Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
LABORATORY SAFETY PLAN
Emergency Reporting/Telephone Numbers
Non-Emergency Inquiries- Office of Environmental Health and Safety
Foreword
Section 1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
Responsibilities
Institutional Chemical Hygiene Committee
Deans, Directors and Department Chairs
Office of Environmental Health and Safety
Chemical Hygiene Officer
Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator
Laboratory Worker/Student
Page Reference
7
8
9
10
11
12
Section 2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
Prudent Experiment Planning
Responsibility for Experiment Planning
Planning Steps
Source Reduction
Acquisition and Inventory of Chemicals
Page Reference
13
13
14
15
Section 3
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
Engineering Controls and Safety Equipment
Ventilation
Eyewash Fountains and Safety Showers
Fire Extinguishers
Alarms
Page Reference
16
17
18
20
Section 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14
Administrative Controls and Safety Protocols
Standard Operating Procedures
General Considerations
Laboratory Personal Hygiene
Housekeeping
Prior Approval Activities
Unattended Experiments
Working Alone Policy
Changes in Lab Occupancy
Laboratory Inspection Program
Hazard Assessment Signage Program (HASP)
Energy Conservation
Shipping/Receiving Hazardous Materials and Samples
Spills and Incidents
Hazardous Communications/Chemical Labeling
Page Reference
23
24
26
27
28
29
29
30
30
31
32
33
34
36
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
Personal Protective Equipment
Protective Garments
Eye and Face Protection
Gloves
Respiratory Protection
Hearing Conservation
Page Reference
37
38
39
42
44
Section 6
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
General Laboratory Safety
Compressed Gases
Electrical Safety
Glassware
Heating Devices
Lasers
Machine Guarding
Radiation
Syringes and Needles (Certificates of Need)
Page Reference
45
46
47
47
48
50
50
52
Section 7
7.1
Specific Chemical Hazards
Toxic Chemicals
7.1.1 OSHA “Select Carcinogens”
Flammable Chemicals
Reactive Chemicals
Corrosive Chemicals
Cryogenic Chemicals
Perchloric Acid
Hydrofluoric Acid
Peroxide Forming Materials
Picric Acid
Biosafety
Page Reference
53
55
55
56
56
57
57
58
60
61
61
Section 8
8.1
8.2
8.3
Chemical/Biological/Radiological Waste Disposal
Waste Determination
Satellite Container Management
Waste Pick-up Procedures
Page Reference
62
62
64
Section 9
9.1
9.2
9.3
Information and Training
Applicable Standards
Air Contaminants (Permissible Exposure Limits)
Action Levels for Regulated Chemicals
Page Reference
65
65
66
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
7.10
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Section 10
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Exposure Determination and Follow up
Criteria for Reasonable Suspicion of Exposure
Exposure Assessment
Notification of Results or Monitoring
Medical Consultation
Medical Surveillance
Reproductive Health
Page Reference
66
67
67
67
68
68
Laboratory Specific Components - Appendix I - VI
Appendix I.
Appendix II.
Appendix III.
Appendix IV.
Appendix V.
Appendix VI.
Appendix A.
Appendix B.
Appendix C.
Appendix D.
Appendix E.
Appendix F.
Appendix G.
Appendix H.
Appendix I.
Appendix J.
Appendix K .
Appendix L.
Appendix M.
Standard Operating Procedures Template
Chemical Inventory
Evacuation Routes/Alarms
Emergency Contact List
Waste Chemical Disposal Procedures
Laboratory “Self Check” Sheet
Appendix – A - K
Definitions
Occupational Exposure Values
Personal Protective Equipment Matrix
Laboratory Inspection Checklist
Hazards Assessment Signage Program (HASP)
Certificate of Need Forms
Title: Section 80.133 - Hypodermic syringes and needles Use
Requirements
Recognizing Potentially Explosive Chemicals and
Peroxidizable Compounds
Satellite Accumulation Hazardous Waste Self Checklist
Request for Hazardous Waste Pick-Up Form
Laboratory Decontamination Procedure
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Pictograms and
Hazards
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard Labels
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Program Issuance/Review Summary Page
Program Issue Date: 2/01/1991
Author: Risk Management
Program Review Date: 08/22/2001
Reviewed By: The Office of EH&S
Program Review Date: 06/07/2004
Reviewed By: The Office of EH&S
Program Review Date: 03/07/2006
Reviewed By: The Office of EH&S
Program Review Date: 03/01/08
Reviewed By: The Office of EH&S
Program Review Date: 07/24/13
Reviewed By: The Office of EH&S
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By::__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
Program Review Date: _______/_______/_______ Reviewed By:__________________
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Emergency Reporting/Telephone Numbers
Rensselaer Department of Public Safety
EMERGENCY
518-276-6611 or
X6611
Non-Emergency Numbers
For Non-Emergency inquiries, the Office of Environmental Health and Safety may be
reached at the following numbers:





Director of Environmental Health and Safety- 276-6114
Training and Program Development- 276-2318
Safety Compliance- 276-2281
Hazardous Waste and Fire Safety- 276-2092
Radiation Safety- 276-6114
Rensselaer Department of Public Safety Escort Service
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Foreword
The purpose of the Rensselaer Laboratory Safety Plan is to provide written guidelines for
the Institute’s Chemical Hygiene program. The intent of the program is to define the
minimum standards necessary to limit exposures to hazardous chemicals, biologicals and
radioactive materials to the lowest amount that is reasonably achievable. The Laboratory
Safety Plan applies to all employees, faculty members and students of Rensselaer who
handle or use chemicals designated as “laboratory scale” (see Appendix A- Definitions).
Appendices I-VI are laboratory specific and must be amended as conditions, inventory
and equipment additions/deletions dictate. This document, in addition to providing an
informational resource for reducing the potential of exposure and injury, is intended to
satisfy federal regulations set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) in 29 CFR Part 1910.1450 (Laboratory Standard).
Section 1: Responsibilities
The ultimate responsibility for health and safety within laboratories lies with each
individual who works in the laboratory; however, it is the responsibility of the Principal
Investigator, Faculty, and laboratory supervisor to ensure that employees (including
visiting scientists, fellows, volunteers, temporary employees, and student employees)
have received all appropriate training, and have been provided with all the necessary
information to work safely in laboratories under their control. Principal Investigators,
Faculty, and Lab Supervisors have numerous resources within the Environmental Health
and Safety department at their disposal for helping to ensure a safe and healthy laboratory
that is compliant with state and federal regulations.
It is the responsibility of the Principal Investigator and individual supervisors (and
individuals working under their supervision) to be in compliance with the components
of the Institute Laboratory Safety Plan, the Institute Health and Safety Policy, and any
other department or Institute specific policies.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
1.1 Institutional Chemical Hygiene Committee
The Institutional Chemical Hygiene Committee is responsible for setting campus policy
regarding Laboratory Safety, within the scope of this Laboratory Safety Plan. The
Institutional Chemical Hygiene Committee will meet periodically and discuss new
Laboratory Safety/Chemical Hygiene issues and any program items that may arise. The
Laboratory Safety/Chemical Hygiene Committee will offer comments to the Chemical
Hygiene Officer regarding program improvements and suggestions and participate in
annual Laboratory Safety inspections with members of the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety. The Institutional Chemical Hygiene Committee is appointed by and
reports to the Vice President of Human Resources. The Chemical Hygiene Officer is an
ex officio member of the Committee.
The Chairperson of the Committee is appointed by the Vice President of Human
Resources. The Chairperson's responsibilities include:
(1)
Calling meetings of the Committee.
(2)
Making recommendations to the Vice President of Human Resources
concerning the size and composition of the Committee.
(3)
Preparing reports of Committee activities for the Vice President of
Human Resources.
Under recommendation of the Chairperson, or Chemical Hygiene Officer and approval of
the Vice President of Human Resources, the Committee may seek the advice of a
consultant having special expertise in some aspect of Laboratory safety.
The Committee is charged with:
(1)
Setting Institute policies for Laboratory Safety.
(2)
Giving such advice and assistance as may be requested by the
Chemical Hygiene Officer
(3)
Evaluating the Institute's overall Laboratory Safety Plan and the
effectiveness of the administration of this program on an annual
basis. Evaluation results should be presented in a brief written
annual report to the Vice President of Human Resources.
The Committee meets at least 2 times a year, once during the Spring semester and once
during the Fall semester. The committee may also be called at any time during the
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
calendar year whenever matters of urgency arise, as determined by the Vice President of
Human Resources, the Chairperson, or the Chemical Hygiene Officer. Guests may attend
meetings at the invitation of the Chairperson. In the event that meetings are held in the
absence of the Chairperson, a Chairperson pro tem will be selected from the attending
members. A quorum consists of at least half of the Committee members and includes the
Chemical Hygiene Officer. Minutes of meeting are distributed to the members, the Vice
President of Human Resources, (or his/her designated representative), and the Chemical
Hygiene Officer.
1.2 Deans, Directors and Department Chairs
The Deans, Directors, and Department Chairpersons are responsible for laboratory safety
within their department(s) and must know and understand the guidelines and
requirements of the Laboratory Safety Plan. In addition to the responsibilities outlined
within the Institute Health & Safety Policy, the laboratory safety responsibilities of
Deans, Directors, and Department Chairpersons - which can be delegated to other
authorized personnel within the department - are:

Be familiar with the Institute Laboratory Safety Plan within units under their
control or designate a person in the department with the authority to carry out
these requirements.

Communicate and implement the Institute Laboratory Safety Plan Health and its
requirements to faculty, staff (including temporary employees), visiting scholars,
volunteers, and students working in laboratories within their units.

Assist the Chemical Hygiene Officer with implementation of the Laboratory
Safety Plan.


Ensure laboratory personnel develop and adhere to proper health and safety
protocols.

Direct individuals under their supervision, including but not limited to - Principal
Investigators, supervisors, regular and temporary employees, visiting professors,
and students employees - to obtain any required safety and health training
before working with hazardous chemicals, biohazardous agents, radiation, and/or
other physical/mechanical hazards found within their working or learning
environments.

Determine and ensure that safety needs and equipment for units/departments are
met (e.g., engineering controls, training, protective equipment) and ensure
corrective measures for noncompliance items identified in safety audits are
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
corrected promptly.

Encourage the formation of a college and/or department safety committee(s).

Keep the Chemical Hygiene Officer informed of plans for renovations or new
laboratory construction projects.

Ensure school and departmental procedures are established and communicated to
identify and respond to potential accidents and emergency situations.

Notify the Chemical Hygiene Officer before a faculty member retires or leaves
the Institute so proper laboratory decommissioning occurs.


Establish school and departmental priorities, objectives, and targets for laboratory
safety and health performance. Obtain assistance and guidance from EH&S when
necessary.

Ensure school and departmental laboratory participation in EH&S Annual
Internal Lab Safety Audit Inspections as a means to regularly check
performance against regulatory requirements and identify opportunities for
improvement.

Ensure that research areas within their departments and units are registered using
HASP in a timely manner upon notification by EH&S and updated annually.
1.3 The Office of Environmental Health and Safety
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) is responsible for providing
technical information and program support to assist in compliance with the OSHA
Laboratory Standard. This includes developing recommendations and guidelines (as
found in this Laboratory Safety Plan) developing and providing training programs
designed to meet regulatory requirements, conducting internal laboratory safety audit
inspections, and serving as consultants in providing health and safety information to
laboratory personnel. EH&S will maintain the campus Laboratory Safety Plan and the
institutional Chemical Hygiene Officer responsibilities.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
1.4 Chemical Hygiene Officer
The Director of Environmental Health and Safety is the Institute’s Chemical Hygiene
Officer. This individual is responsible for the overall laboratory safety program of the
Institute, and assists Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigators/Faculty and
Laboratory Workers/Students, at their request, to ensure that a viable Laboratory
Chemical Hygiene Plan is established in all chemical laboratories.
The major duties of the Chemical Hygiene Officer are:

Work with campus stakeholders to evaluate, implement, review annually, and
make updates as needed to the Chemical Hygiene Plan and Laboratory Safety
Plan.

Provide technical expertise to the laboratory community in the area of laboratory
safety and health, and serve as a point of contact to direct inquiries to other
appropriate resources.

Ensure that guidelines are in place and communicated for particularly
hazardous substances regarding proper labeling, handling, use, and storage,
selection of proper personal protective equipment, and facilitating the
development of standard operating procedures for laboratories using these
substances.

Serve as a resource to review academic research protocols and standard operating
procedures developed by Principal Investigators and department personnel for the
use, disposal, spill cleanup, and decontamination of hazardous chemicals, and the
proper selection and use of personal protective equipment.

Conduct laboratory safety training sessions for laboratory personnel and upon
request, assist laboratory supervisors in developing and conducting hands-on
training sessions with employees.

Review reports for laboratory incidents, accidents, chemical spills, and near
misses and recommend follow up actions where appropriate.

Stay informed of plans for renovations or new laboratory construction projects
and serve as a resource in providing code citations and internal standards to assist
with the design and construction process.
Keep the senior administration informed on the progress of continued
implementation of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and Laboratory Safety Plan and
bring campus-wide issues affecting laboratory safety to their attention.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
1.5 Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator/Faculty
Each Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator/Faculty is responsible for ensuring
that all laboratory work conducted under his/her direction does not pose undue risks to
individuals performing the work, and that all aspects of the Laboratory Safety Plan are
adhered to in their lab. The Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator/Faculty is
ultimately responsible for safety in their research or teaching laboratories.
Principal Investigators, faculty, and laboratory supervisors are responsible for laboratory
safety in their research or teaching laboratories. The laboratory safety duties of Principal
Investigators, faculty, and laboratory supervisors (which can also be delegated to other
authorized personnel within the laboratory) are:

Implement and communicate the Institute Lab Safety Plan and all other Institute
safety practices and programs in laboratories under your supervision or control.

Establish laboratory priorities, objectives and targets for laboratory safety, health
and environmental performance.



Each Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator/Faculty is responsible for
completing and ensuring timely updates (as required) to the Laboratory specific
portions of the Institute’s Laboratory Safety Plan. (Appendices I-V)
Communicate roles and responsibilities of individuals within the laboratory
relative to environmental, health, and safety according to this Laboratory Safety
Plan.

Conduct hazard evaluations for procedures conducted in the laboratory and
maintain a file of standard operating procedures documenting those hazards.

Ensure that specific operating procedures for handling and disposing of
hazardous substances used in their laboratories are written, communicated, and
followed and ensure laboratory personnel have been trained in these operating
procedures and use proper control measures.

Attend required health and safety training.

Require all staff members and students under their direction to obtain and
maintain required health and safety training.

Participate in EH&S Annual Internal Lab Safety Audit Inspections with their
laboratory employees or designate someone in the laboratory to conduct these
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
inspections.



Ensure that all items identified during annual EH&S research area inspections are
corrected in a timely manner.
Ensure that all individuals working under his/her direction are informed and
familiar with the location of all emergency equipment, routes of egress, and the
specific safety rules and requirements of the Laboratory Safety Plan for each
applicable lab.

Ensure that all appropriate engineering controls including chemical fume hoods
and safety equipment are available and in good working order in their
laboratories. This includes notifying EH&S when significant changes in chemical
use may require a re-evaluation of the laboratory ventilation.

Ensure procedures are established and communicated to identify the potential for,
and the appropriate response to accidents and emergency situations.

Ensure that all incidents and near misses occurring in their laboratories are
reported to their Director or Department Chairperson and that a written
Injury/Illness Report is filed with EH&S for each injured person.

Ensure laboratory personnel under your supervision know and follow the
guidelines and requirements contained within the Laboratory Safety Plan.

Follow the guidelines identified within this manual as Principal Investigator and
laboratory supervisor responsibilities.

Keep the Department Chairperson and the Chemical Hygiene Officer informed of
plans for renovations or new laboratory construction projects.

Ensure that research areas under their supervision are registered using HASP in
a timely manner upon notification by EH&S and updated annually.
1.6 Laboratory Worker/Student
It is the responsibility of each Laboratory Worker/Student at Rensselaer to abide by the
general safety requirements set forth in the Laboratory Safety Plan, as well as the specific
procedures and requirements of the lab in which they work. Laboratory Workers/Students
must realize that their actions may affect not only their own personal safety, but also the
safety of others at the Institute.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 2: Prudent Experiment Planning
2.1 Responsibility for Experiment Planning
The proper planning of Laboratory experiments is an essential component of Laboratory
safety. Experiment planning allows for a comprehensive review of the operations and
potential hazards associated with a particular experiment or set of experiments. Further,
the planning process allows an opportunity for the consideration of waste minimization
efforts, as well as compliance with Rensselaer’s internal policies and the realization of
potential cost savings. The Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator is responsible for
all aspects of operations conducted in their laboratory(s), including the planning process.
As part of this responsibility, the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator is to
determine what level of experiment planning (and associated documentation) is
appropriate. This process must insure compliance with all applicable regulations and
Rensselaer policies. Laboratory workers/students must take an active role in the
experiment planning process, and review all experiment procedures and chemical hazards
prior to the commencement of activities. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety
is available to provide training and safety related information, interpret regulatory
requirements, and monitor compliance.
2.2 Planning Steps
While the format and degree of specificity included in the experiment planning process is
entirely dependent upon the judgment of the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal
Investigator, once the goals and objectives of the experiment(s) have been clearly
formulated, several aspects of the experiment process must be considered. These include:
 Risk assessment (Job Hazard Analysis)
 Acquisition and storage of chemicals
 Handling of chemicals
 Equipment/Apparatus to be used
 Disposal of waste
In some instances, designing a flowchart of the experimental process, which includes
each step in the experiment, may be useful in identifying safety considerations associated
with each part of the experiment. It is important that considerations for personal safety
are an integral part of the planning process and are included in the evaluation of the goals
and objectives of the laboratory work. It may be useful to integrate the development of
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP-See Section 4.1) into this stage of the planning
process.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
2.3 Source Reduction
As part of the experiment planning, efforts should be made to reduce both the quantity
and degree of toxicity of the chemicals to be used. Successful source reduction efforts
result in at least three beneficial factors:
1. Minimization of the quantities of chemicals to be used
2. Minimization of waste chemicals that require proper disposal
3. Minimization of risk and future liability
The easiest way to help ensure safety and the proper handling of chemicals and
Hazardous Waste is to prevent the handling and generation of such wastes whenever
possible. This requires meticulous experiment planning and a complete hazard
assessment of the waste products that may be generated. Consider the following
examples of waste minimization strategies:
Micro-Scale: Whenever possible consider carrying out experiments and
laboratory procedures on as small a scale as possible.
Product Substitution: Whenever possible, substitute less hazardous chemicals in
experiments. This might include alternate synthetic routes or procedures for
working up reaction mixtures.
Look at the “Big picture”: What may seem like a frugal purchase may, in the end,
create an expensive liability. Consider the following example, based on actual
chemical prices from a large manufacturer and actual disposal estimates.
Professor X needs 1500 g of Ethyl Ether-Anhydrous for an experiment. Upon
obtaining prices Professor X finds that 3 x 500g of the Ether costs $64.50,
whereas 6x 500g costs $115.50, an apparent savings of $13.50 for the extra 1500
g. Although Professor X does not currently have a need for the extra 1500 g of
ether, it’s a good deal and a commonly used product. If that extra 1500 g were to
go unused, and be stored in excess of 12 months, the estimated cost for disposal
of the material to Rensselaer would be $2,500.00. Certain compounds, Ethyl
Ether included, tend to form explosive peroxides in storage and must be remotely
opened and stabilized prior to disposal. Further, excess materials create labor
costs in storage and handling, and create a potential liability in storage. The best
practice is, to the best of your estimating ability, order only what is needed for a
specific set of experiments. This includes donated chemicals, which can easily
become a liability.
Recycle and Reuse: When the reuse or recycling of chemicals is possible, it is
always preferable to disposal.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Prevent Waste Commingling: Preventing Non-Hazardous chemicals from being
mixed with Hazardous chemicals will help to reduce the quantity of hazardous
waste generated.
2.4 Acquisition and Inventory of Chemicals
The act of acquiring chemicals, and tracking their shelf life, is an important part of waste
minimization and laboratory safety. Before chemicals are ordered several factors should
be considered.
1. The possibility that the desired chemical(s) is already available from another lab
or centralized stockroom should be examined.
2. The experiment(s) should be reviewed to determine the minimum quantity of the
chemical(s) that is required to complete the necessary work.
3. Fire codes, Institutional policies and regulatory restrictions may limit the amount
of a certain chemical or group of chemicals that may be stored in a given area.
This fact should be considered when ordering a quantity of a specific chemical.
4. Some chemicals require special handling and storage once they have arrived at
Rensselaer. Some examples might include: refrigeration, dry box, freezing or
storage away from light and/or moisture. Consideration must be given to special
storage and handling requirements prior to chemical arriving at Rensselaer.
5. The stability of the chemical must be considered. Inherently unstable materials
may have very short storage times and should be ordered on a “just in time” basis.
Other materials may degrade to form explosive mixtures. These materials must be
closely tracked in storage to identify signs of dangerous degradation. Some of
these materials are identified in Appendix H
6. The potential waste produced by the chemical and process in question should be
considered from both a health and safety and a cost perspective.
Section 3: Engineering Controls and Safety Equipment
Engineering controls provide the most desirable form of protection in laboratory settings.
Systems designed to remove hazards should be fully evaluated prior to implementing
administrative controls or choosing Personal Protective Equipment for the same purpose.
3.1 Ventilation
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Laboratory Fume Hoods and other capture devices provide a critical part of the
laboratory ventilation system at Rensselaer. Hoods provide several types of protection.
When functioning correctly, and used properly, laboratory hoods:



Prevent Flammable, Toxic and/or offensive vapors, fumes and odors from
entering the general laboratory, thus helping to prevent exposure
With the sash in a lowered position, hoods provide a physical barrier between the
laboratory worker and the chemical experiment.
Provide a certain degree of spill containment in the event of a release.
General Hood Components
1
5
2
4
3
1. Sash- The adjustable barrier that provides protection from chemical and physical
exposures.
2. Face opening- The distance between the bottom of the sash and the work surface
3. Airfoils- vents which allow airflow into the hood and minimize turbulence
4. Work surface- Area of the hood which is designed for chemical manipulation
5. Rear Baffle- Permits an even distribution of air in the hood.
The following is a list of general guidelines for safe, effective hood usage:
Topic
Hood Operation
Working Distance
Guideline
Confirm that the hood is operational either by checking the air flow
gauge if so equipped, “floating” a piece of tissue paper or using a
velometer or smoke tubes to check air flow. Face Airflow should be
between 80 and 120 linear feet per minute. (at 16”-20”)
To avoid turbulence at the sash edge and to allow for greater
protection, keep your work at least 10 cm (4 in.) back from the edge
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Hood
Housekeeping
Chemical Disposal
Sash Height
Traffic in the
Room
Ignition sources
Inside the hood
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
of the sash.
Laboratory hoods should not be used as storage cabinets for
chemicals or equipment. All instruments and/or apparatus should be
raised off of the floor of the work surface, as work surface
disruption will affect the performance of the hood.
Hoods should not be regarded as a means for chemical disposal.
Apparatus in hoods should be fitted with condensers, traps or
scrubbers to contain and collect waste solvents, toxic vapors or
dusts, before the exit gases are released into the hood system.
The Sash should always be kept in the lowest possible position,
thus minimizing the face opening and exposure potential.
Foot traffic at the face of the hood should be kept to a minimum as
individuals walking in front of the hood can disrupt the airflow
within the hood.
Items such as hot plates, controllers, open flame devices and
electrical connectors must be certified, and labeled, as being
intrinsically safe for operation within a laboratory hood.
Your head should never cross the plane of the hood sash when you
are dismantling equipment or at any other time.
Laboratory hoods will be inspected at least annually, or when
mechanical changes are made to the hood, to ensure proper
function. Additional laboratory hood inspections, to be completed
by the laboratory personnel, are recommended every quarter. The
fume hood systems in Cogswell, Walker, CBIS and the Materials
Research Center use a central plenum for exhausting fumes from
the building. When the system is shut down, an alarm system of
strobe lights and horns is activated. When the alert is sounded, all
experimentation must stop, all chemical containers and vessels
must be closed and the sash must be closed on all hoods. The
hoods in other academic buildings are independent of one another.
Consult the specific alarming systems and safety procedures for
the specific lab in which you will be working.
3.2 Eyewash Fountains and Safety Showers
Overhead or deluge safety showers are located throughout campus buildings in
areas which chemicals are stored and/or utilized and are inspected at least
annually. Additional inspections by laboratory personnel are recommended
monthly. The showers provide the opportunity for immediate surface dilution in
the event of a chemical exposure to the skin. In the event that a chemical contacts
your skin, or an individual in your area is exposed, the following procedure
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
should be followed, unless the MSDS or Safety Data Sheet (SDS)for the chemical in
question prohibits the use of water:
1. Immediately proceed to the safety shower and initiate water flow. The showers
are operated by pulling down on the “hoop”, or by pulling a lever toward you
(CBIS building).
2. Remove all contaminated clothing. Modesty must take a back seat to emergency
response.
3. Public Safety should be contacted immediately (x6611 or x911 from campus
phones, or 518-276-6611 from cell phones) Be prepared to provide the exact
location, chemical involved, and condition of the person onto which the chemical
was spilled. In certain areas, specific alarm activation procedures are required.
Make sure to be familiar with the specific emergency procedures of the area in
which you are working.
4. Thorough rinsing must continue for a full 15 minutes.
Note: Tampering with, or utilizing safety showers for situations other than emergencies
is strictly forbidden.
Eyewash stations may be affixed to, or independent of, safety shower equipment. As
with safety showers, eyewash stations provide the opportunity for immediate surface
dilution in the event of a chemical splash into the eyes and are inspected at least annually.
Additional inspections by laboratory personnel are recommended monthly. In the event
that a chemical is spilled into your eyes, or into the eyes of an individual in your area, the
following procedure should be followed, unless the Material Safety Data sheet or the
Safety Data Sheet for the chemical(s) in question prohibits the use of water:
1. Immediately proceed to the eyewash and initiate water flow. Either
pushing on the valve handle or stepping on a treadle operates eyewash
stations.
2. Public Safety should be contacted immediately. Be prepared to
provide the exact location, chemical involved, and condition of the person
onto which the chemical was spilled. In certain areas, specific alarm
activation procedures are required. Make sure to be familiar with the
specific emergency procedures of the area in which you are working.
3. Thorough rinsing must continue for a full 15 minutes
3.3 Fire Extinguishers
Portable fire extinguishers are available at selected locations in all Institute buildings.
Fire extinguishers should be viewed as a device to aid in the evacuation of a building.
Only trained personnel (Volunteer fireman or members of the Troy Fire Department)
should attempt to extinguish fires.
- 18 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
An individual should not attempt to utilize a fire extinguisher unless:
1. The individual has received formal fire extinguisher training at RPI within the last
year
2. The individual evaluates that he/she is in no personal danger in attempting to
extinguish a fire
3. The fire that is to be extinguished is visible and is no larger than small “wastepaper
basket size”
4. The individual deems the use of a fire extinguisher necessary to aid in the safe
evacuation of the building
In general, there are three types of fire extinguishers that are available in the buildings on
campus.
These types of extinguishers are designed to work effectively on specific types of fires
and include:
- 19 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Using the wrong type of extinguisher on a specific type of fire can actually increase the
fire’s intensity. A summary of Fire classifications and appropriate extinguisher use
follows.
Fire Classification
Class A: Fires involving ordinary
combustible materials (such as wood, cloth,
paper, rubber and plastics) requiring the
heat-absorbing effects of water, water
solutions, or other coating effects of certain
dry chemicals that retard combustion.
Class B: Fires involving flammable or
combustible liquids, flammable gases,
greases, and similar materials where the
extinguishing is most readily secured by
excluding air (oxygen) inhibiting the release
of combustible vapor, or interrupting the
combustion chain reaction.
Class C: Fires involving live electrical
equipment where safety to the operator
requires the use of electrically
nonconductive extinguishing agents.
Class D: Fires involving certain combustible
metals (such as magnesium, titanium,
zirconium, sodium and potassium) requiring
a heat absorbing extinguishing medium that
is not reactive in nature.
Proper Extinguisher(s)
Water or Multi-Purpose Dry Chemical
Carbon Dioxide or Multi-Purpose Dry
Chemical
Carbon Dioxide or Multi-Purpose Dry
Chemical
MET-L-X
3.4 Fire Alarms
Whenever a fire alarm activates in any Institute building, it must be assumed to be
alerting you to a legitimate emergency condition, and you must evacuate the building.
Therefore, do the following:
1. If time safely permits, promptly shut down any equipment that could create a hazard
if left unattended.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
2. Immediately evacuate the building using the shortest evacuation route. (Evacuation
routes are posted in buildings and you should familiarize yourself with all routes from
the location of your work.) Be sure to consider an alternate exit route in the event that
the primary route is unavailable.
3. If you originated the evacuation alarm, proceed to a safe location and call Public
Safety at ext.6611 (518-276-6611). Be prepared to provide information on the hazard
and the exact location of the emergency.
4. No person is to re-enter a building or shut off an alarm system with the exception of
Fire Department personnel or RPI Public Safety. Once representatives of these two
organizations have cleared the building, you may return inside.
All Institute buildings are equipped with audible alarms. These alarms are also used to
signal an evacuation of the area. In addition, fire alarms will sound if an alarm signal is
received from heat sensors or smoke detectors. The most efficient form of reporting an
emergency is by phone, which will allow the nature and details of the emergency to be
passed along to the emergency responders. A fire alarm box nearest to the location of the
emergency can be used to report an emergency if no safe access to a telephone is
available. Emergency responders will report to the box location soon after the alarm
sounds.
Emergency Telephone
Call Box
- 21 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Certain areas or facilities where potentially hazardous operations are performed are
equipped with their own evacuation alarms. Any individual who judges a potentially
hazardous situation to exist may initiate evacuation alarms, for which evacuation of the
area is an appropriate action. The sounding of these alarms will automatically summon
emergency response personnel. Take the time to learn the location and method of
activation of these alarms in your work area.
Gas detection equipment has been installed in specific areas where toxic or flammable
gases are used on a continuous basis. This equipment will signal a warning to area
employees if moderate gas levels are detected. If hazardous levels are detected, the area
evacuation alarms are automatically triggered, and emergency response personnel are
summoned. If you are working in one of these specialized areas, make sure that you are
familiar with that area’s specific alarm mechanisms and evacuation routes.
Tampering with or falsely activating any Fire detection system is strictly prohibited.
The New York State Education Law mandates that fire drills be conducted to orient
occupants of academic, instructional buildings and residence halls to conditions of fire,
smoke and other emergencies. At a minimum, fire drills will be held three times per year
in all academic buildings. Everyone is required to evacuate the building during fire drills.
- 22 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 4: Administrative Controls and Safety Protocols
4.1 Standard Operating Procedures
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) represent a written culmination of the experiment
planning and hazard analysis processes. Every laboratory on campus that works with
hazardous chemicals is required to develop SOPs. SOPs are documents that are specific
to individual laboratories and are required pursuant to OSHA Laboratory Standard 29
CFR 1910.1450 as part of the Laboratory Safety Plan:
“Standard operating procedures relevant to safety and health considerations to be
followed when laboratory work involves the use of hazardous chemicals”
-1910.1450 (e)(3)(i)
SOPs can be stand-alone documents or supplemental information included as part of
research notebooks, experiment documentation, or research proposals. The requirement
for SOPs is to ensure a process is in place to document and addresses relevant health and
safety issues as part of every experiment. It is critical that SOPs are fully integrated into
laboratory procedures and experiments. The intent is not to simply add paperwork to the
process, but rather ensure that the laboratory user has fully considered all of the potential
risks associated with a particular activity and taken appropriate action to reduce or
eliminate those risks. In addition, written SOPs serve as a resource for individuals new to
a particular laboratory, experiment or instrument.
At a minimum, SOPs should include details such as:








The chemicals involved and their hazards.
Special hazards and circumstances.
Use of engineering controls (such as fume hoods).
Required personal protective equipment.
Spill response measures.
Waste disposal procedures.
Decontamination procedures.
Description of how to perform the experiment or operation.
Appendix I contains guidance information relating to developing SOPs and a Standard
Operating Procedures Template.
- 23 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.2 General Considerations
Awareness: the most fundamental rule of chemical safety. Each individual must
remain vigilant and aware of the hazards of the chemicals that are present, location of
emergency equipment, and nearest escape route. Also be alert of the actions of fellow
lab workers/students.
Benches (Lab): Laboratory benches, and the shelving above them, should not be
used to store excess chemicals. Only quantities necessary to complete specific
experiments should be present on lab benches. Excess chemicals should be stored in
appropriate containers following proper segregation rules.
Chemicals: Chemicals shall not be used or stored outside of laboratories or approved
storage areas. Chemicals shall not be taken into offices and are forbidden in eating
areas.
Discussion: If you are unclear on the hazards associated with a specific chemical or
lab process ask! Communication of hazards is the key.
Egress: Whenever you enter a laboratory you should identify primary and secondary
routes of egress in the event of an emergency. Each lab should have a specific map
visually displaying evacuation routes contained within its LCHP.
Function: Understand the function and operating parameters of all lab equipment.
Insure that the application that you intend to use a specific piece of equipment for is
within the capabilities/limitations for which it was designed. Never use equipment
that you have not been properly trained to use.
Glassware: Never use laboratory glassware to prepare food. Shield or wrap process
glassware to contain fragments should an explosion or powerful reaction occur. Never
use glass to contain or store Hydrofluoric Acid (HF). Make sure to Triple rinse
glassware and dispose of it in the proper receptacles, not the normal trash.
Horseplay: Practical jokes or other behavior that may confuse, startle or distract
another laboratory worker/student is extremely dangerous and not permitted.
Ingestion: Eating, drinking and smoking in laboratories is strictly forbidden, except
in designated, segregated areas where chemical contact is prevented.
Jewelry: Loose jewelry that could interfere with chemical manipulations, or become
entangled in equipment is not permitted.
Knowledge: Become familiar with the specific protocol and experiment that you will
be working with prior to working in the lab.
Lenses: Appropriate eye protection must be worn in laboratories at all times.
Mouth: Never use mouth suction to pipette chemicals or start a siphon. A pipette
bulb or aspirator should be used to provide vacuum.
Noxious: All reactions creating noxious gases or vapors must be performed in fume
hoods behind a safety shield.
- 24 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Observance: Complying with all general and laboratory specific safety rules and
procedures is essential.
Pressure: Utilizing pressurized air for the cleaning of clothing is not permitted.
Quantity: Never use or store more amounts of a chemical or substance than is
required for a specific procedure.
Respiratory: Never smell or taste a chemical to identify it. All containers must be
labeled at all times. MSDS sheets should be used for specific chemical information.
Spills: At a minimum, alert your research director or lab manager to all chemical
spills in the laboratory. Depending upon the size and nature of the spill, evacuation
may be required. Consult Rensselaer’s Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan for more
information regarding chemical spills.
Transport: Always transport chemicals in chemical carriers to help and prevent
spills and accident. Cylinders should always be transported on approved cylinder
carts, secured against movement on the cart. Never leave chemicals unattended in
public access ways.
Unconscious: In the event that you observe an unconscious individual(s), take a
moment to evaluate the situation before acting. The most appropriate action is always
to immediately go to a safe location and notify Public Safety @ Extension 6611 or
518-276-6611. Be alert to the fact that there may be an oxygen displacing
contaminant present at the initial scene that would render you unconscious as well if
you were to enter the environment.
Velocity: Before you begin work in a hood, make sure that it is operational. The face
velocity of a hood that is operating properly should be in the 60-120 cfm. range. If
you are unsure of the proper operation of a hood, call x2281 or x2318 for assistance.
Waste: All laboratory wastes must be placed in appropriate containers and labeled as
to their contents in words not chemical formulas. Only fill waste containers to
roughly 90% of capacity. Be mindful of chemical compatibility in waste containers to
avoid chemical reaction. Never remove waste from your lab area unless it is to be
brought directly to the chemical storage room in your building (if applicable).
X-ray: Utilize appropriate radiation safety practices if your work requires it.
You: Laboratory safety involves the combined actions of multiple individuals.
Always take your time and consider your safety as a top priority. Also, realize that
your actions may affect the safety of others.
Zephiran Chloride: Can be used as a localized treatment in the event of skin contact
with HF. If you believe that a chemical exposure has occurred from any chemical,
immediately notify Public Safety @x6611 or 518-276-6611.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.3 Laboratory Personal Hygiene
The intent of laboratory personal hygiene procedures is to reduce the likelihood of
chemicals entering the body through the four standard routes of entry:
 Absorption
 Ingestion
 Inhalation
 Injection
Absorption
1. Minimize skin exposure; sandals, open shoes, shorts, tank tops and the
like should not be worn in laboratories.
2. Always wear a laboratory coat or other outerwear
3. Wear appropriate protective gloves when handling chemicals
4. Wash your hands frequently especially before leaving the lab
5. Wear appropriate eye protection at all times
6. Long hair should be restrained in an appropriate manner.
Ingestion
1. Never eat or drink in the laboratory (this includes chewing gum).
2. Never store food in or around chemicals. Never store food in a
chemical storage refrigerator or visa-versa.
3. Do not mouth pipette any materials. Use a pipette bulb or aspirator.
Inhalation
1. Avoid inhalation of chemicals. Do not “sniff” test chemicals.
2. When appropriate, perform chemical manipulations in a properly
functioning hood.
3. When weighing chemicals or adding them to a flask etc. do not stand
with your face directly over the balance, flask, etc. and use a spatially
as opposed to dumping them out.
4. Use spatulas when weighing dry chemicals; do not dump them.
Injection
1. Contaminated glassware should be triple rinsed and placed in the
glassware bins, not in the common garbage.
2. Broken glassware, syringes, needles and other sharps should be placed
in appropriate puncture proof containers and labeled as sharps for
disposal.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.4 Housekeeping
Good housekeeping practices make a significant contribution to chemical hygiene and
safety. Some appropriate housekeeping measures include:
Benches, desks, hoods and
sinks must be kept clean
and uncluttered. Unused
chemicals should be
correctly stored.
Compressed gases should
always be secured against
movement. The label of
the cylinder should be
visible at all times.
Heating Devices, stirrers, and other
electrical equipment should be
checked for frayed electrical cords
and malfunctioning switches.
Do not block access to
emergency equipment
such as eyewash
stations, emergency
showers and fire
extinguishers
Unlabeled Chemical
Containers can create
dangerous situations. No
container of any sort should
be left unlabeled.
Keep all aisles and
walkways clear of
obstructions.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.5 Prior Approval Activities
Prior approval for laboratory work and experimentation must be obtained from the
Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator or Department Chairperson whenever:
1. Quantities of chemicals to be used in an experiment vary to an extent which is no
longer considered “Laboratory Scale”. (the work involves containers of
substances used for reactions and transfers that are designed for easy and safe
handling by one person.)
2. A chemical will be used for the first time in a specific lab.
3. Airborne contamination is anticipated to exceed either the OSHA PEL or TLV for
a specific chemical.
4. An MSDS and/or SDS has not been obtained.
5. Experiments include the synthesizing of chemicals/compounds for which an
MSDS and/or SDS sheet does not exist.
Note: These situations represent a minimum Institute requirement; the department,
which you are working in, may have more stringent guidelines. Consult your
Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator for more information. A record of the
prior approval should be entered into the lab notebook for the experiment.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.6 Unattended Experiments
Unattended experiments pose significant risk to emergency response personnel, and
others in the area, because of the lack of knowledge of the chemicals and procedures
involved. The following guidelines should be followed whenever an unattended
experiment is set up.
Unattended Experiments Inside
1. Reactions that involve high-pressures, high temperatures, or highly toxic
materials or that require well-controlled conditions for safe operation should not
be left unattended.
2. Any process that is left running in an unattended mode should be accompanied by
a clearly visible statement of what chemicals are involved, what (if any) special
precautions need to be taken, and how it should be shut down in the event of an
emergency. This notice should be posted in a conspicuous location, far enough
away from the experiment so that it may be obtained in the event of an
emergency. In addition, a brief description of the experiment with the name and
phone number of the responsible party should be posted outside the laboratory
under the heading “Unattended Experiments Inside”.
4.7 Working Alone Policy
Working individually and in the absence of other people whether in a laboratory, other
campus facility or elsewhere while on business for Rensselaer is a practice that is
discouraged. If laboratory work is to be conducted by a lone individual after 10:00 pm,
the individual shall notify another nearby person of their intensions. This notification
must also include a “buddy system” in which individuals working alone are periodically
checked on. If there is not another person in the near vicinity, Public Safety must be
notified at x.6656 or 518-276-6656. If notification to Public Safety occurs, the laboratory
user is responsible for also notifying Public Safety when laboratory work has been
completed. Failure to do so could result in wasted time and resource in attempting to
locate a “missing” individual. In addition, Undergraduate students are not allowed to
work in laboratories in which hazardous chemicals are present without the supervision of
senior researcher, which could include the Principal Investigator, Laboratory Supervisor,
Post Doctoral student or Graduate student.
- 29 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.8 Changes in Lab Occupancy
Given that the teaching and research laboratories at Rensselaer may include items such as
hazardous chemicals, biological and/or radioactive materials; it is the intent of the
Institute to decontaminate/clean these laboratories as needed. Activities that may initiate
the need for decontamination/cleaning activities include but are not limited to:



Renovation projects
When there is a change of occupancy
To address specific areas of contamination
Due to the wide variety of potential decontamination and usage scenarios, The Office of
Environmental Health and Safety has developed a Laboratory Decontamination
Procedure (Appendix K). This Standard Operating Procedure should be used as a
guidance document for the development of project-specific work practices.
In addition, it is the responsibility of the vacating individual Principal
Investigator/Laboratory Supervisor to ensure that all hazardous chemicals, biological and
radioactive materials are removed from the laboratory space in accordance with all
applicable Rensselaer policies.
4.9 Laboratory Inspection Program
Matters of Environmental Health and Safety in the laboratory, including regulatory
compliance items, ultimately are the responsibility of the individual Principal Investigator
or Laboratory Supervisor. As a resource to assist in this process, The Office of
Environmental Health and Safety utilizes a streamlined auditing protocol, designed to
provide guidance and feedback to the Principal Investigator or Laboratory Supervisor to
help and improve safety and compliance in the laboratory, while concurrently limiting
disruptions.
Principal Investigators are contacted and provided with scheduling information in
advance of the audits to ensure participation. It is important that a laboratory
representative is present at the time of the inspection to capitalize on the opportunity for
dialogue. Scheduled inspections provide a forum for discussion, in which laboratory
workers can seek assistance from staff members of the Office of Environmental Health
and Safety in safety and compliance related matters. Appendix D. contains the
Laboratory Inspection Checklist that is utilized for these inspections.
- 30 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Based on the results of inspections, the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
classifies the laboratory(s) as representing either a Low, Moderate or High risk. Future
inspection frequency and follow up from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
is based on the following classifications:



Low- Annual Inspection Schedule-no immediate EH&S follow up
required
Moderate- Annual Inspection Schedule- EH&S follow up required
High- Minimum Six Month Inspection Schedule- EH&S follow up required
It is critical that Rensselaer’s Environmental Health and Safety policies be followed and
that safety is a priority in the laboratory regardless of the current rating. Past performance
in compliance and safety related matters does not guarantee future success.
4.10 Hazard Assessment Program (HASP)
Rensselaer’s Hazard Assessment Program (HASP), which was developed at Cornell
University, is a software application designed to help Principal Investigators/Laboratory
Supervisors identify the hazards present in their laboratory and then communicate this
information, along with instructions on appropriate precautions, to anyone who may enter
a specific area. A database of all HASP information is maintained by the Office of
Environmental Health and Safety. In an emergency, EH&S uses this database to assess
the potential hazards of the area, alert emergency response personnel and to contact
laboratory staff. Appendix E contains detailed information relating to Rensselaer’s
HASP program.
Example HASP Room Signage
- 31 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.11 Energy Conservation
The following suggestions for conserving energy should be considered in laboratories at
Rensselaer:
Lighting – turn lights off when not required, use task lighting when possible. Utilize
natural lighting when available.
Lab Equipment – turn off lab equipment during idle periods
Refrigeration – consolidate lab materials to reduce the number of refrigerators and
freezers when possible.
Computer Equipment – Turn computers, monitors, printers, and other peripheral
equipment off when not actively in use. Enable energy management features for
computers, monitors, and laser printers (screen savers don’t save energy).
Space Temperature – when local temperature control is available, set at 68 deg. during
the winter and 74 deg during the summer. Areas without local thermostats that are
overheating should be reported to FIXX.
Portable Heaters – eliminate the use of portable electric heaters.
Water – Turn off all water uses when not required. Notify FIXX of leaking faucets, etc.
For long term requirements of water for equipment cooling, make request to connect to
central systems where available.
Fume Hoods – Close fume hood sashes when not working in the hood. In buildings with
local on off controls, remove stored materials and turn fume hood off.
Time of use – On the main campus, the cost of electrical power is higher during the
afternoon and early evening than in the morning, at night, or on weekends. Electrical
equipment that can be operated during the “off hours” saves energy costs.
Equipment purchasing – purchase equipment with the Energy Star label when
available.
Elevators – use stairs instead of elevators.
- 32 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.12 Shipping/Receiving Hazardous Materials and Samples
The interstate shipment of hazardous materials is regulated by the U.S. Department of
Transportation. Packaging and shipping of hazardous materials must be done in a way
that prevents leakage and ensures that the package arrives to its destination in good
condition. Improper shipping of hazardous/biological/radioactive materials can
jeopardize the Institute’s regulatory compliance and result in civil charges against
individuals. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety must be contacted to approve
all hazardous/biological/radioactive materials shipments originating from Rensselaer.
When receiving hazardous/biological/radioactive materials shipments:



Packages containing hazardous/biological/radioactive materials must be promptly
unpacked and the materials stored as directed.
Remove the hazardous/biological/radioactive shipping label before reusing,
recycling, or disposing of the outer shipping container.
If a package containing hazardous/biological/radioactive materials is received and
evidence of leakage or any other damage is discovered, isolate the package and
contact the Office of Environmental Health and Safety immediately.
- 33 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.13 Spills and Incidents
The decision to initiate clean-up activities on spilled chemicals is one that should be
derived from a methodical evaluation of the specific situation, surrounding environment,
and available resources. In all chemical spill situations, the following information must
be considered: (Further information regarding spills and other emergency procedures can
be found in Rensselaer’s Hazardous Waste Contingency Plan.)
An incidental release of a hazardous material is defined as a release that does not pose a
significant safety or health hazard to the people in the immediate vicinity or to the person
cleaning it up, nor does it have the potential to become an emergency within a short
period of time. Incidental releases are limited in quantity, exposure potential, and
toxicity. If the hazardous substances that are in the area are always stored in very small
quantities, such as in the laboratory setting, the risk of a release that escalates into an
emergency is reduced.
It may be possible for the person who generated the spill to perform the clean up
provided that ALL of following conditions are met:




The spill is clearly incidental, based on the definitions contained in this
plan,
The individual is trained in the hazards and clean-up methods of the
spilled materials,
Adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Spill Response
Supplies are available and used,
And, the individual is certain that there is no level of personal danger to
themselves or anyone else on campus.
If the answer to each of these questions is satisfactory, laboratory personnel can clean up
small spills. Small spills are considered to be less than 1 pint of material. However, if
spills are larger than 1 pint of material, or if any questions exist as to hazards or clean up
procedures regardless of quantity or material, emergency actions should be taken. These
actions should include:
1. Alert all individuals in the laboratory and surrounding area, using both
audible alarm systems and voice communication to evacuate the area.
2. In the event that an individual has spilled a chemical on their person,
remove all contaminated clothing and rinse in a safety shower for at least
fifteen minutes followed up by professional medical attention.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Chemical spills that enter the eye, should receive rinsing for fifteen minutes in an eye
wash station followed up by professional medical attention
If a release involves a hazardous substance of extreme toxicity, regardless of the quantity
released, the situation will always warrant an immediate emergency response. If there is
any risk of injury to any campus personnel including the person who generated the spill,
or if available PPE is in any way inadequate, or if the number or qualifications of on-site
personnel is in any way inadequate, outside resources must be requested immediately by
dialing 6611 or 518-276-6611. Do not allow anyone to enter the hazard area until
emergency response personnel arrive.
Releases that may be incidental or may require emergency response depending on
the circumstance
The properties of a hazardous substance (toxicity, volatility, flammability, explosiveness,
Corrosiveness, etc.), as well as the specific circumstances of the release (quantity,
confined space considerations, ventilation, etc.), and the level of training of the personnel
involved, may result in a spill that requires emergency response. If any doubt exists on
the part of the personnel who first became aware of the spill, the spill must be handled as
an emergency in accordance with the requirements of this plan. Outside resources must
be requested immediately by dialing 6611, dialing 518-276-6611 or activating the
evacuation alarm if evacuation of the building is deemed best. Do not allow anyone to
enter the area until emergency response personnel arrive.
Releases that clearly require emergency response regardless of circumstance
Releases of hazardous substances that pose a significant threat to public health, safety, or
welfare or the environment from fires, explosions, spills or any unplanned sudden or nonsudden release of hazardous material/waste or hazardous material/waste to air, soil,
surface water, or ground water, by their very nature, require an emergency response
regardless of the circumstances surrounding the release or the mitigating factors.
Additionally, a release of hazardous material/waste that occurs in excess of reportable
quantities identified under 40 CFR 355 shall also be designated as an emergency. Copies
of this list are available from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety. Reportable
quantities range from 1 to 10,000 pounds depending on hazard of the chemical. Outside
resources must be requested immediately by dialing 6611, dialing 518-276-6611, or
activating the evacuation alarm if evacuation of the building is deemed appropriate. Do
not allow anyone to enter the area until emergency response personnel arrive.
- 35 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
4.14 Hazards Communications/Chemical Labeling
All containers at Rensselaer must have a label that identifies the contents, hazards,
and routes of entry of the materials contained within. There are three main universal
chemical labeling schemes in use at Rensselaer. They include:
1. Department of Transportation Labels, which utilize colors, figures and
Hazard class numbers to identify Hazardous Chemicals.
2. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) labels, which use a colorcoding and numbering system to convey chemical hazards.
Red- Flammability (Flash point)- 4:Below 73F 3:Below 100F 2:Above
100F but below 200F 1:Above 200F 0:Will not burn
Yellow- Reactivity- 4:May detonate 3:Shock and Heat may detonate
2:Violent Chemical Change 1:Unstable if heated 0:Stable
White- Specific Hazards- OX:Oxidizer Acid:Acid ALK:Alkali
COR:Corrosive W:Use no water Radioactive:Symbol
Blue- Health Hazard- 4:Deadly 3:Extreme Danger 2:Hazardous
1:Slightly Hazardous 0:Normal Material
3. Hazardous Materials Identification Guide system labels, which are
similar in color scheme and numbering system to NFPA labels.
4-Extreme 3-Serious
2-Moderate 1-Slight 0-Minimal
Health
- 36 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
OSHA Revised Hazard Communication Standard:
As of June 15, 2015, the Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) will require pictograms
on labels to alert users of the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Each
pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background framed within a red border and
represents a distinct hazard(s). The pictogram on the label is determined by the chemical
hazard classification (Appendix L – Pictograms and Hazards).
OSHA has updated the requirements for labeling of hazardous chemicals under its HCS.
As of June 15, 2015, all labels will be required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard
and precautionary statements, the products identifier, and suppler identification
(Appendix M – Chemical Label).
For more information refer to Rensselaer’s Hazards Communications Program.
Section 5: Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment represents one strategy that can be utilized to protect
laboratory workers from potential hazards. Rensselaer has developed a minimum set of
requirement standards for Personal Protective Equipment use in laboratories operated by
the Institute. A summary of these criteria can be found in Appendix C. Proper Personal
Protective Equipment selection is based on the individual laboratory hazard analysis
which should be completed during the experiment planning process and should be
included in the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the lab. It is the responsibility
of the Principal Investigator or Laboratory Supervisor to ensure laboratory staff have
received the appropriate training on the selection and use of proper PPE, that proper PPE
is available and in good condition, and laboratory personnel use proper PPE when
working in laboratories under their supervision.
5.1 Protective Garments
Clothing (Laboratory Coats): Long sleeved shirts/blouses and long legged trousers or
slacks should be worn to minimize skin exposure. Lab coats should also be worn any
time that you are working in a laboratory that contains an absorption hazard of any type.
Rensselaer currently has an agreement with UniFirst Corporation to provide complete
Laboratory Coat procurement and laundering services.
- 37 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Interested individuals should contact UniFirst Corporation directly at:
Eric Ryan, Sales Representative
UniFirst Corporation
157 Troy-Schenectady Road
Watervliet, NY 12159
518-274-9135 Office
518-274-0338 FAX
518-858-6276 Cell
At no time should laboratory coats or other potentially contaminated clothing be removed
from laboratory areas for laundering purposes by individuals other than professional
service organizations.
Chemical Aprons: It is required that chemical protective aprons
be worn when handling, pouring, or transferring corrosive or
otherwise hazardous chemicals. Aprons made of neoprene or PVC
generally provide the best protection for most chemicals. Make
sure to compare the chemical protection that a specific type of
apron will provide to the hazards associated with the chemical(s)
that you will be working with.
5.2 Eye and Face Protection
Safety Glasses: Safety Glasses must be worn in laboratories
whenever laboratory work involving chemicals or apparatus is in
progress, or at all times in any laboratory where signage
indicates eye protection must be worn. Safety glasses provide
eye protection from moderate impact and particles associated
with grinding, sawing, scaling, broken glass, and minor chemical
splashes, etc. Safety goggles must be worn whenever pouring or
transferring chemicals. Safety glasses come in a variety of
styles, but must have side shields to be acceptable at Rensselaer.
Clip on or slide on side shields are acceptable provided that the frames and lenses are
compliant with the ANSI Z87.1 standard.
Chemical Splash Goggles: Safety Goggles provide a measure of
splash protection superior to safety glasses. Chemical splash
goggles that are indirectly vented, and are close fitting all around
- 38 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
must be worn in areas where chemical manipulations that may result in splashing are
being performed. Further, gas-proof goggles should be worn when working with
chemicals that may be irritating to the eyes.
Chemical Face shields: Face Shields protect the face and eyes from splash hazards. Face
shields should be worn whenever the hazard warrants, but at a
minimum whenever an individual is handling corrosive
materials. Face Shields are also required for the process of
dispensing liquid Nitrogen. Safety goggles must be worn under
face shields.
Laser Eye Protection: Spectacles or goggles which include high optical density filter
materials and protective coatings must be utilized whenever the laser
hazard dictates. Make sure that the eyewear that you choose is
properly rated for the type of laser and work that you are to
perform. Also, proper fit is critical for adequate protection. As a
rule, you should avoid looking directly at any laser beam or laser
source. Laser eyewear must be protected from scratch and other
damage. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety
is available to assist in laser eyewear selection.
5.3 Gloves
Gloves should be worn whenever there is a potential for accidental exposure to hazardous
chemicals, biological or radioactive materials through skin contact, or when puncture,
compression or thermal hazards exist. Care should be taken to insure that the gloves
chosen for a specific application are suitable, properly fitting, and will provide adequate
protection. In order to make an informed decision regarding the style and type of glove
that will provide adequate protection for a given procedure, the following information
must be taken into consideration:
1. Specific chemical(s) to be used-and their chemical properties
2. Degree of chemical contact/concentration
- 39 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
3. Dynamics of the procedure i.e. Puncture hazards, thermal hazard etc.
4. Amount of hand and/or arm to be protected
5. Physical dexterity requirements of the procedure
Specific performance data, which is supplied by the glove’s manufacturer, and often
available on appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or Safety Data Sheet
(SDS) must be reviewed.
Some common information that is important to note regarding specific gloves
includes:



Degradation: the rate at which the physical properties of the gloves
change due to contact with a chemical
Breakthrough: a measure of the time it takes for a chemical to degrade
a glove to the point of pass through
Permeation: the measure of a materials breakthrough on a molecular
level
Gloves should be changed regularly, and whenever they contact hazardous chemicals.
Gloves should be removed using the “inside out” procedure. To properly remove
disposable gloves, grab the cuff of the left glove with the gloved right hand and remove
the left glove. While holding the removed left glove in the palm of the gloved right hand,
insert a finger under the cuff of the right glove and gently invert the right glove over the
removed left glove and dispose of them in a waste container. Contaminated gloves should
not be disposed of in the paper/trash waste stream. Be sure to wash your hands
thoroughly with soap and water after the gloves have been removed.
The following page contains a table taken from literature available through the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Health and Safety Information Systems
regarding proper glove selection. More specific information is available through a
- 40 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
number of sources including Manufacturers, Lab Supervisors, Material Safety Data
Sheets, Safety Data Sheets and the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
Glove Chart *Trademark of DuPont Dow Elastomers
Type
Advantages
Disadvantages
Use Against
Natural rubber
Low cost, good physical Poor vs. oils,
Bases, alcohols, dilute water
properties, dexterity
greases, organics.
solutions; fair vs. aldehydes,
Frequently imported; ketones.
may be poor quality
Natural rubber
blends
Low cost, dexterity,
better chemical
resistance than natural
rubber vs. some
chemicals
Physical properties Same as natural rubber
frequently inferior to
natural rubber
Polyvinyl chloride Low cost, very good
(PVC)
physical properties,
medium cost, medium
chemical resistance
Plasticizers can be
stripped; frequently
imported may be
poor quality
Strong acids and bases, salts,
other water solutions, alcohols
Neoprene
Medium cost, medium
chemical resistance,
medium physical
properties
NA
Oxidizing acids, anilines,
phenol, glycol ethers
Nitrile
Low cost, excellent
physical properties,
dexterity
Poor vs. benzene,
methylene chloride,
trichloroethylene,
many ketones
Oils, greases, aliphatic
chemicals, xylene,
perchloroethylene,
trichloroethane; fair vs. toluene
Butyl
Speciality glove, polar
organics
Expensive, poor vs. Glycol ethers, ketones, esters
hydrocarbons,
chlorinated solvents
Polyvinyl alcohol Specialty glove, resists a Very expensive,
Aliphatics, aromatics,
(PVA)
very broad range of
water sensitive, poor chlorinated solvents, ketones
organics, good physical vs. light alcohols
(except acetone), esters, ethers
properties
Fluoro- elastomer Specialty glove, organic Extremely
(Viton) ™ *
solvents
expensive, poor
physical properties,
poor vs. some
ketones, esters,
amines
Norfoil (Silver
Shield)
Excellent chemical
resistance
Aromatics, chlorinated solvents,
also aliphatics and alcohols
Poor fit, easily
Use for Hazmat work
punctures, poor grip,
stiff
- 41 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
5.4 Respiratory Protection
Respirators are generally worn by individuals in situations when
potential airborne exposure includes:



Chemicals found in 29 CFR part 1910 Subpart Z of the OSHA
regulations, in concentrations above chemical specific
Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL) (Note: Respiratory usage
will be subsequent to the exploration of engineering control
instalation/maintanence)
The Threshold Limit Value (TLV) for a specific chemical is
exceeded
Harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, and/or fumes
are present.
Respirators are generally not recommended for laboratory workers.
Engineering controls, such as dilution ventilation, fume hoods and other
devices which capture and remove vapors, fumes, and gases from the
breathing zone of the user are preferred over the use of respirators in most
laboratory environments. This includes disposable respirators (such as
N95 filtering face pieces, commonly referred to as “dust masks”).
Laboratory users should not purchase respiratory protection without first
consulting with the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
N95 Filtering Face Piece
Prior to wearing a respirator at Rensselaer, individuals must receive training on proper
respirator usage, complete a medical exam (which is part of an on-going medical
surveillance program) and be Fit-tested on a specific respirator to insure adequate fit.
These requirements must be completed annually. Rensselaer’s Respiratory Protection
Program should be reviewed and followed, and used as a resource for information.
Respirators are assigned to individuals and must not be shared. If a condition arises in the
laboratory that may warrant the use of respiratory protection, the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety must be notified. Failure to analyze chemical specific properties could
lead to an inadequate respirator selection. For example, Organic Vapor cartridges affixed
to an air-purifying respirator (APR) will provide little to no protection from Stannic
Chloride fumes.
- 42 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Significant amounts of information must be known about the contaminants, and the
environment in which respirators will be utilized to provide adequate protection. Some of
this information includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
General use conditions, including determination of contaminant(s);
Physical, chemical, and toxicological properties of the contaminant(s);
Odor threshold data;
NIOSH recommended exposure limit (REL) or when no REL exists,
OSHA permissible exposure limit (PEL) or other applicable exposure
limit;
5. Immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) concentration;
6. Eye irritation potential; and
7. Any service life information available (for cartridges and canisters).
Air Purifying Respirator cartridges are designed to protect the wearer from specific
chemical hazards. Manufacturers are required to color code cartridges in a uniform
manner in an attempt to standardize the selection process. These uniform color codes are:
 Black -- organic vapors
 White -- acid gas
 Green -- ammonia gas/methylamine
 Magenta- Particulate aerosols
 Yellow -- mixture of acid gases and organic vapors
 Orange—mercury and chlorine
To insure that chemical cartridges are replaced before the service life ends, a cartridge
change-out schedule must be developed and followed. EH&S staff are available to assist
departments in complying with this regulatory requirement. Listed below are OSHArecognized “rules of thumb” that can be used to estimate chemical cartridge service life:
 If the chemical’s boiling point is >70C (158F) and the concentration is less than
200 ppm you can expect a service life of 8 hours at a normal work rate
 Reducing concentration by a factor of ten (10) will increase the service life by a
factor of five (5)
 Humidity above 85% will reduce service life by 50%.
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety, and Rensselaer’s Respiratory
Protection Program, should be utilized as a resource when selecting respiratory
protection.
- 43 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
5.5 Hearing Protection
Laboratory tasks involving noise exposure in excess of 85 decibels require an engineering
control evaluation, and may require inclusion in Rensselaer’s Hearing Conservation
Program. Noise exposures over 90 db (8 hour time weighted average) require hearing
protection. As a rule, if you need to raise your voice to speak with another individual
while working in close proximity, hearing protection may be required. The Office of
Environmental Health and Safety has instruments that can measure decibel levels in the
lab and should be contacted if you believe that noise levels in your work area may exceed
85 db. Rensselaer’s Hearing Conservation Program should be consulted as a resource
when encountering levels in excess of 85 decibels.
- 44 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 6: General Laboratory Safety
6.1 Compressed Gases
Compressed gases are used in a variety of applications at Rensselaer. There are certain
hazards that are inherent to compressed gases. Compressed gas hazards can be divided
into two categories:
Physical Hazards: Compressed gas cylinders often contain up to 2500 psi of pressure.
Valve damage or failure, or cylinder wall damage can cause the release of this pressure
causing a very dangerous situation. To help prevent this from occurring, keep cylinders
chained and/or caged in an upright position at all times. Valve caps should be in place,
hand tight on cylinders at all times, unless in use, and replaced immediately after use.
Regulators and gauges should not be left attached to cylinders for extended periods of
time. Cylinders should be transported only on approved cylinder carts. Cylinder should
never be “rolled”. Proper footwear should be worn when transporting cylinders. Steeltoed safety shoes provide the best protection.
Chemical Hazards: The material within the cylinder may be hazardous due to
flammability, toxicity or other material characteristics. Experiments utilizing these gases
should be conducted inside a fume hood. Incompatible materials, unless being used on
the same piece of equipment, should always be stored separately to avoid chemical
reaction. Oxygen and other oxidizing materials must be stored at least 20 feet from fuel
cylinders or combustible materials unless separation is achieved in the form of a noncombustible barrier at least 5 feet high having a fire-resistance rating of at least one-half
hour. Only regulators, gauges, hoses and other equipment rated for specific chemicals
and applications should be used. Oxygen regulators must never come in contact with oil
and/or grease. Identification labels must not be removed from cylinders.
Never attempt to repair a leaking valve yourself.
Contact Public Safety at 6611 immediately.
- 45 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
6.2 Electrical Safety
Electricity provides an essential power source for many laboratory activities. Electrical
safety must be considered and appropriate actions taken to ensure safety in the laboratory.
The following general guidelines are provided:
Electrical Safety “Do’s and Don’ts”
Do
Unplug equipment before cleaning or
performing maintenance. Consult
Rensselaer’s Lockout/Tagout Program to
ensure adequate energy isolation
Inspect all power cords, plugs, and cables
between pieces of equipment before each
use.
Provide appropriate fuses to protect all
parts (including switches of all equipment)
Provide adequate protection from static
electrical discharge and sparks by properly
grounding containers and equipment and
by blanketing with inert gas when needed.
Don’t
Utilize equipment while you are touching
metal or are wet. Never plug or unplug an
electric cord while your hands are wet.
Work on or modify in any way the
laboratory or building electrical supply
system.
Rely on laboratory circuit breakers for
protection.
Overload outlets and extension cords.
Extension cords should be used only on a
temporary basis. They should have a 3-wire
grounded configuration, with an adequate
current rating for the intended use and fuse
protection. Extension cords are not
intended to replace permanent wiring, and
must be unplugged when not in use.
Ground fault interrupters are designed to protect individuals from
electrical shock by interrupting a circuit when there is a difference in
the voltage potential of the "hot" and neutral wires. Such a
difference indicates that a current diversion in the circuit may be
occurring because a person has come into contact with the "hot"
wire and is being shocked. GFCI’s detect very low levels of
electrical current leaks (ground faults), and act quickly to shut off
power, preventing serious shock. The Office of Environmental
Health and Safety strongly advocates the use of Ground Fault
Circuit Protection when portable power tools or other devices are in
use and in wet environments.
- 46 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
6.3 Glassware
Glassware safety is an important topic in any laboratory setting. Cuts and other injuries
from glassware consistently result in a significant number of laboratory injuries. Consider
the following:








Glass tubing, burettes and pipettes should be carried vertically rather than
horizontally since they may break upon impact with other objects.
Make sure that glassware that will be heated or cooled is properly rated for such
activities.
Hot tubing and glassware can cause thermal burns. Insulated gloves and/or
special tongs should be used when handling heated materials.
Inspect glassware routinely. Cracked glassware should be replaced immediately.
Extreme Care must be taken when cutting glassware and inserting it into
stoppers or other hoses. Hold glassware less than 2” from end and lubricate with
glycerin or other when inserting into stopper.
Wrap glassware which will be exposed to pressure or vacuum in packing tape or
another like material to protect from shattering.
Dispose of glassware in appropriate receptacles.
Consider carefully materials used to clean glassware. Do not drain dispose of
chemicals used for this purpose.
6.4 Heating Devices
The use of heating devices in the laboratory setting requires extreme care. There are
multiple types of heating devices in use at Rensselaer including open flame (Bunsen
burners), electrically powered ovens, heating baths and heating mantle systems. Several
general safety precautions should always be considered:






Ensure that combustible materials are not present in the immediate area
surrounding the heating device (unless the device is specifically designed to heat
such materials).
Inspect all electrical components and follow the electrical safety precautions
outlined in Section 6.1.
Set up all heating devices on sturdy, non-movable surfaces.
Consider necessary cooling provisions.
Post signage near experiments involving elevated temperatures to warn others in
the area.
If the heating process will yield potential hazardous fumes or vapor, appropriate
ventilation must be considered.
- 47 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
6.5 Lasers
“Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation” devices, or Lasers, are
prevalent in many laboratories at Rensselaer. Lasers emit concentrated light beams of, in
most cases, single wavelengths.
All Laser systems at Rensselaer must be registered with, and approved by the Laser
Safety Officer. The Laser Safety Officer can be reached at x6114.
Laser frequency and intensity is related to beam wavelength. Included below is the
wavelength electromagnetic spectrum.
Wavelength Electromagnetic Spectrum
The hazards associated with Laser usage should be considered in two categories:
1) Direct Hazards such as eye and/or skin damage, and
2) Indirect Hazards such as ionizing radiation, electrical shock,
ultraviolet radiation and the combustion potential of materials
associated with laser usage.
The “acceptable” amount of laser exposure is largely determined by a specific laser’s
Maximum Permissible Exposure or MPE. When laser exposure exceeds this value (or at
any other time the user feels that it is necessary) engineering controls must be utilized
and/or personal protective equipment must be worn.
Eyewear- Spectacles or goggles which include high optical density filter materials and
protective coatings must be utilized whenever the laser hazard dictates. Make sure that
the eyewear that you choose is properly rated for the type of laser and work that you are
to perform. Also, proper fit is critical for adequate protection. As a rule, you should avoid
looking directly at any laser beam or laser source.
- 48 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Some laser applications may also dictate the use of skin cover if chronic exposures are
anticipated at levels at or near the MPE limits for skin.
Make sure that a non-reflective material that is fire resistant terminates laser beams. Also,
a standard laser warning sign should be placed at each point of access/exit of the laser
facility when a laser(s) is in usage, alerting others to the contained hazards and required
PPE for entry into the laser facility.
Laser Classifications
Class 1: Laser Systems that may produce visible or invisible laser radiation which under
normal operating conditions are considered to be incapable of causing injury from direct
viewing of the beam. It should be noted that Class 1 systems often contain higher-class
lasers embedded within protective shielding and/or beam enclosures. Removal of these
items may require the laser system to be re-classified by the LSO.
Class 2: Laser systems that produce low power visible laser radiation. The output power
of a Class 2 laser does not exceed 1mW. Eye protection is normally afforded by the
natural blink reflex time (.25 sec.) of the human eye. Direct beam viewing is not allowed.
Class 3a: Laser systems that produce moderate levels of visible or invisible laser
radiation. The output power of a CW Class 3a laser is between 1mW and 5mW.
Personal Protective Equipment, such as protective eyewear may be required when
collecting and/or focusing optics are used.
Class 3b: Laser systems that produce visible or invisible laser radiation. The output
power of a CW Class 3b laser is between 5mW and 500mW. They are considered
medium power lasers and are capable of producing eye injuries when viewed directly, or
with optics, even if viewed momentarily. For visible Class 3b lasers, the normal aversion
reflex (.25 sec.) does not prevent injury. Class 3b lasers do not usually produce a
hazardous diffuse reflection or fire hazard. At the upper end of the Class 3b range, skin
burns may be possible.
Class 4: Laser systems that produce visible or invisible laser radiation capable of
causing injury to the eye and skin as well as producing dangerous specular and diffuse
- 49 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
reflections. Class 4 lasers can also produce fire hazards. The output power of a CW
Class 4 laser is in excess of 500mW (.5W).
Rensselaer’s Laser Safety Program should be consulted for further information.
6.6 Machine Guarding
The intent of machine guarding devices is to protect the user from moving parts, which
may cause cuts or create a “nip point” hazard in which a body part could become caught
in the equipment. Further, machine-guarding devices can help to prevent injuries from
flying particles.
As a general rule, all machine parts or process functions that may cause injury to the
machine user must be safeguarded. Examples include:
 Point of Operation, the area of a machine where work is actually performed upon
the material being processed
 In-running “nip” points
 Rotating parts
 Areas where flying debris or sparks may be generated
Machine guarding devices may be attached to the equipment itself or separate from the
equipment, if required, and positioned to ensure that a hazard is not created by the guard
and preventative maintenance activities are possible. Areas where mechanical hazards
can occur (including flywheels, pulleys, belts, couplings, rods, cams, chains, cranks, and
gears) must be also guarded to prevent injury.
There are several pieces of equipment that are commonly found in the laboratory
environment that contain machine guards. One of the most prominent is vacuum pumps.
Machine guards must remain in place at all times unless Lockout/Tagout procedures are
being executed.
If you use equipment or tools that contain or may require machine-guarding contact the
Office of Environmental Health and Safety to obtain more information.
6.7 Radiation
All work with radioactive materials at Rensselaer is subject to the approval and
authorization of the Radiation Safety Committee and the Office of Environmental Health
and Safety. For each “radiation installation” there is a Laboratory Supervisor/Principal
Investigator (faculty member or staff member) who is authorized through the Office of
Environmental Health and Safety to use radioactive materials under the Institute’s license
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
from the State of New York. For more information, Rensselaer’s Radiation Safety
Policy should be consulted.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
6.8 Syringes and Needles (Certificates of Need)
The New York State Department of Health regulates the procurement and
use of syringes and needle systems. (Section 80.133) As a result, the purchase of
hypodermic syringes and needles at Rensselaer is limited to those individuals holding a
valid New York State Department of Health "Certificate of Need". The application to
obtain a "Certificate of Need" is included in Appendix F.
In addition to the Certificate of Need requirement, New York State law also requires that
strict storage, inventory and recordkeeping practices be followed by those holding valid
certificates. It is the exclusive responsibility of the individual listed on the applicable
New York State Department of Health "Certificate of Need" to ensure that these laws are
followed. Section 80.133 of the New York State law, which outlines these requirements,
is included in Appendix G as a source for reference.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 7: Specific Chemical Hazards
7.1 Toxic Chemicals
There are many chemicals intended for laboratory usage that are classified as “toxic”.
The word “toxic” is defined slightly differently by the varying regulatory agencies. The
Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s definition of “Toxic” relates most
closely to individual exposure and has been included here in as follows:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910.1200
A chemical falling within any of the following categories:
1) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of more than 50 milligrams per
kilogram but not more than 500 milligrams per kilogram of body weight when
administered orally to albino rats weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
2) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) of more than 200 milligrams per
kilogram but not more than 1000 milligrams per kilogram of body weight when
administered by continuous contact for 24 hours with the bare skin of albino rabbits
weighing between 200 and 300 grams each.
3) A chemical that has a median lethal dose (LD50) in air of more than 200 milligrams
per kilogram but not more than 2000 ppm by volume of gas or vapor, or more than two
milligrams per liter but not more than 20 milligrams per liter of mist, fume, or dust, when
administered by continuous inhalation for one hour to albino rats weighing between 200
and 300 grams each.
In each of these definitions, the term Lethal Dose 50 (LD50 OR LC50) appears. This
term provides the quantitative basis for measuring toxicity and is defined as:
“the single dose of a substance that causes the death of 50% of an animal population
from exposure to the substance”.-MSDS Dictionary Expanded 3rd Edition Genium
Publishing Corp
LD50 and LC50 values can be considered in the following categories:
High Toxicity
Moderate Toxicity
Low Toxicity
Very Low Toxicity
Oral LD50
Less than 50 mg/kg
50-500 mg/kg
500-5000 mg/kg
Greater than 5000
mg/kg
Inhalation LC50
Less than 0.2 mg/l
0.2-2 mg/l
2-20 mg/l
Greater than 20 mg/l
Dermal LD50
Less than 200 mg/kg
200-2000 mg/kg
2000-5000 mg/kg
Greater than 5000
mg/kg
Eye Effects
Corrosive
Irritation
Irritation
No Irritation
Skin Effects
Corrosive
Severe Irritation
Irritation
Slight Irritation
Adapted from Prudent Practices in the
Laboratory-National Research Council
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
LD50/LC50 values are commonly found on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for specific chemicals and products. You must review MSDS
or SDS sheets and other reference materials before initiating work with all unfamiliar
chemicals. You should also be familiar with the OSHA (PEL) and (TLV) limits for
specific chemicals discussed later in this document. Toxic materials should be opened
and handled only within a functioning ventilation enclosure, such as a laboratory hood,
unless alternate work practices can achieve an equal or greater level of personal
protection.
Generally speaking, there are several safety related items that should be considered when
utilizing toxic materials.
Routes of Entry: Be mindful of the routes of entry as they relate to toxic materials.
1. Absorption: Use appropriate PPE including gloves, chemical aprons etc. as
required and/or needed.
2. Ingestion: Practice appropriate Industrial Hygiene in the laboratory. Wash your
hands often. Never eat, drink or smoke in the laboratory.
3. Inhalation: Perform chemical manipulations involving toxic materials in fume
hoods and/or where adequate ventilation exists. If respiratory protection is
required, you must have received appropriate training, Fit-testing and medical
surveillance. (Consult Rensselaer’s Respiratory Protection Program)
4. Injection: Be mindful of broken glass and sharps hazards.
Certain chemical procedures involving toxic materials require prior approval before they
may be conducted. Review the components of this plan that relate to proper chemical
handling, personal protective equipment, ventilation controls and laboratory fume hoods,
and proper disposal of hazardous wastes prior to working with toxic materials. In
addition, it is important to see your Laboratory Supervisor for lab-specific requirements.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
7.1.1 OSHA “Select Carcinogens”
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed specific use
requirements for thirteen (13) known carcinogens. These materials include:
 4-Nitrobiphenyl
 alpha-Naphthylamine
 Methyl Chloromethyl ether
 3-Dichlorobenzidine
 bis-Chloromethyl ether
 beta-Naphthylamine
 Benzidine
 4-Aminodiphenyl
 Ethyleneimine
 Beta-Popiolactone
 2-Acetylaminofluorene
 4-Dimethylaminoazo-benzene
 N-Nitrosodimethylamine
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety must be notified of intended lab use of
any of these materials prior to their introduction into the workplace.
7.2 Flammable Chemicals
Chemicals are generally classified as “flammable”, due to their relatively low
“flashpoint”. Flashpoint is defined as the temperature at which a material yields vapor
of significant quantity that flame will occur in the presence of an ignition source.
In the laboratory, Flammable Liquids are those with a “flashpoint” below 140 F.
Flammable chemicals should be stored away from all ignition sources, including open
flame sources, and spark sources such as small motors or open switches. Quantities of
all chemicals kept on lab benches should be limited to the amount required for a specific
experiment. Laboratories may store a maximum of thirty (30) gallons of Flammable
materials (FP<140F) at any one time. Laboratories wishing to exceed this quantity
must receive written authorization from the Office of Environmental Health and
Safety.
Flammable chemicals should be stored in appropriate storage cabinets or the like, with
proper ventilation. Flammables should be stored, as a general rule, separate from
oxidizers and other incompatibles. Explosion proof refrigerators should be used if the
possibility exists for explosive or flammable concentrations of gases to be present.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
7.3 Reactive Chemicals
Reactive chemicals, whether they are a pyrophoric material (a liquid or solid that will
ignite spontaneously in air), water reactive, air reactive, or unstable in nature, must be
handled with extreme care. MSDS or SDS sheets should be carefully reviewed to verify
safe handling procedures for specific chemicals/compounds. Laboratory work involving
reactive chemicals should be completed in fume hoods or glove boxes. Reactive
chemicals should be stored such that proper compatibility is insured and conditions such
as temperature and sunlight are maintained within safe limits for each specific type of
chemical. Refrigerators used for storing flammable or reactive chemicals should be
explosion proof. Standard Operating Procedures must be created and reviewed specific to
reactive chemicals and processes.
7.4 Corrosive Chemicals
Corrosive materials present a hazard due to their ability to damage human tissue.
Although the exact definition of corrosive varies slightly between regulatory agencies, all
definitions are closely tied to pH. (OSHA defines corrosive material by a chemical’s
ability to cause destruction of, or irreversible alterations in, living tissue by chemical
action at the site of contact.) The pH value of a substance represents the acidity or
alkalinity of a solution. It is defined as the logarithm of the reciprocal of the hydrogen-ion
concentration of a solution. It is important to note that the pH scale is logarithmic and as
such values are exponential. For example, a material having a pH value of 6 is ten times
as acidic as pure water. A material having a pH value of 5 is one hundred times as acidic
as pure water. Proper personal protective equipment, including adequate skin protection,
gloves and face shields with goggles must be worn whenever corrosive materials are
being utilized. Acidic materials and alkaline materials should be segregated in storage to
prevent reactions from occurring. Chemical carriers should be utilized whenever
chemicals are being transported to help prevent breakage in the event that the materials
are dropped or struck. Additionally, use dilute acidic or alkaline solutions instead of
concentrated solutions for adjusting the pH of reagents and other solutions made in the
laboratory whenever possible.
PH= log10 1/[H+]
Acidic
Alkaline
1.08
7
11
7
0
.1 N
HCL
13
Pure
Water
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.1 N
NH4OH
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
7.5 Cryogenic Chemicals
Cryogenic liquids and dry ice are capable of causing “freezing
injuries” (frostbite) which actually are similar to a burn. MSDS or
SDS sheets should be reviewed whenever handling Cryogenic
materials to determine the appropriate Personal Protective
equipment including tight fitting gloves, which prevent cryogenic
material from being trapped next to the skin, face shields and other
equipment. In the event of skin contact with a cryogenic material,
immediately rinse the skin with warm, not hot, water for a full
fifteen minutes and then seek professional medical attention.
When dispensing liquid Nitrogen, a full face shield with goggles
underneath, chemical splash apron and cryogenic protective gloves
must be worn.
7.6 Perchloric Acid
The hazards associated with Perchloric acid relate directly to the concentration of the
solution, the temperature of the material and the environment in which the material is
used. Standard commercial grade solutions of Perchloric acid include concentrations
ranging from 60%-72%. Perchloric acid is a colorless, odorless liquid that is both
corrosive to human tissues and a powerful oxidizing agent. Work with Perchloric acid
should always be completed in an appropriate laboratory hood. Minimum Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements include indirectly vented safety goggles,
gloves made of either Nitrile, Neoprene, Polyvinyl Chloride (or other appropriate
material) and a laboratory coat or chemical splash apron. Perchloric acid should be stored
away from all organics, alkaline materials and metal powders and must be stored in
suitable, airtight containers.
Heating Perchloric Acid above room temperature can result in the formation of Perchloric
acid mist. This mist has the ability to deposit highly explosive perchlorate crystals within
the hood itself and associated ventilation system. Perchlorates should not be used as
drying agents if there is a possibility of contact with organic compounds or in proximity
to a dehydrating acid strong enough to concentrate the Perchloric acid. The heating of
this material should be avoided whenever possible. These perchlorate crystals can be
sensitive to shock and electrostatic discharge. In areas in which the heating of Perchloric
acid must occur:
1. Specialized Perchloric acid hoods, which include water spray nozzles should be
utilized.
2. Conventional hood decontamination procedures should be developed or
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
In-line vapor extraction units should be used to collect Perchloric acid vapor/mists.
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety is available to participate in hazard
assessments and experiment design activities. Ensure that the hazards related to the
specific concentration and uses of Perchloric acid are well understood by all potential
chemical users in advance of using the material.
7.7 Hydrofluoric Acid
Because of the extreme hazards encountered when working with hydrofluoric acid,
Rensselaer's Office of Environmental Health and Safety has developed the following
guidelines for the protection of hydrofluoric acid users. Please post these guidelines
wherever hydrofluoric acid solutions are used or handled.
Overview
Hydrofluoric acid, also known as hydrogen fluoride solution or HF, is corrosive and
extremely hazardous in liquid and vapor form. Its laboratory uses include mineral
digestion, surface cleaning, etching, and biological staining. Skin exposure to
hydrofluoric acid can produce severe, penetrating burns that may not be immediately
apparent, but can lead to severe pain, amputation, bone damage, systemic fluoride
poisoning, and death. Eye exposure often results in blindness or permanent damage.
Additionally, hydrofluoric acid may be fatal if swallowed or inhaled. The mechanism
behind these extreme hazards involves the fluoride ion's ability to penetrate deeply into
the skin, destroying tissue and decalcifying bone. It is important to note that dilute
solutions of hydrofluoric acid are still extremely hazardous – a drop of dilute solution on
the skin may not cause immediate pain, but the acid will penetrate and cause damage to
the underlying tissue and bone. Because of its ability to produce delayed serious tissue
damage without necessarily producing pain, safety precautions must be taken when
any concentration of hydrofluoric acid is used in the lab, and any exposures, no matter
how small, require immediate first aid and medical attention.
Preparation
Consider using a less hazardous substitute for hydrofluoric acid. If this is not possible,
use and store minimum quantities, and follow all safety precautions.
Hydrofluoric acid users must be properly prepared for emergencies at all times. The
following safety precautions must be observed before work begins:
1. The MSDS or SDS for hydrofluoric acid, including emergency first aid
procedures, is available and familiar to the user.
2. Access to safety showers, eye washes and sinks is unobstructed.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
3. Chemical fume hoods are functioning properly.
4. All required personal protective equipment is available for use.
5. Emergency first aid treatment for hydrofluoric acid exposure (either 2.5%
calcium gluconate gel or 0.13% aqueous zephiran chloride, as recommended
by the manufacturer) is available and easily accessible, and lab workers are
familiar with its use. One supplier of calcium gluconate gel is Pharmascience
Laboratories, Inc. (1-800-207-4477); zephiran chloride may be obtained
through Sanofi-Synthelabo, Inc. (1-800-446-6267).
6. Inform others present in the laboratory that work involving hydrofluoric
acid is about to begin. Workers may not use hydrofluoric acid when alone in
the lab in case of an emergency.
Workplace Practices
All work involving hydrofluoric acid must be performed in a chemical fume hood with
the sash lowered as much as possible. At a minimum, chemical splash goggles, a lab coat
and/or chemical apron, and gloves* are required when handling hydrofluoric acid
solutions. Using a face shield in combination with goggles is highly recommended.
Wash hands thoroughly after working with hydrofluoric acid solutions. Gloves must be
changed under the following circumstances:
-
If acid comes into contact with the gloves.
When work with hydrofluoric acid solutions is completed.
Before leaving the work area if work is interrupted for any reason.
If gloves become contaminated, remove immediately and wash your hands.
Contaminated gloves must be disposed of as hazardous waste – be sure to note on the
hazardous waste label that the gloves are contaminated with hydrofluoric acid.
As with all laboratory work, do not eat, drink or smoke, and do not wear shorts or opentoed shoes in the laboratory. The use of open containers to store or transport hydrofluoric
acid is prohibited.
* Chemical degradation and permeation data is manufacturer-specific. Consult the glove
manufacturer to determine their best glove for use with hydrofluoric acid.
In case of an emergency
Dial 6611 or 518-276-6611 immediately for medical assistance. Follow first aid
procedures as detailed in the MSDS or SDS. Remove all contaminated personal
protective equipment, clothing, and shoes. If helping a victim, wear gloves to avoid
becoming contaminated. When medical assistance arrives, provide a copy of the MSDS
or SDS.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Storage
Keep in tightly closed polyethylene containers and store the containers in secondary
containment to contain spills. Store containers on a low protected shelf or other location
where it will not be accidentally knocked over. Because hydrofluoric acid attacks glass,
never store in a glass container. Hydrofluoric acid containers may be hazardous when
empty since they retain product residues – do not reuse containers for storage of other
materials. Hydrofluoric acid must be segregated from incompatible materials. Refer to
the MSDS or SDS for incompatible information.
Disposal
Hydrofluoric acid and hydrofluoric acid-contaminated materials must be disposed of as
hazardous waste according to Rensselaer's hazardous waste disposal policy. The
hazardous waste label must be completed in full, with the full name and concentration
(percentage) of the material. The waste container must be compatible with the waste (i.e.
not glass), and the container must be stored in secondary containment and segregated
from incompatible materials.
7.8 Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Special care should be taken when handling solvents that tend to form explosive organic
peroxides. Solvents, like other chemicals will degrade over time. Solvent deterioration is
dependent on several factors—elapsed time since purification, shipping and storage
conditions, individual solvent properties and the presence or absence of stabilizers. In
some solvents, a byproduct of this degradation includes explosive organic peroxides,
which may explode if subjected to thermal or mechanical shock. This “shock” may occur
by simply unscrewing the container’s cap. Since sunlight and oxygen promote peroxide
formation, these conditions should be avoided during storage. The office of
Environmental Health and Safety routinely affixes the following label to peroxide
forming materials to aid laboratory users in tracking these materials.
Appendix H contains a selection of chemical substances, reproduced from M.J. Pitt and
E. Pitt, Handbook of Laboratory Waste Disposal, Ellis Horwood Publisher, UK. that can
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
deteriorate to a dangerous form with age, under common storage conditions. The degree
of the hazard will vary considerably with age and the exact situation, but it is advisable to
take precautions when discarding, recycling or otherwise handling old samples.
(This list is not necessarily comprehensive)
7.9 Picric Acid (Tri-Nitrophenol)
Picric acid can form explosive salts with many metals, or by itself when dry. In solid
form, Picric acid consists of yellow crystals which are soluble in water, alcohol,
chloroform, benzene, and ether. Picric acid is also considered a toxic material. (See
Section 7.1) Picric acid should not be allowed to completely dry out. Lab users should
limit purchased quantities to the minimum amount required for specific, scheduled
experiments. No metal containing materials should be used in any processes involving
Picric acid, including storage containers, metal spatulas etc. If dry Picric acid is
discovered, the Office of Environmental Health and Safety should be contacted
immediately. Do not move containers of dry Picric acid.
7.10 Biosafety
For information pertaining to biosafety, please reference Rensselaer’s complete Biosafety
Plan.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 8: Chemical/Biological/Radiological Waste Disposal
8.1 Waste Determination
It is the Institute’s policy that no chemicals/biologicals or radioactive materials are to be
disposed of in any sink of any Rensselaer facility without first obtaining the written
approval of the Office of Environmental Health and Safety. Such approval requests will
be evaluated on a case by case basis and can be submitted electronically or by facsimile.
Requests must contain all applicable compounds/materials, the process generating the
waste materials and the expected quantity.
This includes buffer solutions, chemicals used in cleaning processes (including glassware
washing operations), rinse material generated from glassware cleaning operations,
solvents and metal compounds. Rensselaer must comply with Federal, State and Local
regulations concerning chemical discharge including hundreds of chemicals regulated by
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Often the process of waste generation is a
significant factor in determining the regulatory requirements for disposing of a given
chemical or mixture, regardless of waste composition. Also, some materials may be
relatively “non-hazardous” yet may pose a disposal issue due to their odor, color,
temperature or composition.
8.2 Satellite Container Management
Most laboratory spaces on campus, which generate Hazardous wastes, are considered
“Satellite Accumulation Areas”. As such, there are specific requirements regarding
the proper storage, handling and labeling of such wastes. It is the responsibility of each
individual that generates Hazardous Wastes at these areas to insure that these
requirements are followed. Appendix I. contains a Satellite Accumulation Hazardous
Waste Self Check list that can be used to ensure proper management of Hazardous
Wastes in the laboratory.
In addition, the following page contains information regarding appropriate Hazardous
Waste storage.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Hazardous Waste Satellite Accumulation Storage Requirements
Containers of Hazardous Waste must be
in good condition, closable with a threaded
cap or lid and leak-free.
All Hazardous Waste containers must be
stored away from floor drains and sinks. If
such storage is not possible, secondary
containment must be provided to prevent
accidental release.
Hazardous Waste containers must be labeled
with a “Hazardous Waste Label”, which
includes the constituents in the container (in
names not chemical formulas) and the
appropriate percentages. Writing the word
“waste” on a container is not sufficient
threaded cap or lid and leak-free.
Hazardous Wastes must be compatible with
the container material. Example: Corrosive
materials cannot be stored in steel containers.
Hazardous Waste containers must not
be removed from the room (specific
Laboratory) in which they were
generated,
Containers of Hazardous Waste must be kept closed
at all times, unless material is being added. Never
leave funnels or other devices in the mouth of the
container after the transfer
Hazardous Waste containers must not be removed
from the room (specific Laboratory) in which they
were generated,
A maximum of 55 gallons of Hazardous waste may be
stored in any one “Satellite Accumulation Area”
(Laboratory) at any one time. Of that 55 gallons, no more
than 1 quart of the Hazardous
materials may be
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“Acutely Hazardous”. Note- 55gal.=208 liters 1
quart=947.5 milliliters
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
8.2 Waste Pick-Up Procedures
Hazardous waste generated in laboratories will be disposed of by the following methods:
Walker Laboratory: Teaching assistants, graduate students and/or faculty/staff are to
collect labeled hazardous waste containers from laboratories and transport them to the
designated hazardous waste storage area. Materials are periodically picked up from the
stockroom for proper disposal. Individuals transporting hazardous waste containers to
these areas must have completed the Hazardous Waste Management course offered by
the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
Cogswell Laboratory: Teaching assistants, graduate students and/or faculty/staff are to
collect labeled hazardous waste containers from laboratories and transport them to the
designated hazardous waste storage area. Materials are periodically picked up from the
stockroom for proper disposal. Individuals transporting hazardous waste containers to
these areas must have completed the Hazardous Waste Management course offered by
the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
CII: Teaching assistants, graduate students and/or faculty/staff are to collect labeled
hazardous waste containers from laboratories and transport them to the designated
hazardous waste storage area. Materials are periodically picked up from the stockroom
for proper disposal. Individuals transporting hazardous waste containers to these areas
must have completed the Hazardous Waste Management course offered by the Office
of Environmental Health and Safety.
All other Laboratory Buildings: Complete the online “Request for Hazardous Waste
Form” found on the EH&S website. The material included on the “Request for Hazardous
Waste Pickup” form (Included in Appendix J) will be picked up directly from your
laboratory. If you have any questions concerning waste pick-ups, call EH&S at 276-2092
.
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Section 9: Information and Training
9.1 Applicable Standards
Depending upon the type of work that you may be planning to undertake in the
laboratory, your experiments, the funding source of the research, the waste materials
generated from those experiments and your use of laboratory equipment and chemicals
will probably be regulated by a combination of Federal, State and Local laws. A complete
review of all applicable regulatory standards is beyond the scope of this document;
however a summary of several of the prominent Federal regulations is included in the
table below.
Federal Agency
OSHA
EPA
OSHA
OSHA
OSHA
Regulation Number
1910.1200
40 CFR
1910.1450
1910.132-139
1910.1000-1096
OSHA
OSHA
1910.101-126
1910.166-169
Relating to:
Hazardous Communication
Chemical Disposal
Laboratory Safety
Personal Protective Equipment
Toxic and Hazardous
Substances
Hazardous Materials
Compressed Gases
This document, as well as related Rensselaer safety programs and training
sessions/materials are designed to provide useful information to help prevent
injuries/accidents, as well as satisfy regulatory obligations. Never operate equipment or
complete a task that you have not been properly trained to undertake. If you have any
questions regarding training or program content, please call the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety at 276-2092, 276-6114, or 276-2281.
9.2 OSHA Limits for Air Contaminants (Permissible Exposure Limits)
OSHA regulation 1910.1000 contains a list of acceptable limits for individual exposure,
in the absence of respiratory protection. Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) are OSHA
limits of employee exposure to regulated chemicals; considered in a typical 40 hour work
week (8 hours/day, based in Time weighted averages) utilized when evaluating exposure
potential. If you have any questions regarding laboratory exposure, contact the Office of
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Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Environmental Health and Safety.
9.3 OSHA Action Levels for Regulated Chemicals
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also sets exposure levels
known as “Action Levels”. These concentration levels, for regulated substances,
generally signify levels at which some type of administrative or quantitative controls are
required. Examples of such practices may include air analysis, employee training,
medical monitoring and record keeping. Exposure at or above a material’s action level is
termed occupational exposure. Action levels are generally one-half the Permissible
Exposure Limit. You should be familiar with each of these levels for the specific
regulated chemicals with which you may be working. If you have any questions
regarding laboratory exposure, contact the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
Section 10: Exposure Determination and Follow-up
10.1 Criteria for Reasonable Suspicion of Exposure
Assuming adequate engineering controls are in place, personal protective equipment is
worn properly, and accepted Laboratory Safety and Chemical Hygiene Practices are
followed, the risk of chemical exposure above published limits is unlikely, however it is
possible. It is the policy of Rensselaer that all incidents involving potential chemical
exposures will be investigated immediately. Events or symptoms that might realistically
result in an exposure incident may include:
 A chemical spill or reaction that is not contained by a engineering control.
 A chemical splash or direct skin, eye or inhalation contact.
 A laboratory worker realizes symptoms such as tissue irritation, dizziness,
running nose, etc., that subside upon leaving the laboratory environment.
 Two or more persons in the laboratory work area show similar symptoms.
If a chemical exposure is suspected, Public Safety, at 518-276-6114 or x6611 should be
notified immediately. A Rensselaer Incident-Injury/Illness Investigation Report From
must be completed and faxed to the Office of Environmental Health and Safety fax
276-2512 as soon as practical thereafter, and in all cases within 24 hours.
- 66 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
10.2 Exposure Assessment
In the event that an exposure in suspected, a consistent evaluation process will be
followed. This process will include the following areas of information.
 Existing engineering controls
 Chemicals involved
 Alarming systems and indicator levels
 Estimated exposure time
 Consistency of systems
 MSDS or SDS sheet information
 Ventilation
 PPE
10.3 Notification of Results or Monitoring
Any and all monitoring results, subsequent to an assumed exposure will be provided to
the involved individual(s) within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of those results by
Rensselaer. Consultation regarding the implications of such results will be provided to
the affected individual(s).
10.4 Medical Consultation
If a potential exposure incident is confirmed, medical consultation(s) and examinations
(if needed) will be offered to the involved employee at no charge. The results of such
consultations, examinations and follow up visits shall be kept completely confidential. As
your employer, Rensselaer will be furnished a copy of any results that relate specifically
to occupational exposures and/or illnesses.
- 67 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
10.5 Medical Surveillance
Depending upon the type of work that you will be involved in at Rensselaer, and the
chemicals and concentrations that you may be working with, medical surveillance
activities may be required. These activities may include pre-placement examinations,
periodic examinations, emergency/exposure examinations and tests and final/exit
examinations. Regardless of the type of medical surveillance activities that you are
required to be involved in, medical records will always be available to you and be kept
strictly confidential. For more information regarding medical surveillance, refer to the
applicable Rensselaer EH&S safety program.
10.6 Reproductive Health
Substances or agents that affect the reproductive health of women or men or the ability of
couples to have healthy children are called reproductive hazards. Radiation, some
chemicals, certain drugs (legal and illegal), cigarettes, some viruses, and alcohol are
examples of reproductive hazards. Scientific discovery has identified many reproductive
hazards, however the causes of most reproductive health problems are still not known.
Many of these problems such as infertility, miscarriage and low birth weigh are fairly
common occurrences and affect working and nonworking people.
It is the purpose of Rensselaer’s Environmental Health and Safety programs to reduce all
chemical, biological and radiological exposures to the lowest quantity that is reasonably
achievable. This goal pervades all programs and is not isolated to reproductive hazards. It
must be understood, however, that standard exposure guidance values (such as
Permissible Exposure Limits “PEL” or Threshold Limit Values “TLV”-See Section 6.2)
although a best practice, are not intended to ensure reproductive health safety.
Reproductive health in the laboratory involves the combined efforts of several campus
groups and of course the individual laboratory user. In the end it is the individual that
must make reproductive health decisions based on information available to them from a
number of sources.
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety
- 68 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety is available to respond to reproductive
health concerns. In general, this will begin with a workplace hazard assessment which
may include:
 Evaluation of chemical, biological and radiological materials in use for the
presence of known reproductive hazards.




