Masaryk University Brno
SAFE WORK
AND
OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE
Brno 2008
1.
FIRE SAFETY REGULATIONS
2
1.1.
Fire Classifications
Fires of solid organic substances the burning of which is accompanied by
incandescence, for example wood, paper, straw, coal, rubber, textile, etc.
Fires of liquids or substances that may become liquid, such as petrol, oil,
paint, alcohol, wax, etc.
.
Gas fires, such as propane, methane, hydrogen, natural gas, coal gas,
acetylene.
Metal fires, such as magnesium, aluminum, potassium, sodium, lithium
Fires of vegetable or animal oils and fats in deep-frying and other kitchen
equipment.
Note
These classifications of fire are defined in European norm EN2.
3
Extinguishing agents
1.2.
1.2.1. Water
In fighting fires with water, its cooling effect is the main factor. Its secondary effect is
smothering, where the resulting water vapor intertizes the area by preventing contact with
oxygen from the atmosphere. Water is used as an extinguisher against Class A fires (wood,
paper, and other solid organic substances).
Water is not suitable for extinguishing of:





liquids – Flammable liquids (for example petrol) are mostly lighter than water; they
“float” on the surface and continue to burn, while the flowing water just spreads the
fire
gases – water passes through burning gas without having any effect
electrical equipment – danger of injury by electrical current.
burning light metals – danger of explosion
burning oil (deep-fryers) – because of the high temperatures attained there is the risk
of explosion
Fire extinguishers do not use pure water, but contain an anti-freeze additive (for example
potassium carbonate (potash) - K2CO3), and inhibitors to limit corrosion to the interior of the
cylinder.
1.2.2. Powder
Powder for fires class B and C
extinguishing powder on the basis of sodium hydrogen carbonate or potassium hydrogen
carbonate (NaHCO3, KHCO3). This extinguishing agent has an indirect effect on the reaction
chain. It inhibits the burning reaction with its anti-catalytic effect. It is used for extinguishing
flammable liquids and gases. It is not suitable for extinguishing solid materials that make up
the core of a fire.
Powder for ABC class fires
powder based on ammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate ((NH4)H2PO4, (NH4)2HPO4,
(NH4)2SO4 ). The principle for extinguishing fires using ABC powders is the physio-chemical
effect. When applied to burning surfaces this powder forms a glaze that prevents air from
getting to the fire; the substance breaks down to create ammonia, which acts as an anticatalyst. Therefore it is effective on almost every sort of fire, and is sometimes called the
universal powder.
It is used to extinguish:

electrical equipment under live current. The manufacturer’s instructions printed on the
fire extinguisher must be observed at all times. Most of the fire extinguishers using
ABC powder made today are specified for use at a distance of 3 meters on current up
to 1000 V. There are some extinguishers made for higher voltages; however, for high-
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


voltage situations, safety regulations/procedures rule out their use by the untrained
user.
flammable liquids.
fats. For deep fat fryers a special extinguishing agent was developed (see
“classification of fires” – class F). However, extinguishing deep fat fryers with
universal powder ABC is difficult: because of the large amount of energy accumulated
in the oil, the fire may reignite even after it seems to be extinguished.
textiles, bundled paper, books, pictures, and liquid gas.
It cannot be used to extinguish
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freely-lying solid substances,
organic powder substances (wood shavings, dust, sawdust), which could be churned
up by the flow of dust and gas under pressure, and thus spread the fire or cause an
explosion
light metals (except for powders specially intended for them)
mechanical equipment and instruments sensitive to dust
1.2.3. Foam
Natural proteins, synthetic proteins, AFFF - AFFF/P (Aqueous-Film-Forming Foam)
1.2.4. CO2
CO2 lowers the amount of atmospheric oxygen in the area of the fire. The cooling effect of
frozen CO2 is negligible because of its low sublimination temperature. The positive effect of
frozen CO2 lies in the gas released by sublimation, which inertizes the atmosphere at the point
of the fire. It is good for extinguishing equipment under live electrical current, flammable
liquids, paints, varnishes, oils, fats, waxes, food, and medicines. It also extinguishes burning
gaseous substances (methane, propane-butane, coal gas, natural gas, hydrogen, and
acetylene).
CO2 fire extinguishers must not be stored in places where the temperature exceeds that printed
on the label; otherwise the extinguisher may discharge spontaneously or explode (if the safety
valve fails).
Because the cylinder of the CO2 fire extinguisher has a legal lifetime of 40 years, it is still
possible to find extinguishers manufactured according to older regulations when lower
pressure tests were allowed, and thus a lower maximum working temperature.
CO2 may not be used to extinguish



solid burning substances
freely-lying solid substances that the flow of gas could stir up, thus spreading the fire
or causing an explosion (dust, organic silage, fibrous materials, sawdust)
light metals, because of the danger of creation of carbon monoxide and resulting
explosion
5
It is not recommended for fighting the following fires:

delicate electronic equipment, because of the possible creation of carbonic acid and
corrosion of equipment
For extinguishing in closed areas, the possibility of dangerous concentrations of CO2 must be
kept in mind. While extinguishing, the extinguisher must be held by the handle; in no case
should it be held by the hose or the nozzle, due to the risk of severe frostbite.
1.2.5. Halon
(in general use until the mid-1990s)


halon fire extinguishers – their use is prohibited today because of freon damage to the
ozone layer.
fire extinguishers with clean extinguishing agent (halotron, etc.) based on fluoridated
hydrocarbons, which do not destroy the ozone layer. Used today for special purposes
(aviation, computer equipment)
1.3. Fire extinguishers
1.3.1. Classification according to type of agent:
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powder extinguishers
water extinguishers
carbon dioxide extinguishers (CO2)
foam (and chemical) extinguishers - norm EN3 classifies these together with water
extinguishers, referring to them as water-based extinguishers.
1.3.2. Classification according to method of pressurizing propellant gases:



pressurized fire extinguishers - the agent and propellant gas are together in a single
cylinder; the cylinder of the fire extinguisher is thus permanently subjected to pressure
greater than approx. 1.5 MPa (at temperature of 20°C)
fire extinguishers with internal cartridge – pressure in the cylinder is created at the
moment it is put into use
extinguishers with chemically-generated pressure are no longer used today
1.3.3. Principles for selection of fire extinguishers
1. Knowledge of flammables – behaviour of substances when burning / temperature,
rapidity of consumption, gases produced
2. Knowledge of effects of extinguishing agents – for correct selection of tactics for
extinguishing / temperature, concentration of dust, vibration, accessibility of
extinguisher
3. Knowledge of space in which extinguisher is to be used – enclosed area, open area,
possible damage caused during extinguishing
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1.3.4. Types of fire extinguisher
Water
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for extinguishing of class A substances. Functional range -20 ° C to + 60 ° C. Frost
resistance down to -30 ° C.
suitable for extinguishing solid organic substances (paper, wood, textile)
usable for extinguishing burning liquids dissolved in water (alcohols, ketons, etc.)
must not be used on live electrical equipment, alkaline metals, and substances that
react strongly with water
examples of labelling: W1OHi, VB l, V6l, V9l
Powder



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intended for fighting fires of class A, B, and C substances, even under electrical
current up to 110V with observance of safety conditions. Functional range -20 ° C to
+60 ° C. Frost resistance to -45 ° C.
suitable for extinguishing live electrical equipment, liquid gases (propane-butane),
liquid flammables (paints, thinners, petrols, oils, fats), libraries, archives, museums
may not be used to extinguish substances suspended in air (dust, flour, etc)
examples of labelling: PG6Hi, PGKT, PG6lE, PG2lE, PG llE, PG4lEI
Foam
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suitable for extinguishing burning liquids not mixed with water (petrol, paints, oils)
usable for extinguishing solid organic substances
cannot be used for live electrical equipment, alkaline metals, and substances reacting
strongly with water
example of labelling: VP 9
CO2 fire extinguishers
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intended for extinguishing class B and C fires. Usable even under electrical current up
to 1000 V under proper safety conditions. Functional range -30 ° C to + 60 ° C.
Danger: contact with skin may cause frostbite.
suitable for extinguishing live electrical equipment, lesser amounts of flammable
liquids in the food sector
cannot be used to extinguish silage, alkaline metals, etc.
is a poor extinguisher of solid, decomposable substances and fibrous materials
example of labelling: 55, 52
Special gas (FE 36 clean extinguishing agent)


intended for extinguishing of class B and C fires, including equipment under live
electrical current up to 1000V under proper safety conditions. Functional range -20 °
C to + 60 ° C.
Suitable for extinguishing archives, computer and media equipment, banking,
chemical industry, and areas where clean extinguishing is necessary
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1.4.
What do to when a fire starts
 When a fire starts, obey the emergency fire procedures displayed at every workplace that spell
out the responsibilities of employees or other persons in the event of fire.
 It is the duty of anyone who sees a fire to use all suitable means to extinguish it. If unable to
extinguish the fire with all available means, it is that person’s duty to declare a fire emergency and call
on persons around him or her to either assist in putting out the fire, or leave the endangered area.
Method and place of declaring a fire emergency
Anyone who sees a fire must report it, or make sure someone else reports it to the fire official at the
individual workplaces at MU, or to the fire marshal of the City of Brno. When reporting a fire, state:
who is calling, location of fire, and what is burning.
Method of sounding the fire alarm
The fire alarm is sounded

