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Chemical Hygiene Plan
February 1991
January 1996 (revised)
May 1998 (revised)
April 2007 (reviewed)
Office of Safety and Environmental Programs
School of Marine Science
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
College of William & Mary
Gloucester Point, Virginia 23062
WebPage Modified: 2
September 1998
I. INTRODUCTION
A.
Background
B. Purpose
C. Scope
D. VIMS/SMS Philosophy
A.
Minimize Exposure
B. Minimize Risk
C. Ventilation
D. Use The Plan
E. Observe Exposure Limits
F. Hazardous Waste Disposal
A. Organization
B. Roles and Responsibilities
A. Design
B. Maintenance
C. Usage
D. Ventilation
E. Safety Recommendations
V. WORKING WITH CHEMICALS -
RULES AND PROCEDURES
A. General Safety Rules
B. Accidents and Spills
C. Allergens and Embryotoxins
D. Moderate Chronic or High
Acute Toxicity Chemicals
E. High Chronic Toxicity
Chemicals
G. Flammables
H. Reactives
I. Corrosives
J. Compressed Gases
K. Handling Laboratory
Equipment
L. Planning Laboratory
Experiments
M. Required Prior Approvals
VI.
PROCUREMENT/DISTRIBUTION/STORAGE
A. Procurement
B. Storage Areas
C. Storage Precautions
D. Transport
E. Laboratory Storage
A. Containers
B. Other Signs and Labels
VIII. EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO
SPILLS AND ACCIDENTS
IX. EMPLOYEE
EXPOSURE DETERMINATION AND REDUCTION ACTIONS
A. Procedures
B. Exposure Reduction
Actions
XI. INFORMATION
AND TRAINING PROGRAM
XII. HOUSEKEEPING,
MAINTENANCE, AND INSPECTIONS
A. Housekeeping
B. Inspections
C. Maintenance
A. General
B. Emergency
Medical Assistance
C. Medical Information
D. Physician's
Written Opinion
E. Record keeping
A. General
B. Respirators
C. Eye Protection
APPENDIX A
Protocol Outline for the Use of Particularly Hazardous Substances (PHS)
APPENDIX B
Formaldehyde Program
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Background
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science/School of
Marine Science (VIMS/SMS) has many laboratory facilities of various sizes and
levels of activity spread throughout the campus. VIMS/SMS faculty, staff, and
students at these facilities analyze samples, conduct tests, perform research
and teach in support of the Institute's missions. Individuals typically may be
involved with samples or tests containing hazardous substances or constituents.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration's
(OSHA) regulation for "Occupational Exposures to Hazardous Chemicals in
Laboratories," 29 CFR 1910.1450 (The Standard), requires that each
facility engaged in the laboratory use of hazardous chemicals develop and
implement a written program known as a "Chemical Hygiene Plan" which
sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) and work
practices that will
1. protect employees from the health hazards presented by
hazardous chemicals used in that particular work place and
2. keep employee exposures to the hazardous chemicals to
which they may be occupationally exposed in their laboratories, below the
permissible exposure limits specified in the standard.
B. Purpose
This Chemical Hygiene Plan (Plan) sets forth
policies, procedures, equipment, and work practices that, when properly
implemented, are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards
presented by hazardous chemicals used in VIMS/SMS laboratories. The Chemical
Hygiene Program's function is to ensure the proper implementation of controls
to protect the safety and health of every VIMS/SMS employee.
This Plan is intended to meet the requirements of 29 CFR
1910.1450, the OSHA standard for occupational exposures to hazardous chemicals
in laboratories. A copy of the standard is available at the Office of Safety
and Environmental Programs. This Plan is to be used in conjunction with, and
makes reference to VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500, Hazard Communication Standard
Program/Chemical Waste Management Program; VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0502,
Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan; VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0503, Fire
Prevention Plan; and VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0504, Occupational Safety and
Health Plan. The Chemical Hygiene Plan of itself is the operative text of
VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0501.
C.
Scope
All VIMS/SMS
employees and students who by the nature of their work may be exposed to
hazardous chemicals in the course of their assignments, and all individuals
whose primary duty is laboratory operations are required to follow the
provisions of this Plan.
D. VIMS/SMS Philosophy
The individual bears primary responsibility for safety at VIMS/SMS.
Don't take chances
Obey all safety rules
If not sure--ASK
Don't hurry
USE COMMON SENSE
II. GENERAL PRINCIPLES
In addition to the more detailed recommendations listed
later on in this Plan, the following general principles for working with
laboratory chemicals are established.
A. Minimize Exposure
It is prudent to minimize all chemical exposures. Since
few laboratory chemicals are without hazards, general precautions for handling
all laboratory chemicals should be adopted, rather than specific guidelines for
particular chemicals. Inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact with chemicals
should be avoided as a cardinal rule.
B. Minimize Risk
Under estimation of risk must be avoided. Even for
substances of no known significant hazard, exposure should be minimized.
Substances which present special hazards require that special precautions be
taken. One should assume that any mixture will be more toxic than its most
toxic component and that all substances of unknown toxicity are toxic.
C. Ventilation
Adequate ventilation always must be provided. The
best way to prevent exposure to airborne substances is to prevent their escape
into the working atmosphere by the use of fume hoods, exhaust fans, or other
ventilation devices.
D.
Use The Plan
The mandatory
Chemical Hygiene Program established by this Plan is designed to minimize
exposures to hazardous or potentially hazardous chemicals. The Plan should be a
regular, continuing effort, not merely a standby or short-term activity. Its
recommendations should be followed by academic teaching laboratories as well as
by full-time research laboratories.
E. Observe Exposure Limits
The Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1000, as amended
by VOSH (Virginia Occupational Safety and Health regulations), should not be
exceeded. Permissible Exposure Limits and Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for specific
substances may be found on many Manufacturer's Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
F. Hazardous Waste Disposal
Properly dispose of all hazardous chemicals generated in the laboratory.
Procedures for this action are contained in VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500.
Additional information is available in the "Hazardous Waste Disposal
Guide" which can be obtained from the Office of Safety and Environmental
Programs.
Back to Table of Contents
III. RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Organization
The organizational structure for chemical hygiene
follows the overall organizational structure of VIMS/SMS.
B. Roles
and Responsibilities
1. Dean and Director
The Dean and Director has ultimate responsibility for
chemical hygiene for the Institute and must, with other administrators, provide
continuing support for institutional chemical hygiene. The Dean and Director
will appoint the Chemical Hygiene Officer.
2. Next Level Supervisors
Associate/Assistant Directors, Department Heads, and
other Supervisors, also are responsible for supporting institution chemical
hygiene within their respective organizations. Only by setting the example and
demonstrating continuous support, can this Plan be implemented effectively.
