"Hazard Communications" describes the various resources for safety and use information about the chemicals, gases, and materials in the labs. Here are resources available to labmembers.
The gases, chemicals and materials used at SNF are categorized into six general chemical hazard classes: corrosive, oxidizer, air/water reactive, flammable, toxic/poison, and non-toxic, as detailed below. Many chemicals fall into more than one class. Safety policies on storage and use of chemicals begins with identifying the primary chemical hazard class.
Every chemical in the lab must be stored in the designated area appropriate for its hazard class. Each storage area is designed for safe storage of chemicals of a particular set of hazard classes (i.e., they are appropriately ventilated, chemically resistant, and built against the main physical hazards presented by the chemicals to be stored there.) Thus, it is a safety imperative that all chemicals in the lab be stored appropriately in one of these designated storage areas. No chemicals may be kept in personal storage bins. No chemicals may be stored on work surfaces of any wet benches.
Training is required for any chemical handling in the labs. Once trained, you are responsible for safe use and disposal of waste. If you see chemicals improperly handled, you are responsible for following up with the individual or report to staff. Safety is everyone's responsibility. Improper disposal could result in explosion and injury. Policy violations may even result in lab shutdown. Therefore, take time to consider how to manage waste in your experimental plans. And remember that we all bear the economic and environmental costs; so please minimize the waste you generate. There are four ways of disposing of chemical waste; the safest method depends on the kind of chemical waste, as described below. If you have any questions about the best method for handling chemical waste, please reach out to staff.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required whenever handling or transporting chemicals in the lab. PPE required depends on the chemicals being used. Below lists the type of protective gear, in addition to your safety glasses and appropriate lab wear, that is generally used for various chemical types. This is only a guideline; the operating procedures for each wet bench should serve as the final word. Remember, you are responsible for your own safety, and that of others around you. SNF provides you with information, recommendations, and necessary resources for you to be able to do your work safely. It is up to you to ensure that you take appropriate precautions for your safety and your fellow labmembers.