Laboratory Safety Manual - 2019 · The Laboratory Safety Manual is intended to provide fundamental...
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Transcript of Laboratory Safety Manual - 2019 · The Laboratory Safety Manual is intended to provide fundamental...
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Laboratory Safety Manual 2019 Safety Resources
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Contents
1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 Purpose ....................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Safety Management Principles..................................................................................... 6
2 Administration ..................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 University Requirements .............................................................................................. 8
2.2 Roles and Responsibilities ........................................................................................... 8
3 Health and Safety Hazards ................................................................................................11
3.1 Hazard Inventory ........................................................................................................11
3.2 Hazard Identification Techniques ................................................................................15
3.3 Hierarchy of Hazard Control ........................................................................................16
4 Laboratory Requirements and Procedures .........................................................................19
4.1 Standard Operating Procedures ..................................................................................19
4.2 Laboratory Access and Security ..................................................................................19
4.3 Mandatory Postings ....................................................................................................20
4.4 Laboratory Safety Equipment ......................................................................................20
4.5 Personal Protective Equipment ...................................................................................21
4.6 Working Alone ............................................................................................................23
4.7 Field Work ..................................................................................................................23
4.8 Procurement ...............................................................................................................24
4.9 Hazardous Materials Inventory Management ..............................................................25
4.10 Hazardous Waste Disposal .........................................................................................25
4.11 Facility Maintenance ...................................................................................................27
4.11.1 Installations, Repair and Maintenance .....................................................................27
4.11.2 Laboratory Maintenance Work .................................................................................27
4.12 Facility Decommissioning ............................................................................................28
4.13 Transportation of Dangerous Goods ...........................................................................29
4.13.1 Off Campus .............................................................................................................29
4.13.2 On Campus .............................................................................................................29
4.14 Inspections .................................................................................................................30
4.15 Records Management .................................................................................................31
5 Safe Work Practices ..........................................................................................................32
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5.1 Personal Hygiene .......................................................................................................32
5.2 Laboratory Ergonomics ...............................................................................................33
5.3 Safe Use of Laboratory Equipment .............................................................................34
5.3.1 Electrical Safety .......................................................................................................34
5.3.2 Refrigerators and Freezers ......................................................................................35
5.3.3 Glassware ...............................................................................................................37
5.3.4 Pressure and Vacuum Systems ..............................................................................38
5.3.5 Heating Devices ......................................................................................................39
5.3.5.1 Bunsen Burners ...................................................................................................39
5.3.5.2 Heating Mantles ...................................................................................................39
5.3.5.3 Hot Plates ............................................................................................................39
5.3.5.4 Oil, Sand and Salt Baths ......................................................................................39
5.3.5.5 Heat Guns ...........................................................................................................40
5.3.5.6 Ovens ..................................................................................................................40
5.3.5.7 Microwave Ovens ................................................................................................40
5.3.6 Lasers .....................................................................................................................41
5.3.6.1 Classification........................................................................................................41
5.3.6.2 Safety Work Practices ..........................................................................................41
5.3.7 Magnetic Fields .......................................................................................................42
5.3.8 Nanotechnology / Nanoparticles ..............................................................................67
5.4 Housekeeping .............................................................................................................43
6 Control of Specific Hazardous Materials and Activities .......................................................45
6.1 Chemical Safety ..........................................................................................................45
6.1.1 Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) .................................45
6.1.1.1 Classification System ...........................................................................................45
6.1.1.2 WHMIS Training ..................................................................................................46
6.1.1.3 WHMIS Labelling and Safety Data Sheets ...........................................................46
6.2 Storage ..........................................................................................................................49
6.2.1 Chemical Storage Guidelines ...................................................................................49
6.1.2 Flammable and Combustible Liquid Storage ...........................................................52
6.1.3 Placement and Storage of Compressed Gases .......................................................53
6.2 Biosafety .....................................................................................................................55
6.2.1 Biohazardous Material .............................................................................................55
6.2.2 Laboratory Acquired Infections ................................................................................56
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6.2.3 Risk Groups ............................................................................................................57
6.2.4 Laboratory Design ...................................................................................................58
6.2.5 University Biosafety Requirements ..........................................................................58
6.2.6 General Safe Work Practices ..................................................................................59
6.3 Animal Handling Safety ...............................................................................................60
6.3.1 Animal Care and Use ..............................................................................................60
6.3.2 General Safe Work Practices ..................................................................................61
6.4 Radiation Safety .........................................................................................................62
6.4.1 What is Radiation? ..................................................................................................62
6.4.2 Radioactive Materials ..............................................................................................62
6.4.3 Types of Radiation ..................................................................................................63
6.4.4 Radiation Exposure .................................................................................................64
6.4.6 University Radiation Safety Requirements ...............................................................65
6.4.7 Nuclear Substance Safe Work Practices .................................................................66
6.4.8 X-Ray Machines ......................................................................................................67
7 Laboratory Safety Equipment .............................................................................................68
7.1 First Aid Kits ................................................................................................................68
7.2 Fume Hoods ...............................................................................................................68
7.3 Snorkels ......................................................................................................................71
7.4 Canopy Hoods ............................................................................................................71
7.5 Slot ventilation ............................................................................................................72
7.6 Biosafety Cabinets ......................................................................................................72
7.7 Eyewashes and Safety Showers .................................................................................73
7.8 Fire Extinguishers .......................................................................................................74
7.9 Autoclaves ..................................................................................................................75
8 Training ..............................................................................................................................76
9 Emergency Preparedness and Response ..........................................................................78
9.1 Local Emergency Response Plan ...............................................................................78
9.2 Incidents .....................................................................................................................79
1 Gloves ...............................................................................................................................82
2 Footwear ............................................................................................................................83
3 Pants .................................................................................................................................84
4 Laboratory Coats ...............................................................................................................84
5 Eye Protection ...................................................................................................................84
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6 Respiratory Protection........................................................................................................85
7 Hearing Protection .............................................................................................................85
Appendix B – Definitions
Appendix C – Chemical Compatibility Chart
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1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The Laboratory Safety Manual is intended to provide fundamental health and safety practices
for faculty, staff and students working/learning in laboratory environments at the University of
Saskatchewan.
1.2 Safety Management Principles
The University of Saskatchewan is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment
for all members of the campus community.
A safe and healthy environment is created and maintained through the provision of proper
facilities, equipment, training, services, and by implementing, promoting, and supporting safety
management throughout the campus community.
Safety management involves developing and implementing measures and processes to
proactively manage occupational health and safety in the work/learning environment. Effective
health and safety management yields many benefits to the organization including:
Improved health and safety in the workplace;
Fewer incidents, injuries, and less severe injuries;
A more engaged and interdependent workforce;
Improved productivity; and
Reduced costs associated with workplace health and safety.
Understanding your work environment, the hazards that exist, the legal, institutional, and other
(e.g. funding) requirements governing your work are key first steps to assessing your health and
safety needs and, towards developing a tailored safety management system that works.
During the creation process, this upfront assessment and planning naturally flows to the
development and implementation of appropriate protective and preventative measures to
manage the identified hazards and to meet regulatory, other requirements, and goals or
objectives identified by the organization.
With any safety management system it is essential to integrate health and safety into the roles
and responsibilities for faculty, staff and students, to ensure effective lines of communication
exist, to ensure all receive appropriate training, and that there is collective engagement to
support health and safety in their work/learning environment.
As with any program, regular use, monitoring and review of the program and its elements are
important toward continual improvement. Assessing current processes, behaviours, training
efficacy, workplace incidents and non-conformances, and gaps in processes and protective
measures can lead to program improvements, and ultimately to improved health and safety in
the work/learning environment.
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Strong commitment and support from college/unit/department leaders is critical to establishing,
promoting and maintaining an effective safety management system.
The Laboratory Safety Manual has been designed to address many of the elements of best-in-
class safety programs and is intended as a key working document to support faculty, staff and
students working/learning in laboratory environments. The Laboratory Safety Manual can be
used as a stand-alone document or in concert with health and safety processes and procedures
already in place in the laboratory environment.
Safety Resources continues to work with the campus community to implement safety
management processes that align with client needs and university requirements. For more
information or assistance, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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2 Administration
2.1 University Requirements
Faculty, staff, students, and visitors working at the University of Saskatchewan must adhere to
all university, and applicable regulatory requirements in occupational health and safety, and
environmental protection. These include, but are not limited to:
University health, safety and environmental policies (http://policies.usask.ca/).
o Compliance Enforcement Pertaining to Hazardous Agents
Saskatchewan Employment Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations;
Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) regulations and standards;
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulations and standards;
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission regulations;
National Fire Code of Canada;
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations;
Federal and provincial environmental protection regulations;
Federal and provincial granting agency requirements.