Make recommendations designed to reduce or eliminate specific reproductive
risks. This may include a combination of engineering, work practice and
administrative controls and personal protective equipment.
Ensure that engineering controls are functioning properly.
Verify effectiveness of various controls through area and/or personal
monitoring.
Provide instructional materials relating to reproductive health.
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety will make this information available,
with the laboratory worker’s consent, to appropriate staff of the Student Health Center
and/or the individual’s personal physician(s) as needed.
Student Health Center
The Student Health Center will provide medical consultation for any student and an
independent occupational physician retained by Rensselaer will provide medical
consultation for any laboratory worker with reproductive hazard concerns related to
laboratory work at Rensselaer. This consultation may include a referral to resources
outside the Institute. At the request of the laboratory worker, the Student Health Center,
or independent occupational physician will advise the Office of Environmental Health
and Safety of the laboratory worker’s concern(s).
Laboratory Worker
Ultimately, it is the laboratory worker that must make reproductive health decisions
based on information available to them from the above listed resources and others. It is
critical that the laboratory worker:
 Follow all of the laboratory safety policies and procedures outlined in this
document and any laboratory/department specific additions.
 Complete all required EH&S informational sessions.
 Utilize all recommended Personal Protective Equipment.
 Utilize all recommended engineering and work practice controls
 Follow all of the laboratory safety Standard Operating Procedures.
 Make voluntary efforts to increase awareness of other, non-laboratory related
exposures that may affect reproductive health.
- 69 -
Document Reference: Laboratory Safety Plan
Date Issued: 2/91
Date Last Revised: 7/13
- 70 -
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: LS 002
Number of Pages: 65
Laboratory Specific Appendix I. Standard Operating Procedure Template
Preparing Standard Operating Procedures for Laboratory Activities
Introduction
An important first step in planning laboratory experiments is a comprehensive evaluation
of the potential hazards associated with the work. This includes hazards that may be
posed by chemicals, biological and radioactive materials, equipment, physical hazards
and conditions. This risk analysis should not be divorced from the other components of
the planning process, but rather integrated into a single process evaluation. This
evaluation should be documented and used a tool for future reference in the form of a
Standard Operating Procedure. In most cases SOPs should be developed in a
collaborative environment, with the involvement of multiple researchers as opposed to
individually.
Elements of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
There are no absolute correct or incorrect methods for developing an SOP, nor is there a
single acceptable format. The process is not intended to be about filling out forms; the
process, when completed appropriately, ensures that safe work practices have been
developed for the experimental work. SOPs can be integrated directly into laboratory
manuals or procedural experimental guides, developed for a specific hazard such as an
individual chemical or class of chemicals or specific equipment. SOPs can be stand alone
documents or supplemental information included as part of research notebooks,
experiment documentation or research proposals. SOPs such contain, at a minimum, the
following information:





Identification: Identify, specifically, the intended scope of the SOP. The SOP
can focus on specific processes and procedures, individual hazardous
materials or groups of hazardous materials, equipment and conditions.
Circumstances that would require Prior Approval, as discussed in Section 4.5
of the LCHP should also be included.
Process Hazards Assessment: A hazards assessment which details potential
hazards associated with the activity/process. This would include hazardous
materials, physical hazards, equipment items electrical hazards, lasers etc.
Exposure Controls Review: The hazards assessment information should be
utilized to consider potential exposures using the four “routes of exposure” as
a foundation.
Engineering Controls: A detailed description of the engineering control
requirements of the process/procedure along with a method of ensuring proper
operation and efficacy.
Personal Protective Equipment: A detailed description of the Personal
Protective Equipment requirements of the process/procedure along with the
location of supporting reference information.
1
Revised: July 2013

Storage and Handling Requirements: Detail storage requirements for
hazardous materials and process handling issues specific to the procedure.

Proficiency and Authorization: The training requirements for the specific
procedure, or piece of equipment should be clearly defined, along with a
mechanism to ensure proficiency within the laboratory. Specific procedures
for access control and authorization during the procedure should also be
outlined.
Waste Management: Outline waste materials to be generated and appropriate
waste management procedures for the work.
Decontamination Procedures: Specific methods for
decontamination/cleaning appropriate to the work being completed should be
included.
Emergency Procedures: Detail the specific procedures to be followed if
emergency situations arise from the process/procedure. These steps will be
based on the hazard assessment and controls sections.



The Office of Environmental Health and Safety can assist in the development of
laboratory specific SOPs. An SOP template and an example of an experimental review
and completed SOP have been provided for your consideration.
2
Revised: July 2013
Laboratory Standard Operating Procedure-Risk Assessment
Section 1: Identification
Laboratory Group Name:
Lab Specific ID#
Lab Location:
PI/Lab Supervisor:
Date SOP Created:
Date SOP Revised:
Type of SOP:
Procedural
Hazardous Material
Equipment Specific
Prior Approval Required (As outlined in the LCHP Section 4.5) Yes
Specific Scope of this SOP:
Section 2: Process Hazards Assessment
Hazardous Materials-Chemical
Not Applicable
Describe:
Describe:
Describe:
\
?
Describe:
Describe:
Revised: July 2013
?
3
Other
No
Describe:
Section 2: Process Hazards Assessment
Hazardous Materials-Biological
Not Applicable
Describe:
Hazardous Materials-Radiological
Not Applicable
Describe:
Physical and Equipment Hazards
Not Applicable
Glassware
Compressed Gases
High/Low Pressures
Electrical
Electromagnetic
High/Low Temperatures
Centrifuge
Autoclave
Vacuum
Lasers
Microwaves
Rotary Evaporator
Open Flame
Elevated Noise
Soldering/Welding
Oil Bath
Heat Guns
Heating Mantles
Hot Plate
Ultrasonicators
Stirring/Mixing Device
Moving Parts
Puncture Hazards
Hand/Power Tools
Flying Particles
Oversized Objects
Heavy Objects
Elevated Height
Ovens/Furnaces
Computer Work
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
4
Revised: July 2013
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Section 3: Exposure Controls Review

Inhalation Hazards

Absorption Hazards

Ingestion Hazards
Describe:

Injection Hazards
Describe:
Describe
Describe:
Section 4: Engineering Controls
Chemical Fume Hood Certification Date:
Biological Safety Cabinet
Certification Date:
Laminar Flow Hood Certification Date:
Perchloric Acid Hood Certification Date:
Glove Box
Localized Ventilation
Shielding
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Guarding
Section 5: Personal Protective Equipment
Laboratory Coat
Tyvek Suit
Chemical Apron
Safety Glasses
Face Shield
Flame Retardant Clothing
Laser Goggles
Welding Shield
Chemical Splash Goggles
Gloves
Type:
5
Revised: July 2013
Respiratory Protection
Hearing Protection
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Type:
Type:
Section 6: Storage and Handling Requirements
Not Applicable
Describe
Section 7: Proficiency and Authorization
Not Applicable
Describe
Section 8: Waste Management
Not Applicable
Describe
6
Revised: July 2013
Section 9: Decontamination Procedures
Not Applicable
Describe
Section 10: Emergency Procedures
Describe
Notes/Comments
7
Revised: July 2013
Example Experimental Review
Experiment: Graham's Law of Diffusion
Description: Hydrogen chloride and ammonia diffuse from opposite ends of a long tube.
They meet and react to produce ammonium chloride, a white solid powder. The distances
of the white powder from either end of the tube are measured, and the ratio compared
with a predicted ratio from Graham's Law. The experiment is not expected to give close
quantitative agreement between calculated and observed values, but the ammonia does
diffuse faster than the HCl, as expected.
Procedure:
1. In a hood, one drop of concentrated hydrochloric acid is placed in well-1 of a 12well strip.
2. A drop of 6 M ammonia is placed in well-12 of the same strip.
3. The strip serves as a source of reagents. These small amounts may be moved to a
desk.
4. A glass capillary is dipped one end into the hydrochloric acid, and then the other
end into the ammonia. In each case, capillary action draws a small amount of
liquid into the capillary.
5. The capillary is placed flat against a dark surface. In just a few moments, a white
solid forms inside the capillary.
6. Use a millimeter rule to measure the distance between the boundary of each liquid
in the capillary and the white solid.
7. Clamp a long tube (20 to 25 mm in diameter) horizontally
8. Place drops of the chemicals on cotton wads set on watch glasses.
9. Using tweezers, insert these wads into the open ends of the glass tube. Stopper the
ends. Note which end contains the ammonia.
10. Wait. It takes 5 to 10 minutes for the reaction to take place to a noticeable extent.
11. Mark the location of the reaction product using a marking pencil or opaque tape.
12. Measure the length of the tube, and the distance from one cotton wad to the mark.
-American Chemical Society
8
Revised: July 2013
Laboratory Standard Operating Procedure-Risk Assessment
Section 1: Identification
Laboratory Group Name: EHS Example
Lab Location: Blaw Knox
PI/Lab Supervisor: Dr.Smith
Date SOP Created: 4/21/06
Type of SOP:
Procedural X
Lab Specific ID#Demo#1
Date SOP Revised: NA
Hazardous Material
Equipment Specific
Prior Approval Required (As outlined in the LCHP Section 4.5) Yes
Other
No X
Specific Scope of this SOP: Procedural SOP detailing EHS considerations for experiment
involving Graham’s Law of Diffusion
Section 2: Process Hazards Assessment
Hazardous Materials-Chemical
Not Applicable
Describe:
X Describe: Concentrated Hydrochloric Acid pH=1, Ammonia Solution pH=11
9
Revised: July 2013
X Describe: Ammonia Solution designated as Poisonous
\
?
?
Describe:
Describe:
Describe:
Section 2: Process Hazards Assessment
Hazardous Materials-Biological
Not Applicable X
Describe:
Hazardous Materials-Radiological
Not Applicable X
Describe:
Physical and Equipment Hazards
Not Applicable
Glassware X
Compressed Gases
High/Low Pressures
Electrical
Electromagnetic
High/Low Temperatures
Centrifuge
Autoclave
Vacuum
Lasers
Microwaves
Rotary Evaporator
Open Flame
Elevated Noise
Soldering/Welding
Oil Bath
Heat Guns
Heating Mantles
Hot Plate
Ultrasonicators
Stirring/Mixing Device
10
Revised: July 2013
Moving Parts
Puncture Hazards X
Hand/Power Tools
Flying Particles
Oversized Objects
Heavy Objects
Elevated Height
Ovens/Furnaces
Computer Work X
Other X Describe: Clamping of glass tube
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Section 3: Exposure Controls Review

Inhalation Hazards X Describe: Both HCL and NH3 are extremely destructive to
mucous membranes and the respiratory tract.

Absorption Hazards X Describe: Both HCL and NH3 are corrosive to the skin and
may cause skin sensitization and may be absorbed through the skin.

Ingestion Hazards X Describe: Ingestion of HCL can cause circulatory failure.
Both HCL and NH3 are corrosive

Injection Hazards X Describe: Potential broken glass clamping action
Section 4: Engineering Controls
Chemical Fume Hood X Certification Date: 2/10/06
Biological Safety Cabinet
Certification Date:
Laminar Flow Hood Certification Date:
Perchloric Acid Hood Certification Date:
Glove Box
Localized Ventilation
Shielding
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
11
Revised: July 2013
Guarding
Section 5: Personal Protective Equipment
Laboratory Coat X
Tyvek Suit
Chemical Apron
Safety Glasses
Face Shield
Flame Retardant Clothing
Laser Goggles
Welding Shield
Chemical Splash Goggles X
Gloves X Type: Nitrile wrist length
Respiratory Protection
Hearing Protection
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Other
Describe:
Type:
Type:
Section 6: Storage and Handling Requirements
Not Applicable
Describe X: All work for this experiment is to be conducted inside the Chemical fume
hood. Caution should be employed when saturating the cotton with the liquids. Do not
inhale the vapors. Caution should be used when clamping the tube to the rack as to not
break the glass. HCL and NH3 are chemically incompatible and must be stored and
handled accordingly. MSDS sheets for all laboratory chemicals are located in the white
binder labeled “MSDS” on the middle shelf of the tan filing cabinet. The HCL and NH3
solutions should both be stored below 25C in the corrosives storage area under the hood.
Alkaline and Acidic materials are segregated in the cabinet using secondary containment.
Section 7: Proficiency and Authorization
Not Applicable
Describe X In order to complete this experiment the user must have completed the Office
of Environmental Health and Safety’s Laboratory Safety session. In addition, the user
must have received laboratory specific information regarding the use of the chemical
fume hood, emergency equipment and evacuation information from a senior member of
the group or Dr. Smith.
12
Revised: July 2013
Section 8: Waste Management
Not Applicable
Describe X This experiment creates two waste streams;
#1 Cotton swabs contaminated with HCL are to be placed in the Hazardous Waste
container, labeled for them, in the white cabinet under the lab bench near the sink.
#2 Cotton swabs contaminated with NH3 are to be placed in the Hazardous Waste
container, labeled for them, in the white cabinet under the lab bench near the sink.
Section 9: Decontamination Procedures
Not Applicable
Describe X When the experiment has been completed the work surface of the chemical
fume hood should be cleaned with a simple soap and water solution. Soap is available
under the sink near the computer
Section 10: Emergency Procedures
Describe X Small quantities (<50ml) of spilled materials can be cleaned up using soap
and water. If concentrated or excessive quantities of either HCL or NH3 are spilled the
laboratory should be evacuated immediately. All large spills must be reported to Public
Safety at;
For more information on spills consult the LCHP Section 4.13.
Notes/Comments
13
Revised: July 2013
14
Revised: July 2013
Laboratory Specific Appendix II: Chemical Inventory
Laboratory Location: ____________
(To be completed by the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator Prior to the start of
Laboratory Operations.)
Chemical Name
Location in Lab
Types of Hazards
(Flammable,
Corrosive, Toxic etc.)
Quantity
Laboratory Specific Appendix III: Evacuation Routes
Laboratory Number:____________
(To be completed and posted by the Laboratory Supervisor Prior to the start of Laboratory
Operations.)
Key
Exits
Fire Alarms
Fire Extinguishers
Eyewash
N
Safety Showers
Spill Kits
Laboratory Specific Appendix IV: Emergency Contact List
Laboratory Number:____________
Name
Work Number
Home Number
Cell Phone
(To be completed and posted by the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator prior to
the start of Laboratory Operations.)
Laboratory Specific Appendix V: Waste Chemical Disposal Procedures
Laboratory Number:____________
(To be completed by the Laboratory Supervisor/Principal Investigator Prior to the start of
Laboratory Operations.)
(Should include segregation information for all laboratory wastes generated)







Waste Stream #1:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #2:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #3:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #4:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #5:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #6:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Waste Stream #7:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Other/Notes:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Laboratory Specific Appendix VI: Laboratory”Self Check” Sheet
Laboratory Number:____________Date:___________________
1. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION

Y
N
N/A
Y
N
N/A
COMMENTS
Y
N
N/A
COMMENTS
COMMENTS
Does the lab have an up-to-date
Chemical Hygiene Plan?

Are the appropriate lab specific
appendices complete and up to date?

Are there any operations that require
prior approval before performing?
2. STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPs)

Are there written SOPs covering the basic
laboratory safety and hygiene practices?

Is there an adequate procedure for identifying
particularly hazardous substances used in the
lab?

Is all work with radioactive materials authorized
through the Radiation Protection Office (RPO)?

Are all Class 3b and 4 lasers registered with the
Office of Environmental Health and Safety?
3. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION

Are labels left on incoming chemical containers?

Are the doors to the laboratory properly labeled
with emergency notification, the hazards, and
necessary precautions?

Are small containers labeled with the full
chemical name, hazards, and precautionary
information?
Revised: July 2013
4. CONTROL

Y
N
N/A
Y
N
N/A
Are chemicals that have expired or are
COMMENTS
out of use disposed of as hazardous
waste?

Are all chemical containers closed when
not in active use?

Are material safety data sheets (MSDSs)
readily accessible in some format?
5. FUME HOODS

Are laboratory hoods and exhaust ducts
provided where needed?

Does each hood have a continuous flow
monitor?

Are laboratory hoods inspected
annually?

Is the hood labeled with an up-to-date
inspection sticker?

Are good lab practices observed?

Is storage within the hood minimized?

Is equipment elevated off the floor of the
hood?
Revised: July 2013
COMMENTS
6. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(PPE)

Y
N
N/A
Y
N
N/A
COMMENTS
Has the correct PPE been selected
based on a hazard analysis or SOP?

Are gloves, glasses, face shields,
goggles, and respirators available as
needed?

Do laboratory workers use required
PPE?
7. HYGIENE PRACTICES

Are eating, drinking, smoking, and
cosmetic application restricted to nonchemical work areas?

Is food refrigerated separately from
chemicals?

Is the lab neat, clean, and orderly?

Is there unobstructed access to all eye washes and showers?

Are all exposed skin and hands washed
before leaving the laboratory?
Revised: July 2013
COMMENTS
8. INFORMATION AND TRAINING

Y
N
N/A
Y
N
N/A
Have all laboratory workers received
COMMENTS
Laboratory Safety training at least once?

Have all laboratory workers received
Hazards Communication Training at
least once?

Is training documented using training
rosters or signatures?
9. WASTE STORAGE

Have all chemical wastes been identified
and properly labeled?

Have arrangements been made for all
hazardous chemical waste to be picked
up by the Office of Environmental Health
and Safety?

Are waste containers sturdy, routinely
inspected for leaks, compatible with the
waste, and kept closed with screw caps?

Are the radioactive waste streams
segregated into appropriate containers?

