UNDERSTAND
FUNDAMENTAL
CHEMICAL HAZARDS
Scenes
Scene 1: Introduction to Chemical Hazards
Scene 2: Physical Hazards
Scene 3: Health Hazards
Scene 4: Environmental Hazards
Scene 5: Reactivity Hazards
Scene 6: Key Safety Measures
Scene 7: Conclusion
WHAT IS HAZARD COMMUNICATION
Hazard communication is a set of protocols
Key Components
designed to inform workers about the dangers of
hazardous materials they may encounter in their - Chemical identifi cation
jobs. The key goal is to ensure that employees
understand the potential risks and know how to - Health hazards
protect themselves. In the United States, the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or - Physical hazards
OSHA, has established the Hazard Communication
- Protective measures
Standard, also known as HazCom. This standard
mandates that both employers and employees be
informed about chemical hazards in the workplace.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LABELING
- Pro d u c t I d e n t i fi e r: T h e n a m e o r n u m b e r u s e d f o r a
One crucial aspect of
h a z a rd o u s c h e m i c a l .
hazard communication is
- S i g n a l Wo rd s : T h e s e i n d i c a t e t h e s e v e r i t y o f t h e h a z a rd ,
labeling. Labels provide s u c h a s " D a n g e r " f o r m o re s e v e re h a z a rd s o r " Wa rn i n g "
essential information f o r l e s s s e v e re o n e s .
quickly and eff ectively. - H a z a rd S t a t e m e n t s : T h e s e d e s c r i b e t h e n a t u re o f t h e
They serve as a frontline h a z a rd , s u c h a s " C a u s e s s e r i o u s e y e d a m a g e . "
defense against accidents. - Pre c a u t i o n a r y S t a t e m e n t s : Re c o m m e n d a t i o n s f o r h a n d l i n g
According to OSHA, labels and storing the chemical safely, which may include
p ro t e c t i v e e q u i p m e n t n e e d e d .
must include:
- S u p p l i e r I n f o rm a t i o n : T h e n a m e , a d d re s s , a n d p h o n e
n u m b e r o f t h e m a n u f a c t u re r o r d i s t r i b u t o r.
TYPES OF HAZARDS
1. Physical Hazards: These may include
Understanding the fl ammability, reactivity, or explosive
properties of a chemical.
types of hazards is
vital for proper 2. Health Hazards: These relate to the potential
handling and safety. health eff ects a chemical can cause, such as
carcinogenicity, respiratory issues, or skin
Hazards are typically
corrosion.
categorized as follows:
3. It is essential to note that diff erent chemicals
may pose multiple hazards, so comprehensive
labeling is necessary.
SAFETY DATA SHEETS (SDS)
In addition to labels, Safety Data Sheets, or SDS, Every workplace using
are another critical component of hazard hazardous materials
communication. An SDS provides extensive must maintain
information about a chemical, including:
accessible SDS for all
- Composition and ingredients employees. This ensures
that workers can easily
- First aid measures
refer to them in case of
- Fire-fi ghting measures an incident or when
- Accidental release measures additional information is
needed.
- Handling and storage
EMPLOYEE TRAINING
Training employees on hazard communication is
Regular refresher
not just a regulatory requirement but also a
valuable practice that enhances workplace training sessions
safety. Training programs should cover: can strengthen
- Understanding and interpreting labels and safety culture and
SDS
keep awareness of
- Safe handling practices for chemicals
hazards high
- Emergency response procedures among employees.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
CONCLUSION
In summary, eff ective hazard communication
and labeling are vital for maintaining safety in
the workplace. By understanding chemical
hazards, utilizing proper labeling, ensuring
access to Safety Data Sheets, and providing
ongoing employee training, we can signifi cantly
reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
SAFE HANDLING AND
STORAGE OF CHEMICALS
Introduction
Handling and storing chemicals improperly
can lead to severe accidents, including fi res,
toxic exposure, or environmental
contamination. To prevent such incidents, it is
vital to understand and follow proper safety
protocols when working with hazardous
substances.
Chemical Storage Guidelines
1. Segregation of Chemicals: Store chemicals based on compatibility groups, such as:
- Acids away from bases.
- Flammables separate from oxidizers.
- Toxic chemicals in a secure, ventilated area.
2. Proper Labeling: Ensure all containers are labeled clearly with hazard symbols and
names.
3. Temperature Control: Store chemicals at recommended temperatures to prevent
instability.
4. Secondary Containment: Use spill trays or cabinets to catch leaks or spills.
5. Avoid Overcrowding: Maintain a clear and organized storage area for easy access and
inspection.
Spill and Emergency
Response
1. Act Quickly but Safely: Alert others, evacuate if
necessary, and assess the spill size.
2. Use Spill Kits: Follow proper containment
procedures using absorbents and neutralizers.
3. Seek Medical Attention: If exposed, refer to SDS
for fi rst aid steps and contact medical personnel.
4. Report the Incident: Notify supervisors and
document the event.
Adhering to safe handling and storage protocols To conclude, safe
ensures: handling and storage of
- Worker Safety: Reduces risk of injuries and chemicals are not just
exposure. procedures they are
responsibilities. By
- Environmental Protection: Prevents
understanding hazards,
contamination of water and soil.
wearing proper PPE, and
- Legal Compliance: Meets regulatory standards, following storage
avoiding penalties. guidelines, we can
create a safer and more
- Effi cient Workspaces: Organized storage saves
productive environment.
time and reduces accidents.