The University of Saskatchewan will take specific and prompt action in order to enforce
compliance with the terms and conditions of various licenses issued to the university, and also
with the applicable federal, provincial and civil regulations pertaining to the use, handling,
storage, and disposal of hazardous materials.
When, in the opinion of a supervisor, and/or Safety Resources, there is unacceptable risk to
employees, public, environment, or university property, the supervisor and/or Safety Resources
shall take appropriate action, which may include the immediate suspension of the research
activity, work or learning activity, prohibit the entry to the laboratory and/or the removal of the
hazardous material(s) from the premises.
For further information and assistance on university and regulatory requirements that may impact
your work, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
2.2 Roles and Responsibilities
Faculty, staff, students and visitors are responsible to:
Take reasonable care to protect his or her health and safety and the health and safety of other
workers who may be affected by his or her acts or omissions;
Follow safe work practices and procedures required by the college and university;
Comply with health and safety regulatory requirements; and
Report unsafe conditions and incidents to your supervisor.
Supervisors are responsible to:
Provide leadership and support in the development and implementation of health and safety
procedures and processes that support faculty, staff and students;
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Ensure faculty, staff and students are informed and understand the hazards in their work and
learning environment and receive appropriate training in health and safety;
Ensure faculty, staff and students follow safe work practices and procedures required by the
college and university;
Comply with health and safety regulatory requirements;
Monitor work areas regularly for health and safety hazards;
In collaboration with faculty, staff and students, resolve identified health and safety hazards and
issues;
Investigate reported unsafe conditions and incidents; and
Cooperate with Safety Resources in the administration of best practices in health, safety and
environmental protection.
Laboratory Managers (where such positions exist) are responsible to:
Work collaboratively with faculty to provide leadership and support in the development and
implementation of documented health and safety procedures and processes that support faculty,
staff and students;
Ensure faculty, staff and students are informed and understand the hazards in their work and
learning environment and receive appropriate training in health and safety;
Ensure faculty, staff and students follow safe work practices and procedures required by the
college and university;
Comply with health and safety regulatory requirements;
Monitor work areas regularly for health and safety hazards;
Assist in the investigation of reported unsafe conditions and incidents; and
Cooperate with Safety Resources in the administration of best practices in health, safety and
environmental protection.
Safety Resources focuses on client service and integration of all health and safety programs,
services and initiatives to support and align with the university's academic and research goals
and strategic directions.
Safety Resources is responsible to:
Provide leadership, consultation and support for best practices in health, safety and
environmental protection;
Assist in the development of locally relevant health and safety programs and services;
Provide training and awareness in health, safety and environmental protection;
Support emergency preparedness and response; and
Ensure compliance with university and regulatory requirements.
For more information contact Safety resources at 306-966-4675 or visit our website,
http://safetyresources.usask.ca.
Wellness Resources works across a continuum of health management practices from health
promotion, prevention, early intervention, risk identification and case management to ensure all
university employees maintain or return to an optimal level of wellness. Visit the website
http://working.usask.ca for further information about ergonomics, medical accommodations,
referral forms, resources and more.
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Protective Services provides 24 hour emergency response for the university community. Each
patrol officer is trained to provided medical assistance (including Automated External
Defibrillation), and empowered to enforce traffic, alcohol and impaired driving offences on
campus. The Protective Services Community Resources Unit supports the campus with
preventative training and education including Rape Aggression Defense and Verbal Judo, as
well as consultation services to help reduce the risk of crime or violence on campus. Visit the
website, http://www.usask.ca/protectiveservices for further information about Protective
Services.
The university has a structure of Local Safety Committees that operate under the auspices of
the central Occupational Health Committee. Members of the Occupational Health Committee
and Safety Resources sit on all Local Safety Committees to support committee activities and
share information about health and safety from a campus perspective. Local Safety Committees
play a key role in both the identification and the resolution of health and safety issues in the
workplace at the college and divisional level.
Your Local Safety Committee (LSC) is responsible to:
Promote health and safety at the university with a focus towards the workplace;
Assist in identifying, eliminating and/or controlling hazards in the workplace;
Receive, review and respond to local safety concerns in cooperation with Safety Resources that
have not been resolved between a worker and his/her supervisor;
Conduct workplace inspections. The frequency of inspections is to be determined based on the
identified risks in the workplace;
Provide input to the Division Head or Dean concerning the management of safety issues in the
workplace; and
In consultation with Safety Resources, refer to the Occupational Health Committee (OHC) any
concerns which the LSC is unable, after diligent effort, to resolve.
For further information on safety committees at the university, or to find out who is on committees
that represent you, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675 or visit our website,
http://safetyresources.usask.ca/.
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3 Health and Safety Hazards
3.1 Hazard Inventory
Understanding your work environment and the hazards that exist are essential to assessing
your health and safety needs and developing appropriate protective and preventative measure
that work.
A hazard is any source of potential damage, harm or adverse health effects on something or
someone under certain conditions at work. Hazards can be subdivided in to health hazards and
physical hazards.
A health hazard is any hazard that can cause adverse health effects in the person exposed to
the hazard. A health hazard may produce serious and immediate health affects (acute) or
delayed health problems (latent) from repeated or chronic exposure. Examples of health
hazards include:
Exposure to hazardous substance (e.g. chemicals, biohazardous materials, radiation, animals);
Ergonomic hazards (e.g. poor work place design, tools and work practices, repetitive or sustained
motions, lifting and handling, vibration);
Noise;
Sources of electromagnetic fields and;
Workplace stress.
Physical hazards are those which can cause immediate injury. Example physical hazards
include:
Improper selection, use and maintenance of equipment and tools
Slip/trip/fall hazards;
Cut/poke/puncture hazards (e.g. working with knives, needles, tools);
Flying/ejected objects or materials (e.g. broken glass, vacuum/pressure systems, dust and
particles generation);
Working from heights;
Working in confined spaces;
Unguarded machinery/equipment and moving parts;
Sources of hazardous energy in systems and/or equipment;
Working with equipment that pose hazards (e.g. powered mobile equipment, autoclaves);
Electrical hazards (e.g. frayed cords, missing ground pins, improper wiring);
Fire and explosion hazards;
Hot/cold hazards when working with materials/equipment (e.g. cryogens);
Animal bites and/or;
Poor housekeeping.
A summary of common hazards routinely encountered in laboratory environments are presented
in Table 1 noting that there may be other hazards specific to your work environment that or not
included in the list.
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Table 1 - Common health and safety hazards in laboratories
Hazard Class Hazard Type Hazard Information
Physical hazards of
chemicals
Flammable,
combustible and
explosive solids, liquids
and gasses
Flammable, combustible and explosive materials can vaporize
and form flammable mixtures with air when open containers,
when leaks occur or when heated, or become flammable with
certain catalysts.
Oxidizing solids, liquids
and gases
An oxidizer in itself may not necessarily be combustible, may,
generally by yielding oxygen, cause or contribute to the
combustion of other material.
Gases under pressure
Compressed gases can be toxic, flammable, oxidizing,
corrosive, inert or a combination of hazards. In addition to the chemical hazards, compressed gases may be under a great
deal of pressure.
Self-reactive (unstable)
substances
Self-reactive substances are thermally unstable liquids or solids
liable to undergo a strongly exothermic thermal decomposition
even without participation of oxygen (air).
Water reactive
materials
Water reactive substances are dangerous when wet because
they undergo a chemical reaction with water. This reaction may
release a gas that is either flammable or presents a toxic health
hazard.
Pyrophorics A pyrophoric is liable to ignite after coming into contact with air,
even in small quantities.
Organic peroxides
An organic peroxide may be considered a derivative of
hydrogen peroxide, where one or both of the hydrogen atoms
have been replaced by organic radicals. The term also includes
organic peroxide formulations (mixtures). Such substances and
mixtures may be liable to explosive decomposition; burn rapidly;
be sensitive to impact or friction; react dangerously with other
substances. Peroxides can occur in virtually any kind of organic
chemical, however, certain chemicals are particularly prone to
peroxide formation and pose special hazards. May also be light
sensitive.
