DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY
TEACHING LAB EXPERIMENT RISK ASSESSMENT FORM
This form must be completed jointly by the Lab Officer in charge and the Lecturer in charge. A
hardcopy of the completed form should be kept in a file together with the Project Risk
Assessment.
Name of Lecturer in Charge
Name of Lab Officer in Charge
Module / Expt No.
A/P Chuah Gaik Khuan
Activity being assessed:
Tan Lay San
CM3193/94
Inorganic Project
Synthesis of Bis-[1-Dimethylamino-2-Propanolato] Copper (II) Cu(DMAP)2
Known or expected hazards associated with the activity:
Hazards of reagents, solvents and known reaction products.
State each substance and the approximate amounts to be used/produced.
List of activities involved in this experiment which inevitably entail risks. The following are the
activities being use:
1)
Glass Apparatus. Refer to prepared risk assessment on Use of Glassware
2)
Hotplate/Stirrer, Melting Point Apparatus, Rotamantle, Oven. Refer to prepared risk
assessment on Use of Laboratory Heating Equipment
3)
Electricity. Refer to prepared risk assessment on Use of Standard Electrical Equipment
4)
Rotary Evaporator, High Vacuum Pump, Vacuum & N2 Line. Refer to prepared risk
assessment on Use of Reduced Pressure or Vacuum
5)
Fume Hood. Refer to prepared risk assessment on Use of Fume Hoods
6)
Cannula, Knife. Refer to prepared risk assessment on Use and Disposal of "Sharps"
7)
Quenching of Sodium: It must be done in a fume hood in the absence of water or solvents
as
they
may
result
in
uncontrollable
flame
or
explosion.
Refer
to
http://www.chemistry.nus.edu.sg/PSSO/safety/SafetyPrac.htm
8)
Waste disposal: All organic waste have to be disposed of in the appropriately labelled
waste container placed in a secondary containment housed under the designated fume
hood.
Copper (II) Oxide: 3.2 g (0.0402mol)
Warning! Harmful if swallowed. Causes respiratory tract, eye and skin irritation. Contains
material which causes damage to the following organs: respiratory tract, skin, eye, lens or
cornea.
Toluene: 20 mL
DANGER! Flammable liquid and vapor. Vapor may cause flash fire. May be fatal if swallowed.
Harmful if inhaled. Causes respiratory tract, eye and skin irritation. Causes damage to the
following organs: kidneys, liver, respiratory tract, skin, central nervous system, eye, lens or
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cornea.
Routes of Entry: Absorbed through skin. Dermal contact. Eye contact. Inhalation. Ingestion.
n-Hexane (dried over Calcium Hydride, CaH2): 100 mL
Extremely flammable liquid and vapour. Vapour may cause flash fire. Aspiration hazard if
swallowed- can enter lungs and cause damage. Harmful if inhaled or swallowed. Causes
respiratory tract, eye and skin irritation. Causes damage to the following organs: Peripheral
nervous system, respiratory tract, skin, central nervous system, eye, lens or cornea.
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid Monohydrate: 15 g
Corrosive. Causes burns.
Inhalation may result in spasm, inflammation and edema of the larynx and bronchi, chemical
pneumonitis, and pulmonary edema. Symptoms of exposure may include burning sensation,
coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness of breath, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Material
is extremely destructive to tissue of the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, eyes,
and skin.
Sodium Metal: 0.5 g (0.0217 mol)
Harmful if swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through skin. Material is extremely destructive to
tissue of the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, eyes and skin. Inhalation may be
fatal as a result of spasm, inflammation and edema of the larynx and bronchi, chemical
pneumonitis and pulmonary edema. Symptoms of exposure may include a burning sensation,
coughing and vomiting.
Dimethylamino-2-propanol: 2.24 g (0.0217 mol)
Yellow liquid with amine odor
Danger! Flammable liquid and vapor. Causes eye and skin burns. May cause blindness.
Causes digestive tract burns. May be harmful if swallowed. May be harmful if absorbed through
skin. Inhalation and skin contact are expected to be the primary routes of occupational exposure
to this material.
Purified Argon & Purified Nitrogen
Argon & nitrogen are colorless, odorless gases. The main health hazard associated with
releases of this gas is asphyxiation, by displacement of oxygen.
Symptoms of over-exposure by route of Exposure: The most significant route of over-exposure
for this gas is by inhalation.
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice): ~ 2 pieces
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This solid sublimates to gas quickly at standard temperatures and pressures, forming a fog in
air. As a result, the main hazards associated with Carbon Dioxide are related to Carbon Dioxide
gas formation and the cold temperature of the solid and evolved gas.
Contact with solid Carbon Dioxide or cold gas can cause frostbite to skin, eyes, and other
exposed tissue. Carbon Dioxide gas evolved from the sublimation of the solid is an asphyxiant
and a powerful cerebral vasodilator.
*amount stated are computed for the whole experiment.
Incompatible materials (special precautions):
Copper (II) Oxide
Reactive with reducing agents, metals.
Toluene:
Materials to Avoid: Reactive with oxidizing agents, acids.
