3. Standard Laboratory Safe Handling/Storage Requirements

3.1 Hazard Identification

Identifying the specific hazard associated with a chemical greatly reduces chances of misuse by regular laboratory employees, new users, or visitors to the laboratory. At the very minimum, hazardous chemical containers must have the chemical name(s) and hazard identification(s). With respect to identifying containers, storage areas and laboratory entranceways, the following conditions entail hazard identification:

1. PDs/supervisors must ensure that labels on incoming containers of hazardous chemicals for laboratory use are not removed or defaced. Labels contain information on the identity of the chemical in the container and its hazard identification. It is recommended that incoming containers be labeled with the PD's name and date of receipt.
2. PDs/supervisors must ensure that laboratory containers (those containers filled from the original shipping container) of chemicals are labeled. (See Section 3.3.1).
3. PDs/supervisors must ensure that hazardous chemical storage areas are labeled per the guidelines established in section 4.1.2.
4. PDs/supervisors must ensure that entranceways to laboratory facilities are labeled with the appropriate warning signs.
5. PDs/supervisors must ensure that employees have access to MSDS's, and are aware of the risks and safety measures that have to be taken.

3.2 Chemicals Developed in the Laboratory

The following requirements apply to chemical substances developed in the laboratory:

1. If the composition of the chemical substance which is produced exclusively for the laboratory's use is known, the PD must determine if it is a hazardous chemical. This can be done by a literature search for similar substances. If the chemical is determined to be hazardous, the PD must provide appropriate training to protect employees.
2. If the chemical produced is a product or a by-product whose composition is not known, the PD must assume that the substance is hazardous and must comply with the requirements of the CSP.

3.3 Labeling

3.3.1 Container Labels

All containers of hazardous chemicals must be labeled with the name of the chemical and the hazard(s), if not provided by the manufacturer. If a chemical has more than one hazard, it must be labeled with both hazards. For example, acetaldehyde is both a flammable and a carcinogen, and must be labeled appropriately. Additionally, the subsequent guidelines shall be followed:

1. All peroxide forming chemicals must be labeled with the date the container was opened. After the recommended disposal date, test the chemical for peroxides or dispose of properly (see Appendix H for a list of peroxide forming chemicals and peroxide testing protocols).
2. As per the WIS Safety Plan,
   1. Anything available over the counter to the general public is exempt from labeling requirements if it has already been labeled by the manufacturer. This includes consumer products such as cans of spray paint or turpentine.
   2. Stationary process containers such as tanks may be identified with signs, placards, process sheets, batch tickets or other written materials instead of actually affixing labels to process containers. The sign or placard must convey the same information that a label would and be visible to employees throughout the work shift.
   3. Portable containers into which hazardous chemicals are transferred from labeled containers and which are intended to be under the use and control of the person who transferred it, within the work shift in which it was transferred, are exempt from labels. However, it is recommended that a temporary label identifying the chemical and its primary hazard be affixed to the container.
   4. All sample containers or prepared solutions must be labeled. If there is a large quantity of containers with the same chemical, labeling of the container, tray, cupboard or refrigerator will suffice.

3.3.2 Waste Containers

All hazardous chemical waste should be segregated and labeled according to the WIS Hazardous Waste Disposal Guide. Upon initial waste collection, attach a WIS Materials coloured disposal tag.

For more specific information regarding hazardous wastes, reference the WIS Waste Disposal Guide.

3.4 Provisions for Particularly Hazardous Substances

3.4.1 Permissible Exposure Limits

The Laboratory Standard requires that employers, for laboratory uses of substances regulated by State Labour occupational health standards, assure that employees' exposures do not exceed the Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs). The PELs represent Time Weighted Averages (TWAs) in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams of substance per cubic meter of air (mg/m3). The TWA represents the ratio between exposure and work shift.

Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) are TWA values similar to PELs. The TLVs are in some cases lower than the PELs. To keep employee exposures as low as reasonably achievable, employers will be expected to uphold the lowest exposure limit, be it a PEL or a TLV.

3.4.2 Special Considerations

The WIS Laboratory Standard requires that special precautions for additional employee protection be followed for the laboratory use of select carcinogens, reproductive toxicants and chemicals with a high degree of acute toxicity (defined in Section 1.3).