automatically by the ELECTRIC FIRE SIGNAL sensor

pressing the emergency ELECTRIC FIRE SIGNAL button

by calling “F I R E !”
No person, unless they are in immediate danger (life-threatening), will leave the workplace
and place where they are when the alarm was sounded, and will not succumb to panic.
Evacuation; helping to fight the fire
Evacuated individuals will gather at the specified open place and wait for further
instructions. Until firefighters arrive, it is the duty of everyone to assist personally as
appropriate (without placing oneself in danger), and undertake the necessary measures to
prevent the spread of the fire.
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2.
HANDLING DANGEROUS CHEMICAL
MATERIALS
9
2.
Handling dangerous chemical substances,
Masaryk University in Brno
1. Introduction
The handling of chemical substances is regulated under a number of laws of the CR.
Their purpose is to protect the health of people working with them, the health of other people,
and to protect the environment. The following directives are based particularly on Law No.
350/2011 Sb.1 on the handling of chemical substances and Law No. 258/2000 Sb. on the
protection of public health.
Because there are many employees working with chemicals and dangerous chemicals
in Masaryk University in Brno (henceforth only “MU”), these activities must be addressed in
detail.
These instructions apply to the activities of MU personnel in handling dangerous
chemical substances necessary to their work. There is no way these instructions can foresee
all the situations that may arise when, during research and other activities, highly-toxic or
otherwise dangerous chemicals are produced as the result of events that are deliberately
carried out; nor can it foresee every situation in which such substances are produced in an
accidental or unexpected manner. These situations must be foreseen by the qualified
personnel, who must be prepared for every possibility in order to avoid negative effects on the
health of people and the environment.
In this regard a crucial role is played by the management personnel of the workplace
who are responsible for the activities of those working under them, and who are required by
law to carry out the appropriate training, monitor the observance of the proper procedures for
handling dangerous chemical substances, and take the appropriate measures to remedy their
violation.
2. Definition of dangerous chemical substances
• Explosive (E), which may react violently, even without access to oxygen, with the rapid
generation of gases; or which explode and burn rapidly under defined experimental
conditions; or which explode when heated in a partially-sealed container
1
Law No. 350/2011 Sb. does not apply to the following groups of substances that may also be found at the FS.
For these, special rules apply. They are:
 medicines
 animal feeds
 food and tobacco products
 cosmetic products
 radio-nuclid emitters and radioactive materials
 narcotics and psychotropic substances,
 health-care materials,
 fertilizers, soil additives, plant-based materials and substrata
 mineral substances,
 veterinary materials (except for disinfectants, rat control, and insecticidal materials)
 distribution and transportation of gases
 explosives (however, this law does apply to explosive substances)
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• Oxidizing (O), when contacting other substances, especially flammables, bring on a highly
exothermic reaction
• Extremely flammable (F+), which in liquid state have a ignition point lower than 0°C and a
boiling point lower than 35°C, or are flammable in a gaseous state when coming into contact
with air under normal (room) temperatures and normal atmospheric pressure and without
addition of energy
• Highly flammable (F), which:
– can spontaneously generate heat and later ignite upon contact with air under
normal room temperature and normal atmospheric pressure and without
addition of energy
– can, in a solid state, easily ignite after short contact with a source of flame, and
continue to burn or smoulder after the source of flame is removed
–– have in liquid state an ignition temperature lower than 21°C and are not extremely
flammable
– after contact with water or humid air release highly flammable gasses in amounts of
–1 –1
at least 1 litre/kg . h
• Flammable (Xn), which have an ignition point ranging from 21°C to 55 °C
• Very toxic (T+), which after inhalation, ingestion, or contact with skin even in very small
amounts can lead to chronic damage to health or death
• Toxic (T), which, after inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by skin even in small amounts,
can cause acute or chronic health damage or death
• Harmful (Xn), which after inhalation or absorption by skin may cause acute or chronic
health damage or death
• Corrosive (C), which may destroy living tissue on contact
• Irritant (Xi), which do not have the properties of corrosives, but may cause inflammation
after long-term or repeated exposure to skin or mucous membrane
• Sensitizer (Xn), which after inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by the skin may cause
sensitivity such that further exposure brings on characteristic symptoms
• Carcinogen (Xn), which after inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by the skin may cause or
increase the likelihood of cancer
• Mutagen (Xn), which after inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by skin may cause or
increase the likelihood of genetic damage
• Toxic for reproduction (Xn), which after inhalation, ingestion, or absorption by skin may
cause or increase the likelihood of non-inherited damage to offspring, damage to the
reproductive functions, or to the ability of men or women to reproduce
• Dangerous for environment (N), which if released into the environment present or may
present an immediate or long-term danger
3. Handling dangerous chemical substances
In handling dangerous chemical substances and preparations, it is the responsibility of
everyone to:
 observe:
the hazard symbols (Appendix 1),
the articles describing specific risks (R phrases, Appendix 2)
instructions for safe handling (S phrases, Appendix 3)
 protect human health
 protect the environment
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For work in the chemical or other laboratory where people work with chemical substances,
either general regulations or specific regulations apply, which each workplace must draw up
according to their own needs. These regulations have the form of:

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laboratory rules for students (Appendix 4)
laboratory rules for employees (Appendix 5)
regulations for waste disposal (Appendix 6)
General first-aid procedures are contained in Appendix 8.
4. Packaging and labelling of dangerous chemical substances and preparations, and
chemical substances in general
Chemicals and chemical preparations are as a rule delivered by the manufacturer in the
correct packaging. This packaging is designed to fulfil requirements for safe transport and
storage. Generally:

The packaging must be designed to prevent the escape of dangerous substances and
preparations threatening human health or the natural environment
 Labelling of dangerous substances and preparations must be prominently and legibly
displayed on the packaging or in the form of applied label, and must contain the following
information:






the chemical and, if any, commercial name of the substance
the commercial name of the preparation, and the chemical name of any dangerous
substances causing the preparation to be classified as dangerous
the name, title, headquarters, telephone number, and other identifying information
about the producer of the chemical substance (if contained in the faculty’s own
packaging, then the identification information of the FS).
hazard symbols corresponding to the classification of dangerous substances or
materials (see Appendix 1)
labelling of the specific risk level of dangerous substances or preparations (Rphrases) (see appendix 2)
instructions for safe handling of dangerous substance or preparation (S-phrases)
(see appendix 3)
These requirements for the content of labels on
commercial packaging are usually complied with;
however, it must be remembered that each producer
may have a slightly different content on their labels.
In the event substitute packaging is created (i.e., if
the old one is broken, if the chemical is transferred
into a smaller container, etc.), a label must created
for the new container. The FS has the appropriate
software available for this purpose at every
department. An example of a label produced for the
FS is shown here.
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
The label describing the dangerous substance must show the following (one of these
variants is applied):



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a hazard symbol and letter indication of the substance’s dangerous properties
a hazard symbol and an explicit description of the danger
in certain situations the letter indication is equivalent to the hazard symbol of the
dangerous properties
If the sticker is of small size it is possible to use following hazard symbols instead of those
in brackets:
 T > (Xn, Xi, C)
 C > (Xn, Xi)
 E > (F+, F, O)
 Xn > (Xi)

If a solution of substances is prepared using chemical substances and preparations taken
from the original packaging, these solutions must be properly and indelibly marked; for
example, 0.5 M NaOH.
 Chemicals in packaging that does not give clear information about the content must be
disposed of in a qualified manner.
5. The Safety Data Sheet
The Safety Data Sheet (henceforth only SDS) is a summary of information about the
producer or importer of a dangerous substance or preparation, about the substance or
preparation itself, and the information necessary for the protection of human health and the
natural environment.
The SL must be in the Czech language, and must be part of the delivery of the chemical
substance or material. It is recommended to request it the first time a substance is ordered.
When re-ordering it is not necessary to request another SDS. The SDSs for the exact same
substance can differ supplier to supplier of these chemicals.

before beginning work with a chemical substance, it is necessary to read through the
safety data sheet, especially for:
the properties of the chemical or material
possible risks (R-phrases)
principles for handling chemical substance or material (S-phrases)
risk of bodily contamination
exposure limits
symptoms of contamination by substance
information for providing first aid
information on how to extinguish possible fire
information on how to dispose of chemical waste and no-longer-used
containers
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6. Qualification of personnel for handling highly toxic substances
According to Law No. 258/2000 Sb., a physical person qualified to handle highly toxic
substances is:

-

A university graduate
in the areas of general medicine, pharmacy, veterinary medicine and hygiene, in the
various fields of chemistry, and in the fields of education focusing on chemistry (for this
category, qualification applies from 1.4.2005)
of other fields, if they have documentation of having taken special training for work in the
field of health care, or documentation of continuing education in the field of toxicology
Other physical persons who have successfully taken a test of specialized training, and
have a certificate from the agencies protecting public health. Physical persons older than
18 years with permanent residence in the Czech Republic may apply to take the test.
7. Conditions for handling dangerous chemical substances and preparations

Physical persons who in the course of their employment or preparation for employment
handle dangerous chemical substances or preparations classified as very toxic, toxic,
corrosive, or carcinogenic (R-phrase label 45 or 49), mutagens (R-phrase 46), and toxic
for reproduction (R-phrase 60 or 61), must be certifiably acquainted with the dangerous
properties of chemical substances and chemical preparations they work with, the
principles of health protection and environmental protection against their harmful effects,
and the basic principles of first aid.
 No legal or physical person (no one!) may sell, give, or in any other way provide another
legal or physical person highly toxic substances and preparations if these persons are not
qualified to handle these substances or products in accordance with Law No. 258/2000..
 If employees of legal or physical persons handle highly toxic substances and
preparations, they must be professionally qualified to do so under Law No. 258/2000, or
physical persons directly handling highly toxic substances must be certifiably trained by
a professionally qualified person.

Storage and record keeping of highly toxic substances:
-
Highly toxic chemical substances and preparations must be stored in lockable places,
secured against theft and access by unauthorized persons.
In storage, confusion of or mutually-harmful interaction between different chemical
substances and preparations must be prevented, and they must be prevented from escaping
into the environment and endangering human health.
Legal persons and physical persons engaged in business activities must keep records on
the handling of highly toxic substances and preparations.
Records must be kept separately for each highly toxic substance or preparation.
Records must contain information on amounts of the substances received and disbursed,
stocks on-hand, and the names of persons (title or firm) to whom the substance or material
was issued.
-
-
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-
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Records must be archived for at least 5 years after supplies are drawn down to zero of the
chemical substance or preparation.
Ledgers for record keeping on dangerous substances and preparations, and other paper
documents, must be maintained so that the information contained may not be altered later;
incorrect information must be corrected such that the original entry remains legible.
For handling other toxic, corrosive, carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic for reproduction
substances, persons must be certifiably trained to the same extent as for the use of highly
toxic chemical substances and preparations.
8. Storage and security of dangerous substances and preparations

