Chemical Hygiene Plan - Safety and Security Policy - 70190

• Protect faculty, staff, and students from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular laboratory.
• Keep potential hazardous chemical exposures to faculty, staff, and students below the OSHA permissible exposure levels (PEL) or as low as reasonably achievable.
  • See https://www.osha.gov/annotated-pels/table-z-1 for OSHA PEL table
• The Chemical Hygiene Plan is a living document designed to promote the health and safety of all at all college locations.  It should be regularly reviewed and updated as necessary.

This plan implements guidelines and work practices that are capable of protecting faculty, staff and students from health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals, organisms, or materials used in the laboratories. It is the basis for the Chemical Hygiene Plan to ensure the proper implementation of controls to protect the safety and health of every faculty, staff, and student. It is to be used in conjunction with the Hazard Communication Plan. Faculty, staff, and students may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, organisms, or materials in the course of their classes and all individuals with primary duties which involve laboratory operations are required to follow the provisions of this plan.

• Allergen: Substance causing altered body reactivity to a toxic substance in response to a first exposure.
• Chemical: means any substance, or mixture of substances.
• Chemical Hygiene Officer: means an employee who is designated by the employer, and who is qualified by training or experience, to provide technical guidance in the development and implementation of the provisions of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Chemical Hygiene Plan: means a written program developed and implemented by the employer which sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment and work practices that are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular workplace.
• Chemical name: means the scientific designation of a chemical in accordance with the nomenclature system developed by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) or the Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) rules of nomenclature, or a name that will clearly identify the chemical for the purpose of conducting a hazard classification.
• Container: means any bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum, reaction vessel, storage tank, or the like that contains hazardous chemicals.
• Corrosive chemical: Any chemical that degrades body tissue on contact and has a pH less than 2 and greater than 12.5.
• Embryotoxin: A harmful agent that retards the growth, or adversely affects the development of an unborn child.
• Emergency: means any occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers or failure of control equipment which results in an uncontrolled release of a hazardous chemical in the workplace.
• Employee: means a worker who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals under normal operating conditions or in foreseeable emergencies.
• Exposure or exposed: means that an employee is subjected in the course of employment to a chemical that is a physical or health hazard, and includes potential (e.g. accidental or possible) exposure. “Subjected” in terms of health hazards includes any route of entry (e.g. inhalation, ingestion, skin contact or absorption.)
• Foreseeable emergency: means any potential occurrence such as, but not limited to, equipment failure, rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment which could result in an uncontrolled release of a hazardous chemical into the workplace.
• Hazard class: means the nature of the physical or health hazards, e.g. flammable solid, carcinogen, oral acute toxicity.
• Hazard category: means the division of criteria within each hazard class. These categories compare hazard severity within a hazard class and should not be taken as a comparison of hazard categories more generally.
• Hazardous chemical: means any chemical which is classified as health hazard or simple asphyxiant in accordance with the Hazard Communication Standard (§1910.1200)
• Hazard statement: means a statement assigned to a hazard class and category that describes the nature of the hazard(s) of a chemical, including, where appropriate, the degree of hazard.
• Health Hazard: means a chemical that is classified as posing one of the following hazardous effects: Acute toxicity (any route of exposure); skin corrosion or irritation; serious eye damage or eye irritation; respiratory or skin sensitization; germ cell mutagenicity; carcinogenicity; reproductive toxicity; specific target organ toxicity (single or repeated exposure); aspiration hazard.
• Label: means an appropriate group of written, printed or graphic information elements concerning a hazardous chemical that is affixed to, printed on, or attached to the immediate container of a hazardous chemical, or to the outside packaging.
• Laboratory: means a facility where the “laboratory use of hazardous chemicals” occurs and small quantities of hazardous chemicals are used on a non-production basis.
• Laboratory scale: means work with substances in which the containers used for reactions, transfers, and other handling of substances are designed to be easily and safely manipulated by one person.
• Laboratory use of hazardous chemicals: means handling or use of such chemicals in which the following conditions are met:
  • Chemical manipulations are carried out on a “laboratory scale;”
  • Multiple chemical procedures or chemicals are used;
  • The procedures involved are not part of a production process, nor in any way simulate a production process; and
  • “Protective laboratory practices and equipment” are available and in common use to minimize the potential for employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Mixture: means a combination or a solution composed of two or more substances in which they do not react.
