College of Life Sciences & Medicine
(CLSM)
Teaching Facility
Health & Safety Policy
Acknowledgement – Much of the material in this document is derived from safety
handbooks produced over the years by safety advisers both in Aberdeen and in other
Universities
Useful telephone numbers
Fire Brigade/Police & Ambulance………………………9-999
University Safety Adviser
(Mr. Nigel Corby; n.corby@abdn.ac.uk)…………………………..3894
Assistant University Safety Adviser
(Mrs Stephanie Lodge; s.lodge@abdn.ac.uk)...............................3896
University Security (24-hours)…………………………...3939
Other University Safety Advisors
Mrs. Cathlyn Clark (Teaching Facility) cath.clark@abdn.ac.uk .…...3923
Miss Dorothy MacKinnon (School of Biological Sciences)……………3859
First Aiders
Sheila Jones…………………………………………………….3220
Kevin Bruce …………………………………………………….2856
Jane Poole………………………………………………………………….2856
Bruce Gordon………………………………………………………………2856
(see Appendix I for more contact numbers)
Spillage Response Team (see Appendix II for contact numbers)
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
Contents
Useful telephone numbers
Contents
A) Introduction – Policy Statement from the Director of Teaching &
Learning
B) Health & Safety Organisation in the CLSM Teaching Facility
B.1
Health & Safety Organisation in the Teaching Facility
B.2
Responsibilities of Key Individuals
B.3
Responsibilities of all staff and students
B.4
Safety Committee
C) Review of the Safety Handbook
D) Risk Assessment
D.1
Documenting a risk assessment
D.2
Who should carry out risk assessment?
D.3
Reviewing a risk assessment
E) Undergraduate Students/Teaching Technicians
E.1
Undergraduate students
E.2
Practical work
E.3
Safety in the teaching laboratories
• Low Risk Category Practicals
• Risk Category Practicals
E.4
Prompt sheet for completing a risk assessment form
F) Health and Safety Inspection
F.1
Health and Safety Inspection Checklist
G) Health and Safety Training
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
H) Accidents
H.1
Reporting Procedure
H.2
Accident Form
H.3
Checklist for Accident Investigation
I) Fire Safety
I.1
Fire prevention
I.2
On discovering a fire
I.3
On hearing the fire alarm
I.4
Extinguishers
I.5
Escape routes
I.6
Fire drills and alarm tests
J) Power Failure
K) First Aid
K.1
Minor injuries
K.2
Major Injuries
K.3
First aiders
L) Spillages
M) Waste Disposal
M.1
Solid Waste
M.2
Liquid Waste
N) Inspection and Maintenance of Premises, Equipment & Vehicles
O) Procedures for Specific Hazards
O.1
Lone Working
O.2
Access to Heights
O.3
Autoclaves and Pressure Cookers
O.4
Microwave Ovens
O.5
Biological Safety
O.6
Bunsen Burners
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
O.7
Carcinogens
O.8
Centrifuges
O.9
Chemical Safety
O.10
Dangerous Pathogens and Toxins
O.11
Electrical Equipment
O.12
First Aid - emergencies
O.13
Fume Cupboards
O.14
Glassware
O.15
Highly Flammable Liquids (HFLSs)
O.16
Microbiological Safety Cabinets/Laminarflow Cabinets
O.17
Out of Hours(unattended experiments/equipment)
O.18
Personal Protective Equipment
O.19
Ultra-Violet Radiation
O.20
Computer Workstations
O.21
Manual Handling
O.22
Vehicles and Transport
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
A) Introduction – Policy Statement from the Director of Teaching &
Learning
It is the policy of the CLSM Teaching Facility to take all practical steps to ensure the
health, safety and welfare of all members of staff and students whilst at work in the
teaching laboratories. The contents of this document aim to cover the health and
safety issues of all teaching activities.
The Health and Safety at Work Act, etc.1974 has imposed a statutory obligation on
Universities with regard to safety. The Codes of Practice and regulations which follow
from it provide a legal framework for the promotion of high health and safety
standards at work.
Health and Safety is a Line Management responsibility, nevertheless, the purpose of
the Act is clear, we all as individuals, have a responsibility towards safety. The cooperation of all members of staff and students is essential to meet the objectives
set out in this document.
Safety procedures can always be improved. Members of staff or students are
encouraged to make suggestions for improving health and safety procedures to any
member of the technical staff or The Facilities Safety Adviser. Valid improvements
can be implemented immediately and need not wait for the annual review.
Professor Stephen N Davies
Director of Teaching and Learning
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
Health & Safety Organisation in the Teaching Facility
College of Life Sciences and Medicine Teaching Facility
B.1
Line Management Responsibilities for Safety
CollegeUniversity
Director of
Teaching &
Court
Learning
SMS Head of School/SMD
Head of School
Local Safety Advisor for
Teaching
Teaching Facility Safety
TeachingAdviser
Technical Resources Manager
Team Leader
Programme Co-ordinator
Course Co-ordinator
SBS Safety Advisor

Representati
rRepresentativerepre
sentative
Teaching Team
Chain of Responsibility
SBS Head of School
Practical Organiser
Demonstrators
Students
Liason Route
Advisory Role
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Sept 2014
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
B)
B.2 Responsibilities of Key Individuals
Head of Teaching Facility
•
Provide an effective Health & Safety scheme for the Teaching Facility
•
Ensure the provision of resources necessary to enable the policy to be implemented
•
Commission inspections of the Teaching Facility at least twice a year to monitor
whether the Facility’s Health and Safety Policy arrangements are being complied with
•
Commission an annual review of both the effectiveness of the policy and its implementation
Academic Staff
•
Ensure the safety of technical staff
•
Ensure the safety of undergraduates in practicals and fieldwork
Technical Resource Managers and Team Leaders
•
Be responsible for technical staff
•
Provide necessary training and supervision
•
Be responsible for the safety of cleaners, security staff and visitors
•
Monitor that those under their control are doing as directed
CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser
•
Provide advice to the Director of Teaching and Learning and to all members of the Facility
on health and safety matters.
•
Liaise with the University Safety Adviser and other Health and Safety Advisers.
•
Undertake inspections of the Facility as commissioned by the Director of Teaching and Learning,
co-ordinating the inspections and lead the inspection team.
•
Maintain a collection of health and safety information available for staff to consult.
•
Maintain records of accidents and near misses (no matter how small) and report them to the University
Safety Adviser.
•
Manage Health and Safety records.
Anyone with a health and safety concern should contact the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser or Mrs.
Sheila Jones, the Facility’s Team Leader.
Technical Staff
•
Be responsible for designated areas of the building. Provide training and supervision.
•
Be responsible for maintenance for equipment.
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
B.3 Responsibilities of all staff and students
•
Co-operate and comply with the health and safety arrangements put in place by the University
and the CLSM Teaching Facility.
•
Report to the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser anything that they feel presents a risk
that is not appropriately covered in the Health and Safety Policy.
•
Report to the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser anything that they believe is unsafe and
requires immediate remedial attention.
•
Do all that they can to ensure that their activities do not pose a risk to others.
•
Ensure that anything that is provided for the reasons of health and safety is not interfered with
nor misused. Any defects should be reported immediately to the CLSM Teaching Facility
Safety Adviser or Team Leader, Mrs Sheila Jones.
B.4 Facility Safety
The CLSM Teaching Facility will be affiliated, by reason of location, to the School of Biological Sciences.
The CLSM Teaching Facility will work in conjunction with the School and the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety
Adviser will attend the Health and Safety meetings of the School.
•
Regular CLSM Teaching Facility Team briefs, chaired by the Line Manager, will include health
and safety matters raised by staff and students. Any valid suggestions can be implemented
immediately and need not wait for the annual review.
•
Keep under review the Facility’s health and safety arrangements and make recommendations
to the Director of Teaching and Learning on steps to be taken to ensure the effectiveness of
the CLSM Teaching Facility Health and Safety policy.
•
Formally review the Facility’s health and safety management system every 12 months and
make recommendations for any changes to the Director of Teaching and Learning.
•
Produce minutes of its meetings in a timely manner and publish them along with any
recommendations on the web site.
Particular matters that the team will consider include:
•
Reports of health and safety inspections of the CLSM Teaching Facility.
•
Reports of all accidents and near misses.
•
The adequacy of the CLSM Teaching Facility arrangements for risk assessment.
•
The health and safety content of training for staff and students.
•
Health and Safety information produced for staff and students and its communication.
If any student or member of staff has a health and safety matter, which they wish the technical
team to discuss, they should contact the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser or one of the
members of the technical team.
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
C) Review of the Safety Handbook
Each year this health and safety handbook will be revised and relevant sections reissued, if
necessary, after the annual review of the Facilities Health and Safety arrangements.
Each member of staff will have access, in each laboratory, to a copy of the handbook as well as
access on the web site.
Other health and safety information will be circulated directly to all members of the CLSM
Teaching Facility.
D) Risk Assessment
The purpose of risk assessment is to decrease the likelihood of danger in the laboratory. Risk assessment
is fundamental to the effective management of health and safety. The CLSM Teaching Facility is legally
obliged to ensure that risk assessments are done and the ‘significant findings’ are recorded in writing. The
‘significant findings’ are precautions that need to be taken when doing particular activities. All work with
hazardous substances is prohibited unless a ‘suitable and sufficient’ risk assessment has been carried out .
No risk assessment = no work allowed
D.1 Documenting a risk assessment
Risk assessment is the process of:
1.
Identifying work involving the use of:
• Very toxic, acute or chronic substances.
• Materials which are known sensitisers or carcinogens.
• Moderate toxic substances.
• Any other harmful, corrosive or irritating materials.
• Operation of equipment required to carry out procedures.
2.
Determining how that risk can be decreased to an acceptable level (i.e. working out how the
activity can be done safely)
3.
A good risk assessment is one which concentrates on the main dangers, ignores the trivial
ones and records the ‘significant findings’ in such a way that will help members of staff and students
to do the work safely.
D.2 Who should carry out a risk assessment?
Lecturers are responsible for ensuring that a risk assessment has been carried out to cover all activities and
situations for the practical under their control. Risk Assessment Forms must be completed if there is any risk
involved in the preparation of practical requirements by technical staff and/or subsequent practical work by
students. See Appendix III for a copy of the Risk Assessment Form.
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
D.3 Reviewing a risk assessment.
Risk assessments should be reviewed annually to ensure that findings comply with current
legislations e.g. if an investigation into an accident finds that precautions are inadequate or
materials such as chemicals are reclassified or if the contents of a practical are changed.
E) Undergraduate Students/Teaching Technicians
E.1 Undergraduate Students
(a) Initially undergraduate students should be assumed to be untrained in all matters of health
and safety.
(b) The CLSM Teaching Facility should provide undergraduates with the training and
supervision necessary to ensure their health and safety.
• While working in University premises
• On University fieldwork
• During University work elsewhere
(c) Hazardous substances and equipment should not be introduced into undergraduate
practical work until the risks associated with their use have been assessed and adequate
safeguards provided.
(d) Written instructions to undergraduates about practical work must always draw attention to :
• The hazards of substances and equipment.
• The safeguards that are provided.
Undergraduates should also be provided with appropriate training before practical
work begins.
(e) Any independent work (e.g. as part of an “honours project”) should be subject to at least the standard
of supervision applied to postgraduate work.
An undergraduate’s perception of risk in a given situation may be very different to that of a member of staff.
Staff will have learnt, often by direct experience, what the dangers are and the consequences that can arise
from not taking precautions. Undergraduates may not even recognize the presence of any health and
safety hazard and, even if they do, are likely to underestimate its potential to cause harm.
Those involved with undergraduate practicals should never assume that an undergraduate will be competent
in health and safety matters before coming to the University. The assumption must be that new
undergraduates are completely untrained in health and safety matters. It is the task of the Teaching Facility
staff (and in this case the person running the practical) to assist them develop skills that will enable them to
work safely and to provide an appropriate level of supervision while this development is taking place.
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
E.2 Practical Work
•
The health and safety aspects of work undertaken by technical staff to prepare practical requirements
should be incorporated into the risk assessment form compiled by the academic in charge of the
practical.
•
The health and safety aspects of practical work should be incorporated into the academic instruction and
not treated as a separate topic.
•
Written instructions describing how to carry out a piece of practical work must contain health and safety
information. Written procedures should always begin by identifying the main dangers associated with the
work and the precautions to be taken. More details of the precautions should be described at the
appropriate stage of the method.
•
Clearly label bottles with their contents and, when required, mark with the appropriate hazard warning
symbol (marking a bottle with for example “Solution A” is not acceptable). Wash bottles, including those
containing water, must be prominently marked.
•
If academic staff believe there is no significant risk, which requires the students to take special
precautions, a statement to that effect should be mentioned at the start of the method. The absence of
significant risks should be mentioned and the way the practical was designed to bring this about could
be explained. The purpose is to get students used to a routine in which health and safety is always
addressed before any practical work commences.
•
Health and Safety must always be discussed in pre-practical talks.
•
Practical class must not be left unsupervised in sole charge of predoctoral demonstrators.
The HSE regards students as untrained but the extent of the supervision required will depend
on the stage reached by the student.
•
Staff responsible for practical classes must know the location of the fire extinguishers, first aid boxes and
who the trained first-aiders are in the teaching laboratories.
•
Staff, particularly those in charge of field courses, must be aware of and adhere to any codes of practice
covering the particular class activity.
