Another thing to build on Janet’s note – along with the inventory training, stress the need to separate the chemicals according to compatibility and not mix, for instance, acids and bases, oxidizers with flammable chemicals, etc.  Many times I have seen in academic labs including high school and universities, a strong peroxide next to some very flammable organics.  The inventory is not always alphabetical.

 

The proper use of a lab hood is another bone of contention for me.  Clutter, storage of various organics and other chemicals, and improper staging of experiments is rife.  Usually the experiments are too close to the front, block the lower air foil, or the equipment is not off the floor of the hood to let air flow under it for proper exhaust.  The lower inside sash is often closed or blocked defeating the exhaust flow and creating a backflow under the front sash.  I could go on, but hood training is super important for the safety of the experimenter and those near by.

 

The proper use of PPE for whatever experiment is going on is often not enforced and possibly due to no training in school.  Using blast shields in the hood or on the desktop to protect the student and the others nearby is also often overlooked.

 

The ideas proffered previously have been very good.  As a former Cal/OSHA inspector and Safety Officer in a state lab, I have been appalled by some of the conditions found in various levels of schools and commercial labs where it was hazardous even to enter.

 

ACS has some publications concerning school safety that you could use.  OSHA and Cal/OSHA have regulations concerning laboratory safety.  Even though they may not be directed at schools (except for the staff personnel), the regulations have many parts directed to specific dangers and some general needs that have to be followed.  I might suggest that the OSHA Consultation Service could be a wonderful source for information, if for only their publications.

 

I wish you the best of luck with your search,

Kenneth Smith

Retired CIH

 

-----Original Message-----
From: DCHAS-L Discussion List [mailto:DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**list.uvm.edu] On Behalf Of Janet Baum
Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 9:16 AM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU
Subject: Re: [DCHAS-L] Chemistry Dept Lab Safety course

 

Be sure to have a learning unit on proper use and set up of chemical fume hoods!  Another important topic is chemical inventory control; this is not as important to students, during their training, but very important when they graduate and do research or teach others.