• Mutagen: means chemicals that cause permanent changes in the amount or structure of the genetic material in a cell.
• Oxidizer: A chemical that ignites or promotes combustion in other materials, thereby causing fire either to itself or through the release of oxygen or other gases.
• Oxidizing agent: Oxygen-containing material which can decompose, generating oxygen.
• Physical Hazard: means a chemical that is classified as posing one of the following hazardous effects: Explosive; flammable (gases, aerosols, liquids, or solids); oxidizer (liquid, solid, or gas); self reactive; pyrophoric (gas. liquid, or solid); self-heating; organic peroxide; corrosive to metal; gas under pressure; in contact with water emits flammable gas; or combustible dust.
• Precautionary statement: means a phrase that describes recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous chemical, or improper storage or handling.
• Protective laboratory practices and equipment: means those laboratory procedures, practices and equipment accepted by laboratory health and safety experts as effective, or that the employer can show to be effective, in minimizing the potential for employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Reproductive toxins: means chemicals that affect the reproductive capabilities including adverse effects on sexual function and fertility in adult males and females, as well as adverse effects on the development of the offspring.
• Responsible party: means someone who can provide additional information on the hazardous chemical and appropriate emergency procedures, if necessary.
• Safety data sheet (SDS): means written or printed material concerning a hazardous chemical
• Select carcinogen: means any substance which meets one of the following criteria:
  • It is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen; or
  • It is listed under the category, “known to be carcinogens” in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program (NTP); or
  • It is listed under Group 1 (“carcinogenic to humans”) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer Monographs (IARC); or
  • It is listed in either Group 2A or 2B by IARC or under the category, “reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens by NTP, and causes significant tumor incidence in experimental animals in accordance with any of the following criteria:
    • After inhalation exposure 6-7 hours per day, 5 days per week, for a significant portion of a lifetime to dosages of less than 10 mg/m³;
    • After repeated skin application of less than 300 (mg/kg of body weight) per week; or
    • After oral dosages of less than 50 mg/kg of body weight per day.
• Substance: means chemical elements and their compounds in the natural state or obtained by any production process.
• Teratogen: An agent or factor that causes malformation of an embryo.
• Water reactive: A chemical that reacts with water to release a gas that is either flammable or presents a health hazard.

• General Safety rules
  • Used equipment, chemicals, and supplies should not be left on bench tops or in fume hoods.  Return used apparatus to designated storage area.
  • Keep all equipment, supplies, chemicals, etc. away from the bench edge.
    • Equipment and supplies should not block access to fire extinguishers, safety showers, eyewash fountains, or other emergency equipment.
  • Keep aisles, walkways, and exit doorways clear, dry, and free of obstruction.
  • Lab class size should not exceed 24 students to enable the instructor to give appropriate attention to each student and reduce the risk of injury during lab.
    • All students are required to read and sign a safety contract for each science course they are enrolled in at the beginning of each semester.
    • All instructors are required to read and sign the safety contract for every course they are teaching for the semester.
  • Keep drawers and cabinet doors closed when not in use.
  • Do not eat or smoke in the laboratory or use laboratory glassware as containers for food or beverages.
    • Do not store food in laboratory refrigerators.
    • Do not bring food or drink into the laboratory.
    • Do not use laboratory microwaves to heat food to be consumed.
  • Follow all safety instructions carefully as provided by each instructor.
  • Do not work alone in the laboratory.
  • Perform only authorized experiments. Instructors who are responsible for experiments must inform others in the immediate area of any potential hazards.
  • Do not smell or taste any chemicals.
  • Never leave an open flame unattended.  Make sure all flames and hot plates are extinguished or turned off at the end of class.  
    • If the room must be evacuated for any reason (tornado warning, fire drill, etc) extinguish all flames and turn off all hot plates.
  • Immediately report all accidents and unusual occurrences.
  • All lab participants should be aware of the location of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and should have access to them during the lab.
  • Horseplay cannot be tolerated in any laboratory, science classroom, or where any chemicals or organisms are stored and/or used.  
  • Location signs for safety showers, eyewash stations, first aid kits, and other safety equipment, exits, and storage areas should be posted.
  • Warning signs designating restricted areas or hazardous chemicals/equipment should also be posted.
  • Do not pipette by mouth.