•
All accidents and near misses must be reported (and appropriate paper work completed) to the CLSM
Teaching Facility Safety Adviser.
E.3 Safety in Teaching Laboratories
Prevention of accidents in laboratories, as in all places of work, is a duty of every individual using or entering
them. Ensuring safety of others is as important as the avoidance of personal injury. We have defined each
practical as either Low Risk (LR) or risk (R).
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
Low Risk Practicals
(LR)
Practicals designated as low risk (LR) present a low risk providing that the students follow basic good
laboratory practice guidelines.
•
Arrive in time to hear the instructions for the practical
•
Do not obstruct corridors, fire exits and passageways that forms means of escape from working areas.
•
Wear a white laboratory coat, fastened at all times, during practical work. Approved protective equipment
will be provided when recommended and the students must comply with directions for use.
•
Do not eat or drink in laboratories unless authorized to do so (e.g. during practicals that require the use
of exercise equipment) .
•
Smoking is prohibited in all University premises.
•
Do not apply cosmetics or chew on pencils and pens in laboratories.
•
Pipetting by mouth, even of harmless substances, is prohibited.
•
When wearing protective gloves do not touch anything that someone else without gloves might touch
(e.g. telephone, computer keyboard, door handle).
•
Take extra care when using sharp instruments. Scalpels and razor blades should be disposed of in the
bins marked SHARPS.
•
Immediately inform the demonstrator or lecturer of any spillages and/or breakages.
•
Report all accidents to a demonstrator or lecturer.
•
Dispose of waste as directed.
•
Make sure that gas taps are turned off and electrical instruments (including microscopes) are switched
off at the mains before you leave the laboratory.
•
Wash hands thoroughly after handling any biological materials or chemicals, and always before leaving
the laboratory.
•
If the Fire Alarm sounds be quiet and listen for instructions from the person in charge of the laboratory.
You may have to abandon your personal effects and follow a prescribed evacuation route. Switch off
electrical equipment and Bunsen burners. Stay with your laboratory group and demonstrator during the
evacuation until instructions are issued to do otherwise.
Risk category practicals
(R )
Practicals designated as risk category (R) have been identified as posing a risk. This will be identified in the
practical schedule heading and will be referred to in the practical briefing.
E.4 Prompt Sheet for completing a risk assessment.
Anticipate circumstances that could give rise to danger. What will be done to prevent them arising.
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Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
The aim is to produce a list of control measures that must be implemented
Consider all parts of the work: (e.g. Storage and handling of starting material; Processing materials;
Analytical operations; Laboratory environment (ventilation etc.); Storage of end products; Storage and
disposal of waste). See Appendix III for a copy of the Risk assessment Form.
1. Hazard to Health
1.
List all hazardous substances to be used or produced.
2.
Obtain Hazard Data Sheets for any substances whose properties are not thoroughly known.
3.
Identify categories of danger: (e.g. Carcinogen, Mutagenic, Toxic for Reproduction, Very Toxic, Toxic,
Harmful, Corrosive, Irritant, Sensitising).
4.
Look for more detail in the Risk Phrases on the Hazard Data Sheets sheets.
5.
Consider possible exposure routes (e.g. inhalation, skin absorption or direct skin contact, inoculation by
sharps, ingestion).
6.
Consider exposure potential and consequences (e.g. amount used, physical form, volatility,
concentration, primary barriers and chances of mishaps, frequency and duration of work.
7.
8.
Decide secondary containment regimes for the various stages of the work
•
None required (open bench)
•
General fume cupboard
•
Special facility – specify
Decide if any protective equipment is required (e.g. Goggles, face shield, gloves (what type? e.g. nitrile),
respiratory protection (what type? e.g. valved dust/mist respirator), other).
9.
Consider where stricter control regimes might be required (e.g. for work with carcinogens).
2. Reactive Chemical Hazard
1.
Where there is potential for loss of control (highly reactive substances, unstable substances,
production of undesired substances)?
2.
How will control be maintained?
3.
What contingency arrangements are there to cover loss of control? (e.g. screening, relief venting).
3. Flammable Hazards
1.
Approximate flash point and auto-ignition temperature should be found.
2.
Identify potential sources of ignition (e.g. flames, hot surfaces, friction, electricity, static).
3.
Take into consideration storage and handling.
4. Other Hazards
1.
Consider: High and low temperatures, electricity, mechanical hazards (e.g. machinery).
2.
Will unattended operation of equipment be permitted? (e.g. overnight running).
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
5. Biological Hazards
1.
List all biological agents that will be part of the work. (Mirco-organisims, cell cultures, or human
endoparasites that could cause infection, allergy, toxicity, or create risk to human health).
2.
Refer to HSE publication “The Management, Design and Operation of Micribiological Containment
Laboratories” (2001).
3.
Assign biological agents to hazard group 1, 2, 3 or 4 based on infection criteria. See O) Procedures
For Specific Hazards section O.5 Biological Safety.
4.
Decide laboratory containment level needed (level 1, 2, 3 or 4). See O.5 Biological Safety.
5.
Will unscreened blood be used? What precautions are required?
6.
Determine how the requirements of the containments levels for items d) & e) will be met.
7.
Are vaccinations an appropriate precaution?
8.
Any work involving genetic modification requires the approval of the appropriate Genetic Modification
Safety Committee before it starts. See Appendix V1 Local Rules.
6. Field Work
Consider risks inherent in the site:
1.
Physical hazards – weather and location.
2.
Biological hazards – pathogenic, micro-organisms, e.g. leptospirosis.
3.
Chemical hazards – pesticides.
4.
Man-made hazards – vehicles.
5.
Hazards to the environment.
Consider risks inherent in the work:
a) Training in navigation.
b) Chemical hazards COSHH.
c) Biological hazards – animal handling.
d) Personal safety – risk of attack.
e) Routine communication – lone working to be avoided, “buddy system”.
f) Unforeseen circumstances – the assistance of an additional member of staff (preferably first-aid trained).
Supervision : Identify under what circumstances those carrying out the work will need to refer back to their
supervisor? It may be helpful to identify particular parts of the work in the following, or similar, risk
categories.
a) Those parts, which may not proceed without direct supervision.
b) Those parts, which may not proceed without a detailed written system of work being agreed with the
supervisor.
c) Those parts where the student may proceed without further reference to the supervisor
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September 2014
(providing that the controls identified in the risk assessment are applied)
d) Contact telephone numbers are required. Supervisor should be contacted when student/s are leaving
the campus or home to complete the field work and upon return.
Field work risk assessment forms: see
..\CLSM Fieldwork Risk Assessment.docx
F) Health and Safety Inspection
Health and safety inspections are carried out to help us evaluate whether the Facility’s health and safety
arrangements are working in the manner intended. Inspections, commissioned by the Director of Teaching
and Learning, will take place yearly and will be carried out by the CLSM Facility Safety Adviser,
Team Leader, Mrs.Sheila Jones, the CLSM Technical Resources Manager and the Safety Adviser from the
School of Biological Sciences. In addition inspections will be conducted in the relevant areas whenever there
are significant changes in the nature and / or scale of procedures. Workplace inspections will also provide
the opportunity to review the continuing effectiveness of the policy and to identify areas where revision of the
policy may be required.
Irrespective of inspections the prime responsibility for keeping the Facility safe resides with the staff in each
prep room/laboratory. All staff should inspect the areas under their use at regular intervals. See F.1 Check
list.
A checklist based on the health and safety arrangements described in this handbook will guide the
inspection team. Matters to be examined during the inspection will include (but will not be limited to):
a)
Compliance with the Facilities procedures for specific hazards.
b)
Adequacy of documented risk assessment (particularly for work undertaken by undergraduate
students).
c)
Completeness of health and safety training.
d)
Emergency response arrangements.
e)
Arrangements for inspection and maintenance of premises, equipment and completeness of records.
The inspection team will report to the Director of Teaching and Learning with its findings. The report will
include:
a)
Positive findings, as well as details of the location and significance of any failings discovered.
b)
Recommendations for remedial action (including timescale and priorities).
c)
Suggestions as to who should carry out particular remedial action.
d)
The reporting process should not delay remedial measures or prevent immediate action during the
inspection if there is a risk of serious injury or ill health. The Director of Teaching and Learning will
confirm remedial action.
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
A follow up inspection will be arranged specifically to ensure that any necessary remedial action has been
taken and is effective. A report will be made to the Director of Teaching and Learning immediately after the
follow-up inspection.
F1. Health and Safety Inspection Checklist
1.
Corridors – free of clutter
2.
Fire doors – access, egress
3.
Stairways
4.
Lighting
5.
Mechanical apparatus (no damaged electrical cables, hazard signs if applicable, service &/or
Insurance inspections.
6.
Storage of solvents/acids/alkalis.
7.
Storage of carcinogens/drugs.
8.
Labeling – cylinders, chemicals/solvents/acids/alkalis (correct hazard labels), doors, radiation zone,
hazard signs, solutions (type, date made, hazard sign if required).
9.
Gas cylinders – location, secured correctly, regulator date for replacement etc.
10. Electrical wiring and cables, date of PAT test (Portable Appliance Test).
11. Tubing and connections for gas, water, high pressure, air and vacuum.
12. Electrophoresis equipment, state of repair, interlocks etc.
13. Biohazards.
14. Carriage (equipment trolleys, lifting gear etc.).
15. Disposal of waste chemicals/solvents.
16. Fume cupboards (flow rates, tidiness, state of repair)
17. Laminarflow hoods.
18. Centrifuges (state of rotors etc.).
19. Autoclave/pressure cookers.
20. Kick stools available for assess to heights.
21. Wearing of labcoats
22. Undergraduate practicals especially when hazardous chemicals etc. are in use (hazard labels, eye
protection, masks, gloves, ventilation).
23. Long hair must be tied back especially when working with bunsens.
24. Eating/drinking in laboratory areas.
25. Smoking in prohibited areas.
26. Housekeeping (floors, bins, etc.).
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College of Life Sciences & Medicine
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
September 2014
G) Health and Safety Training
All new staff will receive training in our health and safety procedures. Training should be staggered over the
first few days but essential training being given on day one. See Appendix IV Induction/Training Form &
Appendix V CLSM Teaching Facility Technical Staff Training Record for Specific Hazards /
Tec hniques & Equipment. It is the responsibility of an individual’s immediate supervisor to ensure that
appropriate training is provided.
Other, more specific courses on safety matters are organized by the University Safety Adviser. These are
held throughout the year and staff are encouraged to attend courses that are appropriate.
H) Accidents
Staff and students must report accidents as soon as possible to their immediate supervisor.
The following must be reported:
•
Any incident in which anyone is injured (regardless of how minor the injury might appear at the time and
regardless of whether they need medical treatment).
•
Any incident in which someone could have been injured (but in which perhaps by chance or “good luck”
prevented injury). These incidents are referred to as a “near miss”.
The most important reason for reporting accidents is to enable us to take action to prevent a similar accident
happening in the future which could have more severe consequences. Such incidents may also be reported
to the Health and Safety Executive or to our insurers.
H1. Reporting Procedure
1.
Accident report forms are available from the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser or download it
from accident-report-form-.doc Alternatively the report can be completed on line via the University of
Aberdeen Health and Safety website
2.
The form must be completed by the immediate supervisor/lecturer in charge of the area where the
incident occurred. It should not be completed by the injured person. In the event of the supervisor’s
absence, the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser will complete the form.
3.
Completed forms must be sent to the University Safety Adviser, Mr. Nigel Corby within 48 hours of the
accident and a copy retained by the CLSM Teaching Facilities Safety Adviser. These accidents and
incidents are also reported at the safety committee meetings.
4.
Serious accidents must be reported immediately to the University Safety Adviser by phone (Mr. Corby
ext. 3894). The University Safety Adviser will ensure that the Health and Safety Executive and our
insurers are notified if necessary.
5.
The member of staff responsible for the injured person should initiate an investigation into the accident
to discover its cause. They should contact the CLSM Teaching Facility and/or Building Safety Advisers
for assistance if required.
6.
If the accident is reportable to the Health and Safety Executive (the University Safety Adviser will inform
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September 2014
the Facility if this is the case). The Director of Teaching and Learning must receive a copy of the
accident report and the results of the investigation into the accident.
7.
A completed report should include:
•
The incident.
•
The injured person.
•
The injury.
•
What happened (including the cause of the accident and precautions which could have been taken
to avoid the accident).
•
Any witnesses.
•
The supervisor/lecturer signing the report.
H.2 Checklist for Accident Investigation
The following list is included as a guide to structure investigations and written reports.
1.
2.
Obtain basic facts.
•
Names of the injured/ witnesses/ people early on the scene.
•
Condition of any equipment.
•
Any chemicals/ substances in use or present.
•
Layout of area.
•
Place, time, conditions.
•
Extent of injury/ damage/ disruption.
•
Make use of camers/ sketches/ measurements of undisturbed scene.
Establish Circumstances.
•
What was being done at the time and what happened.
•
Immediate causes.
•
Events leading up to the incident.
•
Any evidence linking case of ill health to work.
•
Competence (extent of training before the event, experience in the job, were they aware of the
dangers of the activity?).
•
What was the established method, was it adequate, was it followed?
•
Behaviour and actions of the individuals.
•
Supervisor/lecturer’s role: did they request the task to be done or did those involved in the accident
act on their own initiative?
•
What was the worst that could have happened?
•
Has it happened before?
•
Could it happen again?
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3.