Corrosive
A corrosive material is a highly reactive substance that causes
obvious damage to living tissue or to metal. Corrosives act
either directly, by chemically destroying the part (oxidation), or
indirectly by causing inflammation.
Cryogens
A cryogenic a substance used to produce very low
temperatures. A synonym is "refrigerant". Contact with cryogens
can cause frost bite to exposed skin.
Health hazards of
chemicals
Respiratory, eye, skin
damage or irritation
Exposure to chemicals may arise from inhalation, contact with
skin and eyes, ingestion or injection. Exposure to chemicals,
can damage the respiratory track if inhaled, and damage the
skin or eyes if in direct contact.
Toxicity
Certain organs or systems can be adversely affected by either
single or multiple exposures to a certain chemical. These
include nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, hematoxins, etc.
Health hazards of
chemicals Mutagens
A mutagen is a substance or agent that causes an increase in
the rate of change in genes (subsections of the DNA of the
body's cells). These mutations can be passed along as the cell
reproduces, sometimes leading to defective cells or cancer.
Examples of mutagens include certain biological and chemical
agents as well exposure to ultraviolet light or ionizing radiation.
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Hazard Class Hazard Type Hazard Information
Asphyxiants
An asphyxiant is a substance that can cause unconsciousness
or death by suffocation (asphyxiation) or aspiration. Aspiration
is the entry of a liquid or solid directly through the oral or nasal
cavity, or indirectly from vomiting, into the trachea and lower
respiratory system. Aspiration toxicity includes severe acute
effects such as chemical pneumonia, varying degrees of
pulmonary injury or death following aspiration.
Carcinogens
Carcinogen means a chemical substance or a mixture of
chemical substances which may induce cancer or increase its
incidence.
Reproductive toxins
Reproductive toxicity includes adverse effects on sexual
function and fertility in adult males and females, as well as
developmental toxicity in offspring.
Sensitivities Working with some chemicals can in increase the risk of
developing sensitivities.
Biological hazards
Infections/pathogenic
Work with infectious materials, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi,
parasites, prions, infected animal/human bodily fluids/tissues
and/or toxins can result in illness and disease.
Laboratory animals
Work with animals can result in physical hazards (e.g. bites,
scratches, musculoskeletal injuries) as well as health hazards
from exposure to infectious materials and pathogens.
Allergies and
Sensitivities
Allergies and sensitivities can develop from the direct handling
of animals, working in spaces where animals are housed and
through the handling of contaminated materials such as
bedding and cages. Exposure occurs through direct skin
contact with animal dander, saliva and urine, and through the
inhalation of allergens that become airborne.
Radiation hazards
Exposure
Work with nuclear substances and/or radiation devices can
result in an internal and/or external exposure to radiation.
Exposure to radiation can cause adverse health effects ranging
from immediate and severe symptoms from high level acute
exposures to elevated risks of other health effects such as
cancers or reproductive effects from chronic low level
exposures.
Magnetic fields
Exposure to strong magnetic fields may cause adverse health
effects for individuals with medical devices. In strong magnetic
fields, metal materials, tools or devices can be attracted
presenting physical hazards.
Microwaves Microwaves present heat and burning hazards.
Lasers Lasers can cause damage to the eyes and burns to the skin.
Laboratory
equipment hazards
Cuts, punctures,
scrapes, bruises
The most common laboratory injuries come from contact with
sharp equipment or tools (needles, scalpels), slips, trips, falling objects, broken glass, etc.
SHARPS (syringes,
razor blades, scalpels,
etc.)
SHARPS-related injury is a penetrating stab wound from a
needle, scalpel, or other sharp object that may result in
exposure to blood or other infectious body fluids. Result of
using dangerous equipment in a fast-paced, stressful, and
understaffed environment.
Electrical hazards
Electrical hazards include use of high-voltage equipment, wet
environments, harsh environments that may deteriorate
insulation, automatically starting equipment, malfunctioning or
improperly maintained equipment, or improper use of power
cables.
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Hazard Class Hazard Type Hazard Information
Mechanical hazards
Some equipment has moving parts that may present pinching or
crushing hazards, may catch loose clothing, or may vibrate or
move while running.
Burns Fires, hot plates, extreme cold, and hot equipment are common
in labs and may cause burns without proper precautions.
Flying particles Flying particles and chemicals may occur frequently and without
warning from various lab equipment and operations.
Intense light UV and laser light may cause burns or eye damage.
Vacuum/pressure Containers placed under high vacuum or pressure can become
hazardous (implode or explode) in certain circumstances.
Noise
Equipment may generate enough noise to cause damage to
hearing or prevent communications in an emergency situation.
Also, high frequency sound or sustained exposure to noise may
cause hearing damage.
Laboratory
equipment hazards
Electric and magnetic
fields
Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible lines of force
associated with the use of high-voltage electric power. Health
effects are uncertain, but individuals with pacemakers or
metallic implants should take precautions.
Batteries
Some batteries contain corrosive liquids or may generate
hydrogen gas while charging. Others can explode if
overcharged or contain heavy metals.
Radiation Radioactive sources may be present in certain analytical
equipment.
Workplace
environmental
hazards
Ergonomics
Certain tasks in the laboratory may involve heavy lifting or
repetitive motions, sustained or awkward positions, that may,
over time, lead to musculoskeletal disorders.
Hot/cold environments Work in refrigerated environments or field work may present
hazards from exposure to temperature extremes.
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3.2 Hazard Identification Techniques
When identifying and assessing hazards in a laboratory environment, it is important to engage
the persons involved in the process (e.g. hazard assessments, workplace inspections, etc.).
Those individuals exposed to the hazards are well positioned to provide good information and
advice as well as protective and preventative measures that will work. Engaging stakeholders in
the process also supports a collective ownership in health and safety. Workplace hazards may
be identified through a number of formal and informal processes summarized in Table 2.
Table 2 - Hazard identification techniques
Technique Process
Hazard assessment
A hazard assessment involves examining the work environment, processes,
equipment and activities to identify hazards for the purposes of determining
appropriate safety control measures.
A common form of hazard assessment is the job safety analysis (JSA). In a
JSA, work activities are broken down into their functional steps and hazards
associated with each step are identified together with appropriate safety
control measures.
When there are changes to activities and/or processes, existing hazard
information should be reviewed or a new hazard assessment performed.
During the development and implementation of new (or existing) research
protocols, health and safety hazards should be considered in the
development process.
Faculty, staff and student
engagement
Faculty, staff and students should be encouraged to report identified
hazards, safety issues/concerns, and gaps in procedures or processes
within the laboratory environment.
Routine safety meetings provide faculty and staff an opportunity to talk about
safety in their work areas and to raise issues or concerns related to their
work environment.
Routine workplace inspections
Routine workplace inspections performed by supervisors, faculty and staff is
an effective technique for identifying hazards, safety issues and unsafe
behaviours of staff working in the laboratory environment.
Formal workplace safety inspections should be conducted on a regular
frequency (based on risk), and documented with clear assignments and
accountabilities to address the findings of the inspections.
Inspections may be easily incorporated into regular work activities or
procedures for faculty and staff.
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Technique Process
Incident/non-conformance
investigations
Faculty, staff and students should be encouraged to report incidents, near
miss events, and non-conformances in the laboratory work environment.
Reported incidents, near misses, and non-conformances serves as an
important mechanism to assess workplace conditions, hazards, and
practices towards minimizing a recurrence of the incident or non-
conformance, and to addressing gaps in health and safety.
Lessons learned from reported incidents, near misses and non-
conformances also serve as important learning and training opportunities for
faculty, staff and students in the laboratory.
3.3 Hierarchy of Hazard Control
Once hazards have been identified, hazards should be managed according to a risk priority
process. This process should take into account the relative severity of the hazard occurring, as
well as the relative probability of the hazard occurring. Highest risk activities must be managed
immediately, and other activities should be managed according to the risk they present on a
priority basis.
The following priority should be used when deciding on the appropriate preventive and
protective measures for each hazard (refer to the diagram below):
1) Eliminate the hazard;
2) Substitute - with other materials, processes or equipment;
3) Safer Work Systems
4) Use engineering controls;
5) Provide administrative controls; and
6) Personal protective equipment (PPE).