  • The Science Department does not rent its lab space, models, equipment, etc. to outside organizations.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be provided in all classrooms where it is needed and worn when appropriate by instructors, students, and any visitors.
    • This can include gloves, goggles, aprons, face shields, etc
    • Use PPE that is designated for the task being performed.
    • PPE is available for any Service Dog attending a science class.  The service dog must wear goggles; wearing the lab coat is optional.
  • Students and instructors should dress appropriately for the laboratory setting.
    • Shoes should be closed toed shoes with no open backs or holes. The shoe should cover the entire foot.  
    • Long hair should be tied back.
    • Baggy clothing or dangling jewelry should either be secured or removed while working in the lab.
    • Long pants should be worn.
  • When working with chemicals, students should avoid wearing contact lenses as this will impede efforts to rinse the eyes if a chemical splash occurs.
• Building Maintenance & Safety
  • Building mechanical and fire safety systems must be operable and provide a high level of protection to building occupants and equipment.
  • Buildings must be equipped with appropriate safety equipment such as showers, eye wash stations, fire extinguishers, fume hoods, biological safety cabinets, and first aid kits.
  • Ventilation
    • Adequate ventilation must be provided.  The best way to prevent exposure to airborne substances is to prevent mists, fumes, gases, etc. from getting into the working atmosphere or a person’s breathing zone in unsafe concentrations by use of hoods, exhaust, fans, or other ventilation.
    • General air flow in the classroom should be maintained to promote comfort and air exchange.  
    • All work involving hazardous chemicals should be performed under the fume hood.
    • Fume hoods should be monitored to ensure they are functioning properly and checked on a regular basis.
    • Do not use any equipment if it is not functioning properly.
• Chemicals
  • Storage
    • Chemical storage follows the Flinn Scientific Chemical Storage Plan, which groups chemicals into organic and inorganic chemical families
      • If the chemical has a characteristic hazard, it should be stored in the appropriate protective cabinet with chemicals in the same family.
      • If a chemical is peroxide-forming, it will be tested three times a year (March, July, and November) for the presence of peroxide with peroxide test strips.
        • If a chemical tests at a concentration greater than 100 mg/L for peroxide, it is to be isolated in a locked cabinet immediately and disposed of as hazardous waste by a professional company.
        • Peroxide-forming chemicals should be purchased in small quantities to avoid the potential for peroxide formation.
    • Do not store chemicals in the fume hood or on top of a cabinet.
      • Hazardous chemicals should be segregated in an area with proper ventilation, containment, and emergency equipment available. Containers should be examined regularly for deterioration or other abnormal features.
      • Use secondary containment to segregate when space is limited.
  • Clean up dropped or spilled material immediately.  Place all waste in appropriate waste containers.
  • Chemical spills should be neutralized and cleaned up immediately.
    • Chemical spill kits are available under the sink in each lab along with instructions for use.
  • Keep compressed gas cylinders secured by using a chain, strap, or stand to prevent tipping or falling.
    • Identify the contents with a legible label.
    • Do not expose to temperatures above 125°C or 51.7°C.
    • Use a cart to move.
    • Do not lubricate, modify, or tamper with the cylinder valve.
  • Germanna does not accept donated chemicals from outside sources, nor does it donate chemicals to outside sources.
• Chemical preparation
  • All chemical solutions must be prepared under a fume hood.
  • Proper PPE must be worn when preparing the solution.
  • The solution must be transferred to an appropriate container with labeling as follows:
    • Written name of the solution and concentration (no abbreviations).
    • Storage code of the solution.
    • Date solution was made.
    • Initials of the person who prepared the solution.
    • Warning labels that denote any hazards (flammable, corrosive, etc).
  • Wash hands once preparation is complete.
  • Clean the equipment used to prepare the chemical and the area where the preparation occurred.
• Chemical waste disposal
  • Germanna is classified as a Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG) meaning:
    • GCC produces less than 100 kg of non-acute waste/month.
    • GCC produces less than 1 kg of acute waste/month.
  • Waste is not to be evaporated in fume hoods.  Proper disposal of chemicals involves:
    • If the waste’s only characteristic is corrosive it can be neutralized and disposed down the drain. Record the type and amount of waste that was neutralized.  Follow the procedure below for neutralization.
      • The neutralization process must be done in the fume hood and while using the appropriate PPE.