Identify Preventative Measures
Review the risk assessment for the activity. What precautions should have been in force?
What training should have been given to those involved?
4. Was First ResponseTo The Accident Adequate.
5.
6.
Identify Underlying Causes.
•
Management or supervision failure.
•
Lack of competence.
•
Inadequate training.
•
Shortcomings in original design of equipment.
•
Absence of maintenance system.
Determine Action Needed To Prevent A Recurrence.
Actions to prevent a recurrence might include:
•
Improve physical safeguards.
•
Improve better test and maintenance arrangements.
•
Improve work methods.
•
Provide and use personal protective equipment.
•
Change supervision and training arrangements.
•
Review similar dangers elsewhere in the Facility.
•
Improve inspection systems.
In determining the course of action the CLSM Teaching Facility Health and Safety Policy must be
considered i.e. Is it inadequate? Is it being ignored? What needs to be changed to make it effective at
preventing accidents and maintaining health and safety at work?
The above is a checklist guideline; not everything above may be accurate for a given accident. The more
serious the incident, the greater depth of investigation will be probably be required to ensure that such
accidents are prevented in the future. Information gathered will be used improve the management of health
and safety in the CLSM Teaching Facility.
I) Fire Safety
Fire is probably the greatest single safety-related threat to the Teaching Facility and its members. Even if
everyone were to escape safely from the building, important facilities, documents and data could be
destroyed. It is important that we do all that we can to prevent a fire starting. Should a fire start we must be
prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to save life and property.
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I.1 Fire Prevention
The University operates a no smoking policy within all of its buildings which eliminates one of the ways in
which a fire can start.
Important precautions are:
•
Inspection of electrical equipment (regular checks should reduce the possibility of faulty equipment being
the source of fire).
•
Comply with procedures for storage/use of highly flammable liquids.
•
Comply with procedures for bunsen burner use.
•
Comply with procedures for out of hours running of experiments.
•
Avoid large accumulations of unnecessary materials that can easily burn (e.g. cardboard, paper, etc.).
•
Do not obstruct the ventilation of electrical equipment or place materials immediately above or close to
electrical heaters
•
Do not overload electrical sockets or use multiple extension leads/adaptors.
•
Do not trail electrical leads over benches/floors in such a way that might be caught.
I. 2 On Discovering a Fire
If you discover a fire, it is important to take the following steps in the order given:
1.
Sound the alarm (No fire is so small that the alarm does not need to be sounded).
2.
Get someone to call the fire brigade by dialing 9-999.
3.
Warn others in the area (shout “fire” and bang on doors! Some people do not always respond
immediately to the fire alarm).
4.
Only if you can do so without putting you own safety at risk, attempt to fight the fire with a suitable
extinguisher.
5.
Otherwise, close the door to the area where the fire is (containment of fire) and vacate the building
to await the arrival of the fire brigade.
At the assembly point (Zoology car park/ loading bay end) report to the Fire Evacuation Officer who will be at
the information post wearing a yellow vest. Provide them with information about what has happened.
I.3 On Hearing The Fire Alarm
If you hear the fire alarm:
1.
Check the rooms and laboratories near to yours, if you can, to ensure the occupants have heard the
alarm and have left.
2.
Turn off gas if safe to do so.
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3.
Leave the building by the nearest exit and go to the assembly point.
4.
Anyone teaching or supervising groups of students should ensure that all the students leave the building
by the nearest exit and go to the assembly point.
5.
Floor checkers are designated people who ensure, as far as reasonably possible (i.e. without causing a
danger to themselves) that persons have been evacuated from laboratories/offices within their working
area. If the designated floor checker is not present another member of staff should carry out the duty.
If at all possible, floor checkers should wear the orange vests provided in ZB09, ZB12 and G10.
See Appendix II Floor Checkers.
6.
If you have any information about someone who might still be in the building, report to the Fire
Evacuation Co-ordinator.
Do not re-enter the building until the alarm has been silenced and have been instructed to do so by
the Fire Evacuation Co-ordinator.
I.4 Extinguishers
There are four main types of extinguisher used in the University. To align with other European countries all
extinguishers are red in colour regardless of type. The colour coded label depicts the type of extinguisher.
The applications for which the are suited are summarized below:
Water
Foam
Carbon
Dioxide
Dry
Powder
Wood, paper , textiles etc.
Petrol, oil, fats, paints etc.
Electrical hazards
NOTE: Water must never be used on burning liquids or electrical equipment
I.5 Escape Routes
Corridors and escape routes must be kept clear. Combustible materials or furniture should not be stored in
the corridors or on escape routes where they could become a source of fire or smoke. Such materials in
these areas could create a serious obstacle for those trying to vacate the building. Fire doors prevent the
spread of fire and smoke. Never wedge them open. Any door fitted with a door-closing device must be
treated as a fire door.
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I.6 Fire Drills and Alarm Tests.
A fire drill is carried out in the Zoology building once a year to test the efficiency of the fire evacuation
arrangements.
Fire alarms in the Zoology building are tested every Tuesday at 12noon.
J) Power Failure
Following a power failure affecting a University building, emergency lighting powered from batteries will
switch on automatically. The emergency lighting is expected to last for one hour. Its purpose is to illuminate
exit routes from the building. It is not there to enable building occupants to remain in the building and
continue working.
If there is a power failure during the hours of darkness:
Building occupants should immediately evacuate the building.
If there is a power failure during daylight hours:
1.
Building occupants should immediately vacate any parts of the building which are not illuminated by
emergency lighting or by natural daylight:
2.
If power is not restored within five minutes, building occupants should vacate any parts of the building
which are illuminated by emergency lighting only (i.e. where there is no illumination from natural
daylight) and, any parts of the building where the exit routes are illuminated only with emergency lighting
(e.g. corridors and stairwells without windows):
3.
If they wish to do so, building occupants may remain in the parts of the building which are illuminated by
natural light and which are served by exits which are also illuminated by natural light.
4.
Before leaving, building occupants should disconnect from the electrical supply any equipment
which was in use prior to the power failure.
Note: Fire alarms are fitted with back up batteries which will enable the fire detection and alarm systems to
continue to operate until at least the end of the working day.
The CLSM Teaching Facility Safety adviser will ensure that:
•
There are an adequate number of qualified first aid/defibrillator trained members of staff. Notices
are posted in the labs and various other points stating who they are and contact details.
•
Qualified first aiders receive a refresher course within three years of their previous training.
•
Adequate supplies of first aid materials are available throughout the laboratories. Use of any first aid
equipment must be reported and an incident report filed.
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K) First Aid
K.1 Minor Injuries
First aid boxes/cabinets are located in or near to laboratories. Staff and students must be aware of the
nearest location of first aid supplies. A first aider should be contacted and asked to assist with any injury
except for minor scratches and cuts. Even minor scratches should be washed thoroughly in cold
running water before applying a plaster. The assistance of a first aider is particularly important if you are
injured while working with substances , which could cause harm if they enter the body through a break in the
skin. Minor injuries should be reported, and appropriate form completed, to the CLSM Teaching Facility
Safety Adviser.
K.2 Major Injuries
An ambulance should be called immediately by dialing 9-999. Do not call for an ambulance via the University
switchboard or other University school. Indicate clearly which building you are in. Send someone to the front
door to look out for and direct the ambulance crew to the location. A First aider should be contacted to
administer first aid to the casualty while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.
L) Spillages
It is a mandatory part of the risk assessment that consideration be given to the appropriate
procedures for dealing with spillage. In most cases the spillage will be small and the worker concerned
should be able to clean up with assistance. When large amounts (e.g. Winchester of liquid) extra procedures
are required.
An immediate response is required to:
•
Identify the nature and extent of the risks created by the spillage.
•
Instruct staff/students to keep a safe distance.
•
Clean up the spillage (consult the hazard data sheets) using suitable protective clothing and materials.
•
Waste is disposed suitably.
In the event of a large spillage:
•
Evacuate the area and seal off access to the area.
•
Contact one of the authorised users of the breathing apparatus. See Appendix II Spillage Response
Team. Identify the location and the substances involved in the spillage. Let them decide whether the
fire brigade need to be called.
•
Complete an accident report on the incident. See H) Accidents.
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Those listed below are the most commonly used substances.
Highly Flammable liquids (HFLs)
Ensure that there is no source of ignition (e.g. an open flame or a spark from a thermostat or other electrical
equipment) in the vicinity. Remember that vapour can spread quickly. Instruct others to keep a distance.
Close all doors and open windows. If the ventilation is inadequate, ensure that others leave the room
immediately and contact the Appropriate Building Safety Adviser (who in turn might need to call the
University Safety Adviser or a member of the Spillage Response Team) from where breathing apparatus can
be collected and used by trained personnel to clean up the spill. See Appendix I Spillage Response Team.
Ethers are a particular hazard as many are anaesthetic and may ender those exposed unconscious so
breathing apparatus must always be used unless the spillage is small.
Wear a lab coat, safety glasses and nitrile gloves
If the HFL miscible with water, it may be flushed away with a large excess.
If the HFL is not miscible with water, the liquid can be absorbed with Ecozorb (spillage) granules.
Note : Spillage granules can be found in a white container under the utility sink in lab ZB13,
under the sink in the wash up room ZB10 and next to the door leading to ZB11.
Then contact the Technical Resource Manager or Team Leader.
Non flammable organic liquids
These are mainly halogenated solvents, which produce toxic vapours, so for any sizeable spillage
breathing apparatus is necessary. Otherwise the clean up operation will be the same as above.
Acids
Concentrated acids can produce toxic vapours. Warn others to keep a safe distance. Unless the area is well
ventilated, contact the Building Safety Adviser. Acid resistant overalls, gloves and boots as well as a mask
must be worn(spillage kit).
NOTE: A “Spillage Kit” can be found in a white container under the utility sink in lab ZB13 and ZB14.
Acids should be neutralized with sodium bicarbonate – take care to limit the rate of heat evolution. The
resulting slurry can be flushed to waste with a large excess of water.
Gas Cylinders
All gases except oxygen should be treated as asphyxiating. Red on the body or shoulder of the cylinder
indicates that the gas is inflammable; yellow indicates that it is toxic.
Eliminate sources of ignition and warn others to keep a safe distance, open windows and close the lab doors
on the way out.
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Wear lab coat, breathing apparatus and heavy duty gloves.
Leaking CO2,O2 and N2 can be vented slowly to the outside atmosphere.
All others should be vented slowly into a large volume of running water, preferably in a fume cupboard.
Solids
Wear a lab coat, safety glasses and nitrile gloves. The solid should be mixed with sand. Inform the Building
Safety Adviser who will arrange disposal. (for contact number see Appendix I)
Biological agents
Small spillages of bacteria can be cleaned up and disinfected without causing too much disruption. Follow
the procedures approved in the risk assessment for the particular organism in question.
M) Waste Disposal
The CLSM Teaching Facility has a duty to ensure that hazardous waste does not harm anyone likely to
handle it. This includes those who have to handle it between the point of generation within the CLSM
Teaching Facility and the point of ultimate disposal (e.g. cleaners, porters, waste disposal contractors).
Waste is separated into different streams at the point of generation. Each waste stream is stored separately
and follow separate routes. Everyone in the Teaching Facility must:
•
be aware of the different waste streams in the Teaching Facility.
•
ensure they know which waste goes into which stream.
•
know where to place waste for storage prior to disposal.
Waste Streams
M.1 Solid Waste
General non toxic domestic waste e.g. paper, cardboard.
•
Either black bags or paper recycling bins
•
Black bags – land fill. Recycling bins – sent to a recycling facility.
•
Black bags – cleaners. Recycling bins – contractors.
•
Waste cardboard – porter collects and stores it in the designated skip at the side of the Zoology
building. Collected by a contractor for recycling.
•
Estates will arrange the removal and safe disposal of spent strip lights bulbs.
Equipment, metals and strip light bulbs.
•
Estates will arrange the removal of pieces of old equipment and/or metals. (contact The Environment
Office tel. no.2063 or environment@abdn.ac.uk )
•
Estates will arrange the removal and safe disposal of spent strip lights bulbs.
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Clinical and biohazard waste
•
Waste goes into orange bags – these should be tagged.
•
It is heat sterilized and disposed of in lane fill sites.
•
Infected material or tissue culture waste most not be placed in orange bags. See Infected
waste/culture.
•
Waste should be placed in the yellow skip at the rear of the Zoology building. (Key for skip
located in the Zoology store).
•
Estates arrange a regular collection for disposal by an outside contractor.
Infected waste/culture
•
Waste goes into clear autoclave bags. Pierce bags to allow the steam to penetrate.
•
It is then autoclaved
•
It is then placed in the yellow skip at the rear of the Zoology building (key in store)
•
Estates arrange a regular collection for disposal by an outside contractor.
Sharps
•
Sharps (e.g. needles, small amounts of broken glass etc.) should be placed in the “Sharps Bin”.
•
Full bins should be placed in the solvent store at the rear of the Zoology building (see Bill Edwards
for access)
•
Estates arrange a twice yearly collection by an outside contractor.
Ethidium Bromide Waste
•
Should go into the “Cytotoxic Cin Bins” (black writing and lids).
•
Full bins should be placed in the solvent store at the rear of the Zoology building (see Bill Edwards for
access).
•
Estates arrange a twice yearly collection by an outside contractor.
Broken glass
•
Uncontaminated broken glass too big for cin bins should be placed in the designated “Broken Glass
Bin” provided in each laboratory or the cardboard glass waste bin (available from the store). Full bins
should be emptied into the skip at the rear of the Zoology building.