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Whenever possible, the hazard should be managed at the highest level possible on the priority
list above. For example, if the hazard cannot be eliminated entirely (priority 1), then substitution
with other materials, processes or equipment should be considered. If substitution is not
effective at managing the hazard, then engineering controls should be established if possible,
etc. This priority approach to instituting preventive and protective measures should continue
until a suitable solution is achieved. In most cases, a combination of measures will be
necessary to effectively manage the hazard. When determining preventive and protective
measures, all applicable legal and university requirements must be met and any standards,
codes or best practices should be used to guide the process.
Hazards in the workplace may be addressed using a combination of methods summarized
below presented in order of effectiveness:
Elimination – The process of removing a hazard from the workplace. This is the preferred
method of controlling a risk because the hazard has been removed. An example of
elimination could include ceasing or altering how a job is performed or the application of
engineering controls, such as automating a hazardous process, or isolating a hazard, to
eliminate worker contact with the hazard.
Substitution – The process commonly employed is to substitute a hazardous substance
(typically chemicals) with a less hazardous alternative effectively reducing the hazard
associated with the initial hazardous substance. An example is substituting organic solvents
with water-based equivalents. Another example is working with nanoparticles in
agglomerate (solid) format as opposed to in a dry powder or aerosol format. In considering
substitution, it is important to have a good understanding of the hazards of the chemical
being considered for substitution. The substituted chemical may have other or unique
hazards that may need to be addressed or which may offset the value of using them.
Engineering Controls – Include systems and structures that are built into the design of a
facility, equipment or processes to minimize/eliminate the hazard. Engineering controls are a
very reliable way to control worker exposures as long as the controls are designed, used
and maintained properly. The basic types of engineering controls include process control
and automation, enclosure and/or isolation of emission source, guards and shields, and
ventilation. Common examples of engineering controls used in a laboratory environment
include fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, engineered sharps, and flammable storage
cabinets.
Safety Work Systems and Administrative Controls – Controls that are put into place to direct activities in a workplace. Safer work systems and administrative controls typically take the form of worker training, policies, operational rules, practices, procedures, and overarching safety management systems. Administrative controls may also include lighting, alarms, and warning signs to increase awareness of hazards. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Refers to clothing or equipment a worker can
wear to protect against injury from such things as hazardous substances, cuts, heat, flying
debris, falling objects, and inhalation. PPE is worn to protect against exposures from
workplace hazards when engineering and/or administrative controls are unable or
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insufficient alone in providing protection from these hazards. PPE is generally considered
the least effective hazard control method, as it is the “last line of defense” to protect you
from a hazard. As such, the appropriate PPE must be selected and its use enforced when
working in the laboratory.
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4 Laboratory Requirements and Procedures
4.1 Standard Operating Procedures
Laboratory research and activities should be, to the extent possible, governed by established and
documented standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Standard operating procedures serve to ensure consistency and quality of work, and that health
and safety hazards are adequately managed during the work activities. Standard operating
procedures also serve as a training tool for faculty, staff and students tasked with performing the
work.
Standard operating procedures should include the following key elements:
Purpose of the procedure;
Who the procedure applies to;
Roles and responsibilities;
Training requirements;
Equipment and materials required to perform the procedure;
Identified health and safety hazards, and protective measures;
Clearly defined procedural steps with troubleshooting information (as appropriate);
Document review requirements; and
Procedure references.
Standard operating procedures should also include the names of individual(s) who authored the
procedure, who authorized the procedure, a unique document number and date activated, and a
revision table at the beginning of the procedure to track changes made to the procedure.
For further information, SOP templates, available procedures, or assistance with the development
of procedures, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.2 Laboratory Access and Security
To ensure appropriate security in laboratories, faculty, staff, students, and visitors should adhere
to the following practices.
Only authorized individuals are permitted to access laboratory spaces;
Laboratory doors are kept closed and locked (where required) at all times; doors should not be
propped open;
Assigned laboratory access cards and/or keys are not to be shared with other staff, students, or
visitors;
Immediately report to your supervisor if you have lost your access card/keys;
Report unauthorized access, or suspicious individuals or activities to your supervisor and;
Immediately report missing hazardous materials and/or equipment to your supervisor.
Other or additional laboratory access and security requirements may be required depending on
the nature of the work and the hazardous materials being used.
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For further information, or assistance on laboratory access and security, contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.3 Mandatory Postings
The following information must be posted immediately outside all laboratories.
Contact names and numbers for the laboratory;
Emergency contacts numbers including after-hours contact information;
Approved signage to indicate the presence of hazardous activities in the laboratory;
o Biohazard materials;
o Radioactive materials;
o Elevated noise levels;
o Personal protective equipment requirements;
o Warning signage for specific hazards.
Safety equipment in laboratories must also have appropriate signage including for fire
extinguishers, emergency eyewashes and showers, first aid kits and spill kits.
Other signage and documents that must be posted, as appropriate, inside the laboratory include:
Licences/permits/certifications issued by regulatory agencies;
University issued biosafety permits;
University issued nuclear substance permits;
Safety Data Sheets;
Emergency response posters and;
Warning signs on equipment (e.g. flammable materials, lasers, microwaves, high voltage,
pinch/crush hazards).
For further information or assistance on postings and signage in a laboratory, contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.4 Laboratory Safety Equipment
All wet laboratories at the University of Saskatchewan must be equipped with the following safety equipment that meets regulatory and University of Saskatchewan standards:
Building fire safety systems (e.g. fire alarms, smoke alarms, sprinklers, exit signage) – building fire
safety systems will vary depending on the era of the building and applicable building code
requirements;
Emergency eyewash and/or shower;
Fire extinguisher(s);
First Aid Kit;
Spill kit and; and
Personal protective equipment.
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Other safety equipment such as fume hoods, biosafety cabinets, autoclaves, ventilated cage
systems, gas/vapour monitoring systems, radiation monitoring equipment, alarms, etc. may be
required for the laboratory depending on the nature of the work being performed.
Safety equipment must be maintained on a regular basis to ensure its proper operation.
Equipment maintenance schedules and responsibilities are summarized in Table 3.
Table 3 - Safety equipment maintenance and testing requirements
Safety Equipment Frequency of
Inspection/Testing/Maintenance Responsible Party
Fire safety systems (detectors,
alarms, sprinklers) Annually
Facilities Operations and
Maintenance
Biosafety cabinets Annually External service provider
Fume hoods Annually Safety Resources
Fire extinguishers Annually Safety Resources
Eyewash and Safety Showers
(flush testing) Weekly Laboratory personnel
Eyewash and Safety Showers (annual full function test)
Annually Safety Resources
Autoclaves
(maintenance and permitting) Annually
Facilities Operations and
Maintenance
Radiation contamination monitors Annually Safety Resources
First Aid kits Annually Laboratory personnel
Gas/vapour monitoring systems Annually Qualified service providers
Notify Safety Resources or Facilities Operation and Maintenance immediately of any safety
equipment that is malfunctioning. All equipment or devices undergoing repair or maintenance
must be decontaminated before being serviced.
If you have questions or require assistance with safety equipment, please contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.5 Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is widely used in laboratory environments to provide,
essentially, a protective barrier between the individual and the hazards present (e.g. chemicals,
flying objects, noise, etc.). PPE, while an important protective measure is essentially the “last
line of defense” between you and the hazard. As such, it is very important to clearly assess and
establish what the PPE requirements are for the laboratory, in consideration of other protective
measures that may be considered. It is important to ensure faculty, staff and students have
access to, or are assigned required PPE, and finally, that they are appropriately trained on its
use and care.
Where practicable, hazards should be mitigated using other hazard controls (elimination,
engineering controls, and administrative controls) to eliminate or minimize the need for PPE.
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Faculty, staff, students, and visitors entering laboratory spaces where hazardous materials are
present must wear, at a minimum, the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
Long pants;
Closed toed and heeled shoes (with socks);
Protective gloves; and
Eye protection
Faculty, staff, students, and visitors working in laboratory spaces and handling hazardous
materials must wear the above mentioned PPE and a Laboratory Coat.
Shorts, dresses, or sandals are not permitted when working in laboratory spaces where
hazardous materials are handled.