      • Before starting the neutralization process first determine if the waste is acid or base based on the pH.
        • Based on the results, choose the appropriate chemical to neutralize the acid or base.
      • In a 2 L beaker add approximately 200 mL of the waste and then dilute, to 1.6 L by adding water.
        • Add the water first to the beaker, followed by the acid or base.
      • Add a couple of drops of 1% Phenolphthalein (indicator).
      • Start adding the acid or the base neutralizer while stirring the waste.
      • Once the waste is neutralized, the indicator will change from bright pink to a faint pink or clear.
      • Using pH strips check if the pH is between 5 and 8.
      • Dispose of the waste down the drain while the water runs.
      • Record the information on the waste neutralization and disposal sheet.
    • Waste that cannot be neutralized must be transported to the Waste Accumulation Site to await professional disposal.  Follow the Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedure for this waste.
  • Containers for waste disposal
    • All empty chemical containers should be saved and used to store chemical waste.
      • For chemical containers where the rinsate would not be considered hazardous waste, wash and rinse the container three times.  Leave to dry.
      • For chemical containers where the rinsate would be considered listed chemical waste (P or U listed), do not rinse the container.  Use it to store compatible P or U listed waste only.  Leave the container in the fume hood until it can be used, then follow the Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedure for any waste added to this container.
      • For chemical containers that held acids or bases, rinse the container three times and neutralize the rinsate.
      • For chemical containers where the rinsate would be considered characteristic hazardous waste (flammable, toxic, and/or reactive) rinse the container three times and treat the rinsate as hazardous waste.
      • For a chemical container where the rinsate would be considered hazardous waste but the container will be used immediately to store compatible waste, rinsing is not necessary.  
        • Example: A Gram’s iodine solution bottle was emptied.  There is stain waste from microbiology that includes Gram’s iodine and other compatible stains.  The empty solution bottle does not need to be rinsed; use it to store the stain waste immediately.  Rinsing would produce more waste unnecessarily, since the rinsate would need to be saved as hazardous waste.
      • Deface label on all containers intended to store waste.
    • Paper and electronic copies of the chemical waste stored in the Waste Accumulation Site should be kept up to date.
    • The Lab Manager should coordinate with the Director of Facilities for waste removal and disposal.  The Lab Manager is responsible for obtaining a quote and submitting it to the Director of Facilities.  The Lab Manager schedules waste pick-up.
  • Waste disposal after a class
    • An appropriately labeled waste container will be placed on the lab cart for every lab that produces waste.
    • Instructors are to deposit all waste in this container during or after lab.
    • The container should be placed in the waste storage hood, which is labeled for this purpose.
    • More than one waste container may be needed for a lab.  If another container is needed:
      • Obtain a glass beaker and label it with:
        • Class information (Course, instructor, etc)
        • The name of the lab experiment that produced the waste.
      • Place the extra waste in the waste storage hood.
• Spill Clean-up
  • Spill kits are in every classroom and prep room, with instructions.
    • Follow the instructions on spill clean-up that are posted under the sink with the spill kit.
  • All materials used to clean up spills (paper towels, spill kit absorbents, etc) are considered hazardous waste.  Please notify lab technicians when a spill occurs so they can dispose of clean-up materials appropriately.
  • During lab safety inspections spill kit components should be checked.  If they have solidified or are spoiled in any way they should be replaced.
• Waste Removal
  • Chemical waste is to be removed from the waste accumulation site by a professional waste disposal company at least once a year, more frequently if necessary.
• Organisms
  • Follow established safety protocols when handling live organisms.
    • Aseptic techniques are to be used for any work involving bacteria.
    • Any work with BSL-2 organisms must be conducted under a biological safety cabinet.
      • If a biological safety cabinet is unavailable, the work may be performed on a counter top if appropriate administrative controls are in place.
    • PPE must be worn when working with live organisms.
  • Be respectful of dead organisms used for dissection or observation.
• Microbiology: Inoculations
  • Label container with date, type of media, name of species, and name of instructor who requested the bacteria.
  • Clean the biological safety cabinet with Cavicide, turn on UV light, and let cabinet bathe for 15 min.
  • Proper PPE must be worn by the employee performing the inoculation – lab coat, goggles, and gloves.
  • Use proper aseptic techniques when transferring bacteria.
  • Discard gloves into a biological waste container to be autoclaved.