•
Estates arrange a daily collection.
M.2 Liquid waste
Most chemicals can be safely disposed of down drains flushed with plenty of water. Forbidden materials
include:
•
Water-immiscible solvents.
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•
Chemicals which can produce inflammable/explosive vapours in drains.
•
Chemicals which can produce explosive deposits in drains (e.g. azides, acetylides, silver salts).
•
Substances that might block drains or cause injury to drainage workers (e.g. cyanide, large quantities
of antibiotics.
Disposal of waste not suitable for discharge into drains.
•
Disposal of chemicals must be planned before purchase.
•
Significant quantities of unwanted chemicals should not be allowed to accumulate.
•
If you have unwanted chemicals that cannot be discharged to the drains, contact the CLSM Teaching
Facility Safety Adviser for advice.
•
Where possible, dangerous wastes should be rendered innocuous by suitable chemical treatment.
•
Waste should be stored in a suitable container, correctly labeled with contents, quantity and appropriate
hazard label.
•
Waste should be placed in the solvent store at the rear of the Zoology building.
•
Estates arrange for a twice yearly collection for disposal by an outside contractor.
Solvent waste
• Each laboratory should have two bottles, both clearly labeled for water immiscible, solvent waste:
(a) non-halogenated solvents: (b) halogenated solvents. (labels can be obtained from the store).
Halogen refers to those elements in the seventeenth column of the periodic table, fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromide(Br), ans astatine (At). Halogenated refers to a chemical compound or mixture that contains
halogen atoms.
•
These must be stored in a solvent cupboard and the label should indicate the proportions of individual
solvents and whether any dangerous chemicals are dissolved in the solvent.
•
Full bottles should be stored in the solvent store at the rear of the Zoology building (see Bill Edwards for
access).
•
Estates arrange for a twice yearly collection for disposal by an outside contractor.
Biological liquid waste
•
All liquid microbiological cultures must be autoclaved to kill the organism concerned.
N) Inspection and maintenance of Plant, Equipment and Vehicles
Equipment in the Teaching Facility requires periodic inspection and maintenance if it is not to become
a source of danger to staff, students and members of the public. It is imperative that equipment is withdrawn
from use if the planned inspection has not been carried out, and the Teaching Technical Resource Manager
or Team Leader notified.
It is usually acceptable for a user to rely on a certificate or other document issued by a contractor as
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evidence that maintenance has been carried out.
A system must be in place to alert staff if maintenance is not carried out at the required times.
Each laboratory must keep a list of equipment which should have the following details:
•
Item, model number and serial number.
•
Person responsible for ensuring maintenance of equipment.
•
Details of frequency of inspection and/or service and who will do it.
•
Inspection dates.
•
Service dates.
•
Service reports (to be incorporated as they arise).
A responsible, named person, will:
•
Determine the frequency of inspection of inspection and test for the different types of equipment in the
Teaching Facilities area.
•
Ensure that inspection and test is carried out at the specific intervals.
•
Ensure that electrical equipment is marked to indicate that it has been inspected and tested.
•
Maintain records of inspection and tests.
The records should be examined at each safety inspection to ensure that inspections and services are kept
up to date and the person responsible is still in charge.
Equipment requiring maintenance at regular intervals include:
Equipment
Maintenance required
Carried out by
Maintenance interval
Portable electrical
equipment
Visual inspection and “PAT”
testing
Competent technician
Visual inspections at least
every 12 months and “PAT”
tests every 2-3 years
Lifting equipment
Inspections be a
“competent person”
Insurance
inspector(arranged through
Estates)
Every 12 months
Accessories for lifting
Inspections by a
“competent person”
Member of the teaching
Facility
Every 3 months
Inspections by a
“competent person”
Insurance
inspector(arranged through
Estates)
At intervals recommended
by the inspector- should not
exceed 14 months
Maintenance as per
manufacturer’s
recommendations
Contractor commissioned
by the Teaching Facility
At intervals recommended
by manufacturer – usually
every 6 months
Pressure vessels and
pressure systems
Inspections be a
“competent person”
Insurance
inspector(arranged through
Estates)
At intervals recommended
by the inspector- usually
every 12 -24 months
Centrifuges
Maintenance as per
manufacturer’s
recommendations
Contractor commissioned
by the Teaching Facility
At intervals recommended
by manufacturer
(Kickstools/ladders)
Autoclaves
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Equipment
Maintenance required
Carried out by
Maintenance interval
Fume cupbards
Examination and test
Contractor arranged by
Estates
Every 12 months
Microbiological safety
cabinets
Examination and test
Contractor commissioned
by the Teaching Facility
At least every 12 months,
recommended every 6
months
Other exhaust ventilation
Examination and test
Contractor arranged by
Estates
At least every 12 months
Road vehicles
Maintenance as per
manufacturer’s
recommendations
Garage commissioned by
Teaching Facility/School of
Biological Sciences
At intervals recommended
by manufacturer
As the Teaching Facility retains responsibility for ensuring that maintenance is undertaken on all of its
equipment it is necessary to maintain test certificates.
The maintenance of University premises is the responsibility of Estates. Any member of staff noticing any
part of the premises that give concern with regards to Health an Safety, should contact the Teaching
Facilities Safety Adviser who will contact Estates. Routine requests that do not involve safety should be
made directly through the Fault desk ( tel. no. 3333 – keep a note of the event no. for future reference e.g.
repair not done).
O) Procedures for Specific Hazards
O.1 Lone Working
It is hazardous to work alone out of the normal working hours especially if it involves the use of equipment.
(Normal working hours - between 8am – 6pm on a weekday).
The “Sign In book” located at the ground floor entrance to the Zoology building must be signed when you
enter and leave the building as well as the location that you will be working in. In the event of an accident
contact Security – tel.3939.
O.2 Access to Heights
It is particularly important in a laboratory, where the consequences of a fall can be severe, that a suitable
means of access is used to reach storage above head height. “Unsuitable access” is the use of a chair,
swivel chair or a table. Access to storage above head height should be by step ladder or kick stool.
O.3 Autoclaves and Pressure Cookers
The autoclave and pressure cookers (lab ZB10) are used in the Teaching Facility for sterilization of
media/materials required in the laboratory and sterilization of infected materials. Only authorized people
trained in their use may operate the autoclave and pressure cookers. Pressure cookers must be suitable for
laboratory use and operated according to manufacturers instructions.
•
Bottle caps must be loosened as they will tend to tighten under pressure during autoclaving.
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•
Autoclave bags must be used for the sterilization of infected Petri dishes.
•
When opening autoclave/pressure cookers/ ensure that the pressure is zero and below boiling point.
•
A face visor should be worn for protection against injury from exploding containers and hot liquids.
•
Heat resistant gloves must be worn when handling hot items (found either in ZB10 or ZB12)
Remember the contents of bottles/flasks become very hot and liquids can boil up when removed
from the autoclave/pressure cooker.
•
NEVER autoclave phenol or cellulose nitrate.
•
Autoclave bags must be used for the sterilization of infected Petri dishes, eppendorf tubes, pipettes tips
etc. Bags must be pierced to allow the steam to penetrate.
Major hazards associated with autoclaves and pressure cookers are:
•
Explosive breakage of bottles/flasks etc. while they are being removed from the autoclave/pressure
cooker and/or subsequently being opened.
•
Scalds from steam issuing from the autoclave/pressure cooker.
•
Scalds resulting from the careless use of bottles/flasks containing boiling liquids.
•
Burns from physical contact with the autoclave/pressure cooker.
•
Failure of component parts of the autoclave/pressure cooker whilst under pressure.
The CLSM Teaching Facility is responsible for ensuring the regular inspection of the autoclave and pressure
cookers. A register of all autoclaves/pressure cookers in the Facility should be retained to ensure that they
are regularly inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations. An
insurance company employed by the Estate Section will carry out the periodic inspection. Copies of
Inspection certificates should be kept on file and each autoclave/pressure cooker marked with the date
of the last inspection. See N) Inspection and maintenance of Plant, Equipment and Vehicles.
O.4 Microwave ovens
Microwave ovens are potentially dangerous.
•
All flasks and bottles must have their lids removed or loosened to prevent the risk of the container
shattering the microwave’s glass door.
•
Heat the containers in short bursts. There is a severe risk of overheating the contents of the bottle/flask.
•
Use heat resistant gloves and a face visor (ZB10 or ZB12).
•
Take extreme care that the contents do not boil up suddenly.
O.5 Biological Safety
A “biological agent” is defined as any microorganism, cell culture or human endoparasite which may create a
hazard to human health and also to unscreened human blood and tissues that may contain unknown
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biological hazards. The containment of any release of biological agent must follow the procedures within the
risk assessment for the organism in question.
Those in control of work involving biological agents must:
•
Determine the hazard group for the biological agent – Groups 1-4 (based on the least risk of infection,
group 1 being the least risk, group 4 highest risk.
•
Determine the containment level required – levels 1-4
•
Implement the requirements of the appropriate containment level.
Biological Agent Hazard Group
HAZARD GROUP 1: A biological agent unlikely to cause human disease e.g. Aspergillus niger.
HAZARD GROUP 2: A biological agent that can cause human disease and may be a hazard to staff
and students. It is unlikely to spread to the community and there is usually effective
treatment available e.g. Listeria monocytogenes.
HAZARD GROUP 3: A biological agent that can cause severe human disease and presents a serious
hazard to staff and students. It may present a risk of spreading to the community,
but there is usually effective treatment available e.g Hepatitis B.
HAZARD GROUP 4: A biological agent that causes severe human disease and id a serious risk to staff
and students. It is likely to spread to the community and there is usually no effective
treatment available e.g. Ebola virus.
The Health and Safety Executive have produced a list of the common biological agents assigned to Hazard
Groups 2, 3, and 4. The list is called the “Approved List” (which places micro-organisms in their respective
Hazard groups from which the level of containment is then determined). The current list (2005) is available
from the Teaching Safety Adviser and as a PDF document at
http://www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/biologagents.pdf
It should not be assumed that an unlisted agent is automatically Group 1 if it is not listed in the higher
groups. Those working with the agent are responsible for placing it in the correct group on the basis of the
criteria for each group. Unscreened blood/tissue should be treated as for hazard group 2.
Laboratory containment level
The term “containment” is used in describing safe methods for managing biological agents in the laboratory
where they are being used or stored. The purpose of containment is to control the exposure of staff and
students to potentially infectious material.
Containment involves:
•
Configuring the laboratory in a suitable manner.
•
Providing suitable equipment (e.g. gloves/mask).
•
Ensuring correct working practices.
The greater the risk of infection from the biological agent, the stricter the containment standards need to be.
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Health and safety legislation defines four levels of containment (levels 1 – 4). It is a legal requirement that
work with a biological agent be carried out at the containment level corresponding to the hazard group.
(i.e. containment Level 1 for hazard Group 1 for biological agents etc.)
Note: The only facilities for containment level 3 are located in the Department of Medical Microbiology,
Foresterhill and IMS phase II.
Requirements of containment level 1
Containment level 1 represents the basic level of containment required for work with biological agents
in Group 1( those “unlikely to cause human disease”). Containment level 1 is often referred as “Good
Microbiological Practice”.
Building/physical measures
1.
Good hygiene should be maintained. Benches should be impervious to water and easy to clean. They
should be resistant to acids, alkalis, solvents and disinfectants.
2.
The laboratory should contain a hand washing sink.
Work practices
•
The laboratory door should normally be closed when work is in progress.
•
Laboratory coats should be worn (buttoned up) and removed when leaving the laboratory.
•
Effective disinfectants should be available for immediate use in the event of spillage.
•
Eating, chewing, drinking, taking medication, smoking, storing food and applying make-up in the
laboratory is forbidden.
•
Mouth pipetting is forbidden.
•
All procedures should be performed so as to minimize the production of aerosols.
•
Hands should be washed as soon as contamination is suspected and before leaving the laboratory.
•
Bench tops and laboratory equipment should be disinfected after use.
•
Used laboratory glassware and other materials awaiting disposal should be stored in a safe manner.
Pipettes should be totally immersed in disinfectant.
•
Contaminated materials whether for recycling or disposal should be stored and transported in leak-proof
containers.
•
All waste material, if not to be incinerated, should be disposed of safely by the appropriate means. See
M) Waste Disposal.
•
Accidents and incidents should be reported immediately and recorded by the person controlling the
Work. See H) Accidents.
Requirements of containment level 2
Containment level 2 must be used for work with biological agents classified as Group 2 and unscreened
human blood/tissue. Containment level 2 differs from level 1 in the following ways:
•
Those working in the laboratory must receive specific training in the hazards associated with the agent
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used and the precautions required
•
A high standard of supervision of the work must be maintained.
•
There must be specified procedures for disinfection
•
Access to the laboratory must be restricted.
•
There must be designated safe storage facilities for biological agents.
•
There are restrictions on the types of ventilation permitted in the laboratory.
•
A microbiological safety cabinet must be used for procedures that give rise to infectious aerosols.
•
Wash basins must have taps which can be operated without being touched by hand.
O.6 Bunsen Burners
Bunsen burners represent a serious fire risk and should be operated with care. Precautations
taken to avoid the risk of fire should be:
1.
Switch on Fire Safety Box (grey box found in labs G9, G11, ZB03, ZB06 & ZB14). Allow a few minutes
for the system to check for gas leaks before igniting any bunsens (green will come on if no leaks are
detected). An alarm goes off if bunsens are ignited before the test is complete or in the case of a leak.
