Chemical Safety

Using hazardous chemicals in research laboratories requires an in-depth understanding and evaluation of the risk and hazards associated with the storage, transfer, and use in a reaction under different concentrations, volumes, temperatures, and physical conditions. Use the following resources for better understanding the health and physical hazards of chemicals and the best methods for preventing exposure and incidents or mitigating their impact. It is critical to use these and additional resources before using a chemical, starting an experiment, or modifying an existing experiment.

• ACS handbook of safety in academic chemistry laboratories is the framework of the chemical safety at JSNN and needs to be reviewed and followed by all researchers.
• The JSNN Chemical Hygiene Plan must be reviewed by all researchers at JSNN. This document, along with the Lab Safety Plan (developed by each PI) shall satisfy the OSHA 29 CFR 1910. 1480 requirements for the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
• Use the following resources for understanding reactive chemicals and chemical reactions:

1. EPA Identifying Chemical Reactivity Hazards: Preliminary Screening Method
2. CCPS, A Checklist for Inherently Safer Chemical Reaction Process Design and
3. Essential Practices for Managing Chemical Reactivity Hazards Operation
4. CCPS, Reactive Material Hazards

• List of the chemicals with a Chemical Skin Absorption Hazard notation

• Flammable Liquids must be stored in limited quantities and inside an NFPA 30 approved and UL listed flammable storage cabinet.
• Peroxide-Forming chemicals can form peroxide crystals. These crystals are extremely shock sensitive and can cause explosions. Peroxide-forming organic solvents, such as diethyl ether, shall be marked with the date they are opened and only kept for up to 12 months after opened and never beyond their expiration date.
• Safety Data Sheets must be reviewed before using a new chemical, starting a new reaction, or modifying an existing reaction.
• Emergency Eyewash and Safety Showers
• CAMEO chemical compatibility software (EPA)
• The JSNN Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) must be reviewed by all researchers as a reference and training tool.
• A laboratory-specific safety plan and chemical inventory are required for each research lab.