Handling Chemicals

1.	Before using any chemical, participate in WHMIS training, be familiar with the properties and hazards of the chemicals by reading the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), which describe boiling point, flash point, vapour pressure, toxicity, explosive limits, incompatibilities, and other special precautions.
2.	Use proper caution at all times when handling chemicals as many (whether solid, liquid or gaseous) are poisonous to the human body to some degree.
3.	Handle chemicals which may release vapours in fume hoods in such a manner that the vapour will be removed. Vapours create most of the dangers in the laboratory. They may be toxic, flammable, or both.
4.	Keep hands away from face, eyes, and body until after hands have been washed thoroughly when handling chemicals.
5.	Flush skin with plenty of fresh water if a chemical is splashed or spilled on skin. Report the incident to your lab supervisor.
6.	Use a eye wash station if a chemical enters the eye immediately for a minimum of 15 minutes or according to the MSDS.
7.	Never test chemicals by taste or smell.
8.	Pour chemical waste solutions into containers specified by your lab supervisor.
9.	Do not store incompatible chemicals in proximity to each other. See Specific Chemical Storage Guidelines.
10.	Do not use unlabeled chemicals.
11.	Mixing of chemicals must be done under controlled conditions, following an approved process and safety procedures. Prior approval must be obtained, and a safety report is required if the work has not be done by the individual worker before.
12.	Chemicals stored in glass bottles must be placed in secondary containers that are made of non-breakable material when they are transported from one location to another.
13.	The primary rule for handling acids is to add acid to water, never the reverse. This is to avoid splashing of acid onto skin or into eyes when heat is generated upon mixing.

Back to Chemical Safety page