Other PPE that may be required based on the nature of the work and identified risks include:
Protective clothing (e.g. Tyvek suites, aprons, etc.) – When working in environments where full
body coverage is required to provide protection;
Goggles – Goggles should be worn when working with chemicals that are harmful to the eyes, hot
liquids, when working with glassware below or above atmospheric pressure;
Face shields – In addition to safety glasses, face shields should be worn when there exists the
risk of severe exposure to harmful chemicals and from protection from flying particles and
splashes to the face and neck;
Head protection (e.g. hard hat, bump cap) – When working in environments where there is a risk
of injury to the head from overhead objects or falling material or debris;
Foot protection (e.g. steel toed boots, rubber boots, shoe covers) – When working in
environments where heavy items materials could crush the feet or in environments where there
may be slip or contamination hazards;
Hearing protection (e.g. ear plugs, ear muffs) – When working in noisy environments. Contact
Safety Resources to assess noise levels in your work environment, the need for, and the types of
hearing protection that may be required;
Respiratory protection – When working in environments where there is an inhalation hazard from
airborne contaminants at concentrations that pose a health risk, and which cannot be managed
through other control measures. If you believe you may require respiratory protection, or are
concerned about airborne contaminants in your work environment, contact Safety Resources.
Laboratory coats, protective clothing (such as Tyvek suites) or gloves are not to be worn outside
laboratory spaces.
Contaminated laboratory clothing is to be laundered in accordance with laboratory or
departmental procedures, or disposed of appropriately and in accordance with the university’s
Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard.
Further information on PPE is provided in Appendix A. For assistance or questions regarding
PPE requirements, selection, usage, fitting and training, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-
4675.
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4.6 Working Alone
Faculty, staff and students frequently perform work/learning activities in the evenings, on
weekends and during holidays. Work may also be carried out routinely during regular university
business hours where individuals are working alone in laboratories.
Working alone on or off campus, performing hazardous activities, or working with hazardous
materials can elevate health and safety risks to those performing the work, especially if
unprepared.
In accordance with best practices in safety management, and the university’s Working Alone
Policy, supervisors must review each work area under their control to identify individuals who
do/may work alone and ensure all reasonably practicable steps are taken to protect the health
and safety of those staff and students. Working alone in laboratories after regular work hours
while handling hazardous materials is generally not recommended.
In instances where individuals are permitted to work alone, supervisors must ensure:
Work alone activities are well planned out, and documented with SOPs;
Individuals are fully trained in the tasks they are to perform, the known hazards and protective
measures (health hazards, physical hazards, personal safety);
Individuals are aware of what activities they are not permitted to perform when working alone;
There exists a communications plan/mechanism to confirm that the individual is safe and/or if the
individual needs assistance;
The individual is familiar with the laboratory emergency response procedures;
Unattended activities/techniques or procedures carried out continuously or overnight must be
planned carefully to avoid hazards and mishaps such as spills, fires, utility failures cooling water
disruption or floods. Arrangements for routine checks and notification to all members of the
laboratory group should be made. Appropriate warning signs must be posted in the area or on
the equipment. Where possible, unattended activities should be carried out in a fume hood to
minimize the release of hazardous materials in the event of a system failure.
For assistance in developing work alone procedures, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-
4675.
4.7 Field Work
“Fieldwork” refers to any activities conducted for the purpose of research, study or teaching
undertaken by employees or students of the university in any workplace beyond property owned
or rented by the university.
The Fieldwork and Associated Travel Policy and Guidelines are available on the Safety
Resources website (http://safetyresources.usask.ca/) and are available to facilitate the
development of specific Fieldwork and Associated Travel procedures for Departments and
Principal Investigators. Consult with your Safety Consultant for assistance as required.
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4.8 Procurement
Colleges and administrative unit faculty and staff intending to buy goods and services, including
hazardous materials and equipment, must adhere to institutional requirements as specified in
university policies and procedures as well as local departmental requirements.
Purchases of hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals, biohazardous materials, nuclear substances)
must be made through Purchasing or ConnectionPoint. No P-Card purchases of hazardous
materials are permitted. When purchasing hazardous materials:
Only purchase the hazardous materials that are required for the present work. Avoid stockpiling
hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals) based volume purchasing;
Where possible, substitute for less hazardous materials; and
If special storage, operational procedures, and/or PPE are required, ensure this in place prior to
ordering the hazardous materials.
Individuals intending to procure biohazardous materials, nuclear substances or radiation
devices from a domestic or international source must possess a university permit and meet
prescribed regulatory requirements (Biosafety Policy and Radiation Safety Policy). Nuclear
substances and radiation devices must be purchased through Safety Resources. Contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675 for assistance.
When purchasing laboratory equipment, consider the following:
Company history, reputation and service quality;
Required authorizations (university permits and/or regulatory);
Is the equipment certified by external agencies (e.g. CSA, ULC or equivalent);
Safety hazards of the equipment (e.g. hazardous materials used, fire hazards, electrical hazards,
radiation, noise, exposed moving parts, environmental emissions);
Safety features of the equipment (e.g. design, operability, guards, shields, safety shutoffs,
noise/vibration dampening);
Installation requirements in the laboratory (e.g. space and location, electrical, water, ventilation,
and other utilities or infrastructure);
Maintenance and certification requirements and operational costs (e.g. materials, energy); and
Decommissioning and disposal requirements and costs for the equipment.
When purchasing Biosafety Cabinets (BSC), contact Safety Resources (306-966-4675) prior to
ordering the BSC.
When purchasing fridges or freezers, the “Safety Approval for New Fridge/Freezer Purchase
form must be completed and faxed to Safety Resources (306-966-8394) for approval by Safety
resources.
For further information on procurement processes at the university, contact Operational
Procurement at 306-966-6704.
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4.9 Hazardous Materials Inventory Management
Effective management of hazardous materials necessitates understanding the hazards, use,
storage, emergency response, and disposal requirements for their safe use. Core to hazardous
materials management is knowing what hazardous materials you have in the laboratory
environment, work and storage areas.
Poor inventory management can result in the following issues:
Unnecessary accumulation of chemicals and hazardous materials;
Reduced/insufficient storage capacity and improper storage issues in the laboratory;
Elevated risks for spill/releases and worker exposures;
Elevated fire hazards;
Increased quantities of chemicals that have expired, and/or have possibly become unstable;
Increased risk of chemical and/or material identification information being lost resulting in
unknowns;
Increased risk of losing/misplacing materials;
Increased security risks; and
Added costs to the laboratory and the institution associated with the procurement and
management of hazardous materials (e.g. unused, expired, lost chemicals, disposal of
unknowns/reactive chemicals).
It is the responsibility of supervisors to maintain current inventories of all substances (chemical,
biohazardous, nuclear) that may be hazardous (or of concern) to the health and safety of
faculty, staff and students at the place of employment and that these inventories be made
available for their use, and for emergency situations.
Inventories must be reviewed at least annually (or more frequently, if hazards dictate) to confirm
inventories and to determine if substances have expired, or are no longer being actively used.
It is noted that proper hazardous material inventory management is a regulatory requirement
under provincial and federal regulations.
Contact the Safety Resources Waste Management Facility at 306-966-8497 for the collection
and disposal of hazardous materials.
For further or assistance with hazardous materials inventory management, and for inventory
templates, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.10 Hazardous Waste Disposal
Hazardous waste generated through the course of research, academic or other activities on
campus shall be managed and disposed of in accordance with the university’s Hazardous
Waste Disposal Standard.
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The Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard specifies the processes and minimum requirements
for the safe disposal of chemical, biological, and radiological waste generated from research,
academic or other activities at the university.
Figure 1: Examples of hazardous waste generated on campus.
It is the responsibility of the supervisor within the laboratory, and all individuals generating
hazardous waste to properly manage hazardous waste to ensure its safe and environmentally
responsible disposal in accordance with federal, provincial, and municipal regulations as well as
university standards. Hazardous waste shall not be released to the environment through regular
garbage or through the sanitary or storm sewer system. Hazardous waste must be collected
and disposed of according to the processes and requirements outlined in the Hazardous Waste
Disposal Standard.
The Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard and hazardous waste disposal forms are available on
the Safety Resources website, http://www.safetyresources.usask.ca/. Contact the Waste Management Facility at 306-966-8497 for the collection and disposal of hazardous materials, or
if you have questions about hazardous waste management.
It is incumbent upon every member of the university community to be aware of the
environmental and financial impacts of hazardous waste and to actively seek to minimize the
volume of hazardous waste that is generated. The management of hazardous waste should be
an integral part of the laboratory setup and operating procedures and university staff and faculty
should conduct an annual review of their hazardous waste management procedures.