3. Office of Safety and Environmental Programs
Develop, coordinate, implement, maintain, and monitor the
VIMS/SMS Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP). Provide the Chemical Hygiene Officer as
required under this Plan. Other responsibilities are as stated in VIMS/SMS
Instructions I-0500, I-0502, I-503, and I-0504.
4. Chemical Hygiene Officer
The Chemical Hygiene Officer (CHO) is responsible for
providing technical guidance in the development and implementation of this
Plan. The CHO should be qualified by training and experience to have the
knowledge and competence to use the appropriate equipment and testing
procedures to identify and evaluate various situations and to suggest abatement
procedures for health and safety hazards. The appointment of the CHO will be
made by the Dean and Director.
The CHO will work with administrators and other employees
to develop and implement appropriate chemical hygiene policies and practices.
The CHO also will perform all actions as stated in VIMS/SMS Instruction I- 0500
pertaining to procurement, use, and disposal of laboratory chemicals. The CHO
will be aware of current legal requirements concerning regulated substances,
see that appropriate audits are maintained, help project directors develop
necessary precautions and adequate laboratory facilities, and suggest ways to
improve the chemical hygiene program.
5. Principal Investigators, Project Supervisors,
and Laboratory Supervisors
Principal Investigators, Project Directors, and
Laboratory Supervisors have overall responsibility for chemical hygiene within
the laboratory. These responsibilities include
a. Ensuring that laboratory workers know and
follow the chemical hygiene rules, that protective equipment, when required, is
available and in working order, and that appropriate training has been
provided.
b. Providing regular, formal chemical hygiene and
housekeeping inspections including routine inspections of safety and emergency
equipment.
c. Knowing the current legal requirements for
regulated substances used in his/her laboratory.
d. Determining the required levels of protective
apparel and equipment and ensuring its use.
e. Ensuring that facilities and training for the
proper use of hazardous materials being ordered/used in the laboratory are
adequate.
f. Preparing, maintaining and updating as needed a
list of hazardous chemicals and an accessible file of Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals within his/her lab.
6. Laboratory Workers
Each laboratory worker is responsible for planning and conducting all
operations in accordance with institutional chemical hygiene procedures to
include those published in VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500 and this Plan. He/she
must also develop and follow good personal chemical hygiene habits.
Back to Table of Contents
IV. LABORATORY
FACILITIES
A. Design
Each laboratory should have an appropriate general
ventilation system suitable for that specific location, with air intake/exhaust
located so as to avoid intake of contaminated air that exceeds PEL/TLV
(Threshold Limit Values) levels. Each laboratory also must provide adequate,
well-ventilated storage areas, laboratory hoods, and sinks. Where required,
other safety equipment including eyewash fountains and drench showers, must be
provided. Appropriate arrangements for waste storage and disposal must exist.
B. Maintenance
Chemical hygiene related equipment (hoods,
incinerators, etc.) should undergo continuing inspection and be modified,
improved, or repaired as needed.
C. Usage
The type of work being performed and its scale or
level of effort must be appropriate to the size and type of the laboratory
facility available and especially to the quality of the ventilation system.
D. Ventilation
1. General
Ventilation systems should provide a source of air for
breathing and for input to local ventilation devices. It should not be relied
on for protection from toxic substances released into the laboratory. It should
ensure that laboratory air is continually replaced, preventing increase of air
concentrations of toxic substances during the working day. It should direct air
flow into the laboratory from non-laboratory areas and out to the exterior of
the building.
2. Hoods
Laboratory hoods with at least 2.5 linear feet of hood
space per person should be provided for every 2 workers that spend most of
their time working directly with hazardous chemicals. Each hood, if possible,
should have a monitoring device to allow convenient confirmation of adequate
hood performance before use. If this is not possible, work with substances of
unknown toxicity should be avoided or an alternate type of ventilation device
should be provided.
3. Other Devices
Ventilated storage cabinets, canopy hoods, snorkels,
etc., should be provided as needed. Each canopy hood and snorkel should have a
separate exhaust duct.
4. Special Areas
Exhaust air from glove boxes and isolation rooms should
be passed through scrubbers or another treatment facility before release into
the regular exhaust system. Cold/warm rooms should have provisions for rapid
escape and for escape in case of power failure.
5. Modifications
Modifications to ventilation systems should be made only
if testing shows that these modifications will ensure that worker protection
from airborne toxic substances will continue to be adequate.
6. Performance
Four to twelve room air changes/hour is normally adequate
general ventilation if local exhaust systems such as hoods are used as the
primary method of control. General air flow should not be turbulent and should
be relatively uniform throughout the area, with no high velocity or static
areas. Airflow into and within the hood should not be excessively turbulent.
Hood face velocity should be adequate. Typically, the face velocity would be 80
- 100 FPM (feet per minute). Ventilation systems should be evaluated upon
installation, regularly monitored (every 6 months), and reevaluated whenever
changes are made.
E. Safety
Recommendations
For information on safety hazards which may have
implications on chemical hygiene, refer to VIMS/SMS Instructions I-0500, I-502,
and I-0504.
Back to Table
of Contents
V. WORKING WITH CHEMICALS -
RULES AND PROCEDURES
All individuals as described in Paragraph I.C above are
required to know, understand, and follow all VIMS/SMS rules and procedures for
working with chemicals. Rules covering such topics as spills, avoidance,
personal hygiene, clothing, waste disposal, etc., are discussed in VIMS/SMS
Instructions I-0500 and I-0502. Procedures for the use and disposal of
radioactive material are covered in VIMS/SMS Instructions I-0506.
A. General
Safety Rules
1. Follow all safety
instructions carefully.
2. Perform only authorized experiments.
Researchers who are responsible for their own experimental programs should
inform others working in the area of chemicals being used and their potential
hazards.
3. No "horse play." This is extremely
dangerous and unnecessary.
4. Avoid working alone.
5.Do not eat, drink, smoke, chew gum, or apply
cosmetics or lip balm in areas where laboratory chemicals are present. Wash
hands before conducting these activities.
6. Confine long hair and loose clothing.
7. Wear shoes at all times in the laboratory.
Open-toed shoes, sandals, or "flip flops" are not to be worn in
laboratory areas.
B. Accidents and
Spills
1. If you suspect that the rescue squad or other
emergency services might be needed, they are needed. Have someone contact them
immediately either through the VIMS operator or directly by calling 9-911. Ask
the VIMS operator to contact the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs.
2. Eye contact: promptly flush eyes with water for
a prolonged period (15 minutes) and seek medical attention.
3. Ingestion: encourage the victim to drink large
amounts of water. Seek immediate medical attention. Refer to the MSDS for
additional information.
