Handling Hazardous Materials? Here’s How to Keep Your Lab Safe

Laboratories are the birthplace of scientific breakthroughs, but they also house a unique set of hazards. From flammable liquids and corrosive chemicals to reactive substances and biohazards, laboratories require a vigilant approach to safety. Mishandling hazardous materials can lead to spills, fires, explosions, and health hazards, jeopardizing the well-being of laboratory personnel and the environment.

OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)

OSHA’s HCS is the cornerstone of chemical safety in the workplace. It mandates that information about chemical hazards and protective measures be communicated to workers. This includes:

• Chemical manufacturers and importers: Evaluating the hazards of chemicals they produce or import and providing labels and safety data sheets (SDSs) to downstream users.
• Employers: Ensuring labels and SDSs are readily available to workers, providing appropriate training on handling hazardous materials, and communicating information about workplace hazards and protective measures.

Key Terms to Know:

• Action level: The airborne concentration of a hazardous substance that triggers certain actions, such as exposure monitoring and medical surveillance.
• Ceiling limit: The maximum allowable exposure limit that should never be exceeded.
• Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL): The acceptable average exposure over a short period (typically 15-30 minutes).
• Time-Weighted Average (TWA): The acceptable average exposure over a given period, usually 8 hours.
• Combustible liquids: Liquids with a flashpoint at or above 100°F.
• Flammable liquids: Liquids with a flashpoint below 100°F.

OSHA’s Laboratory Safety Guidance

OSHA’s guidance emphasizes the employer’s responsibility to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, including those related to hazardous chemicals, explosives, and pathogens.

Material Safety Data Sheets (SDSs)

Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), formerly known as MSDSs, are essential documents that provide detailed information about hazardous chemicals, including:

• Chemical name and identification
• Manufacturer information
• Hazardous ingredients
• Physical and chemical properties
• Fire and explosion hazard data
• Reactivity data
• Health hazard data
• Safe handling and use precautions
• Control measures

Process Hazard Analysis (PHA)

OSHA recommends conducting a PHA for hazardous chemicals, including explosively reactive chemicals. A PHA involves evaluating potential causes and consequences of fires and explosions, considering factors such as chemical properties, building design, human factors, and past incidents.

Safe Storage of Hazardous Materials

Proper storage of hazardous materials is crucial for preventing accidents and minimizing risks. OSHA provides specific guidelines for storing flammable liquids, including:

• Approved storage cabinets: Flammable liquids must be stored in approved flammable storage cabinets with appropriate warning labels.
• Approved containers: Use only approved containers and portable tanks for storing and handling flammable liquids.
• Quantity limitations: Limit the amount of flammable liquids stored outside of an approved cabinet to 25 gallons.
• Segregation: Store incompatible materials separately to prevent dangerous reactions.

Key Storage Considerations:

• Keep flammable liquids away from ignition sources.
• Designate a special area for explosive chemical use and storage.
• Do not store flammable liquids in exit routes or high-traffic areas.
• Ensure proper ventilation and temperature control in storage areas.

Emergency Preparedness and Response

Even with the best preventive measures, emergencies can still occur. Having a well-defined emergency response plan is crucial for minimizing damage and protecting personnel.

Key Elements of an Emergency Response Plan:

• Evacuation procedures: Clear and well-practiced evacuation routes.
• Emergency equipment: Readily available fire extinguishers, fire blankets, safety showers, and eyewash stations.
• Spill response: Procedures for containing and cleaning hazardous material spills.
• First aid and medical response: Trained personnel and readily available first aid supplies.
• Communication: Clear reporting protocols for emergencies.

Training:

OSHA emphasizes the importance of hands-on training and interactive learning to ensure employees fully understand laboratory hazards and emergency response procedures.

Common Laboratory Hazards:

• Spills and trips: Even small spills can create tripping hazards.
• Chemical hazards: Exposure to solvents, adhesives, and toxic dust.
• Physical hazards: Noise, heat, and radiation exposure.
• Unplanned equipment shutdowns: Potential hazards from equipment malfunctions.
• Weather risks: Potential damage to stored materials due to environmental factors.

Laboratory safety requires knowledge, vigilance, and preparedness. By implementing OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard, following laboratory-specific safety guidelines, practicing safe storage, and developing a comprehensive emergency response plan, you can create a safer and more secure laboratory environment.

Expand Your Knowledge

Expand your knowledge with our Laboratory Safety: Material Safety Training Course. For a deeper dive into specific regulations and best practices, consider enrolling in our specialized Laboratory Safety Certification Program.

References

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Hazard Communication Standard

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Laboratory Safety Guidance

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Chemical Safety