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides (CO, CO2).
n-Hexane
Reactive with oxidizing agents.
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid Monohydrate
Conditions to Avoid: Protect from moisture.
Materials to Avoid: Strong oxidizing agents, Strong bases.
Sodium Metal
Forms sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate and hydrogen gas on exposure to moist air
Incompatibilities: Water, oxygen, halogen, acetylene, aluminum halides, ammonium salts,
oxides, oxidizers, acids, chlorinated organic compounds.
Refer to http://www.chemistry.nus.edu.sg/PSSO/index.htm#undergrad
Dimethylamino-2-propanol
Avoid contact with oxidizers, perchlorates, nitrates and peroxides as violent reaction may occur.
Purified Argon
Normally stable, inert gas.
Condition to Avoid: Avoid exposing cylinders to extremely high temperatures, which could cause
the cylinders to rupture.
Purified Nitrogen
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Stability: Normally stable in gaseous state.
Materials with which substance is incompatible: Titanium is the only element that will burn in
Nitrogen. Lithium reacts slowly with Nitrogen at ambient temperatures.
Conditions to avoid: Contact with incompatible materials. Cylinders exposed to high
temperatures or direct flame can rupture or burst.
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice)
Materials with which substance is incompatible: Carbon Dioxide will ignite and explode when
heated with powdered aluminum, beryllium, cerium alloys, chromium, magnesium-aluminum
alloys, manganese, thorium, titanium, and zirconium. In the presence of moisture, Carbon
Dioxide will ignite with cesium oxide. Metal acetylides will also ignite and explode on contact
with Carbon Dioxide. Carbon Dioxide will react with alkaline materials to form carbonates and
bicarbonates.
Conditions to avoid: Avoid exposing containers of solid Carbon Dioxide to elevated
temperatures, which could cause rapid loss of product.
The risk of injury and its severity likely to arise from these hazards:
Copper (II) Oxide
Eyes: Hazardous in case of eye contact (irritant). Inflammation of the eye is characterized by
redness, watering, and itching.
Skin: Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant). Skin inflammation is characterized by itching,
scaling, reddening, or, occasionally, blistering.
Inhalation: Hazardous in case of inhalation (lung irritant).
Indigestion: Hazardous in case of ingestion.
Toluene, n-Hexane,
Skin Contact: Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant). Skin inflammation is characterized by
itching, scaling, reddening, or, occasionally, blistering.
Eye Contact: Hazardous in case of eye contact (irritant). Inflammation of the eye is
characterized by redness, watering, and itching.
Inhalation: Hazardous in case of inhalation (lung irritant).
Ingestion: Extremely hazardous in case of ingestion. May be fatal if swallowed.
Aggravated by Overexposure: Repeated exposure to a highly toxic material may produce
general deterioration of health by an accumulation in one or many human organs.
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid Monohydrate & Sodium Metal
Skin Contact: Causes burns.
Skin Absorption: May be harmful if absorbed through the skin.
Eye Contact: Causes burns.
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Inhalation: Material is extremely destructive to the tissue of the mucous membranes and upper
respiratory tract. May be harmful if inhaled.
Ingestion: May be harmful if swallowed.
Dimethylamino-2-propanol
Vapors may be severely irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract and may produce
temporary blurring of vision, eye injury, skin rashes (dermatitis), coughing, shortness of breath
and breathing difficulties. If swallowed, this material may cause severe irritation and injury to the
mouth, throat and upper digestive tract with nausea and vomiting. Medical conditions which may
be aggravated by exposure to this material include lung disease or limited respiratory capacity.
Purified Argon & Purified Nitrogen
Inhalation: High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment.
Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches,
ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of
all the senses.
Under some circumstances of over-exposure, death may occur, due to the displacement of
oxygen. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows:
Concentration symptom of exposure
12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly
disturbed.
10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration.
6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness.
Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.
Health effects or risks from exposure: Over-exposure to Argon may cause the following health
effects:
ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is inhalation of oxygen-deficient
atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears,
headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, headache, dizziness, indigestion, nausea, and, at
high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. The skin of a victim of overexposure may have a blue color.
CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic
exposure to Argon.
TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice)
At low concentrations, inhalation of Carbon Dioxide can cause nausea, dizziness, visual
