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Chemical Hazards are determined by:
a) Flammability (does it burn?)
b) Reactivity (does it react with other chemicals or water?)
c) Toxicity (is it poisonous?)
And other physical hazards as pressure and temperature.
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Results of exposure to chemical hazards include skin and eye damage, acute and chronic poisoning, cancer, birth defects, and physical effects of heat and shock caused by exploding and burning chemicals. It is important to know how to properly handle chemicals so chemical accidents do not occur.
To avoid exposure as much as possible: |
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- Keep flames away from flammable materials and strong oxidizers.
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- Store flammable materials in flammable storage cabinet.
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- Use adequate ventilation.
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In laboratories, this requires use of a fume hood.
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Effective Hood Use Guidelines |
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- Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection.
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Protective Equipment
The following images are to help you quickly identify proper personal protective equipment (PPE). All required and suggested PPE should be worn at all times. Any questions should be directed to Milenda Powers of UCAR SaSS at extension 8625. |
| Eyes: |
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| Skin: |
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| Respiratory: |
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- Know the location of, and how to use the nearest eye-wash fountain and safety shower.
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NFPA Rating Definitions |
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- Identify chemicals and solvents and label their containers.
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- Purchase only the amount of chemicals needed for the operation. Disposing of excess chemicals is extremely expensive to the organization.
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- Use proper containers; for example. do not store chemicals in drinking cups. Do not drink beverages from beakers. If this is not practiced, one day you risk drinking a chemical.
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- Report chemical spills promptly to your supervisor or HESS personnel. If the spill is toxic and you believe the building should be evacuated, use the nearest fire-alarm pull station to evacuate the building. Then, call the front desk staff to notify them of the spill.
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- Attend the safety training classes required for any employee working with chemicals. Contact HESS for more information.
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