Should this occur hit the RED gas stop button, check that no one has tried to ignite a bunsen
prematurely and that all bunsens are connected to the gas taps properly before resetting the system.
2.
Regularly inspect the tubing for deterioration and replace if necessary. Ensure that the tubing cannot be
caught be anything or is trailing over the bench edge.
3.
Place burners in an area that is clear of any combustible materials and away from any flammable
liquids/solvents.
4.
Do not place burners where people have to stretch over the bunsen.
5.
Use gas igniters NOT MATCHES.
6.
If only using the bunsen temporarily turn the flame down to the pilot light. Turn off the Bunsen
completely if you have to leave the laboratory.
7.
In the event of setting fire to clothing or materials, you should be aware of the procedures to follow.
See I) Fire Safety.
8.
Ensure that any person with long hair secures it to the back of their head.
O.7 Carcinogens
Carcinogens are divided into three categories.
Category 1: These are substances that are known to be carcinogenic to man. There is sufficient evidence to
establish a casual association between human exposure to a substance and the development
of cancer .
Category 2: These are substances that should be regarded as if they are carcinogenic to man. There is
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sufficient evidence to provide a strong presumption that human exposure to a substance may
result in the development of cancer .
Category 3: These are substances that cause concern for man owing to the possible carcinogenic effects
but the due to the information available an adequate assessment cannot be made.
For further information see suppliers Material Safety Data Sheets(MSDA)
1.
Whenever possible use a non-carcinogenic chemical.
2.
The use of carcinogens for teaching purposes should be avoided. If it is considered that their use is a
necessity in a teaching procedure, the conditions of use must be reviewed annually. The written
permission from the Director of the Teaching Facility must be obtained before the first use of any
carcinogen for teaching and each year thereafter.
3.
Work with carcinogens must be conducted in accordance with written procedures that are derived from
the risk assessment for the work. Risk assessments for work involving the use of carcinogens should
always consider:
•
Processes which can produce aerosols or vapour containing a carcinogen.
•
Manipulation of carcinogens likely to result in dust formation.
•
Storage and manipulation of carcinogenic gases, volatile carcinogens and compounds which
decompose spontaneously evolving carcinogens.
4.
•
Weighing of carcinogens and the preparation of solutions containing them.
•
Changing traps and filters.
•
The possible effects of static electricity during the handling of powders.
•
Response to a spillage or other uncontrolled release of a carcinogen.
•
Decontamination of work areas and equipment.
•
Disposal of waste.
Carcinogens should be handled only in suitable designated areas with adequate equipment for their
containment.
5.
Carcinogenic samples/solutions required for preparation of a protocol and/or practical requirements
should be clearly labelled as a carcinogen.
6.
Carcinogens should be kept segregated from all other chemicals in a locked cupboard and clearly
labelled Chemical Carcinogens.
7.
Good work practice should be observed when handling carcinogenic substances in the laboratory.
•
Wear buttoned up lab coats, gloves and if recommended a face mask and/or goggles
.•
NO EATING, DRINKING, APPLYING MAKE-UP, OR MOUTH PIPETTING.
•
Cuts or abrasions of the skin must be covered with an appropriate surgical dressing before work
commences.
•
Hands should be washed and dried with disposable towels before leaving the laboratory.
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8.
Written instructions for cleaning and decontamination of equipment/materials and residues must be
prepared.
9.
Written procedures for disposal of waste must be prepared. Residues must be placed in suitable
containers, clearly labelled with the contents. For disposal see M) Waste Disposal.
10. Contaminated materials that cannot be decontaminated must be double bagged in sealed plastic
bags, clearly labelled with the contents. For disposal see M) Waste Disposal.
7.
Any sharps (e.g. needles, broken glass) must be placed in sharps containers (yellow CIN BIN with
red lid). For disposal see M) Waste Disposal.
O.8 Centrifuges
The major hazards associated with centrifuges are:
• Physical contact between the operator and the rotating head.
• Mechanical breakage of rotors caused by corrosion or use in excess of the recommended limits.
• Severe vibration caused by unbalanced rotor.
Mechanical breakage and/or vibration from an unbalanced rotor can cause extensive damage to the
centrifuge as well as the potential to cause severe injury to anyone in the same vicinity of the centrifuge.
Centrifuges should be checked regularly. See N) Inspection and maintenance of Plant, Equipment and
Vehicles. The use of hazardous or infectious materials which are to be centrifuged may require the use of
sealed centrifuge buckets.
Correct use of centrifuges
1.
Centrifuges may be operated only be trained members of staff.
2.
Balance tubes/buckets and adjust accordingly.
3.
Before starting a run, check the rotor and tube caps for any sign of corrosion or cracks. Check that the
outsides of containers are clear and free of drops of liquid as this could be a cause of corrosion. Clean
up, using an appropriate method, any spills into the centrifuge or rotor head.
4.
The centrifuge lid must be closed whenever the rotor is in motion and must be interlocked to prevent
access whilst the rotor is in motion.
5.
Never leave a centrifuge whilst it is accelerating as faults often occur during the acceleration phase of
the run.
8.
The rotor must not be stopped by hand or by the use of an implement. Serious injury could result
from such practices. Stop the centrifuge by returning the control to zero not by switching off the power
supply.
9.
If there is any indication of malfunction, stop the centrifuge immediately and contact Bill Edwards or the
CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser.
10. Always clean and dry the centrifuge and rotor carefully after use. It is important to remove all traces
of materials that could promote corrosion or stress cracking. Mild detergent, such as Tepol, with some
gentle brushing is sufficient. Avoid scratching a rotor.
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11. If rotors require biological disinfection, do NOT use agents that will cause corrosion of the rotor (e.g
Chloros) Cidex can be used.
12. Always leave the lid ajar when the centrifuge is not in use.
13. Always seek assistance before use if you are unfamiliar with the operation of any centrifuge.
Maintenance and inspection of centrifuges see N) Inspection and maintenance of Plant, Equipment and
Vehicles.
O.9 Chemical Safety
Before work commences:
1.
Understand the hazards associated with any of the chemicals involved.
2.
Know what precautions should be taken to create a safe environment to work with the chemicals.
The main hazards of chemicals are:
1.
The toxic effect of chemicals as they enter the body.
2.
The corrosive effects of some chemicals if they come into contact with human tissue.
3.
The flammable nature of some chemicals.
4.
The reactive nature of some chemicals – often when some incompatible chemicals come together.
See Appendix V Imcompatible Chemicals.
These hazards also need to be addressed when:
•
Considering the storage of chemicals.
•
Considering the use of chemicals.
•
Considering the disposal of chemical waste.
Consider also what will be done if there is a spillage (or other uncontrolled release) of a chemical. See L)
Spillages.
Hazard data sheets
It is a legal requirement that the supplier of a chemical must provide a hazard data sheet to the purchaser
of the chemical. If you have purchased a chemical and do not have a hazard data sheet, either contact the
supplier or check the suppliers website to obtain a copy. See Appendix VI.
Unless the chemical is one whose properties are known to the user, it is essential to consult a hazard data
sheet as classifications may change over the years.
It is recommended that a copy of the hazard data sheet for the chemical/solvent/acid used in the practical
should be kept in the Technical protocol manual for immediate reference should an incident occur.
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Risk assessment - see also D) Risk Assessment.
Risk assessments must always take account of the risks created by any chemicals which are used (see
above).
Risk assessments must always address:
•
Storage of chemicals.
•
Use of chemicals.
•
Disposal of chemicals.
•
Actions to be taken in the event of a spillage.
The wide range of chemicals that are used in the Teaching Facility means that it is not possible in this
handbook to provide information on all of them. Only a general guidance on precautions that should be
taken is provided. Lecturers are responsible for ensuring that hazards are identified and that necessary
precautions are taken in the preparation of materials and subsequent practical work.
Storage of chemicals
1.
All chemicals (either in the store or laboratories) must be correctly labelled. Materials purchased from
suppliers should be correctly labelled.
•
Solutions that have been prepared in the laboratory or chemicals that have been dispensed must be
clearly labelled with the correct chemical name (e.g. Soln A is not acceptable) and, if required,
appropriate hazard labels. Should there be an accident or a fire, it is essential that members of staff
or firemen know if there are potential hazards.
2.
•
Labels must be durable (e.g. marker pen on glass is not acceptable)
•
Solutions that are going to be stored for a period of time should also be dated.
Storage of chemicals must take account of incompatible chemicals that could, if there was a spillage or
a leak, cause a violent reaction or result in the production of highly toxic gases.
3.
Bottles containing liquids must always be placed in bottle carriers when being transported to/from
4.
storage areas that are outside the laboratory.
For storage of highly flammable liquids see the separate procedure in this handbook.
See O) Proceedures for Specific Hazards, section O.15 Highly Flammable Liquids.
5.
For the transport of dangerous chemicals in University vehicles consult the guidance notes on the
following link:- Transport of dangerous goods
Perchloric Acid
There is a very long history of accidents with perchloric acid. Most of these accidents have been associated
with either its exceptional oxidizing power or the inherent instability of its covalent compounds, some of
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which form readily. Although commercial 70-72% acid behaves as a very strong but non-oxidising acid, it
becomes an extreme oxidant and powerful dehydrator at elevated temperatures or when hydrated.
Handling and disposal of ethidium bromide gels and solutions
Ethidium bromide is used in gel electrophoresis for visualisation of nucleic acids. It is a potent mutagen
and should therefore be handled and disposed of with care using the appropriate protective clothing.
Handling of ethidium bromide
1.
Ethidium bromide must only be bought in either tablet or liquid form. Stock solutions should be prepared
in a fume hood, placed in clearly labelled darkened bottles and stored at 4°C. Used pipette tips should
be discarded into a cytobin(yellow with purple lids - available from the store). Ethidium bromide should
only be added to molten agarose when the latter has been allowed to cool below 50°C.
This prevents the possible release of ethidium bromide vapour.
2.
All gels must be transported in a robust leak proof container and disposed of into “cytotoxic waste”bins
after use.
3.
When viewing gels using an ultraviolet radiation cabinet, the room must have adequate ventilation and
an appropriate safety visor.
Disposal of ethidium bromide
1.
All gels containing ethidium bromide, or which have been in contact with buffers containing ethidium
bromide, must be disposed of by incineration. Disposal by other methods is not acceptable. Waste gels
should be placed in cytobins ( see section 1. above). When full the lid should be closed (once the small
aperture is closed it cannot be opened again), labelled with room number and contents and taken to
the large yellow bin located at the back of the Zoology building (key with triangular head,available
from the stores). Estates will arrange collection and disposal by registered contractor.
2.
Buffers that are extremely dilute( typically <0.5micrograms per ml) can be poured down the drain
providing they are followed by large amount of water.
3. More concentrated solutions (e.g. 10 mg/ml stock solutions) such as small bottles of stock solutions
can be placed with the gels in the cytobin and sent for incineration ( see 1. above).
Phenol burns
The recommended initial treatment for all chemical contamination of the body is rapid and copious irrigation
with cold water. For nearly all chemicals this should continue for at least 10 minutes.
Every precaution should be taken to prevent personal injury whilst using phenol.
•
Lab coats should be buttoned up, gloves and goggles worn.
Safety data sheets often suggest a special treatment for phenol contamination of the skin, such as
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polyethelene glycol in methylated spirits. However, in the case of a small phenol splash on the skin the initial
treatment should be rapid and copious irrigation with cold water for at least 10 minutes.
Silica gel
Most self-indicating silica gels have, in the past, contained small amounts of cobalt chloride which has
recently been classified as a Category 2 carcinogen. Silica gel is now available containing other much less
toxic indicators.
Strong acids
Always add acid to water when diluting strong mineral acids. Mineral acids will burn skin; immediately
irrigate with cold water for 10 minutes.
Strong alkalis
Sodium, potassium or calcium hydroxide and ammonia can cause burns and rapid damage to eyes. Always
open bottles of concentrated ammonia in a fume cupboard.
Dimethylsulphoxide
Dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) is rapidly absorbed through the skin. On its own it is relatively non-toxic. Great
care should be taken when it is used as a solvent for other toxic or carcinogenic substances as DMSO will
facilitate absorption.
Mercury
Mercury vapour is a cumulative poison. Mercury should never be allowed to stand exposed in the laboratory.
Any spillage should be cleaned up immediately using mercury collectors and the correct respiratory
equipment. Mercury containers can be obtained from Jencons-PLS. Any mercury that cannot be cleaned up
in this way should be sprinkled with zinc dust, to form an amalgam, and then swept up. It is advisable that all
mercury-containing thermometers with either digital thermometers or ones filled with non-toxic coloured
spirit.
Chloroform
Chloroform has been known to be carcinogenic and should be used in a fume cupboard with full protective
clothing. Phenol/chloroform is often used as part of the process of DNA extraction, since it is considered
superior to other extraction methods.
Misuse of drugs act
Attention is drawn to the Misuse of Drugs Act. The Act gives three lists of drugs.
•
Class A: opiates, narcotics and hallucinogens and N,N-dimethyl and N,H-diethyl-tryptamine and certain
chemicals such as 4-phenyl-piperidine-4 carboxylic acid ethyl ester.
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•
Class B: amphetamines, cannibis etc.
•
Class C: compounds which have effects on the central nervous system.
•
It is an offence to make or possess any of the compounds listed in the classes except for specific
purposes and conditions.