For further information, assistance or training on hazardous waste disposal, contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
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4.11 Facility Maintenance
4.11.1 Installations, Repair and Maintenance
Under the University of Saskatchewan Renovation, Renewal and Replacement of Facilities
Policy, all renovation, renewal and replacement projects that may affect the building
(mechanical, plumbing, electrical, architectural, structural, utilities) and/or the built environment
must be submitted to, and executed by, the Facilities Operation and Maintenance. The Facilities
Operation and Maintenance must also be consulted prior to the installation of research and
teaching equipment that may impact the building. The Facilities Operation and Maintenance will
usually install the equipment.
Building and Laboratory Electrical Services – Installations, repairs and maintenance to
laboratory or building electrical services shall only be performed by Facilities Operation and
Maintenance and by qualified electrical workers.
Commercial appliances, instruments and equipment purchased must be appropriately certified
and labelled. Maintenance or modifications to commercial appliances, instruments, and
equipment must be performed by the manufacturer or by a qualified Facilities Operation and
Maintenance worker and not by laboratory personnel. For equipment that is directly connected
to building or laboratory electrical services (hard-wired), and is not equipped with a disconnect
at the equipment, Facilities Operation and Maintenance must be contacted.
Laboratory research, academic personnel and students may only perform maintenance or
modifications to experimental electrical equipment or apparatus used or developed in research or
for academic purposes, and only if properly trained and under adequate supervision.
All facility installations, repair or maintenance work must be carried out in accordance with
applicable regulations and standards, including the university’s Facility Decommissioning
Standard and Hazardous Energy Lockout Standard.
For assistance, contact Facilities Operation and Maintenance Customer Service Centre at 306-
966-4496.
4.11.2 Laboratory Maintenance Work
When repair and maintenance work is required in the laboratory or with laboratory equipment,
the following activities must be carried out prior to the commencement of work:
Remove/move and store hazardous materials away from planned work areas;
Move/relocate equipment if required;
Clean and decontaminate work surfaces and areas and/or equipment;
Inform others in the laboratory of the work to be performed;
Complete an Equipment Release Form. On the form, indicate the known hazards
associated with the work area and equipment, the processes used to decontaminate the
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equipment, and any PPE and safety precautions that must be adhered to work in the
area and with the equipment; and
Hazardous waste generated in the process of cleaning, disinfecting or decontaminating
equipment and tools is disposed of in accordance with the Hazardous Waste Disposal
Standard.
Laboratory and equipment maintenance, repairs or changes should be coordinated in
consultation with the supervisor or facility manager.
For further information, refer to the Facility Decommissioning Standard or contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675. Equipment Release Forms are available on the Safety Resources
website, http://safetyresources.usask.ca/.
4.12 Facility Decommissioning
The Facility Decommissioning Standard has been developed to ensure faculty, staff, students,
and visitors understand their responsibilities and the minimum requirements when vacating
research spaces, teaching areas, or facilities that involve hazardous materials and/or activities
that have known health, safety or environmental implications.
Under the Facility Decommissioning Standard, decommissioning of space is required when:
The individual (faculty, staff, students, visitors) is no longer working in the space(s);
The individual is leaving the university;
The individual is ceasing to use hazardous materials in the space(s);
The individual is relocating instruments or equipment that pose hazards, or that have been used
for research, academics, storage or other activities involving hazardous materials;
The individual is cancelling a university issued biosafety and/or nuclear substance permit(s);
The individual is cancelling a licence, permit or certification granted by a federal or provincial
regulatory body;
The individual is relocating to another space on campus; or
The space is being renovated, or is to be demolished.
Following is the general process to be followed to clean and decontaminate equipment and
tools that are to be removed from a laboratory space and/or undergo maintenance or repair.
1. Place all sharps (e.g. blades, needles, syringes) in an approved sharps container in
accordance with the Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard.
2. All equipment and tools contaminated or potentially contaminated with hazardous
materials (chemical, biological, nuclear) shall be decontaminated using appropriate
techniques before removal from the space(s). This includes equipment destined for
disposal or relocation to another space(s) or to another institution.
Decontamination of some equipment such as biosafety cabinets and autoclaves shall be
confirmed through the use of bio-indicators. Decontamination of equipment contaminated or
potentially contaminated with nuclear materials shall be verified through radiation contamination
monitoring techniques such as wipe tests.
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3. An Equipment Release Form must be completed for each piece of equipment in the
work space even if the equipment is to remain in the space. On the form, indicate the
known hazards associated with the equipment and work area, the processes used to
decontaminate the equipment, and any personal protective equipment and safety
precautions that must be adhered to work in the area and with the equipment.
4. Hazardous waste generated in the process of cleaning, disinfecting or decontaminating
equipment and tools shall be disposed of in accordance with the Hazardous Waste
Disposal Standard.
Laboratory and equipment maintenance, repairs or changes should be coordinated in
consultation with the supervisor.
For assistance with facility decommissioning, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.13 Transportation of Dangerous Goods
4.13.1 Off Campus
Individuals who package and/or complete shippers declarations for the transportation of
dangerous goods (TDG) on or off campus must have received training and hold a valid training
certificate. Training and certificates are obtained through Safety Resources.
4.13.2 On Campus
All substances being transported to or between laboratories must be placed in a secondary
container that shall be capable of containing all of the substance in the event it is dropped or the
primary container leaks for any reason. The primary container must be Workplace Hazardous
Materials Information System (WHMIS) labeled and the secondary container must have the
contact person’s name and telephone number printed on the outside.
When transporting hazardous materials within the same building or between buildings, the
transport should take place when students are in class so that pedestrian traffic will be at a
minimum.
Personal modes of transportation (vehicles, bicycles) are not to be used to transport hazardous
goods on campus. If the amount of chemicals to be transported cannot be done by walking or
using a push cart (with side rails) contact Safety Resources for guidance.
For transportation outside of buildings, it is recommended that an emergency response plan be
included with the package in case the carrier is unable to respond in the event of a spill.
For assistance with the transportation of dangerous goods, contact Safety Resources at 306-
966-4675.
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Transportation of Biological Materials
When moving material within a laboratory (e.g. freezer to a biosafety cabinet (BSC), from an
incubator to a BSC, from a BSC to a microscope), the material is placed into a primary labelled,
leak proof, impact resistant containers (e.g. tubes with thread screw cap lids) placed into an
appropriate holder or carrier. Individuals should move slowly and with caution whenever carrying
the material.
When moving material between laboratories or between buildings, the material is placed into a
primary labelled, leak proof, impact resistant container which is then placed into a secondary
labelled, leak proof, impact resistant container that contains absorbent material such as paper
towel, absorbent pads, etc. Before transporting, ensure the outside of the secondary container is
sprayed or wiped down with the appropriate disinfectant prior to leaving the laboratory.
Large or heavy items should be transported on carts with guard rails or raised edges and loaded
in a manner that will prevent them from tipping. Spill kits should be available outside the
laboratory in the event of a spill. Wet or dry ice should only be placed inside a sealable
secondary container if the sample is to be kept cold during transit. In order to prevent gas
buildup, dry ice secondary containers cannot be airtight.
When transferring biological and/or biohazardous materials to another Laboratory and/or
building, it is important to ensure that the area in which the material is transferred to meets the
proper containment parameters and the material and/or location is reflected on a University of
Saskatchewan biosafety permit. If the permit does not reflect the location or the material,
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
4.14 Inspections
Conducting regular inspections of the laboratory is a proactive method to monitor work activities
and behaviours and to identify health, safety or environmental hazards. Inspections may be
conducted by faculty, staff and students familiar with the laboratory and the activities of the
laboratory.
Supervisors should develop an inspection schedule engaging faculty, staff and students within
each laboratory space to participate in laboratory inspections. It is recommended that
inspections be conducted at least once per month.
Identified hazards and issues should be addressed in consultation with the supervisor, faculty
and staff in the laboratory, department administration and your Safety Resources Safety
Consultant as required. Inspection findings may also be used as a vehicle for training and
awareness.
For assistance with development of self-inspection processes, or to address identified hazards,
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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4.15 Records Management
Management and control of documents and records associated with the activities in the
laboratory is a necessary component of an effective health and safety program. Certain
documents and records will be valuable to assess health and safety but also to support liability
management purposes and to provide evidence of due diligence in the event that university
practices are questioned.
Records must be managed and maintained to provide evidence of conformity to university
policies and any regulatory requirements. All records must remain legible, easily identifiable and
must be retrievable when needed. Laboratories may have to develop procedures and controls
necessary to identify which records should be managed, and then provide for appropriate
storage, protection, and retention of records.