disturbances, shaking, headache, mental confusion, sweating, increased heartbeat, and
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elevated blood pressure and respiratory rate. High concentrations of the in air may cause eye
irritation. Contact of the evolved gas with the eyes can cause damage to the retinal ganglion
cells.
Who is at risk?
Persons handling the chemicals and as well as those present in the vicinity.
Measure to be taken to reduce the level of risk:
Proper laboratory attire and safety measures must always be used in order to reduce the level
of risk. Material should be handled or transferred in an approved fume hood or with adequate
ventilation Wash hands thoroughly after handling. Do not take internally. Eye wash and safety
equipment should be readily available.
Eye protection: Chemical safety goggles.
Hand protection: Gloves.
Refer to PSSO SAFETY Information Center website:
http://www.chemistry.nus.edu.sg/PSSO/index.htm#undergrad
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice)
Refer to prepared risk assessments on handling, transportation and storage of liquid nitrogen
and other cryogenic material of Solid Carbon Dioxide.
http://www.chemistry.nus.edu.sg/PSSO/safety/CryoSafety.htm
Training prerequisites:
This assessment should be read by everyone who will be using the above mentioned
chemicals.
Refer to Completed Risk Assessment forms for common activities:
http://www.chemistry.nus.edu.sg/PSSO/safety/risk/risk.htm#Common
Level of risk remaining:
The level of risk is low although constant vigilance is necessary to avoid injury.
Emergency action if :
Spill:
Copper (II) Oxide
Small Spill & Leak: Use appropriate tools to put the spilled solid in a convenient waste disposal
container.
Large Spill & Leak: Stop leak if without risk. Do not get water inside container. Do not touch
spilled material. Use water spray to reduce vapors. Prevent entry into sewers, basements or
confined areas; dike if needed.
Toluene, n-Hexane
Small Spill & Leak: Absorb with an inert material and put the spilled material in an appropriate
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waste disposal.
Large Spill & Leak: Keep away from heat. Keep away from sources of ignition. Stop leak if
without risk. Absorb with DRY earth, sand or other non-combustible material. Do not get water
inside container. Do not touch spilled material. Use water spray to reduce vapors. Prevent entry
into sewers, basements or confined areas; dike if needed.
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid Monohydrate
Sweep up, place in a bag and hold for waste disposal. Ventilate area and wash spill site after
material pickup is complete.
Sodium Metal
Before dealing with spillages take necessary protective measures, inform others to keep at a
safe distance and, for flammable materials, shut off all possible sources of ignition. Cover
liberally with dry soda ash, transfer into dry container and transport to safe, open area. Add, a
little at a time, to a large excess of dry propan-2-ol and leave to stand for at least 24 hours.
Arrange for removal by disposal company.
Dimethylamino-2-propanol
In Case of Spill or Leak: Extinguish or turn off all ignition sources. Ventilate the space involved.
Collect with non-sparking tools to a suitable container. Prevent waterway contamination. Absorb
liquid onto inert absorbent and place in DOT approved drums for disposal.
Purified Argon & Purified Nitrogen
Leak response: Evacuate immediate area. Uncontrolled releases should be responded to by
trained personnel using pre-planned procedures. Proper protective equipment should be used.
In case of a leak, clear the affected area, protect people, and respond with trained personnel.
Locate and seal the source of the leaking gas. Allow the gas, which is lighter than air to
dissipate.
Apparatus. If leaking incidentally from the cylinder or its valve, contact your supplier.
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice)
Pickup and immediately place solid pieces of dry ice in an appropriate, thermally-insulated,
vented container. Alternatively, allow the solid to sublimate and the gas which is generated to
dissipate.
Fire:
Copper (II) Oxide
Non-flammable.
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Toluene, n-Hexane & Dimethylamino-2-propanol
Fire Hazards in Presence of Various Substances: Flammable in presence of open flames,
sparks and static discharge, of shocks, of heat, of oxidizing materials.
Small Fire: Use DRY chemical powder.
Large Fire: Use alcohol foam, water spray or fog. Cool containing vessels with water jet in order
to prevent pressure build-up, autoignition or explosion.
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid Monohydrate
Non-flammable.
Sodium Metal
Flammable solid. May ignite on contact with water and moisture evolving in highly flammable
gases. Ignites spontaneously in dry air when heated.
Extinguishing Media: Soda ash, sodium chloride, graphite. DO NOT USE WATER. Wear selfcontained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.
Purified Argon & Purified Nitrogen
Unusual fire and explosion hazards: Argon & nitrogen does not burn; however, containers,
when involved in fire, may rupture or burst in the heat of the fire.
Solid Carbon Dioxide (Dry Ice)
Non-combustible.
Is the experiment suitable for out-of-hours operation ?
Yes
References if any:

Cuprous oxide: http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9923605

Toluene: http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9927301

n-Hexane: http://www.cpchem.com/msds/100000000434_SDS_KR_EN.PDF

p-Toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate:
http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9927302

Sodium metal: https://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/92022.htm

1-Dimethylamino-2-propanol: http://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/23301.htm

Argon: http://www.airgas.com/documents/pdf/001004.pdf

Nitrogen: http://www.isocinfo.com/DocumentRoot/13/Nitrogen.pdf

Dry ice: http://dryiceandgases.com/forms/dry_ice_msds.pdf
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No
Signature of Lab Officer in Charge:………………………………………………………………..
Date:…………………………
Signature of Lecturer in Charge:………… ……………………………………..
Date:… ……………………..
Prepared Risks Assessments for standard equipment and operation are with the kind permission of Dr. Ken MacNeil,
School of Chemistry, University of Bristol.
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Activity being assessed:
Note any activity to be used which entail risk (e.g. use of glass vacuum apparatus, high pressures, high
voltage, radiation, high temperatures). Give reference to any special protocols to be followed, and if
appropriate attach copies to the risk assessment form. State any additional precautions taken to minimise
risk.
Known or expected hazards associated with the activity:
FOR EACH CHEMICAL, read the MSDS and note:a) Particular hazards (e.g. highly toxic, carcinogenic, corrosive, flammable, pyrophoric, explosive, volatile,
dust hazard). Note any dangerous combinations of properties (e.g. volatile and toxic).
b) Requirements for safe handling (e.g. fume cupboard, inert atmosphere, low temperature).
c) How to dispose of residuals
 Dispose to drain, with water dilution
 Neutralise, then to drain with suitable dilution
 To flammable liquid waste receptacle
 To non-flammable liquid waste receptacle
 Keep for recovery/recycling
 Keep for special disposal later (e.g. heavy metals)
 Double bag and dispose to dry waste
 Special procedure (specify)
Incompatible materials (special precautions)
Note any dangerously incompatible materials and hazards arising from contact of any reagents and
substances used with common materials such as paper, benches, hoses, etc.
Measures to be taken to reduce the level of risk
Include hazards of previously unknown products.
Location of work – laboratory, open bench, fume cupboard
Level of risk remaining:
Likelihood and consequences of any accident or unforeseen events whilst carrying out the activity. When
this has been done, choose the appropriate procedure:a) Close supervision and/or attendance of trained first-aider needed.
b) Specific approval of supervisor needed.
c) Training is needed prior-to or during the operations specified.
d) Training is complete and only general laboratory competence required.
e) No risk perceived.
Emergency action:
a) Any special requirements to deal with accidental spillage or leakage.
b) What to do in the event of accidental exposure (skin contact, inhalation, etc.).
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