4. Skin contact: promptly flush the affected area
with water and remove any contaminated clothing; use a safety shower when
contact is extensive. Flush and rinse with a large volume of water for an
extended time. If symptoms persist after washing, seek medical attention.
5. Report all accidents and unusual occurrences to
the Laboratory Supervisor or Principal Investigator AND to the Office of Safety
and Environmental Programs.
C.
Allergens and Embryotoxins
When working with allergens such as diazomethane,
isocyanates , and dichromates, wear suitable gloves to prevent hand contact.
When working with embryotoxins such as organomercurials, lead compounds, and
formamide, females of childbearing age should handle these substances only in a
hood, using appropriate protective apparel (gloves) to prevent skin contact.
Store these materials, properly labeled, in adequately ventilated areas in
unbreakable secondary containers whenever possible. Notify supervisors and the
Office of Safety and Environmental Programs of all incidents of exposure or
spills.
D.
Moderate Chronic or High Acute Toxicity Chemicals
Examples of these chemicals are hydrofluoric acid,
hydrogen cyanide, and diisopropylflurophosphate. In addition to those rules
cited above, the following procedures also should be followed when these
chemicals are used in significant quantities:
1. Use and store these chemicals only in areas of
restricted access that are posted with special warning signs. These areas
should include a hood (with a face velocity of at least 80 Linear Feet per
Minute (LFM)) or other containment device when procedures may result in the
generation of aerosols or vapors containing the chemical.
2. Always avoid skin contact by use of gloves and
long sleeves. Check the chemical compatibility charts to be sure that gloves
used are appropriate for the chemical used. Wash hands and arms immediately
after use.
3. Assure that at least 2 persons are present if
the material in use is highly toxic or of unknown toxicity.
4. Be prepared for accidents and spills. Store
breakable containers of these substances in chemical-resistant trays. Cover
work and storage surfaces, if possible, with removable, absorbent, plastic
backed paper.
E. High
Chronic Toxicity Chemicals
Examples of these chemicals are dimethylmercury, nickel
carbonyl, benzo-a-pyrene, N-nitrosodiethylamine, and any other human carcinogen
or substance with high carcinogenic potency in animals. In addition to all
rules cited above, when working with amounts even as small as a few grams, the
following procedures should also be employed:
1. Conduct all transfers and work with these
substances in a "controlled area" (a restricted access hood, glove
box, or portion of a lab, designated for use of high chronic toxicity
chemicals, for which all people with access are aware of the substances being
used and necessary precautions). Prepare a written plan for use and disposal of
these materials and obtain the approval of the laboratory supervisor.
2. Decontaminate vacuum pumps and other equipment
such as glassware in the hood before removing them from the controlled area.
Decontaminate the controlled area before any other normal work is resumed
there. On leaving the area, remove protective apparel and thoroughly wash
hands, forearms, face, and neck.
3. If toxicologically significant amounts of these
substances are being used on a regular basis (e.g., 3 or more times per
week), a qualified physician should be consulted concerning desirability of
regular medical surveillance. Should a physician be consulted, the Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs and the worker's immediate supervisor should
be given copies of the physician's suggestions or recommendations. The costs
medical surveillance and evaluation will not be borne by the individual
workers.
4. Adequate records should be kept of the amounts
stored and used, dates of use, and names of users.
5. The controlled area should be conspicuously
marked with warning signs and restricted access signs and all containers should
be appropriately labeled. Contact the Chemical Hygiene Officer for assistance
in developing proper signs.
6. These chemicals should be stored only in a
ventilated, limited access area in appropriately labeled, unbreakable,
chemically resistant secondary containers.
F. Carcinogens
There are many known carcinogenic materials, and the
list is growing as the necessary studies of suspected carcinogens are
completed. It is recommended that non-carcinogenic substances be substituted
whenever possible for chemical carcinogens. If substitution is not possible,
care is required to avoid exposures by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.
Chemical carcinogens have been defined in two classes. Classes: The
Experimental Animal Carcinogens which present a minimum hazard, and the
Suspected and Known Human Carcinogens which present a high degree of hazard.
However, the only carcinogens specifically regulated as
such in OSHA 29 CFR part 1910, Subpart Z are those for which individual
regulatory standards have been issued. These standards are not replaced by the
Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories Standard. Users of
these materials are expected to adhere to the provisions of all applicable
substances-specific standards if employee exposure routinely exceeds the
OSHA-mandated permissible exposure limit or (action level, if specified).
Copies of these standards may be obtained from the Office of Safety and Environmental
Programs. Substances currently regulated by OSHA as carcinogens are:
Asbestos N-Nitrosodimethylamine
4-Nitrobipenyl Vinyl Chloride
alpha-Naphtylamine Arsenic (inorganic)
4,4' - Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) Lead
Methy chloromethyl ether Cadmium
3,3' - Dichlorobenzidine (and salts) Benzene
bis-Chloromethyl ether Cotton dust
beta-Naphthylamine 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane
Benzidine Acrylonitrile
4-Aminodiphenyl Ethylene oxide
Ethyleneimine Formaldehyde
beta-Propiolactone 4,4' - Methylenedianiline
2-Acetylaminofluorene 1,3 Butadiene
4-Dimethylaminoazobenzene Methylene Chloride
In addition to all general safety rules cited above, when
working with carcinogens, the following procedures should also be employed:
1. Prepare a written plan for use and disposal of
these materials and obtain the approval of the laboratory supervisor. Forward a
copy of the approved plan to the Chemical Hygiene Officer.
2. Consult the Material Safety Data Sheets and
complete a Protocol Outline (Appendix A) and submit to the Chemical Hygiene
Officer for review. A copy of this document should be filed with Principle
Investigator and lab supervisor as well.
3. Conduct all transfers and work with these
materials in a "Controlled Area" (a restricted access hood, glove
box, or portion of a lab, designated for use of carcinogens, for which all
people with access are aware of the substances being used and necessary
precautions).
4. The controlled area must be marked with
"Caution, Cancer Suspect Agent."
5. Entrances into areas where known carcinogens
are used in appreciable quantities shall be posted: "Cancer-Suspect Agent,
Authorized Personnel Only"
6. These chemicals should be stored only in a
ventilated, limited access area in appropriately labeled, unbreakable, chemically
resistant secondary containers.
7. Adequate records should be kept of the amounts
stored and used, dates of use, and names of users.
G. Flammables
When handling Flammables, know the location and
proper use of fire extinguishers and other pertinent safety equipment in your
area. Never heat flammable liquids with an open flame, hot plate or uninsulated
resistance heaters. Use a heating mantle, steam bath, or hot water bath.
Electrically driven stirrers should be explosion proof. Handle solvents in
exhaust hoods or a well-ventilated area. Keep solvents to a minimum in the lab.
