UC Irvine Emergency Procedures.
8.1.5
Reference Materials on the hazards, signs & symptoms of exposure, safe
handling, storage & disposal of hazardous chemicals:
 Material Safety Data Sheets
 Classes of Hazardous Chemicals
o General Laboratories
o Integrated Nanofab Research Facility (INRF)
 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Library
 Campus EH&S website
 Chemical Safety, National Institute of Occupational Safety and
Health
Training
Each laboratory worker must receive training at the time of initial assignment to
the laboratory, and prior to assignments involving new classes of chemicals,
Particularly Hazardous Substances, and hazardous operations. Training must
include:
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan

Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or
release of a hazardous chemical;

The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area;

The measures workers can take to protect themselves from these hazards,
including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect
workers such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and
personal protective equipment to be used.
1. Lab workers must take Laboratory Safety & Chemical Hygiene
Plan Workshop for Laboratory and Research Personnel from
campus EH&S. This course covers applicable details of the
written UC Irvine Chemical Hygiene Plan. New employees are
required to attend the next training session presented after the date
of their initial hire.
2. There may be other required EH&S provided safety trainings for
work involving other categories of hazardous materials; for
example, radioactive materials and blood borne pathogens. See
also the Basic Research Requirements matrix.
3. The Principal Investigator, Laboratory Supervisor, Safety
Representative (SR) will apprise all laboratory workers of jobspecific hazardous chemicals and operations used in the PI’s
laboratory. The Laboratory Awareness & Training Record
template is designed to help provide consistent and lab-specific
laboratory worker training.
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UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
9.0
Standard Operating Procedures for Medical Consultations and
Examinations
Medical consultation or examination is provided:
1.
When a laboratory employees develops signs or symptoms associated with
a hazardous chemical to which the employee may have been exposed in
the laboratory.
2.
Where employee exposure monitoring reveals an exposure level above the
action level for a Cal/OSHA regulated substance for which there are
exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements. (Also,
medical surveillance will be established as prescribed by the particular
Cal/OSHA standard.)
3.
When an event takes place in the laboratory such as a spill, leak, explosion
or other occurrence resulting in a hazardous exposure to the laboratory
employee.
Medical consultations and examinations will be provided under the direct supervision of
a licensed physician. Contact the Campus Occupational Health Nurse at 824-6200.
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UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
10.0 Laboratory Activities Requiring Prior Approval
Prior approval must be obtained from the Principal Investigator/Laboratory Supervisor
for laboratory activities that present specific, foreseeable hazards to the laboratory
workers. These activities include off-hours work, working alone, hazardous operations,
and unattended operations.
10.1
Off-Hours Work
Laboratory personnel are not permitted work after hours in the laboratory, except
when prior approval from the Principal Investigator/Laboratory Supervisor has
been obtained. After hours are defined as 8PM - 7AM Monday through Friday
and from 8PM Friday to 7AM Monday.
10.2
Working Alone
When laboratory personnel will be working alone, the PI/Laboratory Supervisor
must evaluate the condition or activity to determine if the situation may pose a
risk or serious hazard to workers or property. Each situation must be evaluated on
a case-by-case basis to determine if working alone will be permitted.
Important considerations are:
1. Tasks and hazards involved in the work;
2. Consequences resulting from a worst-case failure;
3. The possibility of an accident or incident that would prevent an worker from
calling for help;
4. The worker’s training and experience;
5. Physical condition or handicaps.
Laboratory workers should confirm that another worker is present on the same
floor of the building before undertaking any laboratory operation.
10.3
Hazardous Work
All hazardous operations must be performed during a time when at least two
personnel are present in the laboratory. For undergraduate workers, this applies to
all laboratory operations.
The Principal Investigator and/or the EH&S
Coordinator must make the determination of hazardous operations.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
10.4
Restricted Chemicals Requiring Prior Approval
All laboratory workers must obtain prior approval, using the Circumstances
Requiring Prior Approval form before using any Cal/OSHA Reportable
Chemicals or any of the following hazardous chemicals:
Diazomethane
Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen Fluoride (anhydrous)
Fluorine
Carbon Monoxide
Nickel Carbonyl
Ozone
Perchloric Acid
Chlorine
Phosphine
The Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator may designate additional
hazardous chemicals that require their prior approval before use.
10.5
Laboratory/Equipment Relocation or Vacancy
The PI and/or the Facilities Manager must notify the EH&S Coordinator of the
potential departure or relocation at least one month prior to move so that the PI
receives the Laboratory Relocations Guide to help prepare the lab for closure.
Generally, a PI vacating a laboratory must prepare the lab by properly transferring
or disposing all hazardous materials and wastes, and decontaminating all work
surfaces and storage units. EH&S must inspect the area and equipment and
perform surface wipes and lab tests when necessary. All laboratory space must
pass an EH&S clearance prior to the vacancy. Equipment being transferred to a
different UCI Campus location must be prepared to prevent harm to movers, and
to preclude spills and leakage of hazardous materials. Each lab move-out is
unique and early consulting with the EH&S Coordinator is advised to make
this process go smoothly. All salvageable equipment going to UCI Surplus must
be free of hazardous materials and thoroughly decontaminated. Unsalvageable
electronic equipment, refrigerators, and freezers are disposed through EH&S after
decontamination.
The clearance consists of verifying proper labeling and packaging of hazardous
materials, which include dry and liquid chemicals, radioactive, biohazard and/or
other hazardous waste materials. The clearance may include EH&S performing
surface wipe tests for radiation contamination, corrosives, and organic peroxides.
EH&S posts clearance signs on rooms and laboratory equipment.
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UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
11.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Record Keeping
1.
Accident reports will be retained by the Worker’s Compensation at
Human Resources.
2.
Exposure records for hazardous chemicals and harmful physical agents
will be maintained by EH&S for at least 30 years.
3.
Medical records for laboratory employees exposed to hazardous chemicals
and harmful physical agents will be maintained by the University’s
medical provider for the duration of employment plus 30 years.
4.
Training and inspection records are maintained for 5 years.
5.
Employees may request copies of their exposure records by contacting
EH&S at 824-6200. Employees may request access to their medical
records by contacting the University medical provider.
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UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
12.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Fires, Chemical Spills, Releases and
Accidents
12.1
Control of Fires
UCI Policy states that personnel are not required to fight fires. The following
guidelines should be followed to prevent and minimize injury and damage from
fires.
1.
Be prepared! Know where all of the fire extinguishers are located in your
laboratory, what types of fires they can be used for, and how to correctly
operate them. Know where the nearest fire alarm is located. Know the
location of safety showers and fire blankets.
2.
Fires in small vessels can usually be suffocated by loosely covering the
vessel. Never pick up a flask or container of burning material.
3.
A small fire that has just started can sometimes be extinguished with a
laboratory fire extinguisher. Remember R.A.C.E.