  • Wash hands and put on new gloves.
  • Clean the biological safety cabinet with Cavicide, turn on UV light, and let cabinet bathe for 15 min.
  • Place cultures in incubator set to correct temperature.
• Microbiology: Waste disposal
  • All microbiological waste must be autoclaved.  Waste includes all bacterial cultures as well as any objects that have been in contact with bacteria.
    • If material is disposable, put in an autoclave bag, close when full, and seal with autoclave tape.  Autoclave the bag in the floor autoclave.  Bags can be discarded in trash upon completion of the cycle.
    • Reusable materials, such as vials or test tubes, can be autoclaved in the counter autoclave.  Loosen caps before starting the autoclave cycle.  Upon completion, pour contents into the trash can, rinse the vial or tube, and put in the sterilizer.
  • All chemicals and stains used for staining should be treated as hazardous waste.  Save all staining materials and pour into the labeled waste bottle.  Follow the protocol outlined in the Hazardous Waste Disposal Procedure for labeling and storing waste.
  • Follow additional instructions from Lab Manager or Lab Technician regarding any biological waste not addressed above.
• Safety station checks
  • Every week the Lab Manager will check the safety showers and eye wash stations at each campus, or designate the task to a lab technician.
  • Eye wash and showers should be run for 20 – 30 seconds to ensure water flow.  If more than a week has passed between checks the water should run for a longer period.
  • The date of the safety station check should be recorded on the sheet located near each safety shower.
  • Any problems or reasons why the shower could not be checked should also be recorded.
• Student injury
  • In the event of an accident in which a student is injured, attend to the injured student first.  This could include getting them to an eye wash station, under the safety shower, or any other type of first aid care.
  • While the student is attending to their injury, look up the SDS for any chemicals involved in the accident.
    • Follow the instructions on the SDS that correspond to the injury.
  • Lab partners should be active participants in assisting their injured partner – whether it is helping the student to a safety station, monitoring their behavior, or informing the instructor of the chemicals that were being used at the time of the accident.
  • Campus Police should be immediately notified of the incident.
    • Pursuant to State Risk Management Policy and OSHA guideline, the Campus Police must investigate the accident/injury and complete a report; information specific to the incident must be provided.
    • This can include identity and amount of chemical used, an SDS, details, and other causative factors for how the accident occurred.
    • Campus Police must be called for all accidents – even minor injuries.
• Chemical Inventory 
  • Once a year a full check of the chemical inventory must be conducted at all campuses.  This is to ensure that the chemicals currently in stock match the chemicals listed in the chemical inventory spreadsheet.  Employees will be assigned sections to conduct an inventory check.
    • Upon completion of the chemical inventory employees will audit each other, checking 10% of the chemicals inventoried by their colleague.  If there are errors in 50% or more of the audited subsample, a more detailed audit must be conducted.
  • The chemical inventory must be updated every time a chemical is added or removed.
• Shutdown Procedure
  • Shutdown procedure must be performed after Fall and Spring semesters at all campuses.
    • Reference the spreadsheet on Teams for tasks that must be completed.
• Procurement, storage, inventory
  • Procurement
    • Before ordering a new chemical, check the inventory to be certain ordering is necessary.
    • Order quantities that will be used up in a timely manner. If the chemical is used very frequently a larger amount may be ordered.
      • For peroxide formers limit purchase to what will be used within six months. Segregate from other compounds and visually inspect the container before handling it.
  • Storage
    • When the chemical arrives, label the container with the date it was received and its storage code.  Check that any other characteristics (flammable, corrosive, etc) are easily identified on the container and label if not.
    • Date when the container is opened.
  • Inventory
    • Discard the chemical when it has expired.  If no expiration date, assess the chemical yearly to determine if it should be discarded.  Typically, chemicals can be discarded after 3 – 5 years.
    • Update the inventory every time a new chemical is added or removed.

• Elimination
  • Physically remove any hazards from the college that include:
    • Chemicals that have expired, are in poor condition, or have damaged bottles and/or labels.
    • Equipment that no longer functions.
    • PPE that is damaged and can no longer protect the wearer.
• Substitution
  • If a hazardous chemical can be replaced with a less hazardous chemical without affecting the quality of the experiment or creating a new hazard, it should be done.
• Engineering controls
  • Fume hoods should be used to protect students and instructors from chemical fumes, reactions, and other hazards.