The following types of records must be maintained by supervisors:
Licences/permits/certifications issued by the university and/or regulatory agencies;
Written standard operating procedures, techniques and rules;
Faculty, staff, staff and visitors training records;
Monitoring records such as inspection reports, air sampling, noise measurements;
Equipment procurement, testing, maintenance and repair records;
Inventories of hazardous materials being used/stored in the laboratory including disposal records;
Material Safety Data Sheets and other technical information related materials or work being
performed;
Incident reports;
Records of steps taken to mitigate hazards in the workplace;
Any record that will show steps taken to make the workplace safer or more environmentally
sound and;
Other records as required based on the activities in the laboratory.
Records must be stored in a location where access is limited to persons with authority to view
the records (secure location). All records must be stored and filed so that they are readily
identifiable and accessible when needed.
For further information on document and records management or for assistance contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
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5 Safe Work Practices
5.1 Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is a very important way of protecting faculty, staff, students and visitors
working in a laboratory environment and with hazardous materials from personal contamination
or exposure to chemicals and nuclear substances, and infectious materials that may cause
illness or disease. Following are general hygiene practices that shall be followed by all
individuals working/learning in laboratory environments.
Follow laboratory access procedures and PPE requirements;
Do not smoke (includes e-cigarettes), drink, chew gum, eat or store food or drinks in any
laboratory where hazardous materials are handled or stored;
Avoid contacting yourself with contaminated hands;
Wash hands regularly after removing PPE and before leaving the laboratory, and before eating,
drinking, smoking or going to the washroom. Use soap and water and wash for a minimum of 20
seconds;
Practice good housekeeping - regularly wash/decontaminate work surfaces;
Do not wear laboratory coats or protective clothing outside laboratory areas;
Remove and clean contaminated clothing before wearing it again, or dispose of it in accordance
with the university’s Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard; and
Immediately report to your supervisor if you have been exposed to hazardous materials, or if you
are experiencing adverse medical symptoms that may have resulted from work activities in the
laboratory.
Figure 3: Wash hands regularly when working in a laboratory.
For further information or assistance on personal hygiene in a laboratory environment, contact
Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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5.2 Laboratory Ergonomics
Laboratory tasks and equipment can be widely varied and highly specialized. Common
laboratory tasks, associated Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI) hazards and possible controls are
presented in the following sections. If you require further assistance with your specific
workstation and task ergonomics, please contact Safety Resources 306-966-4675.
Common MSI hazards in a laboratory environment include:
Awkward postures;
Sustained postures;
High forces;
Contact stress;
Precision movements; and
Extended and sustained reach;
Laboratory work today has the characteristics of high intensity, precision work, fast paced
repetitive work, and difficult techniques in a high pressure and competitive environment.
Following, are safe work practices to minimize ergonomic hazards associated with working in
laboratory environments.
Ensure computer workstation is properly setup. Refer to the Office Ergonomics Self Help Manual
to help identify and control hazards associated with computer workstation use.
Practice safe lifting techniques when lifting materials, containers, and equipment. The Material
Handling Ergonomic Manual is available to help identify and control hazards associated with
these tasks.
Ensure you have proper laboratory task seating and that it is adjusted to a height that allows the
shoulders to relax and provides enough knee and leg space to prevent contact pressure and
awkward leg position (knee flexed greater than 90 degrees);
Provide an adjustable height footrest if seated for a long period of time and if space allows;
If standing for long periods, use anti-fatigue matting;
Sit/stand as close as possible to your work;
Alternate or rotate repetitive and/or prolonged tasks to vary the stress on muscles and joints; plan
daily tasks to increase variation in body posture;
Use ergonomically designed pipettes; alternate other activities with pipetting tasks as is practical;
When working in fumehoods/biosafety cabinets, work 15 cm (6 inches) inside the enclosure;
position work supplies in the their order of use, with most frequently used items near the front of
the enclosure;
For microscopy, use adjustable eyepieces or eyepiece extensions or mount the microscope at a
30 degree angle to reduce awkward neck positions; an adjustable microscope stand can help;
avoid long continuous periods of microscope use; use a video display system when appropriate
for the sample; rotate tasks and take adequate breaks away from the microscope;
Avoid storing heavy or frequently accessed items over shoulder height or on low-level shelves;
and
Take short breaks to stretch muscles and relieve forearm and wrist pressure.
For further assistance with ergonomics, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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5.3 Safe Use of Laboratory Equipment
5.3.1 Electrical Safety
Following are general electrical safety considerations when working with laboratory equipment:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the installation of the instrument. If the instrument has
specific power requirements or must be directly connected to laboratory/building electrical
systems, contact Facilities Operations and Maintenance;
Review the manufacturer’s operations manual and safety requirements before using the
instrument;
Ensure that staff and students using the instrument receive appropriate training. As necessary,
develop a standard operating procedure for the use of the instrument;
As directed, use appropriate PPE when using the instrument;
Each time before using the instrument, inspect the instrument and power cord. Never use an
instrument that is damaged, in disrepair, or is malfunctioning;
Only use the instrument for its intended purpose;
Do not modify the instrument; and
Ensure that the instrument is properly maintained by utilizing only qualified technicians to perform
maintenance, or make repairs. Depending on the instrument and its configuration, the
manufacturer or Facilities Operations and Maintenance should be contacted.
Figure 4: Only Facilities Operations and Maintenance or qualified personnel should ever perform
electrical work.
Following are general electrical extension cord, power strips and power cords safety
considerations when working in a laboratory:
Extension cords should be a minimum 16 gauge (AWG);
Extension cords are for temporary use only. For permanent applications, request installation of
additional electrical outlets from Facilities Operations and Maintenance;
Using only approved (e.g. UL approved) electrical power strips with surge protection;
Use polarized extension cords with polarized equipment, instruments and appliances. Polarized
plugs have one blade slightly wider than the other and can only be inserted one way into the
outlet. Polarization and grounding ensure that certain parts of appliances that could have a higher
risk of electric shock when they become live are instead connected to the neutral, or grounded,
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side of the circuit. Such electrical products should only be used with polarized or grounding type
extension cords;
Routinely inspect power and extension cords. The plug should be molded to the cord or have a
clamping mechanism that fits snugly around the cord without pinching. The cord should not be
frayed or have exposed wiring. Even a small nick in the insulation of a power cord or extension
cord can be deadly. Electrical tape is not an acceptable repair for a damaged cord, replace the
entire cord;
Power cords must have grounding plugs or be double insulated. Never remove the third (round or
U-shaped) ground prong from electrical cords. The ground prong is a safety feature designed to
reduce the risk of shock and electrocution;
Do not daisy extension cords (connecting multiple cords or power strips together);
Carefully place power and extension cords so they don’t come in contact with water or chemicals.
Contact with water is a shock hazard. Corrosives and solvents can degrade the cord insulation;
Do not allow cords to dangle from counters or hoods in such a manner that equipment could be
unplugged, fall, or cords could be tripped over;
Do not use staples or nails to attach extension cords to a baseboard or to another surface. This
could damage the cord and present a shock or fire hazard;
Do not allow cords to contact hot surfaces to prevent melting insulation;
Do not lift a piece of electrical equipment by the cord or pull the cord to disconnect it from the
outlet in order to prevent damage;
Never use an extension cord while it is coiled or looped; Never cover any part of an extension cord with newspapers, clothing, rugs, or any object’s while
the cord is in use; Extension cords may be plugged into cord connected ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) if the
permanently attached cord on the GFCI device is less than six feet in length;
Insert plugs fully so that no part of the prongs are exposed when the extension cord is in use;
Check the plug and the body of the extension cord while the cord is in use. Noticeable warming of
these plastic parts is expected when cords are being used at their maximum rating. However, if
the cord feels hot or if there is a softening of the plastic, this is a warning that the plug wires or
connections are failing and that the extension cord should be discarded and replaced; and
Check for hot or discolored outlet wall plates that may indicate dangerous heat buildup at the
connections.
For more information, please refer to the Electrical Safety Guide for Non-Electrical Workers, or
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
5.3.2 Refrigerators and Freezers
Laboratory refrigerators and freezers are used to store volatile, noxious and air sensitive
materials and it is not uncommon for the atmosphere inside the unit to be saturated with
chemical vapours. Over time, these vapors can penetrate porous surfaces and lead to odor
problems. Similarly, material from spills or leaking containers can impregnate surfaces that then
give off odours long after the original material is cleaned up.
