Microsoft Word - WaterChemistry

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The Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

Like the written hazard communication plan, the CHP covers procedures for protecting

employees from hazards and keeping exposures below permissible limits. But it's

more flexible so as to allow labs to adopt procedures for their individual needs. Any

CHP must include:

 Standard operating procedures for lab work using hazardous substances.

 How the company will determine and reduce employee exposure to hazardous

substances, examples, engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and

hygiene practices.

 Measures to ensure that fume hoods and other protective equipment function

properly.

 How the company will inform employees about potential health hazards and train

them to protect themselves.

 Circumstances in which a particular operation, procedure, or activity will have to

be pre-approved by the company.

 Provisions for medical consultation and medical examinations.

 Designation of personnel responsible for implementation of the CHP.

 Provisions for additional employee protection for work with particularly hazardous

substances.

Personal Protective Equipment
Always use assigned PPE and make sure it's in good condition. Types of PPE include
goggles or side shield safety glasses; gloves; long sleeves; lab coats, aprons, coveralls;
sturdy shoes; and respirators. Contact lenses could trap vapors-check with a safety
director before wearing them.

Lab Equipment
 Glassware can break, causing chemical contact or cuts:
 Use the right type of glass for the task.
 Discard chipped or cracked glassware.
 Don't use force on glassware.

Autoclaves and other heating equipment:
 Use tongs or heat-resistant gloves.

Electrical equipment creates electric shock hazard:
 Don't touch with wet hands or while standing on a wet floor.
 Report any incidents of shock.
 Don't attempt repairs unless you've been trained.

Centrifuges and other equipment with moving parts can catch or open suddenly:
 Keep clothing and long hair away from equipment.
 Make sure the load is balanced, top is locked, and movement has stopped before
opening. Compressed gas cylinders can explode or cause a fire; keep clean and
chained in place.