Since static electricity can start flammable solvent fires, ground containers
when transferring from one container to another if the potential for sparking
exists.
H. Reactives
Under certain conditions, reactive chemicals
spontaneously may generate large quantities of heat, light, gases, or toxic
chemicals. Reactive chemicals include explosives, acid-sensitive oxidizers and
reducers, water sensitive materials, and pyrophorics. The hazards of reactive
chemicals are specific to each chemical. Understand the possible dangers before
use. Keep the amount used in the laboratory to a minimum. Use a hood sash, a
safety shield, or a face shield. Segregate chemicals that are capable of
explosive reactions with each other, and take greater precautions as the
quantities of such chemicals increase.
I. Corrosives
Understand possible dangers before using. Store in
proper containers. Inspect containers regularly for damage and see that lids
fit properly. Follow all rules pertaining to good housekeeping, labeling,
handling, and disposal. Avoid spillage. Use appropriate protective equipment.
Keep sealed when not in use.
J. Compressed Gases
Store and transport compressed gas cylinders with the
shipping caps on. Transport large cylinders only be means of a wheeled cart to
which the cylinders are secured. Store and use in an upright position
(Exception: Lecture bottles may be stored horizontally). Always securely clamp
or chain cylinder to a firm support. Know contents of cylinder before making
any connections. Always use a reducing valve or a pre-set pressure controller.
Do not lubricate, modify, or tamper with a cylinder valve. Do not heat
cylinders or store near a heat source.
K. Handling
Laboratory Equipment
1. Glassware
Do not use broken, chipped, starred or badly scratched
glassware. Clean all glassware before and after use. Do not pick up broken
glassware with bare hands. Use gloves, wet paper towels or sweep up. Protect
hands with gloves, towels or tubing holder when inserting tubing into stoppers.
Lubricate tubing with water or glycerine. Keep hand on tubing close to the
stopper and out of line with the end of the tube. Protect glass vessels when
heating over a burner. Handle hot beakers with proper size and type of tongs.
Do not attempt to catch falling glassware.
2. Distillation Apparatus (Vacuum)
Do not use cracked, starred, badly scratched or creased
flasks. They could implode. Use round bottom flasks (Max size of 5 liters). Use
protective shatterproof shields. Use stirrer, boiling chips or capillary tube
with inert gas flowing through it to prevent bumping. Use steam or heating
mantles to heat flasks. Relieve vacuum slowly avoiding sudden pressure changes
which could cause breakage or spattering of contents. Do not relieve vacuum
until flask has cooled.
3. Distillation Apparatus (Atmospheric)
Secure glass joints with wire or clamps to prevent vapor
leakage. Make sure system is vented and watch for plugging in the condenser.
Use boiling chips or stirring to prevent bumping. Use heating mantle where
possible. Avoid overheating still bottoms at end of distillation. Do not
distill ethers until peroxides have been removed.
4. Vacuum Equipment
Apply vacuum only to glassware made for such service. Be
sure filter crucible can't slip through holders. Shield desiccators that are
under vacuum in metal desiccator guards. Do not subject glassware under vacuum
to mechanical shock. Use protective shatterproof shields. Always wrap glass
Dewar flasks with tape before use. Do not stopper glass flasks containing hot,
condensable vapors. Check condition of mechanical vacuum pumps before using.
Relieve vacuum in all parts of system before opening apparatus.
5. Pressure Equipment
Except for pressure transfer from carboys or other large
containers, do not apply pressure to glassware. When transferring liquids by
pressure, use a pressure reducing regulator valve. Never use direct line
pressure. Do not use more than 4.5 psig pressure on glass carboys.
Inspect all equipment before using. See your supervisor for precise
operating instructions. Provide adequate shielding. Set up equipment in a hood
if reaction products are in any way toxic. Vent pressure in all parts of the
system before opening.
L.
Planning Laboratory Experiments
List all possible reactions, including side
reactions, before starting. Think through all reactants, intermediates, and
products in terms of flammability, toxicity, and reactivity hazards. Follow
recognized safety procedures concerning protective equipment, housekeeping and
handling.
In an unknown reaction, always start with small
quantities of material and carefully observe reaction characteristics such as
temperature, color, viscosity, and physical state.
If possible, obtain safety data on reactants and products
from chemical reference books, laboratory analysis, or MSDS. If possible,
determine from thermodynamic and kinetic considerations the total quantity and
rate of evolution of heat and gases to be released during the reaction. Provide
adequate cooling, ventilation, pressure relief, and gas purging. Isolate the
reaction vessel, if possible, and make frequent inspections of equipment during
the reaction.
For each reactant, intermediate, or product, ask:
1. What is its flash point, flammability range,
autoignition point, vapor pressure, and density?
2. Does it decompose, and if so, how rapidly and
to what products? During storage, what is its stability to heat, light, water,
metals, etc.?
3. Is it impact sensitive? Is it toxic? If so,
what type of hazard will exist? What protective measures are required?
4. What is the recommended first aid treatment in
case of an accidental exposure?
5. Will the reaction be violent? What are the
effects of catalysts or inhibitors? Will water or air affect the reaction?
6. What will happen and what should be done if
electric power fails, cooling system fails, pressure gets out of hand, water
leaks into system, air leaks into system, the reaction container fails and
breaks or spills contents, or a fire starts?
M. Required Prior Approvals
See VIMS/SMS
Instruction I-0500. Prior approval for any operation outside the purview of
normal operations being conducted in that specific laboratory facility must be
obtained in advance by the laboratory supervisor. This approval process should
be documented. Any time new procedures/operations are introduced, the
laboratory worker must be trained in the new procedures, especially if a new
chemical will be involved.
VI.
PROCUREMENT/DISTRIBUTION/STORAGE
A. Procurement
Before a hazardous substance is received, information
on proper handling, storage, and disposal should be known to those who will use
it. No container should be accepted without an adequate identifying label. If
possible, all substances should be received in a central location.
B. Storage Areas
Hazardous chemicals should be segregated into
well-identified areas with proper ventilation. Highly toxic chemicals or other
chemicals whose containers are opened or damaged should be in unbreakable
secondary containers. Stored chemicals should be examined several times per
year for deterioration, container integrity, and possible replacement. Storage
areas should not be used for any other operations, should be accessible only
during normal working hours, and only to those very few individual with a need
to retrieve stored chemicals.
C. Storage
Precautions
1. Acids. Store
large bottles on low shelves or in acid cabinets. Segregate oxidizing acids
from organic acids, flammable and combustible materials. Segregate acids from
bases and active metals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
2. Bases. Segregate bases from acids. Store
solutions of inorganic hydroxides in polyethylene containers.