Dangerous substances may be stored only in places designated for that purpose, in the
prescribed amounts and in safe containers with clearly-marked safety information. The
storage of substances that could negatively interact with one another must be avoided.
 Substances and preparations falling into the category of very toxic and toxic may be
stored in the same area with other substances and materials only if they are stored in
locked containers intended exclusively for that use (locked metal cabinet).
 The director of the department or a designated employee with professional qualifications
are responsible for seeing to it that dangerous substances and preparations are protected
from access by unauthorized individuals. The loss or theft of dangerous substances and
preparations must be reported to the dean of the faculty.
 Unprocessed or unused dangerous substances and preparations must after the end of work
be returned to their reliably secured storage areas.
9. Chemical waste and its disposal
Rules for handling waste are found in Appendix 6.
10. Training of students and university employees on how to handle dangerous
chemical substances must be repeated each year for all employees and students
 Training for students of the appropriate programs and fields of study is set down in
the student plan and is mandatory (students must enroll in the course).
 For 1st-year students training is provided in the form of two-hour lectures. Students of
higher classes are not required to attend these lectures, and may obtain the required
information at the website http://rect.muni.cz/nso/
 All students must demonstrate their knowledge of the instructions for handling
dangerous chemical substances in a test that is made available at the appropriate time
at the above website. The results of the test are electronically archived.
a) general introduction to the properties of dangerous chemical substances.
b) principles of health and environmental protection against their harmful effects
c) principles of first aid
d) how to handle dangerous chemical substances and preparations in MU
e) disposal of chemical waste
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Appendixes:
1. Hazard symbols
2. R-phrases
3. S-phrases
4. Laboratory rules for students working on practical exercises
5. Working in the laboratory - general principles
6. Waste disposal instructions
7. List of departments where dangerous substances are used (unspecified)
8. First aid – general instructions
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APPENDIXES
17
Appendix 1
HAZARD SYMBOLS (ORIGINALLY ORANGE COLOURED)
18
Appendix 2
R-PHRASES
19
20
Appendix 3
S-PHRASES
21
22
Appendix 4
LABORATORY RULES for students working on practical exercises
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Students are required to come to the exercise on time and properly prepared. They must
already have made the necessary calculations, understand the procedure, and know the
properties of the substances with which they will work (state of aggregation, toxicity,
flammability, etc.). This knowledge must be obtained from the literature or from available
databases, for example. If it becomes apparent that the student is not prepared for the task
in any aspect, he will not be allowed to conduct the task.
Each student must have his own laboratory coat and suitable work shoes, and is
required to use for the entire duration of the exercise protective glasses or other
prescribed protective equipment (shield, gloves, etc.).
In the laboratory the student works under the guidance of the leader of the exercise or
instructor, and may only engage in work involved with carrying out the exercise. He may
use only the designated area and designated instruments for which he is personally
responsible. It is not allowed to take laboratory instruments or chemicals out of the
laboratory.
In doing their work students will obey the instructions of the exercise’s leader. Any
damage to instruments or laboratory equipment must be paid by the student if it results
from gross breach of workplace discipline.
The student will begin his own task only after control of the apparatus by the teacher or
instructor. Students may not change the prescribed work procedure without consultation.
In case of doubt, the problem is to be consulted first with the teacher or instructor.
Before beginning work, each student will check the completeness of the equipment in his
work area. After the end of work, students will return the workplace to its original
condition, and hand it over to the instructor or teacher. All defects discovered before the
beginning of work or during the course of work will be promptly reported by the student
to the leader of the exercise.
Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited in the laboratory. It is also prohibited to
use laboratory vessels for the storage of food. There is usually an area set aside for eating
outside the laboratory.
It is prohibited to pick up chemicals with the unprotected hand; proper laboratory gear
must be used, such as rubber gloves. Safety pipettes must be used for corrosive and
poisonous substances. When handling substances in open containers (such as test tubes),
the mouth of the container must be turned away from the face, and care must be taken not
to direct it at nearby persons.
The work table must be kept in order; all waste must be periodically removed.
All handling of fume-producing or irritating substances, poisons, and volatile substances
must be carried out in the fume chamber with the ventilator turned on. The pouring from
one container to another of fine granular chemicals must be done here as well (for
example, the products of synthesis produced during the exercise).
If any chemical, especially poisonous, is also flammable or explosive, it must be stored
according to the regulations both for poisons and for flammables or explosives.
Containers with aggressive substances may not be stored at a height greater than 165 cm
above the floor.
When distilling flammables it is necessary to remove supply bottles containing flammable
liquids and other chemicals to a safe distance away, and extinguish all sources of flame in
the area ([Bunsen burners, water heaters, pilot lights, etc.). Do not heat flammables with a
23
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
burner. When heating flammables a water bath, other type of bath, or a electric hot plate or
heating nest must be used. The heating of some highly flammable substances (such as
diethylether, carbon disulfide, etc.) may be carried out only in a water bath. Fire fighting
equipment must be available nearby.
Before and during distillation, the flow of cooling water must be monitored so that vapor
does not escape into the area.
If an oil bath is used during heating, temperatures must be kept below the ignition point.
For this reason, a thermometer must always be placed in the oil bath. If water penetrates
into the oil bath, the heating must be stopped and the bath must be changed immediately.
Do not pour down the drain solutions of heavy metals, organic solvents, waste oils, and
other substances that do not mix with water. Acids and lyes may be disposed of in this
manner only after thorough dilution with water. Waste vessels prepared ahead of time
serve to dispose of dangerous wastes. Disposal of these wastes is then carried out
centrally.
Glass shards and other sharp-edged waste materials must be deposited in vessels
specifically intended for that purpose. Used filters and other solid waste is deposited in
vessels specifically intended for that purpose.
All minor injuries, as well as headaches, ringing in the ears, etc. must be immediately
reported to the leader of the exercise.
When work is completed, check the gas and water valves and turn off all electrical
equipment. Also check whether the containers with the chemicals are sealed, and stored
in their proper places. The workplace and all glass vessels used must be clean.
Work in the laboratory is prohibited for pregnant women and mothers for up to 9 months
after giving birth. Female students are required to notify the leader of the exercise of
possible pregnancy.
24
Appendix 5
GENERAL WORK SAFETY PRINCIPLES IN THE LABORATORY
1. Operations at all workplaces where substances or preparations harmful to the health
are handled must be organized in such a way that these substances pose no threat to
the personnel at these departments or neighbouring departments, pose no threat to
surface or ground water, and do not escape into the air in health-threatening
concentrations; in other words, the maximum admissible concentration for the
workplace may not be exceeded. Emergency materials must be available in case of
accident.
2. The main principle in working with harmful substances and preparations is to
preventively rule out all possibility of poisoning (preventing the possibility of direct
contact by employees with these substances), to use all the necessary protective
measures (protective glasses, gloves, face masks, face shields, etc.), and observe all
safety regulations.
3. It is not permitted to eat, drink, or smoke while working with hazardous substances.
Before eating, drinking, and smoking during breaks and after work, personnel must
thoroughly wash face and hands; according to the nature of the work, thorough
washing of the entire body may be required. Persons who work in protective clothing
may not eat or drink for the entire time they are wearing the clothing.
4. The principles of proper work in the laboratory must be observed.
5. If spillage of a harmful substance occurs, steps must be taken at once to neutralize it.
6. Corrosives may not be stored at a greater than shoulder height of the person working
with them (max. storage height 165 cm).
7. When pouring chemicals (acids, lyes, corrosives, etc.) from glass vessels or
demijohns, stands must be used to safely mount these vessels so they can be steadily
tipped when pouring into smaller containers. A siphoning mechanism that does not
produce excess pressure may be used instead of a tipping stand. Personnel must
protect themselves with face shield, rubber apron, and rubber shoes.
8. Before dilution, acid is always poured into water, and not the other way around. The
acid is poured slowly and carefully, especially sulfuric acid.
9. When dissolving solid hydroxide, the hydroxide must be poured into the water a little
bit at a time while constantly stirring. Never pour water onto the hydroxide.
10. Spilled nitric acid must not be wiped up with sawdust, rags, or other organic materials.
Before it is removed it must be neutralized or, if this is not possible, at least diluted to
the maximum possible extent. Nitric acid must not be used to clean vessels soiled with
remnants of organic substances (danger of violent reaction, emission of nitrous oxide
and spontaneous combustion).
11. Spilled acids, especially concentrated acids, must first be diluted with water, mildly
neutralized by sprinkling with a carbonate (for example soda, chalk, etc.); or by
applying a diluted alkaline solution, followed by careful rinsing with water so the
liquid can be absorbed using sawdust, rags, etc. When sanitizing the spill, care must be
taken not to contaminate too great an area.
12. Spilled hydrochloric acid must be thoroughly diluted with water, and cleaned up using
non-flammable materials, never cotton or cellulose. The material used to wipe up the
hydrochloric acid must be washed out immediately in running water.
13. Any handling of substances that are fuming, irritating, or emitting badly-smelling or
toxic gases may be undertaken only in the fume chamber.
25
14. Solid chemicals (for example solid carbon dioxide), must never be touched by the
unprotected hand.
15. Corrosive, toxic, or infectious liquids may be pipetted using safety pipettes only, or
else suction equipment that does not allow the liquid to come in contact with the
mouth.
16. In all handling of substances in test tubes and open containers, the mouth of the vessel
must be pointed away from the personnel toward open space.
17. The stoppers of bottles may not be set down on the end that comes into contact with
the substance in the bottle (in order to avoid burning, poisoning, or contamination).
18. Burning or annealing of substances may only be conducted in the fume chamber. This
also applies to the generation of hydrogen sulfide, which is extremely poisonous.
19. Hydrochloric acid must be stored in narrow-necked bottles, and separately from other
chemicals, especially organic. A bottle with hydrochloric acid may not be placed on
wooden shelves, but must be placed on glass, porcelain, ceramic, or other fire-resistant
material or other non-absorbent surfaces, so that any possible trace spillage can be
easily removed.
20. For work with mercury, norm OPE 34 3689 is used (a smooth work surface without
cracks, and with a raised edge; little tubs or bowls should also be placed under the
instruments). Mercury may not be washed down the drain, but must be carefully
collected and disposed of with the use of zinc or sulfur.
21. Chemical containers used for work with toxic substances or corrosives must be
thoroughly rinsed out before further use. Likewise, before bottles containing toxic
substances are disposed of, all the remaining contents therein must be disposed of.
26
Appendix 6
CHEMICAL WASTE AND ITS DISPOSAL


