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 personnel involved in the use of chemicals, including laboratory technicians, researchers, and maintenance staff.

This procedure is applicable in environments where chemicals are used, stored, or disposed of, including laboratories, chemical storage rooms, and industrial 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 which 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 compliance with safety regulations and procedures.

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 safety meetings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Monitor the implementation of safety procedures.
• Conduct risk assessments and report findings.

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 kits, proper storage, and immediate cleanup procedures [2]
Fire and explosion	Injury, property damage	Store flammable chemicals in approved containers, use grounding and bonding [1]

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential to minimize exposure to chemical hazards.

• Safety glasses - Protect eyes from splashes and projectiles [3].
• Chemical splash goggles - Use when handling hazardous chemicals or when there is a risk of splashes [3].
• Gloves - Select gloves that are resistant to the chemicals being handled [3].
• Lab coats - Protect skin and clothing from chemical exposure [3].
• Respirators - Use when ventilation is inadequate to control inhalation risks [4].

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

6. Equipment and Tools

Proper equipment and tools are necessary for safe chemical handling.

• Chemical fume hoods - Use to ventilate hazardous fumes [3].
• Spill kits - For immediate response to chemical spills [2].
• Fire extinguishers - Ensure availability and proper training in use [2].
• Chemical storage cabinets - Store chemicals according to compatibility and hazard class [1].
• Labeling tools - Ensure all containers are properly labeled with contents and hazards [1].

Regularly inspect and maintain equipment to ensure functionality.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All personnel must complete chemical safety training and be familiar with the SDS for each chemical they handle [5].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a briefing to review the chemicals involved, associated hazards, and emergency procedures [6].

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, organized, and equipped with necessary safety equipment [1].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Risk Assessment

Conduct a risk assessment before handling any chemical.

• Identify the chemical and review its SDS.
• Determine the necessary PPE and equipment.
• Plan for potential emergencies [1].

Step 2: Chemical Handling

Safely handle chemicals according to established procedures.

• Use appropriate PPE.
• Follow SDS instructions for handling and storage.
• Avoid direct contact with chemicals [3].

Step 3: Spill Response

Respond to chemical spills promptly and safely.

• Use spill kits to contain and clean up spills.
• Report spills to the supervisor immediately.
• Follow emergency procedures if necessary [2].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Labeling - Ensure all chemical containers are properly labeled [1].
• Storage - Store chemicals according to compatibility and hazard class [1].
• Ventilation - Use fume hoods and ensure proper ventilation [3].
• Training - Regularly update training and review procedures [5].
• Emergency Preparedness - Know emergency procedures and locations of safety equipment [2].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

Follow the facility's emergency response plan and evacuate if necessary [2].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Chemical Spill - Use spill kits and notify the supervisor.
• Fire - Use a fire extinguisher if trained, otherwise evacuate.
• Exposure - Seek medical attention immediately and report the incident [2].

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 the supervisor. Participate in investigations to prevent recurrence [7].

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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