Identifying Hazards in a Lab

Blog 4: How do you identify hazards in the lab?

There are multiple ways in which a person can identify hazards within a laboratory.  The first way in which a hazard in a lab can be identified is by checking to see if all chemical containers have labels. The labels should be legible, firmly attached and have the appropriate name for the contents within the containers. According to Prudent Practices in the Laboratory “commercial suppliers are required by law (OSHA Hazard Communication Standard) to provide their chemicals in containers with precautionary labels.”  It is essential to have labeling on all chemical containers within the lab because they normally provide a short summary of what the possible hazards are with the chemical contents. However, the labeling that comes on the containers are just precautionary and do not replace the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).The Material Safety Data Sheet is a document that contains key information on the potential health effects when exposed, it also outlines how to work safely  with the chemicals that are being handled. Labels are one of the most important ways to identify possible hazards within a lab. Labeling is imperative because they serve as a reminder of the main hazards that can be associated with these chemical substances. Material Safety Data Sheets are to be received with all incoming shipments of hazardous chemicals should be kept and made available for individuals working in the lab.

The next way in which hazards within a lab can be identified is through continuous information and training. Individuals working in labs are required to receive training on new label components and on the safety data sheets. Employees have to recognize and understand what the potential hazards are, what to do if chemicals were to spill, and how to properly handle the situation when exposed to hazardous chemicals. The information and training that employees receive must ensure their awareness of the chemicals being used in their work areas. Employers must also train the individuals working in their labs on the different methods of detecting the release of a hazardous chemical, both physical and health hazards when working with chemicals, and the different measures that everyone can take to protect themselves from potentially dangerous hazards. This includes an understanding of the procedures that should be implemented to protect employees form exposure. Another important aspect of training is, knowing where the chemical hygiene plan is located.

Hazard identification helps to minimize the risks associated with those identified hazards. Being able to identify hazards is a critical component to working safely. Common hazards can vary throughout different labs. Some of the potential hazards include exposures to chemicals, biological agents, noise, and vibration to name a few. However, working alone can also become a hazard, if an employee leaves their work station unattended with chemicals out, and spills. The last way in which hazards can be identified within the lab is through specific knowledge and instructions on how to properly dispose of hazardous waste. There are proper procedures that should be followed when disposing of waste that need to be taken seriously so hazard incidences do not occur. Suitable bins must be administered in labs in which waste can be kept, they should be properly labeled and in an area where everyone working in the lab knows where it is and what it is.

 http://www.nap.edu/read/12654/chapter/5#52

 https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/hazardouschemicalsinlabs-factsheet.html

 https://www.ohio.edu/medicine/about/departments/biomedical/upload/BMSChemicalHygienePlan.pdf