Polycarbonate (Lexan) is always a better choice as it is both stronger and less likely to fracture as does plexiglass (acrylic). That being said, a shield is really only as strong as it's supporting structure and portable shields (I.e. that can be moved around) are really often useless except to protect against vacuum implosion and minor splashes. Even broken glass, while it won't penetrate, will often cause them to tip over. And of course, none of them provide any realistic fire protection.

I would suggest your boss read and take to heart he NPFA 45 guidance on the subject noting particularly the requirements highlighted in red.

12.3.2 Performance of Experiments or Demonstrations.

12.3.2.1 Experiments or demonstrations for students involving

open flames or fire, or the use of flammable, reactive, toxic, or

corrosive materials, shall be performed by a knowledgeable

instructor and in accordance with 12.3.2.1.1, and 12.3.2.1.2,

12.3.2.1.3, or 12.3.2.1.4.

12.3.2.1.1 Experiments or demonstrations shall be performed

in a location that does not block access to the primary means of

egress from the laboratory work area.

12.3.2.1.2 Experiments or demonstrations that involve or

produce hazardous quantities of fumes, vapors, particulates, or

gases shall be performed in a chemical fume hood or other

ventilation device, including demonstration hoods or other

devices that meet the requirements of 2.1.1 of ANSI/AIHA

Z9.5, Laboratory Ventilation, that is able to capture the materials

being evolved.

12.3.2.1.3 Experiments or demonstrations involving chemicals

that are performed outside a fume hood where the separation

distance in 12.3.2.1.4 is not possible shall be performed

behind an impact-resistant plastic or tempered-glass safety

shield that meets both of the following:

(1) The shield shall be at least 0.610 m (24 in.) high and shall

wrap 180 degrees around the hazard or extend at least

0.305 m (12 in.) beyond the hazard in both directions.

(2) The shield shall be secured to the work surface with bolts

or clamps to keep it in place.

12.3.2.1.4 Experiments or demonstrations involving chemicals

that are performed outside a fume hood where a shield is not

utilized shall be performed in a location that is at least 3.05 m

(10 ft) from students.

•

12.3.2.2 In educational and instructional laboratories where

experiments are conducted by students, the instructor shall be

responsible for conducting a safety briefing prior to the start of

each experiment to review the hazards of the chemicals used,

the personal protective equipment required for

Richard Palluzi

PE, CSP

Pilot plant and laboratory consulting, safety, design,reviews, and training

www.linkedin.com/in/richardppalluzillc/

Richard P Palluzi LLC

72 Summit Drive

Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

rpalluzi**At_Symbol_Here**verizon.net

908-285-3782

From: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**Princeton.EDU> On Behalf Of Heather Zimmer
Sent: Tuesday, September 8, 2020 2:55 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**Princeton.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] demonstration safety shield material

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