Rescue--First, help clear people from the lab.
Announce--Call 911 and activate the fire alarm.
Contain the fire by closing doors to the fire room.
Extinguish—only after calling 911 and activating the alarm, and
only if confident that it can be done successfully and quickly.
Always be between the fire and an exit from the laboratory. Do not
underestimate fires, and remember that toxic gases and smoke may
present additional hazards.
To extinguish a small fire remember P.A.S.S.




Pull safety pin from handle.
Aim nozzle at base of fire.
Squeeze the trigger handle.
Sweep from side to side (watch for reflash).
4.
Small fires involving reactive metals and organometallic compounds (such
as magnesium, sodium, potassium, metal hydrides, etc.) should be
extinguished with a Class D (Met-L-Kyl fire extinguisher or equivalent) or
by covering with dry sand.
5.
In the event of a more serious fire, evacuate the laboratory, close the door
on the fire room, activate the nearest alarm, and call 911. Help direct floor
occupants to the building's assembly area. Be prepared to meet and advise
the Fire Department and EH&S Emergency Response Team with
information of hazardous substances present in the laboratory.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
6.
12.2
Personal injuries can result from fires. If a person’s clothing catches fire,
they should “stop, drop, and roll” or be doused with water from the safety
shower. Immediately dropping to the floor and rolling can sometimes
extinguish minor clothing fires. Fire blankets should only be used as a
last-resort measure to extinguish fires since they tend to hold in heat and
to increase the severity of burns. Quickly remove contaminated clothing,
douse the person with water, and place clean, wet, cold cloth on burned
areas. Wrap the injured person in a blanket to avoid shock and get
medical attention promptly.
Control of Chemical Exposure and Spills
You might become aware of a chemical accident because of visual appearances or
odors, including liquid puddles, broken containers on the floor with nearby liquids
or solids, strong petroleum or acrid odors.
All incidents involving hazardous materials spills must be reported immediately
to the PI/Laboratory Supervisor. The following are standard operating procedures
for controlling chemical exposure during chemical spills, releases and accidents:
12.21 Personnel Exposures/Contamination
1.
Remove exposed/contaminated individual(s) from area, unless it
is unsafe to do so because of (1) medical condition of victim(s), or
(2) potential hazard to rescuer(s).
2.
IN ALL INSTANCES, IMMEDIATELY notify UCI Police
Emergency 9-1-1 if immediate medical attention is required. If
using a cell phone, call 949-824-5223. If working at the Orange
Campus, call 714-456-6123 for medical response.
3.
Notify EH&S to report the exposure. If incident occurs during
normal working hours, notify EH&S at 949-824-6200. If after
hours, notify UCI Police Emergency 9-1-1 who will then contact
EH&S. If using a cell phone, call 949-824-5223.
4.
Administer First Aid as appropriate.
5.
Flush contamination from eyes/skin using the nearest emergency
eyewash/shower for a minimum of 15 minutes.
6.
Remove any contaminated clothing.
7.
Stand by to provide information or assistance (including MSDS)
to emergency response personnel (in cases where they are
dispatched).
12.22 Contamination of Equipment/Facilities
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
12.3
1.
Do not attempt any clean up or decontamination procedures
alone and without wearing proper protective equipment,
including appropriate respiratory protection where airborne hazards
may exist. (Personnel must be trained and certified before using
respiratory protection). Unless the incident is a small spill of
relatively innocuous material, DO NOT ATTEMPT SPILL
CLEAN UP WITHOUT EH&S ASSISTANCE.
2.
Avoid spreading contamination by restricting access to the
equipment/area only to individuals who are properly protected and
trained to deal with the type of hazard which exists (e.g.,
radioactive, corrosive, flammable, biological).
3.
Report details and/or request assistance from EH&S (824-6200)
