EHS Environmental Health & Safety
Marian University
Secondary Container Labeling Updates
The method used for placing information on secondary container labels has changed from being hand writen, to labels being printed out using a computer. These labels are also protected with clear tape to help protect against smearing.
On Feburary 12, 2013 the method of using computer printed labels started, making it easier to identify secondary chemical containers.
On April 2, 2013 pictograms were added to the label along with a signal word "Warning" of "Danger" and hazard statement codes.
Laboratory Safety Presentations
Starting with the 2013-2014 accademic year; The Environmental Health and Safety Specialist started laboratory safety presentations in addition to the safety information presented by the instructor of the class.
The safety awareness training included:
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the proper use of emergency equipment,
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eye wash/drench hose,
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carbon monoxide detector and evacuation plans
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personal protective equipment and goggle use,
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chemical exposure and fist aid,
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fume hood use and operation,
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spill control methods,
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broken glassware,
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Safety Data Sheet information and pictograms, including hazard statements and codes,
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electrical safety and cord management,
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chemical discharge and hazadous waste collection.
Laboratory Experiment Setups
Laboratory experiments are reviewed and updated as needed. Only the smallest amount of chemicals that are needed for the experiment are set out for students to use.
The most common size container used when ever possible is the 30 mL dropper bottle. The red cabbage pH indicator experiment uses food grade items in larger containers due the low hazards contained in these common items.
This method of using containers with only the amount needed to run the experiment, reduces the chance of an adverse chemical exposure, eliminates large chemical spills in the laboratory, and reduces the amount of waste generated during experiments.
Hazard Communication Standard - HAZCOM (Right-to-Know)
The Hazard Communication Standard's purpose is to ensure that the hazards of all chemicals used in the workplace are evaluated, and that information concerning their hazards is transmitted to employers and employees.
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration revised the Hazard Communication Standard on May 1, 2012 to bring it inline with the international Globally Harmonized System of Classification & Labeling of Chemicals adopted by the United Nations in 2002 and by many countries since.
The transmittal of this information will be accomplished by means of comprehensive hazard communication programs; which include container labeling that must now include one or more of nine pictograms, and also include a signal word and hazard statements, safety data sheets ("material" is now dropped), chemical lists, international chemical safety cards, and employee training.
