Awareness

 

  • Be alert to all unsafe conditions and activities
  • Label all storage areas (e.g. refrigerators) appropriately, and keep all chemicals in properly labeled containers. (Date all bottles, Note expiration dates on chemicals ,Note special storage conditions
  • Be familiar with the appropriate protective measures to take when exposed to the following classes of hazardous materials:
    • Flammables
    • Corrosives
    • Toxics
    • Re-actives
    • Radioactive Compounds
    • Biohazards
    • Carcinogens
    • Compressed Gases
  • Segregate chemicals by compatibility groups for storage.
  • Be aware of the potential interactions of lab furniture and equipment with chemicals used or stored in the lab. (e.g. are oxidizers stored directly on wooden shelving?)
  • Place warning signs for unusual hazards such as flammable materials, biohazards or other special problems.
  • Pour more concentrated solutions into less concentrated solutions to avoid violent reactions (i.e., always add acid to water, not water to acid).
  • Use equipment only for its designated purpose.
  • Position and secure apparatus used for hazardous reactions in order to permit manipulation without moving the apparatus until the entire reaction is complete.