Are Hazardous Wastes stored in a safe
manor, with attention paid to chemical
compatibility?
Revised: July 2013
COMMENTS
Appendix A: Definitions
Acute Exposure: exposure of short duration, usually to relatively high concentrations or
amounts of a material.
ACGIH: American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. An organization
of professionals in governmental agencies or educational institutions engaged in safety
and health programs.
Action Level: The exposure level (concentration in air) at which OSHA regulations
require actions such as air analysis, employee training, medical monitoring and record
keeping. This level is generally one-half of the PEL.
APR: Air Purifying Respirator
Breakthrough: a measure of the time it takes for a chemical to degrade a material to the
point of pass through
Ceiling Limit: The maximum concentration of a material an individual may be exposed
to at any time.
CFR: Code of Federal Regulations. (OSHA, EPA, DOT etc.)
Chronic Exposure: Continuous or intermittent exposure over a longtime period, usually
applies to relatively low material amounts or concentrations.
Cryogenic: Relating to extremely low temperature
Decibel (db): Unit of measurement for sound (loudness). Noise above 85 db is
considered hazardous.
Degradation: the rate at which the physical properties of materials change due to contact
with a chemical
Dermal Toxicity: Adverse effects resulting from a material’s absorption through the
skin.
DOT: Department of Transportation; regulates transportation of hazardous materials.
Engineering Controls: Controls, which physically isolate the worker from a potential
hazard, or remove the hazard from the work environment.
Appendix A: Definitions
Flashpoint: the lowest temperature at which a material gives off sufficient vapor to form
an ignitable mixture in air, in the presence of a source of ignition.
Hazard Communication Rule: requires chemical manufacturers and importers to assess
and communicate chemical hazards in the workplace
HEPA: high efficiency particulate air filter. Has a 99.97% removal efficiency for .3micron particles.
HMIS (G): Hazardous Materials Information System (Guide)
IDLH: Immediately dangerous to life and health. The maximum concentration from
which one could escape within 30 minutes without any escape-impairing symptoms or
irreversible health effects.
Impervious: describes a material that does not allow another substance to penetrate or
pass through it; impermeable
Ingestion: the swallowing of a chemical substance; may inadvertently result from eating,
drinking, smoking or cosmetic application in the workplace or with contaminated hands.
Inhalation: entry of a chemical substance to the lungs by breathing
Injection: chemical exposure caused by the piercing of the dermal layer-parenteral
contact.
Laboratory Scale: the work involves containers of substances used for reactions and
transfers that are designed for easy and safe handling by one person.
LASER: “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation”
LC50: Lethal concentration 50. The concentration of a material in the air that, based on
laboratory tests (inhalation) is expected to kill 50% of a group of test animals when
administered as a single exposure in a specific time period.
LD50: Lethal dose 50. The concentration of a material, administered other than by
inhalation, on the basis of laboratory tests is expected to kill 50% of a group of test
animals when administered as a single exposure in a specific time period.
Appendix A: Definitions
Lockout/Tagout: methods of energy isolation used to prevent injuries. Refer to
Rensselaer’s Lockout/Tagout Program
MSDS: Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
Medical Surveillance: Regular medical testing of employees for early detection of
overexposure to hazardous chemicals.
MPE: Maximum Permissible Exposure
NFPA: National Fire Protection Association. Publishes the NFPA Diamond, a colorcoding and numbering system used to convey chemical hazards.
NIOSH: National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Recommends exposure
limits to OSHA for substances, investigates accidents, and researches occupational
safety.
OSHA: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
PEL: Permissible exposure Limit; legal exposure limits based on exposures of 8hrs/day
40hrs/week Time weighted averages.
Permeation: Allows passage of one material through another. Permeation through PPE
may occur on a molecular level and may occur even if there are no signs of degradation.
pH: The pH value of a substance represents the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is
defined as the logarithm of the reciprocal of the hydrogen-ion concentration of a solution.
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
Radiation: any form of energy propagated as electromagnetic waves
Routes of Entry: Inhalation, Absorption, Injection, Ingestion
SAR: supplied air respirator
SDS: Safety Data Sheet. (Formally known as Material Safety Data Sheet or MSDS)
SDSs communicate the hazard of hazardous chemical products. As of June 1, 2015, the
Hazard Communication Standard will require new SDSs to be in a uniform format, and
include the section numbers, the headings, and associated information.
STEL: short-term exposure limit
TLV: Threshold limit value; similar to the PEL however not a legal limit. Also
established by the American Council of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
Appendix B: Occupational Exposure Values
1. OSHA
Limits for Air Contaminants
Table Z-1 Permissible Exposure Limits/Ceiling Limits
http://www.osha-slc.gov/OshStd_data/1910_1000_TABLE_Z-1.html
Table Z-2 Permissible Exposure Limits/Ceiling Limits
http://www.osha-slc.gov/OshStd_data/1910_1000_TABLE_Z-2.html
Table Z-3 Mineral Dusts
http://www.osha-slc.gov/OshStd_data/1910_1000_TABLE_Z-3.html
2. NIOSH
Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0000.html
3. ACGIH
Threshold Limit Values are not currently available on line at no charge. The
included information contains ordering information, or you may obtain these
values by contacting the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
http://www.acgih.org/
Please contact the Office of Environmental Health and Safety if you have any
questions regarding occupational exposure values.
PPE Matrix
PPE
X
X
X
X
X
X
Harness/lanyard/lifeline
Lockout/Tagout locks/tags (if repair or
maintenance is to be performed)
Hearing protection
Fire resistant gauntlet gloves
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Respirator
X
X
X
Hard hat
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
When working outside of a chemical fume hood and exposed to asbestos, lead or other OSHA regulated substances in excess of
the PEL (29 CFR 1910 Subpart Z)****
When exposed to light radiation from welding
When welding
Thermal resistant gloves
X
X
Where there is a potential for thermal injury to the hands (ex. autoclave use, deep freezer use)
When working with lasers designated by the LSO as an optical hazard
When working with UV light
In areas where noise levels exceed 85 decibels, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average***
When exposure to flying particles are reasonably expected, as opposed to incidental
Cut resistant gloves*
X
Work gloves*
Long pants
X
Chemical protective gloves
Flame retardant clothing/coverall
Chemical resistant body cover/apron
Laboratory coat
Welding face shield/eye protection
Face shield
Laser goggles
Chemical splash goggles
X
Closed-toed shoes
General PPE requirements for all duties performed under the following conditions:
In a laboratory setting when working with or around chemicals
Where the potential for damage to the eyes due to flying particles or other non-chemical materials exists
When exposed to corrosives or other skin/eye contact hazards where the potential for splash hazards exists.
When working with hydrofluoric acid**
When there is a potential for abrasions or other injuries to the hands (glove type depends on the hazard)
Safety glasses
ALL LABORATORY/SHOP PERSONNEL (including but
not limited to Laboratory Managers, Technicians,
Assistants, Research Associates, Post-Docs, Students)
Clothing
X
X
X
X
X
X
* As required for hand/cut protection. Not required near in-running nip points and/or locations where gloves present a hazard to the employee.
** All hydrofluoric acid work must be performed in a chemical fume hood. Antidotes must be available.
*** OSHA requires training and annual audiograms for anyone who is exposed to 85 dB or greater, calculated on an 8-hour time-weighted average. Contact Magaly Montenegro Martinez @ 276-2092 if you
believe you may be exposed to excessive noise in your work area.
**** OSHA requires training in respiratory protection and a fit test for anyone who may need to use a respirator. If any laboratory work requires the use of a respirator, contact Magaly Montenegro Martinez @ 2
Laboratory Audit Sheet
Building Name:_______________
Auditor’s Name:_______________
Room#______________
1. 0 GENERAL HOUSKEEPING PRACTICES
1.1 Walkways in and around the lab are clear, with no chemical
storage. Aisles and exits are also clear of obstructions
1.2 Laboratory is neat, clean with no excess accumulation of
combustibles
1.3 Trash is emptied when full/appropriate containers are used
Y/N
N/A
C
Date of Inspection:___/____/____
Principal Investigator:______________
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
COMMENTS
NYS Fire Code 1003
OSHA 29CFR 1910.37
NYS Fire Code 1011.2
NYS Fire Code 304.3
1.4 Laboratory surfaces are clean and sanitary- no excess
visible contamination
1.5 Proper disposal containers are available for sharps
1.6 Unrestricted access to eye washes, safety showers, and fire
extinguishers
1.7 Heavy items are stored on lower shelves
1.8 Experiments are conducted on stable non- moving surfaces
1.9 Storage clearance from ceiling is a minimum of 24”
1.10 Doors that may be confused as exit doors are clearly
marked “NO EXIT”
1.11 Exit signs are clearly visible outside of lab (Facility)
1.12 No un-plugged penetrations exist in fire walls (Facility)
1.13 Chemicals not is use are stored in cabinets not on open
benches
1.14 No food or drink is present in lab refrigerators or on
benches
Building Maintenance Code
305.2
Prudent laboratory practices
NY State Fire Code 107.1.1
OSHA 1910.ANSI Z358.1
Prudent laboratory practices
Prudent Practice
NY State Fire Code 315.2.1
OSHA 1910.37
1.15 No chemicals or lab coats are present in designated eating
areas or other non-lab areas
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
OSHA 1910.38
NY State Fire Code
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
(Facility)
(Facility)
1
1.0 GENERAL HOUSKEEPING PRACTICES
1.16 Sinks and Sink Traps look clean/free of chemical residue
1.17 Mercury thermometers are not in use
1.18 Unattended experiments are accompanied by signs
indicating hazards and emergency numbers
1.19 Glassware is free of chips, cracks, sharp edges and other
defects
2.0 CHEMICAL STORAGE
Section N/A_______
2.1 All chemicals are properly labeled/good condition/legible
2.2 Chemicals are stored and segregated properly
2.3 Corrosives and other hazardous materials should be stored
on shelves or in cabinets that are easily accessible
2.4 No more than 3 flammable cabinets in a single fire area
2.5 Chemicals which can degrade into explosives or otherwise
create a hazard are not expired (Ether Ether,1,4 Dioxane,
Tetrahydrofuran etc.)
2.6 Chemicals are dated upon opening and expired chemicals
are removed from lab
2.7 Chemical Inventory is limited to materials with a known use
in the foreseeable future (2 years)
2.8 Flammable liquids are not be stored by sources of ignition
2.9 Flammable materials are stored in labeled flammable
cabinets (if more than 10 gallons)
2.10 Refrigerators used for the storage of flammables are
properly rated and explosion proof/intrinsically safe.
2.11 Lips/guards are installed on shelving containing chemicals
2.12 Container caps and lids are in good condition
2.13 An Up-to-date Chemical Inventory list is available
Y/N
Y/N
N/A
N/A
C
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
EPA 265.170
Prudent laboratory practices
OSHA 1910.1450
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
OSHA 1910.1450
NYS Fire Code 2703.9.8
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
NYS Fire Code 3404.3.2.3
COMMENTS
COMMENTS
Fire Area is designated by Fire rated structures
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
Prudent Laboratory Practices
4.E.1
Prudent laboratory practicesNational Research Council
NYS Fire Code 3404.2.4
NYS Fire Code 2703.1.1 (1)
UL LISTING
NYS Fire code 2703.9.9
Prudent laboratory practices
OSHA 1910.1200(E)(1)(i)
2
3.0 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT/PRACTICES
Section N/A_______
3.1 Proper personal protective equipment is available for
employees and visitors and in use/proper sizes
3.2 An assessment has been completed to determine the
appropriate PPE and this equipment is provided (laser labs/lab
safety PPE spreadsheet)
3.3 Laboratory workers are dressed properly
3.4 Laboratory Supervisor has completed EHS session
curriculum assignments in Traincaster
3.5 Laboratory Workers have completed appropriate EHS
sessions (Min. Lab Safety-PPE-HW Satellite)
3.6 Personal are aware of MSDS
3.7 Personal are aware of locations of safety
equipment/Eyewash/Safety Showers/Evacuation routes etc.
3.8 Respirators are not in use unless approved by EHS
3.9 Indirectly vented splash goggles are in use if chemicals are
being used
3.10 A copy of Rensselaer’s Laboratory Chemical Hygiene Plan
is available with the lab specific appendices completed
Y/N
4.0 GAS CYLINDERS
Section N/A_______
4.1 Gas cylinders are secured to a stationary object
4.2 Gas piping appears gas tight
4.3 Gas Cylinders are properly labeled
4.4 Cylinders are stored properly (heat, compatible materials
and distance from combustibles)
4.5 Gas lines are labeled with contents and flow direction if not
clearly evident from the system characteristics
4.6 Gas cylinders valves are closed and safety cap is in place if
not in use
4.7 Hoses and regulators are in good working condition
4.8 Fuel cylinders are stored at last 20 feet from O2 cylinders
Y/N
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
COMMENTS
OSHA 1910.133-138
OSHA 1910.132
OSHA 1910.1450
OSHA 1910.1450, EPA 265.170
OSHA 1910.133-138
OSHA 1910.1450, EPA 265.170
OSHA 1910.133-138
OSHA 1910.1200 (h)
ANSI Z358.1 as enforced by
0SHA 1910.134
OSHA 1910.133
OSHA 1910.1450
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
NY State Fire Code 3003.3
NY State Fire Code 3005.3
NY State Fire Code 3003.2
NY State Fire Code 3003.5
COMMENTS
NY State Fire Code 3003.2.3
ANSI A13.1
NY State Fire Code 3003.4.2
Prudent laboratory practices
OSHA 1910.103
3
5.0 HOODS
Section N/A_______
5.1 Hoods are in good working condition and inspection is
current (Facility)
5.2 Flow rate is sufficient 60-100 cfm (use velometer)
5.3 Hood sash is not open beyond the optimal level
5.4 Hood is not crowded or used for storage
Y/N
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
All hood related codes are found
in ANSI Z9.5-2003
COMMENTS
(Facility)
6.0 HAZARDOUS WASTE
Section N/A_______
6.1 Containers are clearly marked with the words “Hazardous
Waste”. Wastes requiring special symbols are labeled
appropriately (biological, radiological)
6.2 Contents are clearly listed in words not chemical formula
6.3 Container is sound and of correct construction for waste
inside and around it.
6.4 Containers are closed with properly fitting threaded lid
6.5 Container is in lab of origin
6.6 Full containers are dated and arrangements for disposal
have been made
6.7 Less than 55 gals of waste in lab (less than 2 pounds acute)
6.8 Waste is located away from floor drains and sinks
Y/N
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
EPA 265.170
COMMENTS
7.0 SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Section N/A_______
7.1 Eye washes and safety showers are within 10 seconds
walking time of laboratory. (Facility)
7.2 Proper fire extinguishers are within 50 feet of laboratory.
(Facility)
7.3 All safety equipment is properly maintained with proper
inspection tags attached. (Facility)
7.4 First aid kit is available and maintained
Y/N
EPA 265.170
EPA 265.171,EPA 265.177(C),
EPA 265.172
EPA 265.173
EPA 265.173
NYS DEC 6 NYCRR 372
EPA 265.173
EPA 265.173
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
ANSI Z358.1
COMMENTS
(Facility)
OSHA 1910.157
(Facility)
ANSI Z358.1
(Facility)
Non mandatory OSHA 1910.151
first aid kits should be
constructed following ANSI Z308.1
4
8.0 Electrical Safety
Section N/A_______
8.1 Electrical equipment is in good condition
8.2 Electrical cords are not frayed
8.3 All electrical equipment is properly grounded
8.4 Electrical outlets are not overloaded
8.5 Circuit breaker panels are unobstructed and closed
8.6 Extension cords are used only in temporary applications
8.7 Cords in the work area do not represent trip hazards
8.8 Multi Plug adapters are not in use
8.9 Electrical connections are made in approved junction boxes.
All wiring utilizes appropriate materials and adequate
workmanship
9.0 HAZARD COMMUNICATION/SIGNAGE
Section N/A_______
9.1 Signs are posted detailing special hazards
9.2 Signs are consistent with hazards within
9.3 Restricted areas are marked as such and reasonably
secured
9.4 MSDS are readily available
9.5 Special hazards are identified
9.6 No signs of eating in laboratory. Chances of contamination
through ingestion are kept to a min. (Labeling of ice machines)
9.7 Emergency phone numbers are posted at each exit and
phone.
9.8 Areas requiring the use of Eye Protection are posted as such
9.9 Laser systems have been evaluated by EHS and appropriate
engineering controls/signage are in place
Y/N
Y/N
N/A
N/A
C
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
All Electrical Guidance found in
OSHA 1910 Subpart S and
NYS Fire Code 605.1
COMMENTS
NY State Fire Code 605.3
30out X78highX36across
NFPA 70 Requirements per NYS
Fire code (electrical)
OSHA 1910..304
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
COMMENTS
NFPA 704
NFPA 704
OSHA 1910.1450
NY State Fire code 407.2
NY State Fire Code 507.5
OSHA 1910.1450
OSHA 1910.1450
OSHA 1910.133
ANSI Z136.1
5
10.0 BIOHAZARD SAFETY
Section N/A_______
10.1 Biohazard areas are labeled as such (BSL-2 Mandatory)
10.2 Proper PPE is available and is in use
10.3 Work surfaces are properly decontaminated after use
Y/N
N/A
C
10.4 Materials to be autoclaved are labeled as such
10.5 Biohazard waste is stored in a biohazard bag
10.6 Lab coats are in use (BSL-2 Mandatory)
10.7 Biological Safety Cabinets have been certified
10.8 A copy of Rensselaer’s Biosafety Plan is available with the
lab specific appendices completed
10.9 If work with human derived materials, all requirements of
Rensselaer’s Bloodborne Pathogens Program have been met
11.0 RADIATION SAFETY
Section N/A_______
11.1 Radiation use areas are labeled as such
11.2 Proper PPE is available and is in use
11.3 Survey equipment is available and in use
11.4 Radioactive waste is labeled appropriately
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
NY State Fire Code 507.5
OSHA 1910.133-138
OSHA 1910.1450 (non
mandatory)
COMMENTS
EPA 265.170
BMBL
BMBL
BMBL
BMBL, OSHA 1910.1030
Y/N
N/A
C
REGULATORY GUIDANCE
NY State Fire Code 507.5
OSHA 1910.133-138
OSHA 1910.1450 (non
mandatory)
EPA 265.170
COMMENTS
6
HASP Designations (See Definitions)
HAZARD TYPE
Biohazards
Carcinogens
Chemical Storage
Compressed Gases
Corrosives
Electrical Hazards
Explosive Materials
Flammable Gases
Flammable Liquids
Reactive Chemicals
Lasers
Oxidizers
Poisonous Gases PIH
Poison Liquids/Solids
Ionizing Radiation
Water Reactive
LOW
MODERATE
HIGH
NOT APPLICABLE
Overall Lab Hazard Rating:



Low- Annual Inspection Schedule-no follow up required
Moderate- Annual Inspection Schedule- follow up required
High- Six Month Inspection Schedule- follow up required
HIGH
______
MODERATE
______
LOW
______
7
Additional Notes/Comments:
8
Hazard Assessment Signage Program “HASP”
What is HASP?
HASP is a software application designed to help laboratory supervisors identify the hazards present in their laboratory and then communicate this information, along with
instructions on appropriate precautions, to anyone who enters the area. Supervisors complete an electronic profile of the laboratory and the information is incorporated
into a door sign like the one below. A database of all HASP information is maintained by the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S). In an emergency,
EH&S uses this database to assess the potential hazards of the area and to contact laboratory staff.
What will the sign tell you?
•
•
•
•
•
•
Location Designation - Facility name, building name and room number
Supervisor And Other Information Contacts For The Area – Individuals you can
contact if you have a question or concern
Access Limitations - Who can enter the area
Area Hazards and Warnings
HASP is based on categories of hazards. Descriptions and examples are given on the
following pages. Note that HASP uses a system of 3, color-coded, risk categories to
classify the degree of risk that each hazard may pose:
Gray: Low; no special precautions need to be taken,
no special restriction on who may enter the area
Yellow: Moderate; standard laboratory precautions should be followed,
access usually restricted to trained laboratory staff or accompanied visitor
Red: High; special precautions are followed, special equipment in use,
access limited to designated staff members
Special Requirements and Instructions
Including appropriate personal protective equipment and security
restrictions
Emergency Information – Instructions to emergency responders
How should you use this information?
•
•
•
Sample HASP Door Sign
If you are not included in the list of individuals authorized for access, check with one of the listed contact people before entering.
Be sure you understand and observe the special requirements and instructions listed for the area.
If you have a question or concern about a potential hazard, or how to protect your safety and health, bring it to one of the contact people listed on the sign.
Instructions for Using HASP
The following pages explain: 1) each of the fields in the database and 2) the hazard types and the risk levels used to describe the operations of a laboratory. Please
consult them for assistance with your hazard assessment and signage preparation.
Web HASP_Handout0405rev.doc
Page 1 of 7
11/11/2002 3:08 PM
Hazard Assessment / Signage Program “HASP”
Fields -- Instructions for filling out the HASP DATA ENTRY FORM
•
Laboratory Name : Enter name of the Research Group (ex. Westmiller Research Group) or the name of the room (ex. Solvent Stock Room).
•
Department : Enter the name of the department or unit
•
Facility: Enter the name of the building and the room number
•
Principal Investigator: Enter the name of the principal investigator or person who has responsibility for the room. Then enter the telephone number
at work and at home, and the email address. If the person is willing to receive occasional email on safety information, check yes; if not, check no.
•
Responsible Person #2 and #3: Enter the information for two additional people who have responsibility for the room. If there are a large number
of people who use the room, you may wish to consider the senior staff members or the ones most knowledgeable about the facility. These are people
who may be called in case of an emergency situation occurring in this room.
Option: If you wish to add more individuals to the poster, you may list their names and phone numbers in the Optional section; if you wish these names
to print out on the sign, you must select the “5 Hazard Layout”.
•
Access Limitations : A pop-up menu will appear. Select the most appropriate line, or click on the last option “Edit”, and type in the words of your
choice. A second line is available for entering in additional information, such as “Other Individuals with Permission”.
If you are filling out a hard copy of the form, indicate your choice by either 1) filling in the blank spaces with the letter for your choice from the
following list OR 2) print the wording of your choice in either or both of the blank spaces for Access Limitations on the form.
a. Research Group Members
b. Faculty, Staff and Students
c. Individuals with Permission of Investigator
•
Hazards : There is space to enter eight hazards on the data entry form. The large sign has space for eight hazard symbols. The small 6 hazard sign
has space for only six hazard symbols, and the first six hazards entered into the data will be the ones that are printed on the sign; similarly, the square 5
hazard sign has space for only five hazard symbols. If you choose the smaller sign format, enter the hazards with the highest risk ratings (“High” or
“Moderate”) first. From the pop-up menu click on the hazard type that you determine is most significant. Then a pop-up menu for the risk level will
appear; click on “Low”, “Moderate”, or “High”. Then continue on, entering “Hazards” and “Risk Level” as appropriate.
Please refer to the attached document on the HASP Program for a detailed list of the sixteen hazard types and for guidance in
determining the appropriate risk levels. Select a maximum of eight hazard types, and for each indicate the risk level: low, moderate, or high.
Web HASP_Handout0405rev.doc
Page 2 of 7
11/11/2002 3:08 PM
Hazard Types
None
BIOHAZARD
CARCINOGENS
CHEMICAL STORAGE
COMPRESSED GASES
CORROSIVES
•
ELECTRICAL HAZARD
EXPLOSIVES
FLAMMABLE GASES
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS
FLAMMABLE SOLIDS
LASERS
OXIDIZERS
POISON
POISONOUS GASES
RAD MATERIALS
WATER REACTIVES
Warnings: There is space to enter four warning messages. You may select from the pop-up menus, or you may select “Edit” and type in the words
of your choice.
If you are filling out a hard copy of the form, indicate your choice by either: 1) filling in the blank spaces with the letter for your choice from the
following lists OR 2) print the wording of your choice in any or all of the blank spaces for Warnings 1-4 on the form.
•
Warning 1:
a.
b.
c.
EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES
EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED WHEN USING POWER EQUIPMENT
EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED WHEN USING HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS
Warning 2:
a.
b.
c.
DOOR MUST BE KEPT LOCKED AT ALL TIMES
DOOR MUST BE KEPT LOCKED BETWEEN 5 PM AND 8 AM
FIRE DOOR – NEVER BLOCK THIS DOOR OPEN
Warning 3:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e
f.
g.
IF ALARM SOUNDS CALL CAMPUS POLICE BY DIALING 911
DANGER – LARGE CRYOGENIC MAGNETS INSIDE
CAUTION – LIQUID NITROGEN MAY BE AN ASPHYXIANT
WATER REACTIVES – KEEP WATER AWAY
AIR SENSITIVE COMPOUNDS INSIDE THIS ROOM
CAUTION – PERCHLORIC ACID USE FUME HOOD
DO NOT BRING UNINVENTORIED CHEMICALS INTO THIS ROOM
Warning 4:
a.
EATING AND DRINKING ARE PROHIBITED IN THIS ROOM
Emergency Response: Enter the information you feel is the most important for emergency response personnel to know if they need to enter this
room. Example : Audible alarm indicates release of carbon monoxide gas. If possible, express the information as action statements. Example:
Before entering, turn off electrical service to the area using the wall switch to the right side of the door. OR In case of fire, beware of
possible explosion of full size cylinders of flammable gas.
Web HASP_Handout0405rev.doc
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11/11/2002 3:08 PM
Hazard Type
Biohazards
Definition &
Examples
Organisms or their products that may cause
harm to humans or animals.
Example: disease-causing microorganisms.
Immuno-comromised individuals (who
lack resistance to infection) may be at an
increased risk of health effects from
biohazards. These people should discuss
their condition with their supervisor so
that, if appropriate, additional
precautions would be followed.
Risk Level
Low
Moderate
High
Chemical Storage
Compressed Gases
Chemicals that cause
malignant tumors, or other
forms of cancer.
Examples: some organic
compounds (anthracene,
aflatoxin), some solvents
(chloroform, benzene), and
some metals (hexavalent
chromium).
Storage of material that is not in
use, excluding the hazard classes
of flammable gases, flammable
liquids, oxidizers, poison
inhalation hazards, and water
reactives, which are considered
separately.
Microbiology lab using microorganisms
that do not cause disease in healthy adults.
Examples: E. Coli bacteria, yeast
“Biosafety Level 1”
Occasional use of small
amounts or dilute solutions.
Example: Entomology lab using
small quantities of dilute
formaldehyde/water solutions
to preserve specimens.
Organisms that can cause moderate to
serious illness in healthy adults. Infections
seldom occur via inhalation unless the
organism is dispersed into the air as an
aerosol. Infections readily occur from
needle sticks or accidental contact with
mucous membranes such as eyes and
mouth. Ex: Salmonella bacteria, hepatitis B.
“Biosafety Level 2”
Organisms that can cause serious illness or
death in healthy adults. Exposure by
inhalation is a risk from any sort of
handling procedures or from spills or
contaminated waste. Infections also
readily occur from needle sticks or
accidental contact with mucous membranes
such as eyes and mouth. Example: the
bacteria that cause TB. “Biosafety Levels 3
and 4”.
Routine use of material in pure
form, such as acrylamide
powder or diaminobenzidine
(DAB), or use of several liters
per week of carcinogenic
solvents, such as
phenol/chloroform extraction
procedures.
Storage of small quantities of
chemicals. Storage where the
amount on hand would not cause
a fire or serious health hazard if it
came into accidental contact with
water. No storage of poison
inhalation hazards. Example:
chemical storage in a teaching
lab.
Storage of hundreds of chemical
containers. Minimal amounts of
air or water reactive material,
unstable or incompatible
chemicals, or compressed or
liquefied gases. Example:
chemical inventory of a large
research group.
Containers of comp ressed,
liquified, or solidified gases which
pose a risk of asphyxiation, and/or
the risk of rapid freezing of tissue.
Examples: Compressed oxygen,
liquid nitrogen, and dry ice (solid
carbon dioxide).
Flammable and highly toxic
gases (poison inhalation
hazards) are excluded from this
category, and are considered
separately.
Use where a) the release rate of
the gas can be controlled and b)
the area is well ventilated and air
is not recirculated.
Example: Gas cylinder with
regulator used in a well ventilated
laboratory where air is exhausted
by fume hoods that vent to the
roof.
(1) Use of compressed gas with a
low, well controlled flow rate in a
area with poor ventilation or (2)
the use of a container or gas
supply system that could cause
the sudden release of a large
amount of gas.
Routine use of larger
quantities of carcinogenic
material where the risk of
exposure is high because the
material can be absorbed
through skin or inhaled.
Example: veterinary embalming
facility
Chemical stockrooms, large
quantities of hazardous materials,
including 55 gallon drums.
Storage of significant amounts of
air or water reactive material,
unstable or incompatible
chemicals, and/or compressed or
liquefied gases.
Web HASP_Handout0405rev.doc
Carcinogens
Page 4 of 7
Use of any compressed gases,
including solidified or liquified
gases, in small un-ventilated
space.
Example: Use of liquid nitrogen or
dry ice in a cold room or
environmental chamber. (Note:
This applies to rooms/chambers
with circulating fans. They do not
supply fresh air.)
11/11/2002 3:08 PM
Hazard Type
Corrosives
Electrical Hazards
Explosive Materials
Flammable Gases
Definition &
Examples
Any material that irritates or
destructively attacks body
tissues such as skin. Corrosive
chemicals are typically acids
such as hydrochloric acid and
sulfuric acid, and bases such as
sodium hydroxide and ammonium
hydroxide.
A situation where a person could be
injured through contact with an
energized electrical conductor. The
degree of hazard depends on the
type of contact (wet vs. dry, small
area vs. large area), the voltage of the
conductor, and the shock protection
designed into the system (such as
ground fault interruption -GFI).
A chemical compound, usually
containing nitrogen, that detonates
as a result of shock or heat.
Examples: trinitrotoluene (dynamite)
and ammonium nitrate.
Wetted explosives are Flammable
Solids because they ignite easily at
low temperatures.
For extensive information about the
potential for a compound to
detonate or react to form an
explosive mixture, consult
Bretherick’s Handbook of Reactive
Chemical Hazards.
Gases that ignite easily and burn
rapidly. Common flammable gases
are hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and
acetylene.
Routine use of dilute acid and
base solutions, infrequent use of
concentrated acids and bases.
Example: undergraduate teaching
laboratory
Use of only new, grounded,
commercially available electrical
devices. GFI circuits in wet areas.
Work that involves amounts that can
not produce a harmful explosion or
use of the material in form that is not
explosive. Example: histology lab
using picric acid solution as a stain.
Use of small individual low-pressure
containers or piped supply systems.
Example: aerosol can of spray paint
with a flammable gas as a propellant.
Routine use of a variety of
strong acids and bases in
concentrated form.
Example: average chemistry
laboratory
Use of old electrical devices which
are not grounded. Work in dry areas
that involves the construction or
modification of equipment that
operates at 24 volts or above.
Work that involves amounts that can
produce a harmful explosion but use
is limited to forms, such as aqueous
solutions, that are not explosive.
Example: Bouin’s fixative
Routine use of large high-pressure
flammable gas cylinders. Use and
storage of up to five large, high
pressure cylinders of flammable
gases.
Labs with large quantities (more
than 10 gallons) of concentrated
mineral acids or bases in frequent
use, and benchtop use of acid
baths with acid concentrations of
greater than 6 molar. Example:
Kjeldahl extraction laboratory
Work that involves construction or
modification of equipment that
operates at 120 volts or above. Any
area with electrical equipment under
wet conditions, unless protected by
GFI.
Use of explosive compounds, in
quantities that can produce a harmful
explosion, in procedures that could
produce a form that is explosive.
Examples: refluxing diethyl ether
(potentially concentrating peroxides),
drying of picric acid.
Daily use of several large high
pressure cylinders of flammable gas.
Use and storage of 6 or more
cylinders in a laboratory. Use or
storage of propane cylinders greater
than 1.5 pounds.
Risk Level
Low
Moderate
High
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Hazard Type
Definition &
Examples
Flammable Liquids
Flammable Solids/Air
Reactives/Pyrophorics
Lasers
Oxidizers
Liquids that ignite easily and burn
rapidly, and have a flash point less
than 100F (37.7C).
Examples: 95% ethanol, ether,
hexane, acetone, and ethyl acetate
(1) Solids that ignite easily at low
temperatures such as metal hydrides,
some organic solids, and wetted
explosives. Examples: lithium hydride,
nitronaphthalene, wetted
dinitrophenol.
(2) Any liquid or solid that ignites
spontaneously in air. Examples:
phosphorus, tributylaluminum
(liquid); titanium dichloride, many
fine metal powders
(3) Materials that are spontaneously
flammable in moist air because they
react with water. Examples: sodium,
lithium hydride, butyllithium.
Equipment that emits energy as a
beam of electromagnetic radiation.
Some laser beams are visible light
that can be seen when they are
present. Some lasers emit infra-red or
ultraviolet radiation that is invisible.
Medium and high intensity lasers
can cause serious eye damage. High
intensity lasers can also burn skin
and can ignite combustible materials.
Compounds that readily provide
oxygen to support combustion.
Oxidizers can initiate a fire as well
as cause other materials to burn
much more intensely than normal.
Examples: peroxides, chlorates,
perchlorates, nitrates, and
permanganates
Daily use of small quantities.
Example: microbiology lab using
alcohol for wiping bench tops.
Infrequent use of small quantities
under conditions known to be
controllable.
Example: undergraduate teaching lab
burning small pieces of magnesium
ribbon to demonstrate oxidation.
Infrequent use of small quantities
under conditions known to be
controllable. Example: teaching
lab using 10% hydrogen peroxide
in an experiment
Routine use of highly volatile
solvents in moderate quantities,
away from ignition sources or the
storage of up to 50 gallons.
Examples: solvent extractions,
refluxing or solvent distillation.
Routine use of moderate quantities
of flammable solids or air reactive/
pyrophoric materials.
Only class I or II lasers are in use.
Beams from class I and II lasers are
always visible. There is no risk of
injury unless an individual looks
directly into the beam for an
extended period of time.
Example: HeNe lasers pointers used
in classrooms
Class III laser is in use. Momentary
viewing of the direct beam, or a beam
reflected from a mirror-like surface,
may produce serious eye injury.
Beams may not be visible.
(1) Routine use of large quantities (2)
any work with flammable liquids near
an open flame or at elevated
temperatures.
Routine use of large quantities of
flammable solids or air reactive/
pyrophoric materials.
Class IV laser is in use. Viewing of
the direct beam and viewing of any
type of reflection is likely to cause
serious eye injury. Beams can cause
skin burns. Beams can cause
materials to burn and/or release
hazardous materials to the air.
Routine use and storage of large
quantities of strong oxidizers
Examples: hot perchloric acid
digestion, fertilizer storage areas.
Risk Level
Low
Moderate
High
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Routine use and storage of
moderate quantities of oxidizers.
Example: chromic acid bath used
to clean glassware.
11/11/2002 3:08 PM
Hazard Type
Definition &
Examples
Risk Level
Poisonous Gases
(Poison Inhalation Hazards)
Poisonous Liquids and Solids
Ionizing Radiation
Water Reactive
Highly toxic materials that are easily
inhaled (gases, or liquids that have
a high vapor pressure).
Examples: chlorine, ethyl
chloroformate, and phosgene.
Any substance which, in small
quantities, can cause serious illness
or death. Examples: arsenic, lead,
and pesticides that block nerve
transmission.
For extensive information about
poisons, consult Prudent Practices
in the Laboratory published by the
National Research Council.
Use and storage of materials for
which the lethal dose is more than an
ounce (LD50 more than 500mg per
kilogram) and that are not readily
absorbed through the skin
Examples: methyl ethyl ketone,
acetaldehyde, benzoic acid,
methanol, hexane
Energy emitted from radioactive
materials (alpha, beta, gamma
radiation) or emitted by radiation
producing equipment (X-rays) that
can cause chemical changes in living
cells that may result in immediate
injury or an increased risk of cancer.
Materials that react, sometimes
violently, on contact with water,
releasing heat. Flammable or toxic
gases may also be released.
Examples: sodium metal, sodium
amide, and lithium aluminum hydride.
Locations where an individual could
not receive a harmful exposure to
ionizing radiation under any
circumstances.
Example: 1) laboratory where the total
amount of radioactive material is less
than the annual limit of intake for a
radiation worker or 2) an X-ray
diffraction unit that is entirely
enclosed by shielding
Infrequent use of small quantities
under conditions known to be
controllable. Storage where the
amount on hand would not cause a
fire or serious health hazard if it came
into accidental contact with water.
Example: Demonstration of hydrogen
production using sodium in a
teaching laboratory.
Use and storage of materials for
which the lethal dose is between an
ounce and a teaspoon (LD50
between 50 to 500 mg per kilogram)
OR less toxic compounds which can
be absorbed through the skin
Examples: pyridine (skin absorbed),
phenol (skin absorbed), butylamine,
coomassie blue, guanidine
hydrochloride, zinc chloride
Use and storage of materials for
which the lethal dose is less than a
teaspoon (LD50 less than 50mg per
kilogram).
Examples: sodium cyanide, osmium
tetroxide, sodium azide,
heptafluorobutyric acid
Locations where an individual will
not receive a harmful exposure if
basic precautions are followed.
Example: use of several millicuries of
radioactive material that emit gamma
or high energy beta radiation that
requires shielding.
Routine use of small quantities under
conditions known to be controllable.
The amount on hand could cause a
fire or serious health hazard if it came
into accidental contact with water.
Example: an organic synthesis
laboratory drying organic solvents
using sodium metal
Locations where an individual could
receive a harmful exposure to
radiation unless appropriate
precautions are followed.
Example: use of sealed sources that
contain curie amounts of radioactive
material.
Use of large quantities or use in new
or original procedures that do not
have a history of predictable results.
None — Because of the toxicity, all
use or storage of this material
results in a moderate or high hazard
level.
Low
Any use or storage of liquid poison
inhalation hazards.
Moderate
High
Examples: silicon tetrachloride ,
trimethyl gallium
Any use or storage of a gaseous
poison inhalation hazard.
Examples: an ethylene oxide gas
sterilizer, chlorine, phosphorus
pentafluoride, vinyl chloride
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NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement
Certificate of Need to Possess Hypodermic
Syringes and Needles
This certificate is for “Educational Institutions…and persons engaged in Commercial, Industrial, or Agricultural Activities.”
Hobbyists and personal pet owners are NOT eligible. This application is for the purpose of establishing your qualifications under
Section 80.133 of Title 10 Regulations which can be viewed online at http://www.health.state.ny.us/regulations. You must indicate all
proof of engagement in a business enterprise.
COMPLETE ALL SECTIONS
1. ACTIVITY TYPE-Check category for which you are applying (Must send proof)
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY
INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY
AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITY
2. APPLICANT INFORMATION
Name_____________________________D/B/A (If Applicable)__________________________________
Address____________________________City_________________________State_______Zip_______
County_______________________________________Phone__________________________________
Has a D/B/A Certificate or a Certificate of Incorporation been filed with the County Clerk or the Secretary of
State?
Yes
Date Filed_____/_____/_____
Copy Enclosed
No
Have you or your business been convicted, fined, censured or had a license suspended or revoked in any
administrative or judicial proceeding pertaining to controlled substances or other drugs?
Yes
Attach a sheet with complete explanation
No
3. FACILITY INFORMATION
OWNERSHIP
INDIVIDUAL - Specify Reason for Need to Possess Hypodermic Syringes and
Needles____________________________________________________________
PARTNERSHIP - Give Federal Employee Identification
Number used for business or tax purposes___________________
CORPORATION - Give Federal Employee Identification
Number used for business or tax purposes__________________
Date Established___/___/___
Date Acquired by Applicant___/___/___
4. CERTIFICATIONS-List all licenses, certificates or registrations you or your business currently hold
ISSUING AGENCY
NUMBER
EXPIRATION DATE
___________________________
__________________
________________________
___________________________
___________________
________________________
DOH-2278 (3/06) Page 1 of 2
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement
Certificate of Need to Possess Hypodermic
Syringes and Needles
5. AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUALS
A) Person to be responsible for supervising the use of syringes and needles
Name______________________________________Title___________________________________
B) List the individuals responsible for the custody of syringes and needles
Name______________________________________Title___________________________________
Name______________________________________Title___________________________________
(Attach additional sheet with names and titles if necessary)
C) Specify location where syringes and needles will be used___________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
D) Purpose for the use of syringes and needles______________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
E) Indicate the maximum annual usage of Syringes________________Needles___________________
6. SECURITY OF SYRINGES AND NEEDLES
A) Identify type of cabinet to be used for storage of syringes and needles_________________________
B) Identify location of cabinet___________________________________________________________
C) Identify type of locks to be used_______________________________________________________
7. CERTIFICATE OF APPLICANT
Under the penalties of perjury, I affirm that the statements herein are true and that I will comply with
NYCRR Title 10, Section 80.133 of New York State Rules and Regulations.
Print Name__________________________________
Signature____________________________________
Title________________________________________ Date________/________/__________
Mail completed form to: Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement
433 River Street, Suite 303
Troy, NY 12180
(518) 402-0707
DOH-2278 (3/06) Page 2 of 2
10 NYCRR Title: Section 80.133 - Hypodermic
syringes and needles; certificate of need
Effective Date:
Title: Section 80.133 - Hypodermic syringes and needles; certificate of need
80.133 Hypodermic syringes and needles; certificate of need. (a) The following are
authorized to possess hypodermic syringes and hypodermic needles, provided they file
with the commissioner a certificate of need and obtain a written authorization from the
commissioner to possess and use such hypodermic syringes and needles:
(1) educational institutions, which also must comply with section 811 of the Education
Law and file a separate certificate of need with the Commissioner of Education; and
(2) persons engaged in commercial, industrial or agricultural activities.
(b) The certificate of need shall set forth the names of individuals authorized by the
educational institution or commercial or industrial firms to have custody of the
hypodermic syringes and needles to be used in connection with their activities and the
names of individuals designated as responsible for supervision of the use of such
hypodermic syringes and needles.
(c) Any administrative officer of the institution or firm filing a certificate of need may be
designated as responsible for the custody of hypodermic syringes and needles used on
their premises. It shall be the duty of the designated custodial administrative officer to
provide for safeguards and maintenance of records of receipt and disposition of all
hypodermic syringes and needles acquired or possessed by the institution or firm.
(d) The head of any department, laboratory or division of an educational institution or
commercial, agricultural or industrial firm filing a certificate of need may be designated
as the person responsible for supervising the use of hypodermic syringes and needles
used within the institution or firm. It shall be the responsibility of such designated person
to supervise the use of hypodermic syringes and needles by students or other members of
such institutions or firms and to keep and maintain records of all hypodermic syringes
and needles used under his supervision.
(e) Any change in designated custodial or supervisory personnel shall be reported within
30 days to the department.
(f) Location of use. The location of authorized use of hypodermic syringes and needles
includes any classroom, laboratory, lecture hall, department or division, designated by the
institution or the firm in its certificate of need on file with the department. Any change in
designated location of use shall be reported within 30 days to the department.
(g) Storage. (1) Hypodermic syringes and needles shall be stored in a locked secure place.
In no instance shall spring or combination dial locks be employed.
(2) Reserve or main stock shall be kept in double cabinets under locked protection of
suitable locks and keys. Both cabinets, inner and outer, shall be stationary.
(3) Hypodermic syringes and needles not in reserve, not in main stocks, and not in use,
shall be kept under suitable locked protection.
(h) Records. (1) A record of all purchases of hypodermic syringes and needles shall be
maintained.
(2) Main storage records shall include a running inventory of all hypodermic syringes and
needles indicating type, size and number of each item purchased, distribution made,
balance on hand, and date of receipt or disposition.
(3) An annual physical inventory shall be taken each June 30th and entered in the running
inventory record.
(4) A record of all hypodermic syringes and needles destroyed shall be kept, indicating
the type, size, and number of each item destroyed, the date of destruction, and the person
by whom destroyed. The records shall be kept for a period of two years from the date of
the transaction. Every such record shall list hypodermic syringes and needles lost or
stolen, indicating kind and number and the date of discovery of such loss or theft. A
report of such loss or theft, and other pertinent related facts, shall be made immediately
upon discovery to the department.
(i) Destruction of hypodermic syringes and needles. (1) All hypodermic syringes and
needles which are no longer usable or required shall be destroyed as follows:
(i) Disposable hypodermic units shall have the needle detached from the syringe prior to
disposal.
(ii) Hypodermic syringes shall be crushed, broken or otherwise rendered inoperable.
(iii) Hypodermic needles shall be bent prior to disposal.
(j) Inspection. All records and stocks of hypodermic syringes and needles maintained by
educational institutions or commercial or industrial firms shall be readily available and
promptly produced for inspection by authorized representatives of the State
Commissioner of Health.
Volume: A-1a
Office of Environmental Health and Safety
Recognizing Potentially Explosive Chemicals and Peroxidizable Compounds
Many of the chemicals used routinely at Rensselaer in laboratory applications, as well as in general
maintenance operations, present substantial explosion hazards. The intent of the information provided
below is not to create unnecessary panic or concern, but rather to raise the campus community’s general
awareness surrounding the explosive nature of these products and to provide suggestions regarding safe
handling and storage.
Solvent Stabilization and Peroxidizable Compounds
Solvents, like other chemicals will degrade over time. Solvent deterioration is dependent on several
factors—elapsed time since purification, shipping and storage conditions, individual solvent properties
and the presence or absence of stabilizers. In some solvents, a byproduct of this degradation includes
explosive peroxides, which may explode if subjected to thermal or mechanical shock. Since sunlight and
oxygen promote peroxide formation, these conditions should be avoided during storage.
The following is a selection of chemical substances, reproduced from M.J. Pitt and E. Pitt, Handbook of
Laboratory Waste Disposal, Ellis Horwood Publisher, UK. The list includes chemicals, which can
deteriorate to a dangerous form with age, under common storage conditions. The degree of the hazard will
vary considerably with age and the exact situation, but it is advisable to take precautions when discarding,
recycling or otherwise handling old samples.
(This list is not necessarily comprehensive)
Acetal (3)
Acetyl peroxide (1)
Ammonia solution (5)
Anethole (3)
Anisyl chloride (5)
Acetaldehyde diethyl acetal (3)
Aluminium chloride (5)
Ammonium hydroxide (5)
Anisaldehyde (3)
Aqua regia (5)
2-Acetyl furan (3)
Aluminium lithium hydride (5)
Ammonium persulphate (5)
Anisole (3)
Benzenesulphonyl chloride (5)
Bleaching powder (5)
t-Butyl hydroperoxide (4)
n-Butyl glycidyl ether (3)
Benzoyl peroxide (1)
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethyl acetate (3)
iso-Butyl ether (2)
Bleach (5)
2-Butoxyethyl acetate (3)
n-Butyl ether (3)
Key
(1) Can deteriorate to a shock-sensitive explosive. Take exceptional care if there is evidence of
drying out, crystallization or contamination. It may be very dangerous to attempt to open the
container.
(2) Forms peroxides, especially on exposure to air and light, making the material liable to explode.
This class is so dangerous that it should not normally be distilled unless it has been very well
controlled. Material more than one year old should be discarded, even if unopened. Containers
should not be opened if there is any solid visible around the closure or any evidence of crystals
inside.
(3) Also forms peroxides. If very old or obviously in poor condition treat as (2). Otherwise take
care to test for peroxides before use or recovery procedures.
(4) High energy materials which are sensitive to the presence of dust. Clean the outside of containers
before opening. If in doubt, do not open. Mixtures of the material with dust, paper or organics may
ignite or detonate when exposed to friction, e.g on the threads of a screw-capped container.
(5)Containers may have a high internal gas pressure, owning to decomposition. Open carefully behind a
safety shield in a fume cupboard. (N.B. A high internal pressure can also result from biological decay,
radioactive decay or corrosion of metal containers.)
-1-
Calcium carbide (5)
Cellosolve (3)
Chromium trioxide (4)
Cumene hydroperoxide (5)
Cyclopentene (3)
Calcium hydride (5)
Chloroform (5)
Cleaning mixtures (5)
Cyclohexene (3)
Decahydronaphthalene (3)
Decalin (3)
Di-iso-amyl ether (3)
Dibenzyl ether (3)
Di-n-butyl ether (3)
Dicyclopentadiene (3)
Diethylacetal (3)
Diethyl azidoformate (4)
Diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (3) Diethyl ether (3)
Dihydropyran (3)
1,2-Dimethoxyethane (3)
Dimethylamine (5)
2,4-Dinitrophenol (1)
1,4-Dioxan (3)
Diphenyl ether (3)
Di-n-propyl ether (3)
Calcium hypochlorite (5)
Chromic acid (5)
Cumene (3)
Cyclopentadiene (3)
Di-allyl ether (3)
Di-iso-butyl ether (2)
1,1-Diethoxyethane (3)
Diethyl azodicarboxylate (1)
Diglyme (3)
Dimethoxymethane (3)
2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine (1)
Di-iso-propyl ether (2)
Ether (3)
Ethyl cellosolve (3)
Ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (3)
Ethylene glycol ethyl ether acetate (3) Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (3) Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (3)
Ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (3) Ethyl ether (3)
2-Ethoxyethanol (3)
2-Ethoxyethyl acetate (3)
Ethyl vinyl ether (2)
Formic acid (5)
Furan (3)
Glycidyl n-butyl ether (3)
Glyme (3)
Hydrogen peroxide (5)
Iodine pentoxide (4)
Isopentyl ether (3)
Isopropyl benzene (3)
Isoamyl ether (3)
Isopropyl alcohol (3)
Isobutyl ether (2)
Isopropyl ether (2)
Key
(1) Can deteriorate to a shock-sensitive explosive. Take exceptional care if there is evidence of
drying out, crystallization or contamination. It may be very dangerous to attempt to open the
container.
(2) Forms peroxides, especially on exposure to air and light, making the material liable to explode.
This class is so dangerous that it should not normally be distilled unless it has been very well
controlled. Material more than one year old should be discarded, even if unopened. Containers
should not be opened if there is any solid visible around the closure or any evidence of crystals
inside.
(3) Also forms peroxides. If very old or obviously in poor condition treat as (2). Otherwise take
care to test for peroxides before use or recovery procedures.
(4) High energy materials which are sensitive to the presence of dust. Clean the outside of containers
before opening. If in doubt, do not open. Mixtures of the material with dust, paper or organics may