Protection from these hazards is provided by assuring exposure to such hazards is minimized, i.e. kept under the PEL, TLV, or eliminated. To minimize exposure, it is necessary to determine the route by which exposure may occur, whether by inhalation, absorption, injection, ingestion or a combination of exposure routes. To ensure employees do not receive exposures in excess of the PEL or TLV, hygienic standards have been established for many toxic materials. The following general hygiene standards should be observed when using select carcinogens, reproductive toxicants and chemicals with a high degree of acute toxicity.

Establish a designated area.

1. Use and store materials only in designated areas: a restricted access hood, glove box, or portion of a lab, designated for use of highly toxic substances. Assure that all personnel with access are aware of necessary safety precautions.
2. Label all containers, storage and use areas appropriately. Follow the guidelines established in Sections 3.3.1, 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 of this document.

Use proper containment devices for the protocol and chemical(s) being used.

1. Use a hood or other containment device for procedures which may result in the generation of aerosols or vapors; trap released vapors to prevent their discharge with fume hood exhaust.
2. It is recommended that breakable containers be stored in chemical-resistant trays. Work and mount apparatus above such trays or cover work and storage surfaces with removable, absorbent, plastic-backed paper.

Removal of Contaminated Waste

• Follow the guidelines established in the WIS Hazardous Waste Disposal Guide.

Follow decontamination procedures prior to leaving the designated area.

1. On leaving the designated area, remove protective clothing (place it in an appropriate, labeled container) and thoroughly wash hands, forearms, face, and neck.
2. Decontaminate vacuum pumps or other contaminated equipment,including glassware, before removing them from the designated area. Decontaminate the designated area before normal work is resumed.

Always take extra precautions when working with particularly hazardous chemicals.

1. Consult the MSDS for toxic properties and follow the specific precautions and procedures.
2. Guard against spills and splashes. Appropriate safety clothing, especially gloves, should be worn. All hoods, glove boxes, or other essential engineering controls should be operating properly before work is started.
3. Notify the PD of all incidents of exposure or spills.

3.5 Physical Hazards

Materials which present a physical hazard (see Section 1.3) can be safely used if the specific hazards are understood. If appropriate precautions are not taken, personal injury or property damage may occur. Additionally, certain chemicals cannot be safely mixed or stored with other chemicals because of the danger of a severe or extremely toxic reaction. See Appendix B for a table of incompatible chemicals.

Hazardous chemicals require that employees follow special procedures for handling and storage.

3.5.1 Flammable/Combustible Material

	Flash Point	Boiling Point
Flammable
Class IA	< 22.8°C (73°F)	37.8°C
Class IB	< 22.8°C (73°F)	>= 37.8°C (100°F)
Class IC	>= 22.8°C (73°F)
Combustible
Class II	>= 37.8°C (100°F)	< 60°C (140°F)
Class IIA	>= 60°C (140°F)	< 93°C (200°F)
Class IIIB	>= 93°C (200°F)

These classes give a measure of the fire risk. Appendix C lists some common flammable and combustible chemicals.

Note: The flash point is defined as the minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off vapor in sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface of the liquid.

For handling flammable/combustible materials, observe the following guidelines:

1. Eliminate ignition sources such as open flames, hot surfaces, sparks from welding or cutting, operation of electrical equipment, and static electricity.
2. Store in approved flammable liquid containers or storage cabinets, in an area isolated from ignition sources or in a special storage room designed for flammable materials.
3. Ensure there is proper bonding and grounding when it is required, such as when transferring or dispensing a flammable liquid from a large container or drum. Assure bonding and grounding is checked periodically.
4. Assure appropriate fire extinguishers and/or sprinkler systems are in the area.

3.5.2 Corrosives

Corrosives are materials which can react with the skin, causing burns similar to thermal burns, and/or which can react with metal causing deterioration of the metal surface. See Appendix D.

1. Containers and equipment used for storage and processing of corrosive materials should be corrosion resistant.
2. Eye protection and rubber gloves should always be used when handling corrosive materials. A faceshield, rubber apron, and rubber boots may also be appropriate, depending on the work performed.
3. Never add water to acid. When mixing concentrated acids with water, add the acid slowly to water.
4. An eyewash and safety shower must be readily accessible to areas where corrosives are used and stored. In the event of skin or eye contact with corrosives, immediately flush the area of contact with cool water for 15 minutes. Remove all affected clothing. Obtain medical help. See the "Personal Protective and Safety Equipment" section of this document for eyewash and safety shower specifications. (See Sec. 4.2.)

