Safe Work Procedure: Chemical Handling

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]
Revision Date: [DATE]
Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]
Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This procedure covers the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals in laboratory and industrial settings. It applies to all employees who work with or around chemicals, including laboratory personnel, maintenance staff, and emergency responders.

This procedure is applicable in environments where chemicals are used, stored, or disposed of, including laboratories, chemical storage areas, and manufacturing facilities.

Related procedures include the Chemical Hygiene Plan and Emergency Response Plan.

2. Definitions

SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
A document that provides information on the properties of a chemical product, including hazards, handling, storage, and emergency measures.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses.

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)
A written program developed and implemented by the employer that sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment, and work practices that are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular workplace.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all employees are trained in chemical handling procedures.
• Conduct regular inspections of chemical storage and handling areas.
• Ensure that all safety equipment is available and functioning.

3.2 Workers

• Follow all chemical handling procedures and use PPE as required.
• Report any spills, leaks, or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Participate in training and emergency drills.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Monitor compliance with chemical safety procedures.
• Assist in the investigation of chemical-related incidents.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Chemical exposure	Health effects such as burns, respiratory issues	Use of PPE, proper ventilation, and adherence to SDS guidelines [1]
Chemical spills	Environmental contamination, health risks	Spill containment kits, emergency response procedures [2]
Incompatible chemical storage	Fire, explosion	Store chemicals according to compatibility guidelines [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to minimize exposure to chemical hazards.

• Safety goggles - Protect eyes from splashes and fumes.
• Gloves - Use chemical-resistant gloves appropriate for the chemicals being handled.
• Lab coat - Protects skin and clothing from chemical splashes.
• Respirator - Use when ventilation is inadequate to control inhalation risks.
• Closed-toe shoes - Protect feet from spills and dropped objects.

Inspect PPE before use and replace any damaged or worn items.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the correct equipment and tools is crucial for safe chemical handling.

• Fume hood - Use for procedures that may release hazardous vapors.
• Chemical storage cabinets - Store chemicals safely and securely.
• Spill kits - Available for immediate response to chemical spills.
• Fire extinguisher - Ensure availability and proper maintenance.
• Emergency eyewash and shower stations - Accessible in case of exposure.

Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment and tools.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Employees must complete training on chemical hazards, PPE use, and emergency procedures before handling chemicals [3].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Discuss the chemicals to be used, associated hazards, and emergency procedures before starting work.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, organized, and equipped with necessary safety equipment.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Risk Assessment

Conduct a risk assessment for the chemicals and procedures involved.

• Identify hazards and potential risks.
• Determine necessary control measures.
• Review SDS for each chemical [4].

Step 2: Preparation

Prepare the work area and gather necessary equipment.

• Ensure proper ventilation.
• Check availability of spill kits and emergency equipment.
• Wear appropriate PPE.

Step 3: Chemical Handling

Handle chemicals safely and according to procedures.

• Use fume hoods for volatile substances.
• Avoid direct contact with chemicals.
• Label all containers clearly [1].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Labeling - Ensure all chemical containers are properly labeled.
• Ventilation - Use adequate ventilation to prevent inhalation hazards.
• Storage - Store chemicals according to compatibility and hazard class.
• Spill Response - Be prepared to respond to spills immediately.
• Emergency Equipment - Know the location and use of emergency equipment.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Evacuate the area and notify emergency personnel in case of a major spill or exposure.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Chemical Spill - Use spill kit and follow spill response procedures.
• Exposure - Use eyewash or shower station immediately.
• Fire - Use fire extinguisher and evacuate if necessary.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

[List of emergency contacts and their phone numbers]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to a supervisor immediately. Participate in investigations to prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
• Chemical Hygiene Plan
• Emergency Response Plan

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Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]
Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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