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





Only waste chemicals soluble in water, in amounts not harmful to watercourses or
drainpipes, may be poured down the drain; the same applies to chemical solvents soluble
in water in amounts up to 0.5 l (at least 10 : 1 dilution); acids and hydroxides (diluted 30
times; pH must be within the range 6.5 – 8.5). Corrosives, acids, and hydroxides may
only be poured down the drain with a simultaneous flow of water.
Solvents not soluble in water; toxic, flammable, and explosive substances; concentrated
acids and hydroxides; and compounds releasing toxic or irritating substances upon
contact with water, or solutions of heavy metals may not be poured down the drain.
Chemicals or waste from chemical reactions may not be poured into the hygienic
facilities (washing sinks, toilets, etc.)
Used and waste solvents (neutralized and free of self-igniting substances), concentrated
and contaminated solutions of mineral acids and hydroxides, and solutions of heavy
metals are collected into containers made of suitable material, on the site where they are
generated (laboratory, workplace).
Individual waste containers intended for the collection of a certain type of waste must be
properly and indelibly marked on the label (for example, concentrated mineral acid,
acidic solution of heavy metals, chlorinated solvent).
Dangerously flammable substances must not be placed in waste containers. Do not put
any substances that may cause fire into the waste containers.
Shards and waste with sharp edges must be disposed of only in containers made for that
purpose.
Harmless granular material (chromatographic carriers, for example) may be put in the
waste basket only if wrapped in paper or bags.
Each workplace (section, institute, independent unit) will arrange for centralized waste
collection. Organization of collection and disposal of chemical waste is the
responsibility of the section, independent workplace, or institute that keeps the catalogue
of wastes.
Each workplace will at regular intervals neutralize or liquidate chemical waste as
prescribed by the manufacturer.
Liquidation of waste will be contracted by the individual workplaces to an appropriate
firm that liquidates chemical waste as part of its activities. Charges for liquidation of
waste is paid by the individual workplaces.
Records are kept on the collection of disposal of waste according to type of waste. For
each liquidation of waste a report is submitted to an authorized person (at present Ing.
Hašan), who is responsible for keeping records on liquidation of waste (but not the
physical liquidation itself).
27
Appendix 8:
General instructions for giving first aid
Principles for providing first aid to those exposed to chemical substances
doc. MUDr. Daniela Pelclová, CSc., MUDr. Alexandr Fuchs, CSc., MUDr. Miroslava
Hornychová, CSc., MUDr. Zdeňka Trávníčková, CSc., Jiřina Fridrichovská, prom.
chem.
1. General principles of first aid
In providing first aid the first thing that must be protected is the safety of both the
receiver and provider! By all means avoid chaotic behaviour. The injured should be kept
mentally and physically calm. In providing first aid, the affected person should be kept
warm.
1.1. Quick orientation:
The situation must always be evaluated with a view to your own safety and that of the
injured. Enter a contaminated area only if you have the proper protection ([self-contained
breathing unit], mask with proper filter, backup from other personnel, etc.)
ATTENTION! In the case of poorly-ventilated areas it must always be expected that the
area could be contaminated!
 In handling contaminated clothing or other objects, responsible persons must
always wear the proper protective clothing including gloves.
 First aid should not be given in the place where the accident happened because of
the danger of contamination of the provider
1.2. In situations where life is threatened, first undertake the resuscitation of the
injured and obtain medical assistance.
In these situations where life is in danger, first carry out resuscitation, then seek
medical assistance:
stopped breathing - immediately provide artificial respiration
stopped heart
- immediately provide indirect heart massage
unconsciousness
- lay victim down in stabilized position on side
1.3. Equipment:
For effective first aid, the necessary equipment and materials must be available at the site:
 adequate water (if there is no source of water, an emergency supply of about 10
litres per person),
 blankets or other textile material to protect the victim against chill and to modify
the position of the victim; keep extra reserve clothing including shoes on hand
 first aid kit (contents according to the type of dangerous substances found at the
workplace). The kit’s contents must be replaced before the expiration date of the
medicines and other materials it contains
28
1.4 In case of uncertainty on how to proceed, use the telephone contact for the
Toxicology Information Centre, Na Bojišti 1, 120 00 Praha 2: tel. 224 919 293,
224 915 402; give information on the substances or the composition of the preparation
from the original packaging or from the safety data sheet of the substance or preparation.
1.5. If medical examination is necessary, bring along the original packaging with label, or
the safety data sheet of the given substance or preparation!
2. First aid in the event of contact with corrosives and other substances causing
edema of the lungs
In these situations where life is in danger, first carry out resuscitation, then seek
medical assistance:
stopped breathing - immediately provide artificial respiration
stopped heart
- immediately provide indirect heart massage
unconsciousness
- lay victim down in stabilized position on side
2.1. Inhalation (applies to substances that cause edema of the lungs)

