· Work area:
o Keep the work area clean and uncluttered.
o Never play practical jokes or engage in horseplay.
o Always use adequate safety measures and never leave the following unattended:
§ Ongoing chemical reactions in laboratories
§ Exposed sharps (needles, razor blades, etc.)
§ Energized electrical, mechanical, or heating equipment
· Chemical storage and inventory:
o Follow chemical storage and compatibility guidelines.
o Maintain lean, well managed chemical inventories to avoid fire code violations and subsequent inventory reduction measures.
· Corridors:
o Keep corridors free of hazardous materials at all times, without exception.
§ See Corridor Safety Requirements.
§ Note: There are provisions to allow specific non-hazardous materials to be stored in exit corridors. Such items must be seismically secured and pre-approved by Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S).
§ Contact one of the following for more information:
§ EH&S Chemical Hygiene Officer, (858) 822-1579
§ Labs: Research Assistance Program
§ Shop or studio: EH&S General Safety, (858) 534-7513
Communicate hazards to everyone in the facility.
· Post:
o Warning signs near any dangerous equipment, reactions, or conditions
o A list of chemical abbreviations (PDF) (Word) used on chemical container labels (including hazardous waste) near the lab entrance
o Personal protective equipment requirements for entering the facility, if applicable
· Label all containers.
· Keep containers closed except when in use, including hazardous waste containers.
Follow basic safety procedures.
· Evaluate the hazards:
o Read the Safety Data Sheet (formerly called Material Safety Data Sheets) before beginning work with a chemical.
o Follow hazard control plans for extremely hazardous materials.
§ Pay particular attention to control measures for chemicals that are known to be particularly high hazard or chemical carcinogens.
· Never underestimate risk.
o Do not pipette by mouth.
o Never smell chemicals to identify them.
o Assume that:
§ Any mixture will be more hazardous than its most toxic component
§ All substances of unknown toxicity are highly toxic
· Be aware of electrical hazards.
o Keep electrical panels clearly visible and unobstructed.
o Know how your circuits are labeled so equipment can be de-energized quickly in an emergency.
o Never use extension cords as permanent wiring. Unplug them at the end of the workday.
o Mount multi-plug adaptors a few inches off the floor to avoid possible water damage.
o Never use multi-plug adaptors in series.
o Replace any damaged or frayed electrical cords immediately.
· Do not eat, drink, store food, smoke, or apply cosmetics in areas where chemicals are in use except in clearly marked Clean Areas. Wash your hands frequently and before eating.
· Keep loose hair tied back.