Benefi ts of Safe Practices
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
Introduction
Personal Protective Equipment is designed to
protect laboratory workers from chemical
exposures, injuries, and contamination. In a
chemistry environment, working with
hazardous substances—such as acids,
solvents, and fl ammable materials—requires
protective measures to minimize risks. PPE
includes various gear, such as gloves,
goggles, lab coats, and respirators.
Importance of PPE in
Chemistry
Using PPE is e sse ntial bec ause :
1.Pre v e nt E x posure: Che mic al spills, splashe s, or v apor s c an
c au se burns, poison in g, or re spir ator y issues. PPE ac ts as a
barr ier to prev e nt dire c t c ontac t.
2. Minimiz e Risks: L ab ac c ide nts, in c lu ding fi re or ex plosion, c an
le ad to inju r ie s. PPE he lps re du c e th e se v e r ity of the se r isks.
3. Le gal Complian c e : O SHA (O c c u pational Safe ty and He alth
Administr ation) and othe r re gulator y bodie s re quire PPE in
e nv ironme nts w here w or ke r s are ex pose d to haz ardou s
c he mic als.
4. He alth and Safe ty: Re gu lar use of appropr iate PPE he lps
main tain the he alth of lab pe r son nel and e nsu res a safer
w or kin g e nv ironme nt.
Types of PPE in Chemistry Labs
1. G l o v e s :
- M a t e r i a l : L a t ex , n i t r i l e , a n d P V C a re c o m m o n l y u s e d , d e p e n d i n g o n t h e c h e m i c a l b e i n g
handled.
- Pu r p o s e : Pro t e c t s h a n d s f ro m c h e m i c a l b u rn s , c o n t a m i n a t i o n , a n d d i re c t c o n t a c t w i t h
h a z a rd o u s s u b s t a n c e s .
- W h e n t o U s e : A l w a y s w h e n h a n d l i n g c h e m i c a l s , e s p e c i a l l y c o rro s i v e s o r t ox i c s u b s t a n c e s .
2. Lab Coats:
- M a t e r i a l : Ty p i c a l l y m a d e f ro m fl a m e - re t a rd a n t c o t t o n o r s y n t h e t i c m a t e r i a l s .
- Pu r p o s e : Pro t e c t s c l o t h i n g a n d s k i n f ro m s p i l l s o r s p l a s h e s . I t a l s o p re v e n t s c o n t a m i n a t i o n o f
personal clothing by chemicals.
- When to Use: Always in the lab, especially when handling liquids or powders.
Types of PPE in Chemistry Labs
3 . G o g g l e s o r Fa c e S h i e l d s :
- Material: Clear plastic or polycarbonate.
- Pu r p o s e : Pro t e c t s e y e s f ro m c h e m i c a l s p l a s h e s , fl y i n g d e b r i s , o r v a p o r s t h a t c a n c a u s e
serious eye injuries.
- W h e n t o U s e : W h e n e v e r t h e re i s a r i s k o f s p l a s h e s o r a i r b o rn e p a r t i c l e s , e s p e c i a l l y w i t h
volatile chemicals.
4 . Re s p i r a t o r s :
- Ty p e s : H a l f- f a c e , f u l l - f a c e , o r p o w e re d a i r- p u r i fy i n g re s p i r a t o r s ( PA P R ) .
- Pu r p o s e : Pro t e c t s re s p i r a t o r y h e a l t h b y fi l t e r i n g h a z a rd o u s f u m e s , v a p o r s , a n d d u s t .
- W h e n t o U s e : Fo r h a n d l i n g v o l a t i l e s u b s t a n c e s l i ke s o l v e n t s , o r w h e n w o r k i n g i n p o o r l y
v e n t i l a t e d a re a s .
Types of PPE in Chemistry Labs
5. Footwear:
- Material: Closed-toe shoes or boots, usually made of rubber or
leather.
- Purpose: Protects feet from chemical spills or heavy objects.
- When to Use: Always wear sturdy footwear to protect your feet
from spills or falling objects.
Choosing the appropriate PPE depends on several factors:
1. Type of Chemicals: Diff erent chemicals have varying levels of
toxicity, reactivity, or corrosiveness. Always check the SDS (Safety
Data Sheets) for PPE recommendations specifi c to the chemicals you
are using.
2. Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential hazards—such as exposure
routes (skin, eyes, inhalation)—and select the PPE accordingly.
3. Fit and Comfort: PPE should be comfortable but snug. Ill-fi tting PPE
can be ineff ective and reduce its protective capabilities.
Selecting the Right PPE
1. Inspection: Regularly inspect PPE for signs of wear,
damage, or contamination.
2. Cleaning: Ensure PPE is cleaned according to
manufacturer instructions after use, especially when
handling chemicals that can leave residues.
3. Replacement: Replace damaged or worn-out PPE
immediately to maintain eff ectiveness.
Proper PPE Maintenance
It’s not enough to just have PPE. Workers must be trained
in:
1. Correct Usage: Understanding how to properly wear,
adjust, and remove PPE.
2. Maintenance: Knowing how to care for and inspect PPE to
ensure its longevity and safety.
3. Emergency Procedures: Being aware of the steps to take
if PPE is damaged or if an exposure occurs
Training and Education
Conclusion
To summarize, Personal Protective
Equipment is an essential aspect of
laboratory safety. By using the right PPE,
we can protect ourselves from the risks
associated with handling chemicals.
Always remember: PPE is your last line of
defense, so it’s important to use it
properly and consistently.
THANK YOU