  • Biosafety cabinets should be used to protect students and instructors from biological exposure and hazards.
  • Doors to chemical storage cabinets should remain closed when not in use.  Chemical cabinets should be locked if lab personnel are absent for more than three days.
  • Doors to lab prep rooms should always remain locked.
• Administrative controls
  • Instructors will inform students of all the safety procedures associated with each experiment.
  • Instructors will explain all experimental protocols to students.
  • Instructors will explain all hazards associated with the experiment and appropriate measures that should be taken if exposure occurs.
  • Students and instructors will read and sign a safety contract for each science class they are enrolled in or teaching at the beginning of each semester.
    • The safety contract may be amended as needed before the semester begins.  No changes will be made to the contract during the semester.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Goggles, gloves, and aprons should be worn when working with chemicals or biological agents.
  • All PPE must be removed prior to exiting the lab and put back on upon re-entry.
  • Gloves should be disposed of after use.  If biological agents were handled, gloves should be discarded in an autoclave bag.
  • Goggles should be sterilized after every class.
  • PPE should be examined for damage and replaced if necessary.

• Only use equipment for the purpose it was intended.
• Clean all equipment after use and store appropriately.
• If any equipment looks to be damaged, chipped (in the case of glassware), or is not functioning properly, discontinue use immediately and set equipment aside to be inspected by the lab manager/technician.
• First aid kits
  • First Aid kits will be checked twice a year to ensure they contain adequate supplies and no expired materials.
    • Instructors are to report any use of the First Aid kit to treat an injury to Campus Police.
    • Instructors are encouraged to report the use of the First Aid kit to the lab technicians so they may re-supply the kits.
• Fume hoods
  • Fume hoods will be visually inspected twice a year for damage.
  • Every two years fume hoods are officially inspected by a licensed company.
• Fire extinguishers
  • Fire extinguishers are inspected regularly by the Facilities Department.

• Employees will renew their hazardous waste disposal training every 2 – 4 years, the type and source to be determined by the lab manager.
  • All science staff (lab manager, lab technicians, etc) must complete hazardous waste management and training with a licensed, reputable company.
    • Refresher training should be provided whenever a new hazard is introduced either from a change in protocol, equipment, or chemical.
• Employees should know the signs and symptoms of exposure for the chemical they are working with.
• Employees will be informed when a new chemical is introduced, a protocol is changed, a new piece of equipment is installed, or when any other change that could affect the health and safety of the employee or student is implemented.
• All Safety Data Sheets for chemicals used in all labs will be entered into the Germanna KHA database.  The KHA icon is installed on all lectern computers on the desktop for easy access.  
• Science staff should update the faculty on new safety protocols, requirements, and any changes to lab procedures or protocols on a yearly basis.

• New experiment
  • Prior to the introduction of a new experiment, a list of the chemicals to be used must be provided to the lab manager.
    • The lab manager will assess any new chemicals required in the experiment according to the following:
      • Is the chemical very reactive, carcinogenic, or extremely hazardous in some way?
      • Does the chemical require special storage beyond what is available in the lab?
      • Does the chemical require a waste disposal process beyond what is already practiced?
      • Is this a one-time experiment, with no intention of repeating it in future semesters?
    • If the answer to any of the questions is “yes” the experiment cannot proceed.
      • If an acceptable substitute to the hazardous chemical is found, the experiment may proceed after the lab manager assesses the new chemical.
  • A list of any new equipment the experiment requires must be provided to the lab manager.
    • The lab manager will assess any new equipment required according to the following:
      • Will purchasing the new equipment be supported by the department’s budget?
      • Is there an appropriate place to store the equipment that will ensure it stays in prime condition?
      • Is the new equipment appropriate for the experiment being proposed?
      • Are there multiple uses for the equipment, or is it designed solely for the experiment being proposed?
      • Does the new equipment have a high maintenance or service cost?
      • Can the equipment be purchased with a grant?
    • A decision on whether the department can purchase and maintain the new equipment based on the answers to the above questions will be made after discussion with the Dean of Science and Technology.
  • The new experiment will be evaluated to determine if extra safety precautions are needed, or if changes to existing precautions are required.
    • The Lab Manager will assess any hazardous chemicals required by the proposed experiment and determine if there is an appropriate substitution that can be made to reduce any risk associated with handling the chemical.