•
If you have permission to use these drugs, they should be kept in a locked cabinet.
Members of the CLSM Teaching Facility who are likely to make or use any of this kind for teaching purposes
are advised to consult the list in the Act, to consult with the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser, and to
enquire from the Home office the exact regulations governing their use.
O.10 Dangerous Pathogens and Toxins
As part of the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Bill, 2002, the University is under a legal obligation to
inform
the Home Office of any holdings of a number of dangerous pathogens and toxins.
Dangerous viruses, rickettsiae and bacteria:
These are primarily Category 3 or 4 organisms none of which are used in undergraduate teaching.
Dangerous toxins
Aflatoxins
Saxitoxin
Botulinum toxins
Shiga toxin
Clostridium perfrigens toxins
Staphylococcus aureus toxins
Conotoxin
Tetrodotoxin
Microcystin (Cyanginosin)
Verotoxin
Ricin
Reference to a toxin includes:
•
Any genetic material containing nucleic acid sequence of the coding of the toxin; and
•
Any genetically modified organism containing such sequence.
•
Subunits of the toxin.
O.11 Electrical Equipment
The main hazards arising from the use of electrical equipment are:
•
Electric shock.
•
Fire caused by overheated conductors.
•
Explosion due to a spark in a flammable atmosphere.
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To prevent electricity becoming a source of harm, electrical equipment should be:
1.
Installed correctly and suitable for application.
2.
Used correctly
3.
Maintained in good condition
3.
Maintained in good condition
Selection and installation of electrical equipment.
The electrical installation in the building up to and including the electrical sockets or other point of supply is
the responsibility if the University’s Estates Section. No one other than Estates electricians or their
contractors should interfere with the electrical installation or attempt to carry out repairs.
Anyone who needs changes made to the installation or believes part of it may be faulty should contact the
CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser who will arrange for the Estates to carry out the necessary work.
Electrical equipment must be suitable for the area in which it will be used. Particular care is needed
when selecting equipment for use:
•
Outdoors.
•
In areas where there is water.
•
In places where electrolytes or saline solutions are used
•
In cold rooms.
•
In places of high humidity.
•
In places where flammable atmospheres might develop.
It is unlikely that “normal” electrical equipment will be suitable for any of these conditions. Anyone wanting
to use electrical equipment in one of the above environments or any other hazardous environment should
contact the Facilities safety Adviser fro advice on the selection and installation of suitable equipment.
Contact the fault desk ( tel.3333) to report electrical faults and request repairs (take note of the event
number for future reference).
The CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser will provide advice on operating electrical ‘PAT’ testing
equipment and the visual inspection of electrical equipment.
Correct use of electrical equipment
1.
Carry out a visual inspection of any piece of electrical equipment before connecting it to the power
supply. (Look for any obvious damage such as frayed cables and damaged plugs).
2.
If any equipment is faulty, disconnect it from the supply and take steps to prevent anyone using it.
(Attach a notice on both the piece of equipment and the plug). Make arrangements to have the
equipment repaired.
3.
Always replace a blown fuse by a fuse of the correct rating. (A 13 amp fuse will be too large for most
items for equipment). Fuses must be fitted in the live lead only. If the replacement fuse should blow, the
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equipment should be regarded as faulty and not reconnected to the power supply until the fault is
repaired. (Attach a notice as no.2 above).
3.
Always replace a blown fuse by a fuse of the correct rating. (A 13 amp fuse will be too large for most
items for equipment). Fuses must be fitted in the live lead only. If the replacement fuse should blow, the
equipment should be regarded as faulty and not reconnected to the power supply until the fault is
repaired. (Attach a notice as no.2 above).
4.
If at all possible do not use multiway plug-in adapters with electrical equipment. They can lead to
overloading of sockets. Power only one piece of equipment from each socket. If there are not enough
sockets available, arrange to get more installed.
5.
If solutions or chemicals are spilled on or near equipment, switch off and disconnect the apparatus by
removing the plug. Clean the apparatus immediately before attempting to use again.
6.
Electrophoresis apparatus must be clearly marked: “DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE –DO NOT TOUCH”
Ensure that all leads are tidy and not lying in a position where they might get caught.
7.
Only attempt to repair electrical equipment if you are competent to do so. When carrying out repairs
always disconnect the equipment from the supply by pulling out the plug. Take steps to prevent anyone
plugging it in again while you are carrying out the repair.
Maintenance of electrical equipment
1.
The Facilities safety adviser will co-ordinate the program for inspection and testing of electrical
equipment.
2.
They will:
•
Determine the frequency of inspections and
tests for the different types of electrical
equipment in the Teaching Facility.
•
When was it last tested?
Ensure that inspection and test is carried
out at the specified intervals.
•
Ensure that equipment is marked to
indicate that it has been inspected or tested.
• Maintain records of inspections and tests.
3.
The CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser will provide advice on operating electrical ‘PAT’ testing
equipment and the visual inspection of electrical equipment.
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O.12 First Aid – Emergencies
It may take a first aider several minutes to reach the scene of an accident or there may be no first aiders in
the building when the accident occurs. The actions taken by those on the scene immediately following the
accident may be able to significantly limit the extent of the injuries suffered by the casualty.
Chemical contamination of the body
1.
The immediate inclination tendency on being splashed with a chemical, or seeing someone else being
splashed, might be to seek medical help. The first step must be to stop the chemical causing
further damage to the body.
2.
Immediate application of large amounts of running water to the affected area of the body for a period of
10 -15 minutes is the standard initial treatment for all instances of chemical contamination. A delay of
even a few minutes could result in greatly increased damage to the body’s tissues.
3.
Anyone assisting the casualty should protect themselves with rubber gloves etc. Any dry chemical
should be quickly and carefully brushed off. Contaminated clothing and jewellery should be removed
before flooding the affected area with running water for 10 – 15 minutes. At the end of this period
medical attention should be sought. (A copy of the safety data sheet for the substance concerned
should accompany the casualty if they are taken to hospital).
4.
Chemical contamination of the eyes should not occur because the member of staff or student should be
wearing appropriate eye protection. If it does happen, again the treatment is the application of running
water for 10 – 15 minutes. (A piece of flexible tubing fitted to a laboratory tap is effective). The casualty
should always be taken to hospital. (With a copy of safety data sheet as above).
NOTE: Running water is essential for treating chemical contamination of the eyes.
5.
Contamination of the body by certain chemicals will require the person administering emergency
treatment to be aware that large amounts of water is still the correct treatment.
•
Contamination with Phenol – be aware that small amounts of water may increase absorption of the
chemical.
•
Contamination with chemicals which ignite with water – be aware that the casualty might panic.
Burns
To minimize the effect of burns, speed is essential. The immediate application of cold running water for at
least 10 minutes can have a dramatic effect in limiting the amount of damaged tissue. Only after running
water has been applied for this period, should medical attention be sought. The same applies to cold burns
(e.g. liquid nitrogen).
Electrocution
If a colleague is electrocuted, do not attempt to release the victim until the power is shut off. If this is not
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possible, pull the victim away using thick rubber gloves( not thin disposable), a coat or a rope to avoid
becoming a victim yourself. If required, artificial respiration should be started immediately. Send for an
ambulance ( Tel. 9-999) stating that it is a case of electric shock with possible cardiac arrest.
Fire
If a colleague’s clothing is set alight and a fire blanket is available, it can be used to smother the flames. Lay
the victim horizontal to prevent the flames spreading up to the face. Wrap the blanket firmly around the
affected area to completely smother the flames. Avoid setting fire to yourself by keeping behind the blanket.
If required send for an ambulance (Tel. 9-999).
First Aid Room
A first aid room (G03) with a bed and a sink is located in the small corridor (next to the plasma screen) on
the ground floor of the Zoology building. This may be used for recovery after minor injuries.
O.13 Fume Cupboards
Fume cupboards are intended to keep harmful substances away from the person operating the fume
cupboard and away from other users of the laboratory. The fume cupboard will only do this effectively if:
• It is used in the correct manor.
• It is regularly maintained. See N) Inspection and maintenance of Premises, Equipment and Vehicle.
Use of a fume cupboard
1.
Fume cupboards should only be used for experimental work NOT as a storage facility. If there
were to be an accident, using the fume cupboard for storage will increase the risk of harmful substances
being released from the cupboard into the laboratory.
2.
Do not set up equipment close to the front edge of the fume cupboard. Blocking the air stream being
drawn in at the front can result in “eddies” in the air stream with a consequently greater risk of harmful
substances being released into the laboratory.
Conversely, equipment should not be put so far back that it obstructs the extract slot at the bottom of the
back of the cupboard or, causes the user to put their head into the cupboard to operate the equipment.
3.
Fume cabinets are not designed for work with micro-organisms. Microbiological (Laminaflow) safety
Cabinets must be used for work with hazardous micro-organisms. See O) Procedures for Specific
Hazards, section O.16 Microbiological Cabinets.
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O.14 Glassware
Accidents with glassware are a common source of injury in the University. To lessen the risk :
1.
Before use, check that any glassware is sound. Cracked or chipped glassware must be repaired or
disposed of into the broken Glass Waste bin.(Cardboard bins are available from the store). Glassware
with scratches and/or star cracks should not be used in vacuum systems.
2.
All glass must be properly supported. Vessels of more than 500ml should not be clamped by the neck
alone (place a tripod or something similar underneath it).
3.
NEVER pick up a Winchester bottle by the neck as the weight of the contents can be enough to
shatter the bottle. Always use a bottle carrier when transporting the Winchester.
4.
Never carry glass objects in your pocket.
5.
Always protect your hands with a cloth when cutting glass tub, or when inserting glass objects through
bungs. Use a lubricant such as glycerol or industrial alcohol to help insert the glass into the bung.
6.
Take care when fitting glass pipettes into pipetting devices. Always grasp the pipette near the top and
gently, but firmly, twist the pipette top into the device. Remove from the device in a similar way.
7.
Take care when putting flexible tubes , such as rubber tubing, onto glass objects. Cut off any tubing that
sticks to the glassware.
8.
If there is an accident any broken glass must be cleaned up at once (each laboratory should have a
small dustpan and brush). Avoid walking on areas where broken glass has scattered. Take care not to
cut yourself. Small slivers of glass can be collected using a piece of plasticine or “Blu Tack”. Particular
care is required to remove broken glass from sinks as wet glass is almost invisible. It is safer to dispose
of any cloth that has been used to collect any liquid that has been spilt as a result of a breakage.
9.
If heating glassware apply the heat slowly and ensure that the glassware is vented to avoid a pressure
developing.
10. Never store glassware on the floor.
11. Each laboratory must have a clearly labelled broken glass bin and must be kept separate from general
waste bins. Any biologically contaminated glassware must be sterilized before disposal into the glass
bin.
12. For disposal, place the glassware in cardboard boxes marked “broken glass”. Ensure that the box is well
taped and sufficiently strong to support the weight of the broken glass.
O.15 Highly Flammable Liquids (HFLs)
A HFL is a liquid with a flash point below 32ºC. The flash point of a liquid is the lowest temperature at which
the liquid gives off vapour in sufficient concentration to form a combustible mixture with air near the surface
of the liquid.
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Highly flammable liquids (HFLs) should be treated carefully so:
•
They do not become a source of fire.
•
They do not fuel an existing fire.
The flash points of some laboratory solvents used in the CLSM Teaching Facility are:
Ethanol
+12ºC
Acetone
-19°C
Methanol
+11ºC
Diethyl ether
- 45°C
As the flash points of all of these liquids are below room temperature the liquids will always constitute a
major fire hazard. Acetone and Diethyl ether have flash points that may be found in a refrigerator or freezer
and will therefore constitute an explosive hazard even when in cold storage.
Laboratory stocks
1.
The total volume of HFLs in any laboratory or room must be kept as low as possible and under no
circumstance must it exceed 50 litres.(Limit set by legislation).
2.
All HFLs in a laboratory must be stored in a specially designed and approved fire resistant cabinet.
(Ordinary metal cabinets are not acceptable). Cabinets should be located away from exits from the
laboratory. Cabinets must conspicuously marked with the approved labels to indicate that they contain
HFLs. Cabinets should only be used for solvents and never for oxidants, acids, alkalis or other materials
that could react with the solvents or cause corrosion of the cabinets. HFLs should not be stored on the
open bench or in a fume cupboard.
3.
Bottles of HFLs removed from the cabinet for use should not be left on the open bench or in direct
sunlight.
Refrigerator storage
1.
If it is necessary to place HLFs in a refrigerator or freezer it is essential that a special
Refrigerator/freezer is used. It must be spark proof and protected against explosion. Even a small
amount of HFL in an ordinary refrigerator or freezer can create an explosive atmosphere that can then
be incited by a very low energy spark (e.g. from a thermostat). Consequences from a resulting explosion
can be devastating. At the very least the laboratory containing the refrigerator or freezer would be
destroyed. Even in a protected refrigerator the HFLs must be kept in closed containers impervious to the
solvent concerned. (Many plastics are not suitable).
2.
All refrigerators/freezers that are not spark proof must be labelled with a sign (see example on next
page) indicating that they are not, under any circumstance, suitable for storage of any HFL. Signs are
available from the CLSM Facilities Safety adviser. Even if the flash point of the liquid is above that of the
working temperature inside the refrigerator, storage is still not permitted. If the cooling system were to
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fail, the temperature could rise above the flash point and an explosive atmosphere could result.
