Safe Chemical Handling

Chemicals are all around us - in the food we eat, the clothes we wear, in the products we use everyday. Chemicals can help us live better lives, but if we don't understand about the chemicals we use, they can harm us.

This program is designed to help you understand more about chemicals and chemical safety. It's important to be informed and aware of chemicals and chemical safety. The first and most important step is to stop and read the label!

All the basic information you need to know is found on the label. It will tell you the name of the basic substance, what types of hazards there are, what it will do, what chemicals can't be mixed with this particular substance, and any emergency medical information you'll need to know. You'll also learn how to properly store, handle, and dispose of the material.

Once you've read the label you'll be able to identify the type of chemical and the proper instructions required for this chemical.

Basically, there are four types of chemicals. Let's take a look at what they are:

l. Toxic agents
These are chemicals that are poisonous to you, and can act upon the body very rapidly. Hydrogen sulfide and cyanide are examples of toxic agents.

2. Corrosives
This type of chemical is usually an irritant. corrosives can damage your body by burning, scalding or inflaming body tissues. Examples of corrosives are chlorine, hydrochloric acid, of course, battery acid.

3. Flammables
Flammables are the chemicals that burn readily. They may explode or burn if sparks, flames or other ignition sources are present. Examples are gasoline, benzene and ethyl ether.

4.Reactives
Reactive chemicals are those that require stability and careful handling. Some of them can explode or react violently if the container is dropped or hit. Other reactives may react violently if mixed improperly with other substances. Nitroglycerine is an example of a reactive chemical.

No matter what type of chemicals you're using, you need to be aware of the ways that chemicals may affect you. If you're not properly protected, you may be exposed to chemical hazards. Here are the ways in which chemicals can enter your body:

Inhalation Chemical vapors, dust or gases can be inhaled if you=re not wearing a respirator or proper respiratory equipment.

Absorption. Some chemicals can be absorbed right through your skin and enter your body. You can prevent this hazard by wearing the appropriate gloves and protective clothing.

Ingestion. You may be ingesting small doses of chemicals daily and not even realize it. Chemicals can be absorbed by food, cigarettes and drinks. They can also remain on your skin and be transferred to your food if you don't wash your hands before eating. Always be sure to wash your hands before eating and make sure you store food away from your work area.

Spillage. There is always a chance that you may be accidentally splashed or exposed to a chemical. To prevent injury you should always wear the proper protective equipment, according to company policy and the requirement of each specific chemical.

Basic Safe Chemical Safe Handling Tips

1. Read the label.
It will tell you what you need to know about your chemical. If you find you need more information, ask your supervisor for a copy of the material safety data sheet. The MSDS gives more technical information about the chemical than the label.

2. Dress the part.
Wear the proper safety protection, clothing and equipment as required.

3. Follow directions.
If the label says, use only with adequate ventilation make sure you do so. Never mix chemicals unless you've been trained and authorized by your company.

4. Know emergency procedures.
Be familiar with first aid procedures, and be sure to know where the emergency eye wash showers are located; also know where emergency phone numbers are posted.

5. Be careful!
Don't work alone, make sure there is someone there to help you if necessary. Don't try to hurry or take shortcuts, you just can't rush safety!  Don't roughhouse or goof around. Chemical safety is a job for professionals.

6. Report any suspected problems.
If you notice any malfunctioning equipment or any electrical equipment that is in need of repair, report it to your supervisor immediately. Also report any suspected problems with your chemicals, if the chemical odor has hanged or is unusual, don't use that chemical. It may have changed with time. Report anything unusual to your supervisor.

7.Keep your work area neat, clean and organized.
You'll know where everything is, and you'll be able to work more efficiently.

8. Store everything properly.
Make sure to close containers tightly. Keep flammables in a safe area, and use only the smallest amount necessary for the job. Store compressed gas in leak- free containers.

More detailed information on safe handling chemicals
can be found in the Members Area