    • The Lab Manager will assess the engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE needed to safely conduct the proposed experiment.
      • If the college is unable to provide the necessary controls or PPE, the experiment cannot proceed.
• Change in protocol for current experiment
  • Before the protocol for an experiment can be changed, a draft of the new protocol must be submitted to the Lab Manager.
    • The Lab Manager will review the protocol for the following:
      • Does the new protocol change the way a piece of equipment is used?
      • Does the new protocol change the measurements of a particular chemical that is being used?
        • Will the new volume/weight of the chemical effect how it will be used with any equipment?
      • Does the protocol accurately address any safety issues?
        • Is the college able to equip the students so they are protected from any hazards or safety concerns?
• Reinstating a previously discontinued experiment
  • Experiments that have not been conducted for several semesters, but are to be reinstated will undergo the prior approval process if:
    • The chemicals associated with the experiment have been discarded due to expiration or other factors making the chemical unfit for use.
      • Chemicals with no expiration date will be discarded after 3 – 5 yrs depending on the condition of the chemical, its packaging, and label.
    • There is an intention to change the protocol or equipment used.
• Items brought into the lab from outside the college
  • Instructors are free to bring supplies into the lab to supplement their teaching as long as the items:
    • Can be bought over the counter at a retail store.
    • Are not chemicals.
    • Can be safely handled by the students using the current engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE that are already in place.
    • Are models, pictures, non-poisonous/non-toxic/non-allergenic plants.
    • Will not be used for consumption.
    • Are disposed of in the lab (if a food item) once the experiment is complete.

• Employees should know the signs and symptoms of exposure for the chemical they are working with.
• If exposure happens, employees should follow the protocols listed on the SDS.
  • Follow the instructions on the SDS if exposed to a chemical.
  • If symptoms persist additional medical attention should be sought immediately.
  • The incident should be reported to Campus Police and the employee’s supervisor as soon as possible.

• College Safety Manager
  • The designated College Safety Manager is the Chief of Campus Police.
  • Works with the Lab Manager to ensure an optimal safety environment exists in the college’s laboratories.
  • Obtain a yearly update of the chemical inventory from the Lab Manager.
  • Keeps local first responders up-to-date on the chemical inventory, contingency plan, and any changes made to either the inventory or contingency plan.
• Dean of Science & Technology and Science Department Chairs
  • Support the Chemical Hygiene Plan and its implementation.
• Director of Facilities
  • Assists the Lab Manager to ensure that fume hoods are properly maintained and monitored.
  • Ensures fire extinguishers are up to date.
  • Coordinates with the Lab Manager on chemical disposal.
• Chemical Hygiene Officer
  • The Chemical Hygiene Officer is the Lab Manager.
    • Responsible for the development and implementation of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
      • Oversees the annual review of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
        • Involves direct reports in the review process.
    • Ensures that all training is kept up to date and coordinates new training as needed.
    • Coordinates chemical inventory audits
      • Is the repository for the complete chemical inventory and distributes to the Dean of Science & Technology, Facilities Director, Chief of Campus Police, Department Chairs and other employees as necessary.
    • Periodically checks the Hazardous Waste Accumulation site and checks that all requirements are fulfilled as listed in the Accumulation Site log.
    • Coordinates chemical disposal with a certified company and the Director of Facilities.
• Lab Manager & Lab Technicians
  • Ensure that everyone knows and follows safety procedures for the specific activity taking place.
  • Safety showers and eyewash stations
    • Performs a check of the safety showers and eye wash stations on a weekly basis and records check on the log posted by the stations as outlined in the Standard Operating Procedures section.
  • Provide regular chemical and safety housekeeping inspections of each area.
    • Ensure equipment is functioning properly.
      • Schedule service for any equipment that is broken or malfunctioning.
      • Follow-up on equipment that has recently been serviced to make sure all problems are addressed, and the equipment is functioning correctly.
    • Ensure chemicals are correctly stored, labeled, and disposed of.
    • Ensure First Aid kits are stocked with up-to-date supplies, and all safety equipment is in good condition.
  • Keep quantities of hazardous materials at a minimum.
    • Purchase only the quantities which are most likely to be fully used.
    • Monitor the use of chemicals and hold discussions with instructors if chemical usage in the classroom exceeds the amounts required in the experimental protocol.