Warning – Explosion Hazard
This apparatus is NOT spark proof and must NOT
be used to store any source of ether fumes or the
fumes of other highly flammable solvents
Typical sources of potentially explosive fumes are open or
closed vessels containing flammable solvents and the
carcasses of animals that have been anaesthetised or
swabbed with ether
IF IN DOUBT CONSULT YOUR SAFETY OFFICER
Empty Bottles
Empty bottles that once contained HFLs should be handled and stored as carefully as full bottles as they
may contain expolsive vapours.
Work with Highly Flammable Liquids
1.
Those working with HFLs must be aware of the flash points of the liquids and must take care to exclude
ignition sources from the work area. The risk assessment for the work must address how this will be
done.
2.
In deciding what might be a possible source of ignition, note must be taken of the Autoignition
temperature of the HFL. (The autoignition temperature is the minimum temperature required to initate
combustion. It is not only sparks and naked flames that can be a source of ignition. If the vapour of the
HFL comes into contact with a surface at a temperature in access of the autoignition temperature, the
vapour can ignite.
3.
Spillages. See L) Spillages.
O.16 Microbiological Safety Cabinets/Laminar Flow Cabinets
Health and safety legislation requires a microbiological cabinet to be used if work at laboratory containment
levels 2, 3 or 4 is likely to give rise to infectious aerosols. (Note: there are no facilities in the University for
containment level 4).
Microbiological cabinets have three different types of classification (BS5726:1992). These are called Class I,
Class II and Class III. Note: The class numbers have no relationship to either containment levels or hazard
group numbers.
Class I: Designed to protect the operator by maintaining an inward flow of air past the operator and over
the work surface inside the cabinet. As the incoming air is unfiltered, this type of cabinet does not provide
product protection. There is therefore, a risk that cell cultures would be contaminated by airborne organisms.
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Class I cabinets are generally suitable for work at laboratory containment levels 2 or 3
Class II: Designed to offer protection to both the operator and the product. The inflow of air at the front of
the cabinet , which is filtered before circulation within it, discourages emissions of airborne particles
generated by the work while the downflow of filtered air over the surface protects the work. It can be used at
containment level 2 , and under exceptional circumstances, at containment level 3.
Class III: These cabinets are totally enclosed and can provide the maximum protection for the operator, the
environment and the work. Both incoming and outgoing air is filtered and access to the interior is gained by
use of arm length gloves attached to the front panel of the unit.
NOTE: “Laminar flow cabinets” are designed provide protection for the product or sample only. The
operator is NOT protected.
There is a “Laminar flow” cabinet in B12.
See N) Inspection and maintenance of Plant, Equipment and Vehicles for maintenance of cabinets.
O.17 Out of Hours (unattended experiments/equipment)
Equipment left running overnight and at weekends.
For safe operation and to keep night watchmen/security staff fully informed, the following procedure must be
used for equipment running overnight and at weekends (e.g. shaking waterbaths, electrophoresis
equipment, fraction collectors).
1.
Ensure that the piece of equipment that is being left unattended has no sign of damage.
2.
The equipment must have an “Out of Running Hours Permit” which must be completed, signed and
dated(copies available from the CLSM Teaching Facility Safety Adviser).
3.
The person responsible (user) must ensure that they are available to answer any emergency call during
the out of hours running.
(See example of form below)
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O.18 Personal Protective Equipment
Eye protection
1.
Eye protection should be worn whenever there is any likelihood of material entering the eyes.
2.
Normal spectacles are not an effective or acceptable form of eye protection
3.
Where risk of injury to the eyes is high, goggles or full face visor will be required.
4.
UV visors must be used when viewing DNA gels with ultraviolet light. NOTE: normal visors or safety
spectacles are insufficient for protection from ultraviolet light.
Respiratory protection
Laboratory procedures and experimental work should normally be designed to keep airborne contaminants
such as dust, toxic gases and fumes away from people. If someone needs to wear a face mask it must be
considered if it is safe for others to be in the same room.
Respiratory protective equipment may be required for use in an emergency (e.g.spillage). Only those who
have undergone full training in the use of such apparatus (e.g. compressed air cylinder and face mask) are
authorised to use it.(see spillages.)
Hand protection
Gloves must be worn whenever there is the likelihood of the hand coming into contact with a substance that
could either damage or be absolved through the skin (or through cuts/abrasions on the skin). It is essential
to select the correct type of glove to provide the right level of protection for the substance you are working
with. Useful information can be found on the following link:- Personal protective equipment
NOTE:The use of powdered latex gloves is prohibited in the CLSM Teaching Facility.
1.
Care must be taken if gloves have to be worn near naked flames as they burn readily.
2.
When wearing gloves do not touch anything that others might touch (e.g door handle, computer
Keyboard, telephone).
Teaching Facility Health and Safety Handbook
3.
When removing disposable gloves, turn them inside out and place them into an autoclave bag for
disposal. Never through them into the grey waste bins. See M) Waste Disposal.
Laboratory coats
1.
Lab coats are intended to protect the person and their clothes from small spillages and protection from
UV exposure. See O) Procedures for Specific Hazards section O.21 Ultra-violet radiation. They
must always be fastened up in all laboratory areas.
2.
The contamination that accumulates on a lab coat should remain in the laboratory and not be
transported around the building. It should not be taken into areas such as the tea room.
3.
Lab coats that are fastened by press studs are much better than those that are fastened by buttons
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as it is far easier to be removed in the event of a hazardous spillage on the coat.
4.
Those working with biological agents at the laboratory containment level 2 or above should wear sidefastening coats (Howie style). Coats contaminated with biological agents should be placed in an
autoclave bag and autoclaved before being sent to be laundered.
5.
All pockets must be checked and their contents emptied before being sent to be laundered.
O.19 Ultra-Violet Radiation
UV radiation is used in the CLSM Teaching Facility for the visualization of DNA gels. Ultra-violet (UV)
radiation lies in the wavelength 100-400nm. The action of the UV light on the eye is acute and the eye
cannot detect wavelengths below 380nm. Conjunctivitis results 3-12 hours post exposure and lasts for
several days. Skin damage and even burns can be caused by exposure.
There are 2 UV light boxes (Transilluminators) in lab ZB13.
Using the light box:
•
Suitable eye protection MUST be worn whenever there is the possibility of direct exposure to UV
radiation. Ordinary prescription glass or sunglasses are inadequate for protection of the eyes from UV
radiation.
•
Lab coats and gloves should also be worn to protect the skin from exposure.
•
Ensure that the UV is switched off before opening the cabinet.
•
Place gel inside the light box and make sure that the door is firmly closed.
•
Switch on UV to view gel.
•
Switch off UV before opening the light box.
O.20 Computer Workstations
Those working with keyboards and computer display screens for prolonged periods may be exposed to a
number of health hazards. The most common problem that can develop is referred to as “Musculoskeletal
Disorders” caused by incorrect positioning of the user in relation to the keyboard. The risks can be controlled
by workstation assessments for compliance with workstation standards.
Trained workstation assessors will carry out the assessments and appropriate action will be taken to ensure
compliance. Staff will receive instruction on how to use their workstations correctly and must regularly review
their own working practices. Assessments will be reviewed every two years or if a member of staff has any
changes to their working environment.
The current assessors are listed in Appendix I
A copy of the CLSM Teaching Facility Workstation Assessment Form is shown in Appendix VI
Useful information can be found on the following link:- Computer workstations
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O.21 Manual Handling
Back injury from incorrect manual handling is a common cause of accidents. Injury to the lower back, as a
result of bad lifting practice, may never fully recover and can be prone to relapse. Incorrect manual handling
can also result in injuries to the feet, cuts and bruising.
•
Assess the job before attempting to lift anything. Check inside boxes, bins etc. as the contents
may contain heavy goods.
•
Whenever possible use a trolley or other form of mechanical assistance.
•
Seek help when maneuvering heavy or awkward loads onto trolleys etc.
Equipment for lifting/moving heavy items should be inspected regularly . See N) Inspection and
maintenance of Plant, Equipment and Vehicles.
A training course on Manual Handling is arranged periodically by the University.
O.21 Vehicles and Transport
1.Driving Cars,Vans & People Carriers
To be covered by the Universty’s motor insurance, anyone who drives a university vehicle or hire car must:
• Obtain the University’s permission to drive
• Complete a Driver Declaration form, which must be approved – a completed and signed Drivers
declaration from should be submitted to the Technical Resources Manager for submission to the
Insurance Office. Only once this form has been approved by the insurance office and insurance broker
will you be allowed to drive on University Insurance. If the licence is Non-UK then a copy of the licence
must be submitted along with the drivers declaration form.
• Satisfy the age and driving experience conditions
° UK licence must have been held for a minimum of one year
° Minimum age is 18
° Licences from EC countries allow the holder to drive for up to 5 years in the UK without sitting a UK
test. Licence must have been held for one year.
° Licences from non-EC countries allow the holder to drive for up to one year in the UK before sitting a
UK Test. Licence must have been held for one year.
Note: If you do not do your own vehicle hire then you should be able to demonstrate to the individual
processing the hire that you have satisfied all of the above criteria.
2. Driving Minibuses
To be covered by the Universty’s motor insurance, anyone who drives a minibus must:
• Obtain the University’s permission to drive
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• Complete a Driver Declaration form, which must be approved – a completed and signed Drivers
declaration from should be submitted to the Technical Resources Manager for submission to the
Insurance Office. Only once this form has been approved by the insurance office and insurance broker
will you be allowed to drive on University Insurance. If the licence is Non-UK then a copy of the licence
must be submitted along with the drivers declaration form.
• Satisfy the age and driving experience conditions
° UK licence must have been held for a minimum of one year
° Minimum age is 18
° Licences from EC countries allow the holder to drive for up to 5 years in the UK without sitting a UK
test. Licence must have been held for one year.
° Licences from non-EC countries allow the holder to drive for up to one year in the UK before sitting a
UK Test. Licence must have been held for one year.
• Must have a suitable Driving Licence that allows them to Drive a Minibus
° UK licence obtained prior to 1/1/1997
This licence allows the holder to drive a minibus provided he/she is over 21, the minibus has
a maximum of 17 seats including the driver’s seat, and is not being used for hire or reward unless
the vehicle is carrying a permit(see below for more details on permits)
“Hire or reward” encompasses any payment in cash or kind by(or on behalf of)passengers which
gives them a right to be carried. Most journeys undertaken in minibuses operating under the
University’s insurance where students are carried will be for hire or reward. It is strongly
recommended that all minibuses, whether owned, leased or hired, carry a minibus permit to avoid
the driver having to determine whether the particular journey is for hire or reward.
°UK licence obtained on or after 1/1/1997
Minibuses are excluded from these licences, and a separate test is required to obtain the minibus
category. There are however some limited circumstances in which it is still possible to drive a
minibus. You can drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats if you meet ALL of the conditions
below:1.
You drive on behalf of a non commercial body for social purposes but not for hire or
reward, unless operating under a minibus permit.
2.
You are aged 21 or over.
3.
You have held a car ( category B) licence for at least 3 years.
4.
You are providing your service on a voluntary basis
and
5.
The minibus maximum weight is not more than 3.5 tonnes excluding any specialist
equipment for the carriage of disabled passengers. In special circumstances minibuses
up to 4.25tonnes will be permitted.
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Important
Members of staff driving minibuses on University business will not
Be able to meet all of the above conditions as they will be driving
in connection with their employment and not therefore providing
their service ”on a voluntary basis”. Members of staff who
obtained their licence after 1/1/97 cannot therefore drive
minibuses on University business unless they take a separate
driving test
° Non UK licences
Some licences will include a minibus category, others will not. In all cases, a copy of
the applicant’s licence should be taken and sent in with the Driver Declaration form.
For non UK licence holders please ensure they have appropriate experience and
competency for driving in the UK( eg driving on the left had side of the road).
• Must have successfully completed further driver training.
In addition, as from 1st August 2005 the minibus driver MUST have completed an additional driver
training course approved by the University as a condition of being allowed to drive a minibus. Drivers who
have not completed an additional course will be driving without the University’s permission and will not
be covered by the University’s insurance. The University’s Safety Adviser maintains a list of providers of
approved training courses and should be contacted for details.
NOTE: If you do not own your own vehicle hire then you should be able to demonstrate to the
Individual processing the hire that you have satisfied all of the above criteria.
3. Driving Your Own Vehicle on University Buisness
Those driving their own vehicles on University business must have extended their motor insurance policies
to cover business use. Even driving for a short distance in the course of a working day in connection with
University activities is business use eg. Driving from Foresterhill to Old Aberdeen to attend a meeting is
Business use. If there were an accident during the journey and the driver’s motor policy has not been
extended, the insurance company could argue that the journey was business use and that it was not
covered by the policy. The driver would then be uninsured and would be faced with the consequences
which would be complex, expensive and involve criminal charges. ( In deciding whether a journey in a
private vehicle is deemed business use it does not matter whether the driver is claiming a mileage
allowance through expences for the journey)
4. Journeys
Schools and Support Services as well as drivers themselves should recognize their responsibilities
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to ensure that road journeys are planned to reduce the risk of driver fatigue. The following should
always be considered:• Driver fatigue on long journeys and on journeys undertaken at the end of a long demanding working day
where there have not been the opportunity to rest.
• Whether an overnight stay or use of an alternative use of transport would be appropriate.
• The need to take adequate rest breaks during journeys.