3. Flammables. Store only in approved
safety cans or cabinets. Segregate from oxidizing acids and oxidizers. Keep
away from any source of ignition (flames, localized heat, or sparks). Store
highly volatile flammable liquids in properly ventilated, cool storage areas.
4. Oxidizers. Store in a cool, dry place.
Keep away from flammable and combustible materials such as paper and wood. Keep
away from reducing agents such as zinc, alkaline metals, and formic acid.
5. Water reactive chemicals. Store in a
cool, dry place. Post appropriate warning signs not to fight fire with water.
6. Pyrophorics. Store in a cool, dry place
in airtight containers.
7. Peroxide formers. Store in airtight
containers in a dark, cool, and dry place. Label containers with receiving,
opening, and future disposal dates.
8. Carcinogens and teratogens. Store
according to the hazard category of the chemical and ensure that all containers
are labeled as such.
D. Transport
See VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500.
E. Laboratory Storage
Amounts of solvents and chemicals stored in the
laboratory working areas should be as small as possible. They should be stored
in protected areas to avoid inadvertent spills or breakage. Exposure to heat or
direct sunlight should be avoided. Unused or unneeded items should be discarded
(as hazardous waste) or returned to the storage area.
Return to Table of Contents
VII. SIGNS AND LABELS
A. Containers
See VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500 for container and
emergency notification information.
B. Other Signs
and Labels
Location signs for safety showers, eyewash stations,
other safety and first aid equipment, exits, food and beverage consumption
areas, and storage areas should be posted. Warning signs, denoting restricted
areas or hazardous equipment are also required. The Chemical Hygiene Officer or
the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs can assist in determining the
proper type and placement of signs.
Return to Table of Contents
VIII. EMERGENCY RESPONSE TO
SPILLS AND ACCIDENTS
See VIMS/SMS Instructions I-0500, I-0502, and I-0503
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IX. EMPLOYEE EXPOSURE
DETERMINATION AND REDUCTION ACTIONS
A. Procedures
Initial monitoring of potential exposure of laboratory
personnel to a hazardous substance is required only if the substance is
regulated by a standard which requires monitoring AND if there is reason to
believe that exposure levels for that substance are routinely exceeding the
action level, TLV, or PEL, whichever is appropriate. If monitoring is
initiated, it will be performed in accordance with the relevant standard.
Laboratory workers will be informed of the results of any monitoring within 15
days after receipt of the data. Notification will be made in writing, either to
the individual(s) concerned, or by posting results in an appropriate location
that is accessible to the laboratory workers. All such monitoring will be
coordinated through the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs.
B. Exposure
Reduction Actions
As stated in earlier sections of this Plan, hoods, proper
ventilation, equipment including clothing, personal hygiene, safety shields,
glove boxes, and prudent work practices are all measures that can be taken to
reduce probability of laboratory worker exposure. The CHO will make periodic
checks of laboratory facilities, in particular the high-risk areas, to ensure
that these actions are being implemented. It is recommended that the laboratory
supervisor accompany the CHO whenever possible.
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X. FUME HOOD MANAGEMENT
Fume hoods and other associated protective equipment
should be maintained in satisfactory operating condition at all times.
Monitoring of performance and any scheduled preventive maintenance should by done
in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Adequate hood
performance should be confirmed before each use. Hoods should be kept closed at
all times except when work is being performed or adjustments need to be made.
Materials stored in the hood should be kept to a minimum and should not block
vents or air flow.
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XI. INFORMATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM
A. Information
Initial information is provided to each new employee and student as described
in VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500. This information is expanded, under the
Chemical Hygiene Plan, to include:
1. The contents of this Plan and its appendices,
2. The location and availability of PEL data for OSHA regulated substances or
recommended exposure limits for other hazardous chemicals where there is no
exposure standard,
3. Signs and symptoms associated with exposure to hazardous chemicals used in
the laboratory, and
4. The location and availability of known reference material on the hazards,
safe handling, storage and disposal of hazardous chemicals found in VIMS/SMS
laboratories to include the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
B. Training
The initial training provided to all faculty, staff, and students will be
accomplished through the use of lectures, discussions, videotapes, and other
media and will include discussion of
1. Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release
of a hazardous chemical.
2. The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area.
3. Measures to provide protection from these hazards, including specific
procedures such as appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and
personal protective equipment to be used.
Follow-up training will be provided by the laboratory supervisor or Principal
Investigator responsible for the employee/student. This training should
include, as a minimum, unique procedures to be followed in a specific
laboratory, location of safety equipment, emergency procedures, and any other
information pertinent to that laboratory. This training should be updated prior
to new assignments involving different procedures or potential exposure to new
hazardous chemicals and whenever a new hazard is introduced into the work area.
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XII. HOUSEKEEPING,
MAINTENANCE, AND INSPECTIONS
A. Housekeeping
1. Each person is responsible for keeping his/her work
area neat and orderly. All persons using community areas such as hoods, ovens,
and balances should share responsibility for keeping those areas clean.
2. Floors, counter tops, etc. should be cleaned
regularly. Laboratory benches, aisles, stairways, and hallways should not be
used as storage areas. They should be cleared immediately after completion of
each experiment. Compressed-gas cylinders never should be stored in commonly
used hallways.
3. Access to exits, emergency equipment, and utility
controls should never be blocked.
4. Laboratory apparatus should be assembled in a stable,
orderly fashion.
5. All small spills (less than one liter) and leakages
should be cleaned up immediately. Small acid spills can be neutralized with
sodium carbonate and alkali spills with boric acid. However, all spills without
regard to size must be reported to the Office of Safety and Environmental
Programs to ensure proper cleanup and disposal of residue resulting from the
cleanup.
B. Inspections
Formal housekeeping and chemical hygiene inspections
should be held semi-annually. Informal records of these inspections should be
maintained by the laboratory supervisor. The format and content of the
inspection and record is determined by the laboratory supervisor. Informal
inspections should be conducted as often as possible.
C. Maintenance
Safety equipment such as eye wash fountains, safety
showers, respirators, and other protective equipment should be tested
routinely. All maintenance should be performed in a timely manner at any time a
defect is discovered. The level of maintenance support is dependent on the
extent of the maintenance defect.
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XIII. MEDICAL PROGRAM
A. General
All employees working with hazardous chemicals will be
provided an opportunity to receive medical attention, including any follow-up
examinations which the examining physician determines to be necessary, under
the following conditions:
1. Whenever the employee develops signs or symptoms
associated with a hazardous chemical to which the employee may have been
exposed in the laboratory.
2. When exposure monitoring reveals an exposure level
routinely above the action level (or PEL) for an OSHA regulated substance for
which there are exposure monitoring and medical surveillance requirements.