if the incident occurs during normal working hours. If the incident
occurs after hours, contact UCI Police Emergency 9-1-1.
4.
If a liquid spill, attempt to contain it by using appropriate
absorbent material.
5.
Attempt to decontaminate the equipment/area using appropriate
methods under EH&S direction. If material is radioactive, assess
radiation levels with appropriate monitoring devices before and
after decontamination.
6.
Stand by to provide information/assistance to emergency
response personnel (in cases where they are dispatched).
Release to the Environment (Air, Water, Soil)
1.
Stop the release, if safe to do so. Report release to UCIPD who
will notify EH&S.
2.
Follow standard operating procedures described above
(Section 12.2) for chemical exposures or contamination of
equipment/facility.
REFERENCE:
Flipchart.
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Appendices
Hazardous Materials Incidents, Blue UCI Emergency Procedures
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
13.0 Standard Operating Procedures for Annual Chemical Hygiene Plan
Audit
EH&S will review and evaluate the effectiveness of the Chemical Hygiene Plan at least
annually. Based on this review, necessary updates will be made to the written Chemical
Hygiene Plan.
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UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
14.0 References and Recommended Reading
(Available for loan from EH&S)
American Chemical Society.
Edition). 2003.
Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories, (Seventh
American Chemical Society. The Waste Management Manual for Laboratory Personnel.
1990.
Beyler, R.E. and V.K. Meyers. “What Every Chemist Should Know About Teratogens”.
J. Chem. Ed. 1982, 59, 759-763.
Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 4th Edition. US Department
of Health and Human Services, Center for Disease Control and Prevention and National
Institute of Health. 1999.
Freeman, N.T. Introduction to Safety in the Chemical Laboratory. Academy Press,
1982.
Furr, A.K., Ed. Handbook of Laboratory Safety (Third Edition). 1989. A 704 page
reference on all aspects of lab safety.
Green, Michael E. Safety In Working With Chemicals. MacMillan Publishing Co., Inc.
1978.
Lenga, R.E., Ed. The Sigma-Aldrich Library of Chemical Safety Data (Second Edition),
2 volumes, 1988. This 4,098 page work provides information on the properties of over
14,000 compounds. Toxicity data, health hazards, and suggested methods of first aid,
handling, storage, and waste disposal are also included).
Lewis, R.J., Ed. Rapid Guide to Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace (Second
Edition). 1990. (Concise compilation of properties and safety data (PELs, TLVs, etc.) for
800 substances).
Lunn, G.B. and E.B. Sansone. Destruction of Hazardous Chemicals in the Laboratory.
1990. (Detailed procedures for destruction of hazardous substances via chemical
reactions).
Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc. Guide For Safety In The Chemical
Laboratory. D. Van Nostrand Company, Inc. 1954.
Pipitone, David A., Safe Storage of Laboratory Chemicals. Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1984.
UCI Chemical Hygiene Plan
Proctor, N.H., J.P. Hughes, and M. L. Fischman. Chemical Hazards of the Workplace
(Second Edition). 1988. (573 pages; includes fairly detailed discussions of the toxicology
of 438 hazardous substances).
Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories, National
Academy Press, Washington, D.C., 1995.
Shepard, T.H. Catalog of Teratogenic Agents, Sixth Edition. Johns Hopkins University
Press, Baltimore, 1989. (Definitive work on teratogens).
Steere, N.V. and M.M. Renfrew, Eds. Safety in the Chemical Laboratory. 4 volumes,
1967-1981 (collection of articles from “Safety in the Chemical Laboratory” feature of the
Journal of Chemical Education).
Toxic and Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual, prepared by the Japanese
International Technical Information Institute, 1988. (700 pages; safety data on 702
compounds).
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