• Making sure that drivers, particularly minibus drivers , are able to give their full attention to driving and are
not also having to discuss the day’s activities with students.
We have deliberately not provided limits of driving hours as circumstances in which people need to drive on
University business vary considerably across the University. Instead it is left to drivers and their line
managers to plan the working day to avoid driver fatigue.
See guidance from ROSPA on planning journeys.
5.Phones
It is illegal in the UK to use hand-held phones whilst driving but the law does permit the use of hands-free
phones. However drivers are strongly discouraged from using hands-free phones whilst driving on
University business. Members of staff should not be expected to answer calls whilst driving but instead calls
should be diverted to voicemail and answered when the driver can stop in a safe place.
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Appendix I
First Aid - Zoology
Defibrillator trained
Kevin Bruce
Tel.2856
Kevin Bruce
Tel.2856
Alex Douglas
Tel.2873
Jane Pool
Tel.3861
Margaret Wallace
Tel.4488
Sheila Jones
Tel.3220
Jane Pool
Tel.3861
Laura Watt
Tel.3888
Sheila Jones
Tel.3220
Alex Douglas
Tel.2873
Bruce Gordon
Tel.2856
Jeremy Sternberg Tel.2272
Susan Blaney
Tel.2870
Yashka Smith
Tel.4545
Karen Massie
Tel.2893
Mike Birnie
Tel.2888
Mark Paterson
Tel.3638
Laura Watt
Tel.3888
Mike Birnie
Tel.2888
Marie Fish
Tel.4545
Yashka Smith
Tel.4545
Jeremy Sternberg
Tel.2272
First Aid - Polwarth
Liza Young
Tel 7082
Barbara Eberth
Tel 7189
Divine Ikenwilo
Tel 7178
Marie Walker-Greenwood
Tel 7266
Kirsten Harrild
Tel 7149
Jane Diack
Tel 50681
Claire Carolan
Tel 7870
Louise Carnegie
Tel 54327
Gary Cameron
Tel 7953
Heather Wallace
Tel 7956
OR: Contact IMS Reception (7300) who will locate a first aider
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Appendix II
Workstation Assessors
Cathlyn Clark
Bill Edwards
Bruce Gordon
Tel 3965/3923
Tel 2856
Kelly Reid
Tel 2856
Jane Pool
Tel 2856
Tel 2856
Building Safety Adviser
Susan Blaney
Tel 2870
Spillage response team
Fire Extinguisher Trained Staff
Brian Paterson …..Team Leader…..Tel.3804
Cathlyn Clark
Elaine Lyall
Russell Gray
Tel.2896
Hazel Fyfe
Kelly Reid
Walter Ritchie
Tel.3493
Nigel Graham
Pamela Sutherland
John Masson
Tel.2565
Bruce Gordon
Mike Birnie
Tel.2866
Sheila Jones
Nigel Graham
Tel.2856
Fire Assembly Area Officers
Arthur Donald
(B27)
Peter Thomson
(B33)
Floor Checkers
Cathlyn Clark
Basement labs/ prep rooms and seminar rooms
Alison Davidson
Basement labs/ prep rooms and seminar rooms
Kevin Bruce
Ground floor labs/ prep room and toilets
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Appendix III
CLSM Teaching Facility Risk Assessment Form
This form must be completed before work commences. Please send and electronic copy and a signed
hard copy to the CLSM Safety Adviser. The completed Risk Assessment should also be posted in the
course’s My Aberdeen space for students to read.
Course Code :Description of work
Location of work
Names of those who will be involved
Hazard identification – List potentially hazardous chemicals and organisms to be used. Describe main
hazards (e.g. fire, inhalation, absorption).
Describe aspects that might create significant risks (e.g. genetic modification, radiation hazard)
Describe the aspects that might create a risk to technical staff (e.g. diluting concentrated acids or
preparing solutions using hazardous chemicals to fulfil practical requirements)
Do any of these chemicals/organisms pose a risk to a pregnant woman or foetus in the early stages of
pregnancy? If yes, please specify.
Describe the planned actions in the event of an accident (e.g. spillage)
Storage
Describe the waste procedure
Prepared by _________________________ Signature _________________________ Date ___________
Approved by _________________________ Signature _________________________ Date ____________
Others involved in the work with whom the assessment has been discussed:
Name _______________________________ Signature _________________________ Date ___________
Name _______________________________ Signature _________________________ Date ___________
Name _______________________________ Signature _________________________ Date ___________
Appendix IV
CLSM Teaching Facility Induction /Training Form
Name:_____________________________________
Date of commencement of employment___________
Training
1.
Provide a copy of the Health and Safety manual, also on web in the Teaching teamspace @
\\medicine\global\Teaching\Technical\Health and Safety\College of Life Science2.doc
2.
Explanation of the organizational structure for Health and Safety (who does what)
3.
Whom to contact with Health and Safety concerns; name of facility safety adviser__________
4.
Risk Assessment – where to find forms in the lab; procedures to be followed to conform with
the assessment
4.
Personal and protective equipment – lab coat, safety goggles, gloves etc. – when and how to
use
5.
Good lab practice – refer to list in the Health and Safety manual and keep work areas clean
and uncluttered.
6.
Chemical safety – hazard symbols; MSDS; correct storage and labeling; poisons &
carcinogens; use of fume hood; chemical spillage & disposal
7.
Biological safety – Description of hazard groups & containment levels: use of cabinets
7.
Waste disposal – refer to the list in the Health and Safety manual
8.
Out of hours/lone working – location of “sign in book”; emergency contact numbers.
4.
What to do in the event of fire – evacuation of lab; locations of fire escapes : assembly points
5.
First aid arrangements – names and contact numbers of first aiders; location of first aid boxes
6.
Accident and near miss reporting – location of blank forms and on line site
7.
Access to heights
8.
Manual handling
9.
Electrical appliances – refer to the Health and Safety manual for correct use of equipment
10.
Computer workstations
11.
Fault reporting – Estates contact number
Date completed
Training completed:
Date:_______________
Inductor’s signature:________________________
I have received and understood the health and safety training provided as part of the induction
Programme.
Employee’s signature:_______________________
Appendix V
CLSM Teaching Facility Technical Staff Training Record for Specific
Hazards / Techniques & Equipment
Training and equipment to be included will depend on the lab/practical course requirements
Training in techniques and equipment will be by supervisor or designated person.
Direct supervision should continue until the supervisor/designated person is satisfied to
competency.
Procedures for specific hazards
1.
Autoclaves – authorized user only
2.
Centrifuges – balance load symmetrically; lids on
buckets
3.
Compressed gases – storage; transportation; use of
regulators; hazards
4.
Microwave ovens – correct glassware; superheating
of liquids
5.
Fridges & freezers – no storage of HFLs: electrical
equipment; storage
6.
UV lamps – eye protection: disposal
Techniques training
Training delivered by –
signature & date
Training
received/understood by –
signature & date
Appendix VI
Workstation Assessment Form
Name
Location and Room No:
Date of Assessment
Assessor
Chair
3 Way adjustable
Chair set at correct height – upper arm vertical
Feet should be flat on the floor
Lower back should be supported and back of thighs comfortable
Show user how to use chair
There should be 90º or slightly greater angle between lower back and lower legs
Armrests( if you have them) should not interfere with your work
Adequate space beneath desk/table
Monitor
Top of the monitor should be approximately eye level(for typists). Otherwise monitor
can be lower if preferred. ( People with bifocals should place the monitor slightly below
eye level or should purchase glasses specifically for computer use)
The monitor should be placed approximately 50cm in front of user
If screen editing is a major function, locate the monitor in the central field of view
If data input is a major function, the source document should be central with the
monitor on the side
The source document should be placed at the same level
Avoid placing monitor against bright backgrounds(windows without blinds)
Avoid glare on the monitor by tilting the monitor or by using anti-glare screen
Show User how to adjust Brightness and Contrast
Screen is clean and clear- advise User on screen cleaning
Keyboard and Mouse
Keyboard and mouse at same level
Keyboard and mouse should be placed at a height that allows User to keep forearms
parallel to the floor
Upper arms should hang comfortably at User’s side
Wrists should be straight and relaxed
Keyboard should be placed flat, not tilted forward
Space in front of keyboard to rest hands when not typing
Laptops
User supplied with leaflet if applicable
Health Risks
User adviser how to avoid fatigue and possible health problems
User advised how to change activity regularly
User advised to approach assessor/Health and Safety Adviser if experiencing any
problems
The above points and their purposes have been explained to me
User’s signature:_____________________________________
Assessor’s signature:__________________________________
Equipment request
Desk/Table
Foot Rest
Wrist Rest-keyboard
Wrist Rest - mouse
Document Holder
Chair
Comment
Date
Received
Appendix VII
Incompatable chemicals
A wide variety of chemicals react dangerously when mixed with certain other materials. Do not store
dangerous chemicals in close proximity. Examples of incompatible chemicals are given below.
Substance
Incompatible substance_______________________
Acetic acid
Chromic acid, nitric acid, hydroxyl-containing
compounds, perchloric acid, peroxides and
Permanganates.
Acetone
Conc. nitric and sulphuric acids.
Ammonia(anhydrous)
Mercury, chlorine, calcium hychlorite, iodine, bromine,
hydrogen fluoride
Azides
Acids
Carbon, activated
Calcium hypochlorite
Chlorates
Ammonium salts, acids, metal powders, sulphur finely
divided organics or combustables.
Chromic acid
Acetic acid, naphthalene, camphor, gylcerine, alcohol
and other flammable liquids.
Flammable liquids
Ammonium nitrate, chromic acid, sodium or hydrogen
peroxide, nitric acid, halogens.
Hydrazine
Hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, any oxidant.
Hydrocarbons
Halogens, chromic acid, peroxide.
Hydrocyanic acid
Nitric acid, alkalis.
Hydrogen peroxide
Copper, chromium, iron, metals or their salts, any
flammable or combustible materials, aniline,
nitromethane.
Iodine
Ammonia(anhydrous or aqueous), acetylene.
Nitric acid(concentrated)
Acetic acid, acetone, alcohol, aniline, chromic acid,
hydrocyanic acid, hydrogen sulphide, flammable
liquids and gasses, nitrable substances.
Perchloric acid
Acetic anhydride, bismuth, alcohol, paper, wood,
grease, oils.
Peroxides
Acids(organic or mineral), avoid friction, Store cold.
Potassium chlorate and potassium perchlorate
Acids
Sodium nitrite
Ammonium nitrate and other ammonium salts.
Sulphuric acid
Chlorates, perchlorates and permangates.
Incompatable chemicals with toxic hazards
Substance
Incompatible substance__Toxic hazard____________
Arcenical materials
Any reducing agent
Arsine
Azides
Acids
Hydrozoic acids
Cyanides
Acids
Hydrogen cyanide
Hypochlorites
Acids
Chlorine/hypochlorous acid
Nitric acid
Copper, brass, any
Nitrogen dioxide
heavy metals
Nitrites
Acids
Nitrogen dioxide
Nitrates
Sulphuric acid
Nitrogen dioxide
Phosphous
Caustic alkalis or
Phosphine
reducing agents
Selinides
Reducing agents
Hydrogen selenide
Sulphides
Acids
Hydrogen sulphide
Tellurides
Reducing agents
Hydrogen telluride
Appendix IX
Sources of Further Information and Assistance.
This handbook cannot, and does not, provide all the information that will be required by individual members
of staff. Further help can be obtained from the following sources.
1. The Health and safety Executive produce an extensive range of publications on a wide variety of topics.
The University subscribes to a service that issues all HSE publications on CD-ROM. Contact the
University Safety Adviser for details.
2. The University runs a safety site on the web and it is maintained by Mr Corby:
http://www.abdn.ac.uk/safety/ Staff are encouraged to check this page regularly.
3. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1999 requires employers to
control exposures to hazardous substances to protect both employees and others who may be exposed
from work activities. Approved codes of practice are found in “ General COSHH Approved Code of
Practice; Carcinogens ACOP and Biological Agents ACOP. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
Regulations 1999” ISBN 0—71761670-3, HSE Books. Single copies of the following leaflet are available
free from HSE : COSHH A Brief Guide to the Regulations (ISBN 0-7176-2444-7) or as a PDF:
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg136.pdf
4. Biological agents: Anyone working at a containment level 2 or greater must consult “The Management,
Design and Operation of Microbiological Containment Laboratories”(2001) HSE Books. ISBN 0-71762034-4.
5. “Safe working and the Prevention of Infection in clinical laboratories and similar facilities”, Health and
Safety Executive,2003, ISBN 0-7176-25133 can be downloaded as a PDF file from OHSIS (see 6. below)
http://uk.ihs.com/products/standards/ohsis.htm
6. OHSIS is the Occupational Health and Information Service from Technical Indexes which provides online
access to an extensive range of health and safety documents produced by many different issuing bodies
including the Health and Safety Executive. The University subscribes to the core module along with the
British Standards and Fire Safety supplements. Access via their web page is restricted to those connected
to the University network. http://uk.ihs.com/products/standards/ohsis.htm
7. Other publications which might be of relevance include:
a) The Approved list of Biological agents (which places micro-organisms in their respective Hazard
Groups from which the level of containment is then determined) – available as document at
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/misc208.pdf
b) Safety information and data sheets are available on several suppliers web pages. Select MSDS search
http://www.sigmaaldrich.com/united-kingdom.html
http://www.fisher.co.uk/
http://www.acros.be
http://www.alfa.com/
https://uk.vwr.com/app/Home