3. Whenever an event takes place in the work area such as
a spill, leak, explosion, or other occurrence resulting in the likelihood of a
hazardous exposure.
All medical examinations and consultations shall be
performed by or under the direct supervision of a licensed physician and shall
be provided without cost to the employee, without loss of pay, and at a
reasonable time and place.
B. Emergency Medical Assistance
The Abingdon Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. (AVRS) provides emergency medical
service to the area of
C. Medical Information
Whenever an employee is referred to a physician under this Chemical Hygiene
Plan, the physician should be provided with the following information
1. The identity of the hazardous chemical(s) to which the employee may have
been exposed, including, if possible a copy of the MSDS,
2. A description of the conditions under which the exposure occurred including
quantitative exposure data, if available, and
3. A description of the signs and symptoms of exposure that the employee is
experiencing, if any.
D. Physician's Written Opinion
The written opinion from the examining physician shall include:
1. Any recommendation for further medical follow-up,
2. The results of the medical examination and any associated tests,
3. Any medical condition which may be revealed in the course of the examination
which may place the employee at increased risk as a result of exposure to a
hazardous chemical found in the work place, and
4. A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the
results of the consultation or medical examination and any medical condition
that may require further examination or treatment.
This written opinion shall
not reveal any specific findings of diagnoses not related to the occupational
exposure.
E. Record keeping
Accurate records shall be maintained by the CHO of any measurements taken to
monitor employee exposures and medical consultation/examinations including
tests or written opinions required by this Plan. Information copies will be
provided upon request to the Workers' Compensation Program representative.
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XIV. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
A. General
Any personal protective equipment (PPE) required, such as
clothing, gloves, respirators, or goggles, will be provided at no cost to the
employee. PPE will be compatible with the hazardous chemical being handled. The
MSDS provides information as the type of PPE to be used. Actual selection may
vary depending on availability of other equipment such as fume hoods,
ventilation systems, etc. Assistance in selecting and in training the
individual on the use and care of the PPE will be provided by the CHO on
request.
Other equipment such as safety showers, eyewash
fountains, decontamination material, fire extinguishers, alarms, fire blankets,
etc., shall be requested as needed using normal purchasing procedures.
Necessary funds for these materials, and any other safety related items, should
be included in the contract or grant budgets and the normal operating budgets
of the research or service departments.
B. Respirators
Where the use of respirators is necessary to maintain
exposure below the PEL, they shall be provided at no cost to the employee and
selected based on the specific hazardous chemicals being used. Procedures for
selection of the proper respirator and subsequent qualitative/quantitative fit
testing are described in the VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0505.
C. Eye Protection
Eye protection for laboratory workers is of such
importance that all persons working directly with hazardous chemicals in the
laboratory must have eye protection of some type. This may include safety
glasses, safety goggles, face shields, exhaust hoods, or protective
shatterproof shields. The only exceptions to wearing eye protection are as
follows:
1. At the discretion of the Department Head, persons
working at their desks in lab areas or adjacent to lab benches need not wear
eye protection.
2. In offices removed from likely contact with laboratory
materials.
3. Specialized laboratories (such as the SAV lab) as
designated by the Department Head.
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XV. WASTE DISPOSAL
See VIMS/SMS Instruction I-0500. Only some materials may
be disposed of in lab sinks and then only in small quantity. This should be
done by pouring slowly into a steady stream of water and flushing down the
drain with a large quantity of water. Any exceptions to these procedures must
be approved by the laboratory supervisor, Department Head, and the Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs. The type and quantity of chemical waste
allowed in the various waste streams is limited by several regulations. Violations
of those limits, whether accidental or willful, could have severe legal or
financial consequences for VIMS/SMS and for the individual.
Information on the
materials allowed in the various waste streams is available from the Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs. The information includes the VPDES permits
for the sea-water discharges and the requirements imposed by the Hampton Roads
Sanitation District.
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XVI. REVIEW AND UPDATE
Review of this Plan will be coordinated by the Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs on an occasional basis through a formal
request for comments from VIMS/SMS faculty, staff, and students. Emergent
changes that cannot be held until a formal review due to their potentially
adverse impact if not promulgated in a timely manner shall be distributed as
necessary. Suggestions and proposed draft inputs from all VIMS/SMS personnel
are welcome at any time.
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XVII. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The Office of Safety and Environmental Programs maintains a file of MSDS for
all materials on campus in addition to the file that is to be maintained by
each work area. The Office either has or can obtain additional information on
specific materials on request.
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XVIII. GLOSSARY
Action Level A concentration designated in 29 CFR part
1910 for a specific substance, calculated as an eight (8)-hour time-weighted
average, which initiates certain required activities such as exposure
monitoring and medical surveillance.
Allergen Substance causing
altered body reactivity to a toxic substance in response to a first exposure.
Chemical Hygiene Officer An employee designated by the employer, qualified by
training or experience to provide technical guidance in the development and
implementation of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Chronic Long term degenerative effect of a hazardous substance marked by
frequent recurrence over a long period of time.
Designated Area An area which may be used for work with select carcinogens,
reproductive toxins, or highly acute toxic substances. A designated area may be
the entire laboratory or a device such as a lab hood.
Embroytoxin See Reproductive Toxin.
Glove Box A sealed, protectively lined compartment, having ports to which are
attached gloves for use in handling materials inside the compartment.
Hazardous Chemical Any chemical for which there is statistically significant
evidence that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees.
This includes select carcinogens, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives,
sensitizers, and other substances which may damage lungs, skin, eyes, or mucous
membranes.
Highly Acute Toxic Any hazardous chemical with a short term health effect which
could be fatal or cause damage to target organs as a result of a single
exposure or several exposures of short duration.
Laboratory Facility Any facility/room/location/area where hazardous chemicals
are used. It is a workplace where relatively small amounts are used on a
non-production basis.
Laboratory Worker An individual employed in a laboratory facility who may be
exposed to hazardous chemicals in the course of his/her work. This includes
individuals who, because of their work assignment, may be required to enter a
laboratory facility. OSHA considers maintenance and custodial personnel as
meeting this definition, but not occasional visitors such as guests or sales
persons.
Oxidizer A chemical that initiates or promotes combustion in other materials,
thereby causing fire either of itself or through the release of oxygen or other
gases.
Oxidizing agent Oxygen-containing material which can decompose, generating
oxygen.
PEL Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) to a hazardous substance based on a
measurement of an 8-hour time weighted average, established by OSHA.
Reactivity The proclivity of a compound to chemically react with other
substances or itself, resulting in the liberation of energy. Can cause the
formation of toxic or corrosive materials, pressure build up, and temperature
fluctuations.
Reproductive Toxin Any chemical which affects the reproductive capabilities
including chromosomal damage (mutagens), lethal effects on the fertilized egg,
developing embryo, or fetus (embryotoxin), and malformation of the fetus
(terataogens).
