Waste Management and Safety
Waste Management and Safety
Page 60
5940022WasteandSafety.fm
• Gloves to protect skin from toxic or corrosive materials, sharp objects, very
hot or very cold materials, or broken glass. Use tongs or finger cots when
transferring hot apparatus.
• Laboratory coats or splash aprons to protect skin and clothing from splashes.
• Footwear to protect feet from spills. Open toed shoes should not be worn in
chemistry settings.
• Respirators may be needed if adequate ventilation, such as fume hoods, are
not available. Use fume hoods when directed to do so by the procedure, or as
recommended in the MSDS. For many procedures, adequate ventilation is
enough if there is plenty of fresh air and air exhaust to protect against
unnecessary exposure to chemicals.
4.6.3 First Aid Equipment and Supplies
Most first aid instructions for chemical splashes in eyes or on skin call for
thorough flushing with water. Laboratories should have eyewash and shower
stations. For field work, carry a portable eyewash unit. Laboratories should also
have appropriate fire extinguishers and fume hoods.
4.6.4 General Safety Rules
Follow these rules when working with toxic and hazardous chemicals:
1. Never pipet by mouth. Always use a mechanical pipet or pipet bulb to avoid
ingesting chemicals.
2. Follow test procedures carefully and observe all precautionary measures.
Read the entire procedure before beginning.
3. Wipe up all spills promptly. Get proper training and have the right response
equipment to clean up spills. See your safety director for more information.
4. Do not smoke, eat, or drink in an area where toxic or irritating chemicals
are used.
5. Use reagents and equipment only as directed in the test procedure.
6. Do not use damaged labware and broken equipment.
7. Minimize all chemical exposures. Do not breathe vapors or let chemicals
touch your skin. Wash your hands after using chemicals.
8. Keep work areas neat and clean.
9. Do not block exits or access to emergency equipment.
4.7 Material Safety Data Sheets
Material safety data sheets (MSDS) describe the hazards of chemical products.
This section explains the information found on a Hach MSDS, and tells how to
locate important information for safety and waste disposal. The information
provided on the MSDS applies to the product as sold by Hach. The properties of
any mixtures obtained by using this product will be different.
4.7.1 How to Obtain an MSDS
Hach ships a MSDS to each customer with the first order of any chemical
product. A new MSDS may be sent when the information on the data sheet is
updated. Please review all new MSDS for new information. If you need another
copy of an MSDS, simply call 1-800-227-4224 or download directly from
www.hach.com/msdsinfo.htm.
To Next Page
Loading...