3.5.3 Oxidizers

Oxidizers are materials which react with other substances by giving off electrons and undergoing reduction. This reaction may result in fire or explosion. The intensity of the reaction depends on the oxidizing-reducing potential of the materials involved. See Appendix E.

1. Know the reactivity of the materials involved in the experiment or process. Ensure there are no extraneous materials in the area which could become involved in a reaction.
2. If the reaction is anticipated to be violent or explosive, use shields or other methods for isolating the materials or the process.

3.5.4 Water Reactive Materials

Water Reactive Materials are those which react with water to produce a flammable or toxic gas or other hazardous condition. Often a fire or explosion results. Safe handling of water reactive materials will depend on the specific material and the conditions of use and storage. Examples of water reactive chemicals include alkali metals such as lithium, sodium, and potassium; acid anhydrides, and acid chlorides.

3.5.5 Pyrophoric Materials

Pyrophoric Materials are those which ignite spontaneously upon contact with air. Often the flame is invisible. Examples of pyrophoric materials are silane, silicon tetrachloride, and white or yellow phosphorous. Pyrophoric chemicals should be used and stored in inert environments.

3.5.6 Peroxidizable Chemicals

Peroxidizable Chemicals (Organic Peroxides) are materials which undergo auto-oxidation (a reaction with oxygen in the air) to form peroxides (an O₂ group) which can explode with impact, heat, or friction. Since these chemicals may be packaged in an air atmosphere, peroxides can form even though the container has not been opened, necessitating careful handling. See Appendix F for a list of materials which may form peroxides.

1. Date all peroxidizables upon receipt and upon opening. Dispose of or check for peroxide formation after one year.
2. Do not open any container which has obvious solid formation around the lid.
3. Addition of an appropriate inhibitor to quench the formation of peroxides is recommended.
4. It is recommended to chemically test for peroxides periodically.
5. Follow same basic handling procedures as for flammable materials.

3.5.7 Light-Sensitive Materials

Light-Sensitive Materials are those which degrade in the presence of light, forming new compounds that can be hazardous, or resulting in conditions such as pressure build-up inside a container which may be hazardous. Examples of light sensitive materials include chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, ketones and anhydrides.

• Store light-sensitive materials in a cool, dark place in amber colored bottles or other containers which reduce or eliminate penetration of light.

3.5.8 Unstable Materials

Unstable Materials are compounds which can spontaneously release large amounts of energy under normal conditions, or when struck, vibrated, or otherwise agitated. Some chemicals become increasingly shock-sensitive with age. Of great concern in the laboratory is the inadvertent formation of explosive or shock-sensitive materials such as peroxides, perchlorates (from perchloric acid), picric acid and azides. A list of shock sensitive and explosive materials is provided in Appendix G.

1. Contact the GSO when it is suspected that the inadvertent formation of shock- sensitive materials in ductwork, piping, or chemicals being stored has occurred.
2. Date all containers of explosive or shock-sensitive materials upon receipt and when opened.
3. If there is a chance of explosion, use barriers or other methods for isolating the materials or the process.

3.5.9 Cryogens

Cryogen are liquefied gases that condense oxygen from the air, create an oxygen rich atmosphere and increase potential for fire if flammable or combustible materials and a source of ignition are present. Pressure is also a hazard due to the large expansion ratio from liquid to gas, causing pressure build up in containers. Many materials become brittle at extremely low temperatures. Brief contact with materials at extremely low temperatures can cause burns similar to thermal burns. Some of the hazards associated with cryogen's are fire, pressure, weakening of materials, and skin or eye burns upon contact with the liquid.

1. Equipment should be kept clean, especially when working with liquid or gaseous oxygen.
2. Mixtures of gases or fluids should be strictly controlled to prevent formation of flammable or explosive mixtures.
3. Always wear safety glasses with side shields or goggles when handling. If there is a chance of a splash or spray, a full face protection shield, an impervious apron or coat, cuffless trousers, and high topped shoes should be worn. Watches, rings, and other jewelry should not be worn. Gloves should be impervious and sufficiently large to be readily thrown off should a cryogen spill.
4. Containers and systems containing cryogen's should have pressure relief mechanisms.
5. Containers and systems should be capable of withstanding extreme cold without becoming brittle.
6. Since glass ampoules can explode when removed from cryogenic storage if not sealed properly, storage of radioactive, toxic or infectious agents should be placed in plastic cryogenic storage ampoules.