Select Carcinogen Any substance regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen, listed under
the category "known to be a carcinogen" in the Annual Report on
Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program, listed under Group 1
(carcinogen to humans) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer
Monographs (IARC), listed in either Group 2A or 2B by IARC, or under the
category "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens" by the National
Toxicology Program and causes statistically significant tumor incidence in
experimental animals.
Teratogen See Reproductive Toxin.
TLV Threshold Limit Value (TLV) A time weighted average air concentration based
on an 8-hour day, established by the American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). Very similar to PEL.
Water Reactive A chemical that reacts with water to release a gas that is
either flammable or presents a health hazard.
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APPENDIX A
Protocol Outline for the Use of
Particularly Hazardous Substances (PHS)
DATE:
1. Project director or
Principal Investigator's name:
2. Experience. Summary of prior
training and experience :
3. Personnel participating the work and their prior training and
experience:
4. Identification of particularly hazardous substance. ( Attach MSDS):
Full chemical name CAS #
5. Health hazard data:
OSHA (PEL):
ACGIH (TLV-TWA):
OSHA (STEL):
NIOSH (REL):
5.1 Routes of exposure:
5.2 Effects of overexposure (chronic and acute)
6. Standard operating procedures
6.1 Maximum quantity to be purchased or stored:
6.2 Designated area where material will be stored and handled:
6.3 Ventilation provisions:
6.4 Special weighing areas to be used:
6.5 Weighing techniques that will be used:
6.6 Experimental procedures:
6.7 Amounts expected to be used per month or week:
6.8 Solvents to be used:
6.9 Where the experiment is to be conducted (e.g. hood, glove box):
6.10 All designated areas. Where each part of the procedure will be conducted:
6.11 A summary of the rational for using this hazardous substance:
7. Safety precautions that will be taken.
7.1 Include personal protective equipment, ventilation requirements, any
analytical methods available for monitoring possible exposure levels:
7.2 Emergency procedures
including first aid procedure for eye or skin contact, inhalation, and
ingestion:
7.3 Spill and leak cleanup requirements should be outlined with an emphasis on
personal protective equipment required for clean up of each of the possible
physical states of the materials (liquid or solid).
8. Waste management and deactivation/disposal procedures:
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Formaldehyde Program
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Purpose
The purpose of the
formaldehyde program is to establish procedures/guidelines to protect the
health and safety of all persons in the Virginia Institute of Marine
Science/School of Marine Science (VIMS/SMS) community who may be occupationally
exposed to formaldehyde gas, its solutions, and/or materials that release
formaldehyde. The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(VOSH) has issued a standard to assure proper protection of all workers
exposed to formaldehyde. VOSH has established a permissible exposure limit of
0.75 parts formaldehyde per million parts of air (0.75 ppm) as an 8-hour time
weighted average (TWA) and a short-term exposure limit (STEL) of two parts
formaldehyde per million parts of air (2 ppm) in a 15-minute period.
The Formaldehyde Program consists of methods to be used to minimize possible
workplace exposures to formaldehyde and to monitor the exposures and procedures
and actions to be followed should exposures exceed specific levels or should
there be a spill.
B. SCOPE AND APPLICATION
This program applies to all
persons (faculty, staff, students, and visitors) in work areas under the
operation or management of VIMS/SMS who may have an exposure to formaldehyde.
Each operational area has specific requirements for monitoring formaldehyde and
the areas are monitored periodically to accurately determine exposure
concentrations. It is the policy of the VIMS/SMS to ensure that formaldehyde is
handled in the safest possible manner and in compliance with all applicable
codes and standards.
C. DEFINITIONS
Formaldehyde: The chemical formaldehyde (HCHO)
has an irritating pungent odor and is classified as an upper respiratory
irritant because of its high solubility in water. Formaldehyde is used in a
variety of operations but tissue preservation is the primary source of exposure
within the VIMS community. See the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for
additional information.
PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit): The maximum permissible
airborne concentration of formaldehyde to which any employee may be exposed.
The PEL is published and enforced by VOSH as a legal standard. The PEL for
formaldehyde is 0.75 ppm.
Action-Level: The exposure level below which respiratory protection and
many other requirements of the Formaldehyde Standard need not be implemented.
The current action level for formaldehyde is 0.5 ppm 8-hour TWA.
STEL (Short-Term Exposure Limit):
The maximum concentration of formaldehyde to which workers can be exposed
continuously over a period of 15 minutes. The STEL for formaldehyde currently
is 2.0 ppm.
TLV/TWA (Threshold Limit Value/Time Weighted
Average): The time weighted average concentration for a normal 8-hour
workday and a 40-hour workweek, to which it is believed nearly all workers may
be repeatedly exposed, day after day, without adverse effect. These values are
published yearly by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH).
Time Weighted Average (TWA): The actual measured exposure level averaged
over an 8-hour time period.
II. EXPOSURE MONITORING
Employees in work areas of VIMS/SMS which may involve exposure to formaldehyde
are monitored periodically to accurately determine exposure concentrations.
Representative monitoring will be conducted to determine employee short-term and
full-shift exposures to formaldehyde. Every employee need not be measured if a
"high" exposure employee can be identified. TWA measurements shall be
determined primarily through the use of Kem Medical Corporation VAPOR-TRAK
Formaldehyde passive dosimeters for personal samples and the Lion
Formaldemeter Mark II for area monitoring of ambient concentrations.
(Comparable systems may be substituted at the discretion of the Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs.) Formaldehyde levels for the Kem Medical
VAPOR-TRAK Passive dosimeters will be determined by NIOSH methods by Kem
Medical's Laboratory in
Monitoring will be
conducted by the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs in such
manner as to be representative of the 8-hour TWA of each employee.
Representative 8-hour TWA employee exposures shall be determined on the basis
of one or more samples representing full-shift exposure for each shift for each
job classification in each work area. The frequency of such monitoring is
required as follows:
. Initially, wherever there may be exposure by employees above the PEL
to establish a baseline exposure level.
. Whenever there is a change in processes, equipment, personnel or
control measures which may result in new or additional exposure to
formaldehyde.
. Semiannually, whenever the most recent monitoring result reveals a TWA
exposure above the 0.5 ppm action level.
. Annually, whenever the most recent monitoring result reveals employee
exposure at or above the STEL.
Semiannual and annual monitoring, as specified above, are not required when two
consecutive formaldehyde monitoring sessions which have been executed at least
7 calendar days apart and both indicate TWA and/or STEL exposures below 0.5 ppm
and/or 2.0 ppm, respectively.