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
move the victim into the fresh air, quickly and with a view to your own safety; do
not let the victim walk!
according to the situation, rinse out mouth or nose with water
change the person’s clothes if they have come into contact with the substance
keep the victim warm
if the situation warrants, call an ambulance
or obtain medical care; the patient must be monitored for at least another 24
hours.
2.2. Contact with eyes (applies to corrosives)
 immediately rinse eyes with flowing water, open eyelid (even by force); if the
victim has contact lenses, take them out immediately. Do not neutralize under
any circumstances!
 rinse for 10-30 minutes from the inner corner of the eye outward, so as not to
contaminate the other eye.
 If the situation warrants, call emergency services.
 or seek medical attention as soon as possible, preferably from a specialist.
 anyone affected must seek medical care, even if the case is minor
2.3. Contact with skin (applies to corrosives)
 immediately remove the affected clothing; before or during washing remove all
rings, watches, and bracelets, if present in the area where the skin is affected
 rinse the affected area with a flow of tepid water if possible for a period of 10-30
minutes; do not use a brush, soap, or neutralizer.
Note: when affected by substances for cauterizing properties, do not use
neutralizing solutions. Inactivating solutions can only be used with some
substances (for example, oil for lithium, sodium, potassium; potash for white
phosphorous; polyethylenglycol for phenols and cresols; calcium gluconate for
hydrofluoric acids and oxalics) or decontaminating powder (with yperite).
 Cover burned parts of the skin with sterile bandage, do not apply cream or other
treatment to the skin
29
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

Cover the patient to keep him warm
If the situation warrants, call emergency services
Or seek medical attention
2.4. Ingestion
 DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING – danger of further damage to the digestive
tract!!! Danger of perforation of esophagus and stomach!
 IMMEDIATELY RINSE OUT MOUTH WITH WATER AND DRINK 2-5 dl of
cool water to ease the thermal effects of the corrosive substance.
 Because of the almost instantaneous effect on the mucous membrane, it is better
to give the victim water from the tap and not waste time trying to find cool liquids
– with each minute the condition is prolonged, the mucous membrane is
irreparably damaged! Soda or mineral waters are not suitable, as they may give
off gaseous carbon dioxide. Larger amounts of water should not be drunk, as this
may induce vomiting and possible breathing of corrosive substance into lungs).
 The victim should not force the drink, especially if he has pain in the mouth or
throat. In that case only rinse the victim’s mouth out with water.
 DO NOT USE CHARCOAL! (the blackening makes medical examination of the
digestive tract difficult and with acids and lyes does not have a positive effect).
 Do not give the person any food
 Do not put anything in the victim’s mouth if he is unconscious or has cramps
 If the situation warrants, call emergency services
 Or seek medical attention as soon as possible
3. First aid after ingestion of substances that may be harmful to lungs (petrol, diesel
fuel, kerosene, turpentine, solvent compounds with gasoline, etc.)
These are substances and preparations containing aliphatic, alicyklic, and aromatic
hydrocarbons, which have low viscosity and low surface tension, and are usually marked
with phrase R 65: Harmful to health; ingestion may cause damage to lungs.
In these situations where life is in danger, first carry out resuscitation, then seek
medical assistance:
stopped breathing - immediately provide artificial respiration
stopped heart
- immediately provide indirect heart massage
unconsciousness
- lay victim down in stabilized position on side
3.1. Inhalation
 end the exposure immediately, move the person into the fresh air (remove
contaminated clothing)
 arrange to keep the person warm
 arrange for medical examination; it will be necessary to maintain observation for
at least 24 hours
3.2. Contact with the skin
 remove contaminated clothing
 rinse the affected area with large amounts of water, tepid if possible
 if the skin has not been damaged, soap, soap solution, or shampoo may be used
30