ignite or detonate when exposed to friction, e.g on the threads of a screw-capped container.
(5)Containers may have a high internal gas pressure, owning to decomposition. Open carefully behind a
safety shield in a fume cupboard. (N.B. A high internal pressure can also result from biological decay,
radioactive decay or corrosion of metal containers.)
-2-
Lauroyl peroxide (5)
Lithium aluminium hydride (5)
Lithium hydride (5)
Magnesium perchlorate (4)
Methylal (3)
Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (1)
Mercury fulminate (1)
Methyl cellosolve (3)
Methyl vinyl ketone (3)
2-Methoxyethanol (3)
Methyl iso-butyl ketone (3)
Nitric acid (5)
Nitromethane (1)
Nitrosoguanidine (5)
Peracetic acid (1,4,5)
Picric acid (1)
Potassium (metal) (1)
Potassium persulphate (5)
Propargyl chloride (1)
Perchloric acid (4)
Picryl chloride (1)
Potassium amide (1)
Propan-2-ol (3)
Phosphorus trichloride (5)
Picryl sulphuric acid (1)
Potassium chlorate (4)
Propargyl bromide (1)
Silicon tetrachloride (5)
Sodium amide (1)
Sodium chlorite (4)
Sodium hydrosulphite (5)
Sodium perchlorate (4)
Styrene (3)
Silvering solution (1)
Sodium borohydride (5)
Sodium dithionite (5)
Sodium hypochlorite (5)
Sodium peroxide (5)
Sodamide (1)
Sodium chlorate (4)
Sodium hydride (5)
Sodium metal dispersions (1)
Sodium persulphate (5)
Tetrahydrofuran (3)
Trinitrobenzene (1)
Tetralin (3)
Trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (1)
Thionyl chloride (5)
Urea nitrate (4)
Urea peroxide (5)
Vinyl acetate (3)
Vinylidene chloride (1)
Vinyl pyridine (3)
Zinc (5)
Key
(1) Can deteriorate to a shock-sensitive explosive. Take exceptional care if there is evidence of
drying out, crystallisation or contamination. It may be very dangerous to attempt to open the
container.
(2) Forms peroxides, especially on exposure to air and light, making the material liable to explode.
This class is so dangerous that it should not normally be distilled unless it has been very well
controlled. Material more than one year old should be discarded, even if unopened. Containers
should not be opened if there is any solid visible around the closure or any evidence of crystals
inside.
(3) Also forms peroxides. If very old or obviously in poor condition treat as (2). Otherwise take
care to test for peroxides before use or recovery procedures.
(4) High energy materials which are sensitive to the presence of dust. Clean the outside of containers
before opening. If in doubt, do not open. Mixtures of the material with dust, paper or organics may
ignite or detonate when exposed to friction, e.g on the threads of a screw-capped container.
(5)Containers may have a high internal gas pressure, owning to decomposition. Open carefully
behind a safety shield in a fume cupboard.
(N.B. A high internal pressure can also result from biological decay, radioactive decay or corrosion
of metal containers.)
-3-
The following suggestions are intended to help prevent peroxide formation and hazards:
1. Analyze your specific method/job requirements. Unstable solvents or those that tend to form peroxides should
be avoided if possible.
2. If you must utilize a solvent that tends to form peroxides, order only what you need. As accurately as possible,
try to estimate the amount that you will need for a given procedure. Our goal should be to limit the amounts of
these types of materials that require disposal.
3. Consider the analytical method or job requirement for which the solvent will be used. If possible, purchase
solvents that contain chemical stabilizers to prevent or slow degradation.
4. It is best to avoid less stable solvents when developing methods. Unfortunately, some procedures require their
use. Most solvent manufacturers recommend using a product within one year. This timetable begins on the date
of solvent manufacture and not when the consumer purchases or receives it. As a general guideline, purchase
solvents in quantities which will be used within three to six months.(or at the end of your particular
experiment/job). The “date of receipt” and “internal expiration date” should be recorded on each label of
peroxide forming material.
5. Ensure that peroxide forming materials are stored in tightly capped containers, out of direct sunlight.
6. A program of periodic testing and adding of inhibitor levels should be followed during the storage of these
materials. The chemical distributor responsible for your specific product(s) will provide inhibitor formulations
and storage times for their products. A sample label has been included for your review.
Test strips are commercially available for the purpose of peroxide detection. There are also several relatively simple
laboratory methods that can be utilized.
Discard or Test Within 3
Months after opening
Date
Received Opened
________ ________
Peroxidizable Compound
Solvent Stabilization References
Solvent Selection, Part III - Solvent Life and Degradation
C. Seaver, J. Przybytek and N. Roelofs, LC-GC, 13, 860 (1995).
Recognition and Handling of Peroxidizable Compounds
National Safety Council, Chicago, Data Sheet I-655, Rev. 87.
-4-
Laboratory Chemicals that are Explosives
(or have the potential to become explosives on deterioration)
The following list is reproduced from M.J. Pitt and E. Pitt, Handbook of Laboratory Waste
Disposal, Ellis Horwood Publisher, UK, 1985. Formic acid has been added to the list.
Appendix C-4 Explosive Chemicals
The following may be supplied as laboratory reagents, pharmaceuticals, or polymer components.
However, they are in fact explosives. Appropriate care should be taken in storage and disposal,
especially if they have deteriorated in any way.
Acetylene
acetyl peroxide
benzoyl peroxide
cumene peroxide
dipicryl sulphide
ethylene oxide
nitrogen trifluoride
nitroglycerin
picramide
picric acid
propargyl bromide
succinic peroxide
trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid
trinitronaphthleene
trinitrophenol
urea nitrate
ammonium nitrate
dinitrophenylhydrazine
lauric peroxide
nitroguanidine
picryl chloride
trinitroanisole
trinitrobenzoic acid
trinitroresorcinol
ammonium picrate
dipicrylamine
methy ethyl ketone peroxide
nitromethane
picryl sulphonic acid
trinitrobenzene
trinitrocresol
trinitrotoluene
Formic Acid containers may become pressurized upon storage.
A storeroom worker recently lost an eye when an E. Merck of Darmstadt, West Germany, 1-L bottle of
98 to 100% Formic acid exploded as he lifted it off the shelf in the main store of The University of Sidney
chemistry school. He was not wearing safety glasses. Concentrated formic acid slowly decomposes to carbon
monoxide and water upon prolonged storage, and the gas pressure can be sufficient to rupture
sealed glass containers. It happens that none of the academic or technical staff members of the
school were aware of this hazard.
A. V. Robertson
School of Chemistry
University of Sydney, Australia
For more information contact:
Judy Corbett – Safety Specialist @ x2281
Magaly Montenegro Martinez- Associate Safety Specialist@ x2092
-5-
Rensselaer Compliance Checklist for Hazardous Waste
Generators
ALL hazardous waste containers must comply with
ALL of the following requirements at ALL TIMES.
If any item on this list is not checked, you are in violation of State and Federal EPA regulations.
Is the container closed with a properly fitting, threaded cap at all times except when wastes are being transferred into
the container? (This includes wastes stored in hoods. Never leave funnels in the mouth of the container after the
transfer.)
Is the container properly labeled with the words Hazardous Waste?
Are the contents of the container clearly listed, using words, not chemical formulas?
Is the container sound? (No cracks, chips, or deterioration permitted).
Is the waste container located in the lab where it was generated, unless it has been transferred to your designated
waste storage location in either Blaw Knox, Walker, Cogswell, or CII? (Wastes should not be transferred to
adjoining rooms or to carts or floors in hallways.)
If the container is full, is it dated and are arrangements immediately made to transfer the waste to your designated
waste storage area in either Blaw Knox, Walker, Cogswell, or CII. (Full containers should not be allowed to sit
indefinitely in hoods.)
Is there less than 55 gallons of waste in the laboratory, and less than 1 quart of acutely Hazardous waste? (Up to 55
gallons per waste stream, and 1 quart of acutely Hazardous waste is permitted)
Is the waste located away from floor drains or sinks?
Is the container compatible with the waste? (With some exceptions, glass is generally compatible; metal is generally
not compatible).
Are the contents of the container compatible with the contents of other containers stored in the same location (see
below)?
Note Regarding Compatibility of Waste Types:
NEVER store the following types of wastes near each other such that they could mix if one or
both containers leak or rupture:
o Acids and bases.
o Organics and acids.
o Cyanide, sulfide or arsenic compounds and acids.
o Alkali or alkali earth metals, alkyl-lithiums etc. and aqueous waste.
o Powdered or reactive metals and combustible materials.
o Mercury or silver and ammonium containing compounds.
o Etc. This list is not comprehensive. Many compatibility tables are available. Please ask for
compatibility guides if you are unsure.
Segregation of wastes may be accomplished by physically separating the wastes and placing
each container in a separate carrier or high walled bin.
If your wastes are incompatible and segregation is infeasible, immediately make arrangements
to have the incompatible waste transferred to the main storage areas (Walker, Cogswell, Blaw
Knox or CII), where proper separation and segregation will be provided.
Request for Hazardous Waste Pick –Up
Instructions: Fill out ALL information and fax or e-mail to ext. 2512 (fax) or [email protected]
Building:
Room :
Date: __________
Exact Location (i.e. fume hood, storage cabinet, etc.):
Special Instructions/needs: (pallet jack, drum cart, etc.) _____________________________________
Waste Type:
Chemical: _____ Bio-hazardous: ______ Glassware: _____ Light bulbs: _____ Asbestos:_____
Type:
Liquid
Solid
Radioactive Waste:
Containers Identified with Rensselaer Waste Label?
YES
YES
NO
______ NO
Container Specifications:
Number of Containers:
Type of Containers:
Amount (pounds/gallons):
Glass _____
Plastic _____
Metal _____ Other _____
Contact Person (in laboratory or area):
Name:
Phone:
E-Mail:
Individual Responsible (for laboratory or area):
Name:
Phone:
E-Mail:
For Environmental Health & Safety Use Only
Date Received:
Date of Pick-up:
Pick-up By:
If you have any questions on the procedures above,
please call x 2092 or x6427.
wicksj
Page 1
7/30/2013
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Laboratory Decontamination
Procedure
Introduction
Section 1. Responsibilities
1.1
Project Manager
1.2
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor
1.3
Office of Environmental Health and Safety
1.4
Academic Department
Section 2. Laboratory Space Assessment
2.1
Project Scope
2.2
Space History
2.3
Identification of Hazards
2.4
Initial Sampling (If required)
Section 3. Decontamination
3.1
Materials/Solutions
3.2
Surfaces/Cabinets/Floors
3.3
Hoods
3.4
Ductwork
3.5
Sink Drains/Traps
3.6
Radioactive Materials
Section 4. Disposal of Wastes
4.1
Decontamination Materials
4.2
Other Wastes
4.3
Radioactive Wastes
Section 5. Verification of Decontamination
5.1
Sampling Methodologies
Appendix 1. Laboratory Decontamination Report Form
1
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Introduction
Given that the teaching and research laboratories at Rensselaer may include items such as
hazardous chemicals, biological/bio-hazardous materials and/or radioactive materials, it
is the intent of the Institute to provide a procedure for the decontamination/cleaning of
these laboratories. This procedure may be necessary in a number of situations, including
but not limited to, renovation projects, a change of occupancy or to address specific areas
of contamination. Due to the wide variety of potential decontamination and usage
scenarios, this Standard Operating Procedure should be used as a guidance document for
the development project-specific work practices.
Section 1. Responsibilities
1.1 Project Manager
The Rensselaer Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that the contents of this
policy are followed during all applicable renovation projects. The Project Manager must
work directly with individuals from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety, the
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor, and a representative(s) of the Academic (or
other) Department to assist in ensuring that all of the requirements and procedures of this
standard operating procedure are met and followed. Additionally, the Project Manager is
responsible for obtaining approval from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
for project-specific work practices prior to the commencement of work.
1.2 Laboratory Decontamination Contractor
The Laboratory Decontamination Contractor is responsible to provide all materials
necessary to adequately complete the decontamination scope of work as defined in
Section 2.1. This will include, but is not limited to: personnel, tools, personal protective
equipment, decontamination agent, chemical analysis capabilities and laboratory
decontamination experience. Additionally, it is clearly the responsibility of the
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor to ensure that all of their employees have
received appropriate training and information as required by all Federal, State and Local
laws. These training records must be submitted upon request to either the Rensselaer
Project Manager, or to an employee from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
2
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
1.3 Office of Environmental Health and Safety
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety is responsible to provide technical
guidance and support throughout the project specific work plan development phase and
actual decontamination work phase. EH&S is responsible to assist and aid in the
coordination of Hazardous Waste removal prior to the commencement of
decontamination work and must approve all job specific laboratory decontamination
work procedures before the start of work. It is the responsibility of the Laboratory
Decontamination Contractor to submit this work plan to the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety.
1.4 Academic Department
The Academic Department of the individual Lab Supervisor either assigned to, or
vacating the laboratory space in question, is responsible for the general clean-up and
preparation for the decontamination of the laboratory space in question. The degree of
this clean-up is to be to the level of "broom clean" (defined as - all surfaces, cabinet
drawers, cabinet shelves, fume hoods, refrigerators, freezers, etc. to be cleared of all
chemicals, bio-hazards, radioactive materials, glassware, tubing, hose, files, books and all
other loose materials and debris) It is also the responsibility of the Academic Department
to provide an accurate history (as extensive as possible) of the type of work completed in
the laboratory, potential contaminants, and any other pertinent information about the
laboratory space.
3
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Section 2. Laboratory Space Assessment
2.1 Project Scope
Prior to the start of work, the Project Manager (with assistance from EH&S) and
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor will agree upon a specific project scope. This
project scope will generally fall into one of the following three categories:
Type 1- Routine wipe down of all surfaces in the laboratory. Type 1 projects include
laboratories in which extensive contamination is not visible, and the clean-up is
preventative in nature. Surfaces will be wiped down and are not necessarily ready for
paint.
Type 1A- Routine wipe down of all surfaces in the laboratory. Type 1A projects include
laboratories in which extensive contamination is not visible, and the clean-up is
preventative in nature. Surfaces will be wiped down, scraped as necessary and are ready
for paint.
Type 2- Decontamination of “heavy use” chemical/biological/radiological laboratories in
which contamination is visible. This type may require significant decontamination
procedures and personal protective equipment. All surfaces will be decontaminated
thoroughly. It is expected that all applicable surfaces will be prepared for painting under
this type.
Type 3- Decontamination project of Type 2 parameters with the addition of other
removal items. These items may include, but are not limited to, contaminated ductwork,
fume hoods, laboratory tables/benches, asbestos floor tile and any demolition work.
An individual from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety will be available to
assist in determining the appropriate “type” of the project. This should include
areas/items to be decontaminated and the desired result. For instance, if a cabinet is to be
re-painted at a later time, decontamination of the cabinet to a “ready to be painted state”
should be agreed upon. If laboratory benches, hoods and/or ductwork are to be removed,
proper asbestos management procedures may be required and Lockout/Tagout
regulations may apply. The Laboratory Decontamination Contractor must submit a
written project scope narrative with the cost proposal for the specific project to the
Project Manager and Office of Environmental Health and Safety.
4
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
2.2 Space History
Rensselaer (the Project Manager with assistance from EH&S) will provide the
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor with as much information as possible regarding
the usage history of the Laboratory space to be decontaminated. This information should
include the past usage of the lab (type of research/teaching completed) the chemicals
known to have been present/removed from the laboratory and any other pertinent
information. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety will be available to aid in
the determination of potential resulting hazards. If specific materials were used that
present specialized hazards and subsequent handling procedures (examples such as
Perchloric Acid, Hydrofluoric Acid, Radioactive Materials, BSL-2 Biological materials
etc.), the Laboratory Decontamination Contractor is responsible for identifying any and
all specialized clean-up requirements, verification sampling requirements and other
regulatory requirements. These methods and procedures must be approved by the Office
of Environmental Health and Safety prior to the start of work.
2.3 Identification of Hazards
During the “Project Scope” phase outlined in Section 2.1, specific hazards will be
identified and addressed in the written project scope narrative submitted by the
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor. Considerations should include the project scope,
space history information and observed potential hazards. It is important that the entire
project scope be considered. Chemical, Biological and Radioactive hazards are obviously
to be considered and addressed, however in addition, hazards resulting from Project
scope operations such as electrical (Lockout/Tagout), cuts from sharp objects, portable
power tool use, noise and any other applicable potential hazards must be identified and
addressed.
2.4 Initial Sampling (If required)
In certain cases it may be deemed prudent to conduct initial environmental sampling on
surfaces or of materials to determine chemical characteristics. This sampling and
analytical may range from “spot” testing for pH, oxidizing potential etc. to more
extensive wipe testing designed to identify metals (EPA Method 6010) or semi-volatiles
(EPA Method 8270) to Radioactive sampling. The decision regarding whether initial
environmental sampling is necessary should be agreed upon by the Project Manager,
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor and the Office of Environmental Health and
Safety.
5
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Section 3. Decontamination
3.1 Materials/Solutions
The decontamination solution utilized, personal protective equipment worn by the
Laboratory Decontamination Contractor and degree of decontamination will be based on
the information generated in Section 2. The standard decontamination solution is a mild
soap solution or in cases where biological contamination is suspected, a 10% bleach
solution will be used followed by the mild soap solution. The following page contains
decontamination solution information for varying materials.
6
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Disinfectant Recommended
Type
Use
70% Isopropyl
Alcohol
solution
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Deactivation
Advantages
Process
Cleaning instruments, Changes protein Fairly inexpensive
surfaces
structure of
microorganism;
Disadvantages
Not active when organic
matter is present, not active
against certain types of
viruses, evaporates quickly
Comments
&
Hazards
Flammable
Eye Irritant
Toxic
Examples
N/A
Bleach (Sodium Cleaning instruments, Oxidizes the cell Inexpensive; effective
hypochlorite)
surfaces; disinfectant membrane
against a broad range
of choice for blood
of organisms
and other humanderived material spills
Not active when organic
Corrosive
matter is present, activity
Eye Irritant
degrades over time (solutions Toxic
must be made fresh; solutions
will last longer in an opaque
bottle), needs at least 20
minutes to deactivate
microorganisms;
disinfections should be
followed by a rinse with
sterile distilled water to
protect equipment
Clorox
Glutaraldehyde Bactericidal - Good
Fungicidal - Good
Tuberculocidal Excellent
Virucidal - Good
Sporicidal - Good
Coagulates
cellular proteins
Non-staining, relatively
noncorrosive; useable
on plastics, rubber,
lenses, stainless steel
and other items that
can't be autoclaved
Not stable in solution , has to
be in an alkaline solution;
inactivated by organic
material
Eye, skin and
respiratory
irritant
Sensitizer
Toxic
Calgocide 14
Cidex
Vespore
Iodophors
(Iodine
with
carrier)
Binds with
cellular
components
Kills a broad range of
organisms; highly
reactive; kills
immediately; not
affected by hard water;
may be used on food
prep surfaces;
tuberculocidal,
with extended contact
time
may stain plastics or corrode
metal ; may stain
skin/laundry; odor; some
organic and inorganic
substances neutralize effect
use only EPA
registered hard
surface iodophor
disinfectants;
Skin and eye
irritant
Corrosive
Toxic
Bactergent
Hy-Sine
Ioprep
Providone
Wescodyne
Disinfecting some
semicritical medical
equipment; used in
the food industry
Bactericidal - Very
Good
Fungicidal - Excellent
Virucidal – Excellent
Sporicidal - Some
Phenolic
Compounds
Bactericidal Excellent
Fungicidal - Excellent
Tuberculodial Excellent
Virucidal - Excellent
Disrupts cell
Nonspecific
walls,
bactericidal and
precipitates cell fungicidal action
proteins; low
concentrations
inactivate
essential enzyme
systems
Unpleasant odor; some areas
have disposal restrictions;
effectiveness reduced by
alkaline pH, natural soap or
organic material, not
sporicidal
Skin and eye
irritant
Sensitizer
Corrosive
Toxic
Hil-Phene
Lph
Metar
Vesphene
Quaternary
Ammonium
compounds
(QUATS)
Ordinary
housekeeping (e.g.
floors, furniture,
walls)
Affects proteins
and cell
membrane of
microorganism
Does not eliminate spores,
TB bacteria, some viruses;
ffectiveness influenced by
hard water; soap interferes
with action
Select from EPA
list of hospital
disinfectants
Skin and eye
irritant
Toxic
Coverage
258
End-Bac
Hi Tor
Bactericidal Excellent
Fungicidal - Good
Virucidal - Good
Contains a detergent to
help loosen soil , rapid
action; colorless,
odorless, non-toxic,
less corrosive, highly
stable, may be used on
food prep surfaces
7
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
3.1 Surfaces/Cabinets/Floors:
Application of the decontamination solution will be accomplished by either spraying
surfaces or wiping on with rags or sponges. In biological applications, special
considerations must be taken to prevent the creation of aerosols. Surfaces will be
decontaminated, cleaned and prepared according to the requirements specified in the
project scope discussion.
3.2 Hoods:
Standard chemical fume hoods should be decontaminated using a mild soap solution.
Fume hoods that were used for operations involving Perchloric Acid will be evaluated on
a case-by-case basis. Biological Safety Cabinets (BSC) will not be decontaminated under
the requirements of this procedure. BSC decontamination is specialized work which
requires a contractor qualified to perform a range of activities. The Office of
Environmental Health and Safety will assist in identifying appropriately qualified
entities, when such work is required. The removal of chemical fume hoods often requires
safe asbestos handling work practices and must be completed by licensed individuals.
3.3 Ductwork:
If ductwork is to be removed it will not typically require decontamination prior to
disposal. The portion of duct that is being removed will be disconnected from the
remaining sections and be capped or otherwise encapsulated to prevent the possible
spread of contaminants. There may be some instances where gross contamination or the
use of highly toxic or reactive materials requires decontamination. In these cases the
decontamination solution utilized, personal protective equipment worn by the Laboratory
Decontamination Contractor and degree of decontamination will be based on the
information generated in Section 2.
3.4 Sink Drains/Traps:
There are several different styles/types of sink drains and traps found on campus. These
include Pyrex, Fuseal, PVC and others. The primary hazard associated with these items
is heavy metals including mercury. The decontamination process will begin with
removal of any free liquids from the drain assembly by siphoning or other suitable
means. Once the free liquid has been removed the drain or trap can be disassembled and
any solid or sludge can be removed and consolidated in to an appropriate container for
characterization and disposal. Decontamination may not be possible due to the
configuration of some of these drains and traps. In that case the entire assembly will be
removed and treated as hazardous waste.
8
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Section 4. Disposal of Wastes
4.1 Decontamination materials:
All waste generated will be treated as hazardous waste and will be characterized by
EH&S staff according to the materials used for the project. Typically this waste will be
contaminated PPE and rags or other materials used during the decontamination process.
All waste materials must be managed through Rensselaer’s Hazardous Waste program.
4.2 Other wastes:
If it is determined that equipment or materials in a lab are unable to be effectively
decontaminated or pose a significant risk (ie. Asbestos containing materials that are, or
have become friable, grossly contaminated equipment, etc.) those items will be handled
on a case-by-case basis to ensure proper disposal. The decontamination solution utilized,
personal protective equipment worn by the Laboratory Decontamination Contractor and
degree of decontamination will be based on the information generated in Section 2. All
waste materials must be managed through Rensselaer’s Hazardous Waste program.
Section 5. Verification of Effectiveness
5.1 Sampling Methodologies
In most cases it will be necessary to conduct post decontamination/clean-up
environmental sampling on surfaces or of materials to determine chemical characteristics.
This sampling and analytical may range from “spot” testing for pH, oxidizing potential
etc. to more extensive wipe testing designed to identify metals (EPA Method 6010) or
semi-volatiles (EPA Method 8270) to Radioactive sampling. The decision regarding
whether initial environmental sampling is necessary should be agreed upon by the Project
Manager, Laboratory Decontamination Contractor and the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety.
9
Document Reference: Laboratory Decon
Procedure
Date Issued: 5/03
Date Last Revised: 7/13
Author: Office of Environmental
Health & Safety
Policy Number: Lab Decon 01
Number of Pages: 10
Laboratory Decontamination Report Form
Date:_________/__________/__________
Building:________________________________________________________________
Room#:_________________________________________________________________
Company/Department Completing Decontamination:_____________________________
Pre-Decontamination Sampling Completed? YES________
NO_________
Decontamination Solution Used:_____________________________________________
Provide Brief Description of Work Practice: ____________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Post-Decontamination Sampling:
Method
Surface
Result
Notes
Company/Department Representative Name:
Print:___________________________________________________________________
Signature:_______________________________________________________________
Date: _________/__________/__________
10
QUICK
CARD
TM
Hazard Communication
Standard Pictogram
As of June 1, 2015, the Hazard Communication Standard
(HCS) will require pictograms on labels to alert users of
the chemical hazards to which they may be exposed. Each
pictogram consists of a symbol on a white background
framed within a red border and represents a distinct
hazard(s). The pictogram on the label is determined by
the chemical hazard classification.
HCS Pictograms and Hazards
Flame
• Carcinogen
• Mutagenicity
• Reproductive Toxicity
• Respiratory Sensitizer
• Target Organ Toxicity
• Aspiration Toxicity
• Flammables
• Pyrophorics
• Self-Heating
• Emits Flammable Gas
• Self-Reactives
• Organic Peroxides
Gas Cylinder
Corrosion
• Gases Under Pressure
• Skin Corrosion/
Burns
• Eye Damage
• Corrosive to Metals
Flame Over Circle
Environment
Exclamation Mark
• Irritant (skin and eye)
• Skin Sensitizer
• Acute Toxicity (harmful)
• Narcotic Effects
• Respiratory Tract
Irritant
• Hazardous to Ozone
Layer (Non-Mandatory)
(Non-Mandatory)
• Oxidizers
• Aquatic Toxicity
Exploding Bomb
• Explosives
• Self-Reactives
• Organic Peroxides
Skull
and Crossbones
• Acute Toxicity
(fatal or toxic)
For more information:
U.S. Department of Labor
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA (6742)
OSHA 3491-02 2012
Health Hazard
DATOS
RÁPIDOS
Pictograma para la norma sobre
la comunicación de peligros
A partir del 1.° de junio de 2015, la norma de comunicación
de peligros (HCS, por sus siglas en inglés) exigirá pictogramas en las etiquetas para advertir a los usuarios de
los peligros químicos a los que puedan estar expuestos.
Cada pictograma representa un peligro definido y consiste
en un símbolo sobre un fondo blanco enmarcado con un
borde rojo. La clasificación del peligro químico determina
el pictograma que muestra la etiqueta.
Pictogramas y peligros según la HCS
Peligro para la salud
Llama
Signo de exclamación
• Carcinógeno
• Mutagenicidad
• Toxicidad para la
reproducción
• Sensibilización
respiratoria
• Toxicidad especifica
de órganos diana
• Peligro por
aspiración
• Inflamables
• Pirofóricos
• Calentamiento
espontáneo
• Desprenden gases
inflamables
• Reaccionan
espontáneamente
(autorreactivas)
• Peróxidos orgánicos
• Irritante (piel y ojos)
• Sensibilizador cutáneo
• Toxicidad aguda
(dañino)
• Efecto narcótico
• Irritante de vías
respiratorias
• Peligros para la capa
de ozono (no obligatorio)
Botella de gas
Corrosión
Bomba explotando
• Gases a presión
Llama sobre círculo
• Corrosión o
quemaduras
cutáneas
• Lesion ocular
• Corrosivo para los
metales
• Explosivos
• Reaccionan
espontáneamente
(autorreactivas)
• Peróxidos orgánicos
Medio ambiente
(No obligatorio)
• Comburentes
• Toxicidad acuática
Calavera y tibias cruzadas
• Toxicidad aguda
(mortal o tóxica)
Para más información:
Administración de
Seguridad y Salud
Ocupacional
Departamento de Trabajo de los EE. UU.
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA (6742)
TM
Hazard Communication Standard Labels
}
Product
Identifier
Company Name_______________________
Street Address________________________
City_______________________ State_____
Postal Code______________Country_____
Emergency Phone Number_____________
}
Supplier
Identification
OSHA has updated the requirements for labeling of
hazardous chemicals under its Hazard Communication
Standard (HCS). As of June 1, 2015, all labels will be
required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard and
precautionary statements, the product identifier, and
supplier identification. A sample revised HCS label,
identifying the required label elements, is shown on the
right. Supplemental information can also be provided
Keep container tightly closed. Store in a cool,
well-ventilated place that is locked.
Keep away from heat/sparks/open flame. No smoking.
Only use non-sparking tools.
Use explosion-proof electrical equipment.
Take precautionary measures against static discharge.
Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
Do not breathe vapors.
Wear protective gloves.
Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, national,
international regulations as specified.
on the label as needed.
In Case of Fire: use dry chemical (BC) or Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
fire extinguisher to extinguish.
For more information:
(800) 321-OSHA (6742)
www.osha.gov
First Aid
If exposed call Poison Center.
If on skin (or hair): Take off immediately any contaminated
clothing. Rinse skin with water.
}
Hazard Pictograms
Signal Word
Danger
}
Highly flammable liquid and vapor.
May cause liver and kidney damage.
Hazard
Statements
Precautionary
Statements
Supplemental Information
Directions for Use
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
Fill weight:____________ Lot Number:___________
Gross weight:__________ Fill Date:______________
Expiration Date:________
OSHA 3492-02 2012
QUICK
CARD
SAMPLE LABEL
CODE _______________________________
Product Name________________________
DATOS
RÁPIDOS
Etiquetas para la norma sobre la
comunicación de peligros
De acuerdo con su norma de comunicación de peligros
(HCS, por sus siglas en inglés), la OSHA ha actualizado
los requisitos para las etiquetas de los productos
químicos peligrosos. A partir del 1.° de junio de 2015, se
exigirá que todas las etiquetas incluyan pictogramas,
una palabra de advertencia, indicaciones de peligro,
consejos de prudencia, identificación del producto y la
identificación del proveedor. A la derecha se presenta la
muestra de una etiqueta modificada de acuerdo con la
HCS, que indica los elementos obligatorios. La etiqueta
puede contener también información suplementaria
según sea necesario.
Para más información:
Administración de
Seguridad y Salud
Ocupacional
(800) 321-OSHA (6742)
www.osha.gov
CÓDIGO _____________________________
Nombre del producto __________________
Nombre de la empresa _________________
Dirección_____________________________
Ciudad___________________ Estado______
Código postal______________País________
Número de teléfono de emergencia________
}
}
ETIQUETA DE MUESTRA
Identificación
del producto
}
Pictogramas de peligro
Identificación
del proveedor
Mantener el contenedor herméticamente cerrado.
Guardar en un lugar fresco, bien ventilado y cerrado
bajo llave.
Mantener alejado de fuentes de calor, chispas o llama
abierta. No fumar.
Usar sólo con herramientas que no generen chispas.
Usar equipo eléctrico a prueba de explosiones.
Tomar medidas de precaución contra descargas estáticas.
Fijar y conectar a tierra el equipo contenedor y receptor.
No respirar los vapores.
Usar guantes protectores.
Abstenerse de comer, beber o fumar cuando se usa este
producto.
Lavarse muy bien las manos después de manejar este
producto.
Desechar el producto según las especificaciones y los
reglamentos locales, regionales, nacionales e internacionales.
En caso de incendio: usar un extintor de polvo químico
(tipo BC) o de bióxido de carbono (CO²).
Primeros auxilios
Si hay exposición a este producto, llamar al Centro de
Control de Intoxicaciones.
En caso de contacto con la piel o el cabello: quitarse de
inmediato toda la ropa contaminada. Lavarse la piel con agua.
Palabra de advertencia
Peligro
}
Líquido y vapores muy inflamables.
Puede provocar daños al hígado y a los riñones.
Indicaciones
de peligro
Consejos
de prudencia
Información suplementaria
Instrucciones de uso
__________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________
Peso lleno:__________ Número de lote:___________
Peso bruto:__________ Fecha de llenado:__________
Fecha de caducidad:____________