TWA levels measured to be in excess of 0.5 ppm are considered to remain above
this level until 2 consecutive monitoring periods performed at least 7 calendar
days apart confirm that the exposure concentration has dropped to below 0.5
ppm.
III. REPORTING MONITORING RESULTS
The area supervisor shall
report the results of all formaldehyde monitoring to the affected person(s)
within 15 calendar days of the date on which the area supervisor receives the
results. Notification must be in writing, either by distributing copies of the
results of the exposure monitoring to the affected (those conducting the same
job tasks) employees or by posting the results. Results should be posted for a
minimum of three days. Once the results have been reviewed by all affected employees,
a copy should be filed with the Department's copies of both the VIMS/SMS
Occupational Safety and Health Plan (Instruction I-0504) and this document. If
the PEL has been exceeded, affected employees must be notified, in writing, of
the corrective action being taken.
TWA measurements may be taken at any time, at the discretion of the area
supervisor or the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs. If monitoring
results indicate that either the PEL or the STEL has been exceeded, the use of
respirators and/or other protective equipment is required by all personnel in
the area, as soon as the report is received. (NOTE: Gloves, goggles, face
shields, and other protective clothing may be necessary at much lower exposure
levels.) VOSH specifies full-facepiece respirators with cartridges specifically
approved for formaldehyde exposure. The Office of Safety and Environmental
Programs will provide assistance in selection of protective clothing and
equipment based upon the form of formaldehyde to be encountered, the condition
of use, and the hazard to be prevented. The VIMS/SMS shall provide these
protective devices to the employee at no cost to the employee and assure that
the employee wears them. The rotation of employees in order to lower
formaldehyde exposure levels is prohibited by VOSH. If the use of respirators
is required, the policies and procedures specified in the VIMS/SMS Respiratory
Protection Plan (VIMS Instruction I-0505) must be followed.
IV. MEDICAL REMOVAL
If an employee reports
significant irritation of the mucosa of the eyes or of the upper airways,
respiratory sensitization, dermal irritation, or dermal sensitization
attributed to workplace formaldehyde exposure, then he/she should be evaluated
by a physician. If the physician finds that significant irritation is the
result of workplace formaldehyde exposure and recommends restrictions or
removal, the employer must promptly comply. The employer must remove the
affected employee from the current formaldehyde exposure and transfer the
employee to other work having no or significantly less exposure to
formaldehyde. The employee should not be required to incur any direct expense
for the medical evaluation nor should the employee be required to lose pay for
the time required for the medical evaluation.
V. INFORMATION AND TRAINING
All employees exposed to
formaldehyde concentrations of 0.1 ppm or greater must receive training
annually. The training program shall be conducted in a manner in which the
employee is able to understand and shall include the following information:
1. The requirements of the
VOSH regulations concerning formaldehyde (29 CFR 1910.1048) and a discussion of
the material safety data sheet.
2. A description of the
operations in the work area where formaldehyde is present and an explanation of
the safe work practices appropriate for limiting the exposure to formaldehyde.
3. A description of the
potential health hazards associated with an exposure to formaldehyde and a
description of the signs and symptoms of an exposure to formaldehyde. As a
minimum, specific health hazards include: cancer, irritation and sensitization
of the skin and respiratory system, eye and throat irritation, and acute
toxicity.
4. A discussion of
monitoring and other methods used to detect the presence of formaldehyde in the
work area.
5. The measures employees
must take to protect themselves from hazards associated with formaldehyde
exposure. The purpose for, proper use of, and limitations of the required
personal protective clothing and equipment.
6. The purpose for and a
description of the medical surveillance program required by the standard. A
medical surveillance program is required for all employees exposed to
formaldehyde at concentrations at or exceeding the action level or exceeding
the STEL. Medical surveillance is also required during the following instances:
. Whenever an employee develops signs and symptoms of an overexposure to
formaldehyde.
. Whenever an employee is exposed to formaldehyde during an emergency.
. Whenever requested by an employee's examining physician.
7. A review of emergency procedures for the handling of spills, emergencies,
and clean-up.
8. An explanation of the importance of engineering and work practice controls
for employee protection and any necessary instruction in the use of these
controls.
VI. ENGINEERING CONTROLS
Ventilation is the most
widely applied engineering control method used for reducing the concentration
of airborne substances in the breathing zones of workers. Either local exhaust
ventilation or general dilution ventilation should be used for this purpose
whenever possible. Work practices and administrative procedures are also an
important part of a control system. If an employee is asked to perform a task
in a certain manner to limit the exposure to formaldehyde, it is extremely
important that the recommended procedures are followed.
If it is determined that there are areas where the concentration of airborne
formaldehyde exceeds either the TWA or the STEL, VIMS/SMS will regulate those
areas and post and maintain legible signs bearing the following information at
all entrances or access ways:
DANGER
FORMALDEHYDE
IRRITANT AND POTENTIAL CANCER HAZARD
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY
VII. LEAK, SPILL, AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Small spills should be
cleaned up with absorbent material and placed into properly labeled containers
for later disposal. The Chemical Hygiene Officer or other representative of the
Office of Safety and Environmental Programs must be informed. In an area where
a large amount of formaldehyde could be released from an accident, the
supervisor should develop an emergency plan assigning tasks to specific
individuals and specifying procedures to be followed in the event of an
emergency.
Should it be determined that a large leak or spill has occurred, the area
should be evacuated immediately except for those individuals who have specific
emergency duties. While leaving the area, lab personnel should shut off all
ignition sources, if this can be done without risk. No one without specific
training and personal protective equipment should touch the spill or attempt to
clean it up. Persons designated in the lab's emergency plan should isolate any
hazard area and deny entry except for necessary personnel protected by suitable
protective clothing and respirators adequate for the exposure. The Office of
Safety and Environmental Programs should be contacted immediately either by
direct telephone call, through the VIMS/SMS telephone console operator, or by
pager. A message left on an answering machine or a voice-mail system is not
sufficient, specific contact with a person is essential. Often this can best be
accomplished by calling the Central Telephone Console attendant and asking her
to contact the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs.
Individuals with a potentially excessive exposure to formaldehyde should have
prompt medical attention and evaluation. Eye and skin irritation and respirator
distress are symptoms of formaldehyde exposure. If there is any concern about
the severity of the medical problem, the rescue squad should be called to
transport the individual to an emergency facility. Quoting section XIII B of
the VIMS/SMS Chemical Hygiene Plan (Instruction I-0501).
The Abingdon Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. (AVRS) provides emergency medical
service to the area of
VIII. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Additional information on the possible health effects of formaldehyde or on any
aspect of the VIMS/SMS Occupational Health & Safety Program for
Formaldehyde, the overall Occupational Safety and Health Plan is available from
the Office of Safety and Environmental Programs.