seek medical care
3.3. Contact with eyes
 immediately rinse the eye with flowing water, open the eyelid (by force if
necessary); if the person has contact lenses, remove them immediately
 keep rinsing for at least 10 minutes
 seek medical help, preferably from a specialist.
3.4. Ingestion
 DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING!
 If the victim vomits, take care he does not inhale vomited material (danger of lung
damage if even the smallest amount of these liquids are inhaled)
 obtain medical treatment, as the patient must often be monitored for at least 24
hours; bring along original container with label, or the safety data sheet of the
given substance.
4. First aid in case of contact with substances classified as toxic and highly toxic
In these situations where life is in danger, first carry out resuscitation, then seek
medical assistance:
stopped breathing - immediately provide artificial respiration
stopped heart
- immediately provide indirect heart massage
unconsciousness
- lay victim down in stabilized position on side
4.1. Inhalation
 end the exposure immediately, and move the person into the fresh air (be careful
of contaminated clothing)
 after exposure to hydrocyanic acids, have the victim inhale 1 or 2 ampoules of
Nitramyl (amylium nitrosum)
 Arrange to keep the person warm
 If the situation warrants, call emergency services
 and always get a medical examination
4.2. Contact with the skin
 remove contaminated clothing
 rinse the affected area with large amounts of water, tepid if possible
 if the skin is not damaged, soap, soap solution, or shampoo may be used
 if the situation warrants, call emergency services
 and always obtain a medical examination
4.3. Contact with the eyes
 immediately rinse the eye under flowing water; keep the eyelid open (by force if
necessary); if the victim is wearing contact lenses, take them out immediately.
 rinse for at least 10 minutes
 call emergency services
31
4.4. Ingestion
 AFTER INGESTING ANY HIGHLY TOXIC, SOME TOXIC, AND
SPECIFIC DANGEROUS
SUBSTANCES, of which consumption of
amounts less than a gram or one gulp (30 ml) is life threatening) INDUCE
VOMITING (especially with cyanides, some anorganic metal salts, paraquat,
diquat, methyl alcohol, some organic solvents – benzene, tetrachloramethane,
chloroform, carbon disulfide, and other substances).
To induce vomiting: Induce vomiting only if subject is conscious, and within 1
hour after ingestion. Drink 1 – 2 dl of tepid water with a teaspoon of liquid soap
and powdered or crushed active charcoal, about 5 tablets equivalent. A larger
amount of water is not desirable, because if vomiting does not occur, the extra
water will help to dissolve and metabolize harmful substances soluble in water,
and washes the toxic substance even deeper into the digestive tract.
 If you are not sure whether to induce vomiting, contact the Toxicology
Information Centre and give them the data on the substances or preparations from
the original package or from the safety data sheet of the substance or preparation.
 AFTER INGESTING TOXIC OR HIGHLY TOXIC SUBSTANCES EAT
WITHIN 5 MINUTES 10-20 CRUSHED TABLETS OF ACTIVE CHARCOAL
MIXED IN WATER – regardless of whether vomiting has been successfully
induced or not
 if cyanide has been ingested, inhale 1-2 ampoules of Nitramyl (amylium
nitrosum)
 call emergency services
5. First aid in case of contact with substances classified as harmful to health
5.1. Inhalation
 immediately end the exposure, move the person into the fresh air
 see that the person is kept warm
 obtain medical attention, especially if there is a persistent cough, shortness of
breath, or other symptoms
5.2. Contact with skin
 remove contaminated clothing
 wash the affected area with large amounts of water, tepid if possible
 if the skin has not been damaged, soap, soap solution, or shampoo may be used
 get medical attention, especially if skin irritation persists
5.3. Contact with eyes
 immediately rinse eye with flowing water, keep eye open (by force if necessary);
if the person has contact lenses, remove them immediately.
 rinse eye for at least 10 minutes
 get medical attention, from a specialist if possible
5.4. Ingestion
32



DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING – the inducing vomiting itself may cause
complications (inhalation of substance into lungs and respiratory system or
mechanical damage to mucous membranes in the esophagus may cause more
hazard than the ingested substance itself)
if possible, eat about 5 crushed tablets of medicinal charcoal
seek medical attention
6. First aid in case of contact with substances classified as irritants
6.1. Inhalation
 end exposure immediately, move affected person into the fresh air
 take measures to keep affected person warm
 seek medical attention if irritation, shortness of breath, or other symptoms persist
6.2. Contact with skin
 remove contaminated clothing
 wash affected area with large amounts of water, tepid if possible
 if skin is not injured, soap, soap solution, or shampoo may be used
 seek medical attention if skin irritation persists
Note: If the substance adheres to the skin and cannot be removed with water and washing
agent or edible oil (quick-drying glue, for example), do not remove it by force, but have it
done by a specialist.
6.3. Contact with eye
 immediately rinse eye with flowing water, keep eye open (by force if necessary);
if the person has contact lenses, remove them immediately.
 rinse eye for at least 10 minutes
 get medical attention, from a specialist if possible
Note: if the substance adheres to the eyelid and cannot be removed with water, do not
remove it by force; instead seek qualified medical attention.
6.4. Ingestion
 DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING – the inducing vomiting itself may cause
complications (inhalation of substance into lungs and respiratory system, for
example, detergents or other substances producing foam; or mechanical damage
to mucous membranes in the esophagus)
 if possible, eat 1 – 2 crushed tablets of active charcoal
 for persons without symptoms, contact by telephone the Toxicology Information
Centre on whether medical examination is necessary; give the information about
the substance or preparation from the original label or from the safety data sheet
of the substance or preparation
 persons experiencing health problems should seek medical attention.***
33
USEFUL REFERENCES
Masaryk University
Establishment of organizations safeguarding work safety and protection of health at MU.
Directive No. 6/06
https://inet.muni.cz/proxy/rec/smernice/smernice06_2006.doc
ORGANIZATION OF FIRE PROTECTION
AT MASARYK UNIVERSITY
RECTOR’S DIRECTIVE No. 4/05
https://inet.muni.cz/proxy/rec/smernice/smernice04_05_doc.doc
RULES OF OPERATION
FACULTY OF SCIENCE, MU IN BRNO
Article 5:
Protection of health at work– protective work clothing
Appendix 1: List of personal protective work equipment used at the Faculty of Science, MU
in Brno
[RULES OF OPERATION]
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCE, MU IN BRNO
Part Ten:
SAFETY AND HEALTH PROTECTION IN THE WORKPLACE
Part Twelve:
EXTRAORDINARY WORK CONDITIONS
34
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Emergency telephone numbers
Fire Department
Police ČR
Emergency Medical Services
150
158
155
112
Telephone numbers of emergency repair services
electrical
gas
water
steam
840 111 222
1239
543 212 537
545 162 811
Toxicology Information Centre, University Hospital and 1. FM UK
(Na Bojišti 1, 120 00 Praha 2)
tel. 224 91 9 293, 224 915 402
Fire reporting centres
Address
Location
Internal
telephone
External
telephone
reception
1410
54949 1410
Faculty of Medicine
Kamenice 3, Brno
1312
54949 1312
reception
1310
reception
1314
549 49 1310
549 49 1314
543 212 377
545 211 529
543 211 590
Faculty of Science, MU
FS MU complex, Kotlářská 2, Brno
Bohunice campus
ILBIT A2, A3, A4, A6, Kamenice 5,
Brno
Faculty of Medicine, MU
FM MU, Komenského nám. 2, Brno
- address Tomešova 12, Brno
- address Bieblova 16, Brno
Medicinal Plant Centre
Údolní 74, Brno
35