Chemical Hygiene
The Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) establishes a formal written program for protecting laboratory personnel against adverse health and safety hazards associated with exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals and must be made available to all employees working with hazardous chemicals. The CHP describes the proper use and handling practices and procedures to be followed by faculty, staff, students, visiting scholars, and all other personnel working with potentially hazardous chemicals in laboratory settings. The CHP complies with the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Title 8, CCR §5191 Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories.
Peroxide-Forming Chemicals - Supplemental Guidance
Peroxide forming chemicals include substances that can react with air, moisture or product impurities, and undergo a change in their chemical composition during normal storage.
The peroxides that form are highly reactive and can explode upon shock or spark. Peroxides are not particularly volatile and thus tend to precipitate out of liquid solutions.
It is particularly dangerous to allow a container of these materials to evaporate to dryness, leaving the crystals of peroxide on the surfaces of the container.
If you see crystallization in the interior or on the exterior of a container, do not handle the chemical any further. Secure the immediate area around the chemical so that it is protected from any unnecessary movement or disturbances and immediately contact EH&S at 909-869-4697 for guidance on how to proceed.
Hazardous materials are used in a variety of different operations involving laboratories, shops, maintenance areas, storage areas and even offices. Since hazardous materials are used in many daily activities including consumer based products.
Manufacturers are required to provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) with any material they ship that identifies the hazards of that material and important considerations if spilled. SDS's should be maintained in each location where hazardous materials are present to allow employees the opportunity to reference that information before being exposed to that material or in the event of an emergency.
On-Campus Access to SDSs
The Chemical Hygiene Committee is tasked with making recommendations to EH&S regarding the development of chemical safety procedures and programs necessary to maintain a safe work environment and reduce the risk injury and illness.
Coordinate with EH&S to ensure your hazardous waste is generated in alignment with applicable regulations. Create a waste tag to ensure your waste is properly labeled. Mark your tags as ready for pickup to prompt EH&S for a pick-up.