  • Establish and maintain a depository of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals, organisms, and products used in the laboratory.
  • Keep an up-to-date inventory of all chemicals and organisms stored on site.
  • Conduct a yearly audit of lab chemicals.  The Lab Manager and Lab Technician are responsible for auditing each other.
  • Performs a cursory inspection of the Hazardous Waste Accumulation site to ensure there are no leaks, damaged bottles, missing labels, etc.
    • This can be done when new waste is added to the Accumulation site.
  • Supply all student workers with the Chemical Hygiene Plan and Hazard Communication Plan to review and ensure they have received adequate training for handling hazardous chemicals.
• Instructor
  • Know the current requirements for all chemicals used in the laboratory.  The instructor must know the current product information on proper use, storage, handling, and disposal.
  • Ensure that students know and follow all safety procedures for the specific activities taking place.
    • Ensure all students read and sign the safety contract.
    • Signs the safety contract themselves, for every course that is taught.
    • Enforces PPE requirements and wears PPE during lab.
    • Ensures that no food and drink are brought into the lab.
  • Participate in a yearly review of safety protocols led by the Lab Manager.
  • Inform the Lab Manager/Lab Technician if a chemical is not properly labeled.
  • Notify the Lab Manager or Lab Technician of anything that is not functioning properly or does not seem correct.
• Students
  • Know and follow the safety procedures as detailed by the instructor.
    • Wear PPE when necessary.
      • Remove PPE before leaving the classroom for any reason (restroom visit, phone call, end of class, etc).
  • Notify the instructor if something seems incorrect or dangerous.
  • Inform the instructor if your lab partner becomes injured and assist the instructor in treating the injured party (taking partner to the eye wash station, obtaining the First Aid kit, etc).
  • Assist in keeping the classroom clean and safe – this includes wiping down balances, keeping the work space organized, wiping down work stations after the lab is complete, and informing the instructor of any spills.
  • Sign safety contract for all sciences classes at the beginning of the semester and adhere to the rules outlined in the contract.

11. Protecting employees and students from particularly hazardous substances

• Minimize Exposure
  • Minimize all chemical and bacterial exposure by taking precautions based on the chemical or material being worked with.
    • Ensure the hierarchy of controls has been followed: elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
    • Use fume hoods that provide adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling vapors and biological safety cabinets to provide protection from bacteria cultures.
  • Be aware of OSHA permissible exposure levels (PEL) https://www.osha.gov/annotated-pels/table-z-1
  • Conduct periodic spot checks of lab facilities to ensure that these actions are implemented.
• Minimize Risk
  • Know all hazards associated with the chemical or organism that is being used.
  • Presume all chemicals and organisms are hazardous, even if there is no indication that a hazard exists and take appropriate precautions.
  • Make sure the location of all safety and emergency equipment is known.
  • Elimination
    • All chemicals that are not needed for experiments should be removed and disposed of.  Chemicals should not be stockpiled or purchased because they might be needed down the road.
    • If the dangers of using a chemical or substance are too great, and no substitute is available, the experiment should not proceed.
  • Substitution
    • All attempts should be made to determine if a safe substitute is available for all experiments.
  • Engineering controls
    • Lab and prep room doors should remain locked when not in use.
    • All chemicals and chemical waste should be stored in appropriate chemical cabinets.
    • Chemical cabinets should be locked when employees are absent from the premises for more than three days.
  • Administrative controls
    • No food and drink should be brought into the lab space.
    • Tie back all long hair.
    • Cell phones should be put away during lab.  If a cell phone is needed for a lab exercise involving chemicals or bacteria, it should be put in a Ziploc bag to prevent transfer and discarded afterwards.
    • All work should be conducted under a fume hood or biological safety cabinet when possible.
    • Wash hands after preparing chemical solutions, handling bacteria, or performing lab experiments.
  • PPE
    • Lab coats, goggles, and gloves should be made available to all staff and students.
      • All PPE will be maintained and replaced as necessary.
    • Safety showers and eye wash stations will be checked weekly.
• Minimize Waste
  • Students should follow all instructions to avoid repeating parts of an experiment and generating more waste.
  • Instructors should make all attempts to minimize waste generated by their experiments.
  • The lab manager and lab technicians should purchase materials/solutions in quantities that are most likely to be fully used to limit the generation of waste.