In addition to problems associated with odour, accumulated vapours arising from chemicals
stored in refrigerators present a flammable or explosive hazard due to the in-built ignition
sources in the refrigerators. Loss of electrical power can produce extremely hazardous
situations. Flammable or toxic vapours may be released from refrigerators and freezers as
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chemicals warm up and/or certain reactive materials may decompose energetically upon
warming.
Refrigerators and freezers used in the laboratory must be carefully selected for specific
chemical, biological or nuclear substance storage needs. Commercial refrigeration units are not
designed to meet the special hazards presented by flammable materials. The interior of a
commercial refrigerator contains a number of electrical contacts that can generate electrical
sparks. Frost-free models often have a drain, which could allow vapours to reach the
compressor, and electrical heaters used to defrost the refrigerator are also a spark hazard.
For these reasons, only specially-designed lab refrigerators or modified commercial units should
be used for cold storage of flammable chemicals. Those rated for flammable storage have no
internal switches or unprotected wires which can act as an ignition source. An explosion-proof
unit has both interior and exterior switches and wires protected, and is suitable for use in
environments where flammable vapours may reach explosion/ignition limits outside the
refrigerator. For storage of flammable materials in most labs, a unit rated for flammable storage
is sufficient. Commercial refrigerators and freezers are acceptable for storage of non-flammable
materials, but must be prominently labelled as not suitable for flammable storage.
Following are rules for the safety use of refrigerators and freezers:
Never store food or drink in any refrigerator or freezer used in a laboratory;
Ensure that the chemicals stored in the refrigerator are compatible;
All containers placed in a refrigerator/ freezer should be completely sealed or capped and safely
positioned/securely placed;
Chemicals should be allowed to warm to room temperature before sealing to prevent pressure
buildup;
Shelves in refrigerators should all have suitable plastic trays for secondary containment in the
refrigerator and freezer compartments. If plastic trays are not available, liquid chemicals should be
placed in secondary containers to contain the spill;
All items stored in a refrigerator must be appropriately dated and labeled. Secondary containers
should be initialed by the owner;
Store only chemicals in amounts needed over a reasonable amount of time. Each chemical has a
shelf life and may form decomposition products that can be hazardous;
Compounds stored in refrigerators may be especially prone to degradation if not properly stored
and sealed;
Remember that power outages and technology failures can cause internal temperatures to rise,
which can impact chemical contents. Be aware of unusual odors, vapors, etc., when opening the
refrigerator;
An inventory must be posted on the refrigerator door;
Units must be grounded and permanently installed; extension cords are not to be used.
Chemical refrigerator/freezers should be located away from laboratory exits. If this is not possible
because of laboratory configuration, then at least one exit must not have a refrigerator within 2
metres;
Refrigerators and freezers should be cleaned-out and manually defrosted on a regular basis and;
Chemicals and other hazardous materials no longer required must be disposed of as hazardous
waste.
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All individuals intending to procure a refrigerator or freezer are required to complete a
Fridge/Freezer Request Form and submit it to Safety Resources for review and approval. For
further information or assistance, please contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
5.3.3 Glassware
Glassware is used widely in laboratory environments. There are different types of glass for different purposes briefly described below: Soft glass, or soda-lime glass – Is used for most glass tubing and for stirring rods and a few measuring apparatus, such as graduated cylinders for reagent bottles. Soft glass softens under most flames even Bunsen burners which make it easy to cut and shape. Soft glass is not intended for high temperatures or pressure changes. Borosilicate glass – Is used for high temperature, high pressure or mechanical shock
applications. Borosilicate glass is harder and strong glass than soft glass and is used for
beakers, reflux columns, gas and vacuum manifold systems, distillation apparatus and various
flasks intended to be heated. Round bottom or thick walled borosilicate glassware is designed to
withstand low pressures when doing vacuum work. Examples of borosilicate glass include
Pyrex, Kimax, and Simax.
Following are some basic safety rules for working with glass.
Before beginning any experimental work, check glassware for flaws such as chips, star cracks,
scratches and etching marks, which may result in structural failure. Note also that repaired
glassware is subject to thermal shock and subsequent failure, and should be used with caution.
Choose glassware sizes that can properly accommodate the operation being performed. At a
minimum, there should be 20% free space.
When heating solutions or reactions, use only glassware made of borosilicate glass and designed
for this purpose. Do not use soft glass.
When working systems under pressure, ensure to protect oneself from glass shrapnel should an
implosion or explosion occur. Wrap vacuum lines and flasks with wire screening or other mesh
designed, or with strong adhesive tape using a crisscross pattern. One could also use a safety
shield.
When cutting glass tubes or rods, score the glass with a file or sharp edge. Wet the area, then
covers it with a cloth or paper towel to protect yourself. Place both your hands close to the scored
area and gently bend the glass on the opposite side of the score. File or fire-polish the sharp
edges.
When forcing glass tubing into rubber/cork stoppers or tubing, ensure the stopper hole is large enough to accommodate the rod or tubing. Ensure to use appropriate hand protection and a soap solution, glycerine or other lubricant on the ends of glass rods or tubing before inserting into a stopper. Insert the rod or tubing into the stopper with a turning motion, never force it.
When cleaning up broken glass, use a broom or brush and pan. Avoid picking up broken glass
with your hands, even if you are wearing gloves, because the glass shards could pierce them.
You may also run the risk of injecting chemicals into your body from contaminate glass. Glass
(broken and not broken) must be triple rinsed by the laboratory personnel and placed into a
cardboard box lined with a black garbage bag and labelled “Glass only”. When the box is full,
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the box is closed and sealed by the laboratory personnel, and then may it be disposed of as
regular trash.
5.3.4 Pressure and Vacuum Systems
High pressure operations should only be performed in appropriate pressure vessels, properly
labelled and installed, and protected by pressure-relief and necessary control devices. The
pressure vessels must be strong enough to withstand the stresses encountered at the intended
operating temperatures and pressures. All pressure equipment must be inspected and tested at
intervals determined by the severity of the equipment‘s usage, and must be operated only by
qualified personnel.
Vacuum systems are used in the laboratory to remove air and other vapours from a vessel or
manifold. They are found on rotary evaporators, drying manifolds, centrifugal concentrators,
acrylamide gel dryers, freeze dryers, vacuum ovens, tissue culture filter flask and aspirators,
dessicators and filtration apparatus. Working at reduced pressure carries with it the risk of
implosion and the subsequent dangers of flying glass, splashing chemicals and possibly fire.
Any apparatus under reduced pressure should be shielded to minimize the risks from implosion.
All potential risks must be evaluated before vacuum systems are set up and operated. To
conduct vacuum work safely:
Operate the system in accordance with the standard operating procedures;
Use appropriate PPE such as safety glasses, face shields and/or an explosion shield;
Do not allow water, solvents and corrosive gases to be drawn into vacuum systems – protect
pumps with cold traps and vent the pump exhausts into a fume hood;
Assemble vacuum apparatus in a manner that avoids strain, particularly to the neck of the flask;
Vent rotary pumps to an air exhaust system, not directly into the laboratory;
Belt driven pumps must have protective guards, to prevent accidental entanglement;
Protect vacuum apparatus from being accidentally hit or bumped;
Glass vacuum containers, such as desiccators and flasks, should be wrapped with a wire mesh
or tape to prevent glass from flying in the event of an implosion or explosion;
When carrying out filtration or distillation procedures under reduced pressure, the heavy-walled
glassware and tubing must be undamaged and able to withstand the conditions of reduced
pressure;
Rotoevaporation of solvents using a water aspirator is not appropriate where the vapor being
removed is highly odorous or toxic unless a suitable cold trap is available to capture them.
Alternative enclosed systems are recommended and;
Conduct routine maintenance of vacuum pumps as recommended by manufacturer.
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5.3.5 Heating Devices
5.3.5.1 Bunsen Burners
Bunsen burners produce an open flame and burn at a high temperature. To use them safely in
the laboratory, ensure to:
Use them away from any combustible materials or chemicals;
Inspect the hose for defects, and ensure that the hose fits securely on the gas valve and the Bunsen
burner. Replace defective hoses;
Use a sparker/lighter with an extended nozzle to ignite the Bunsen burner; never use a match to
ignite the burner;
Do not leave open flames unattended.
5.3.5.2 Heating Mantles
Heating mantles enclose a heating element in layers of fiberglass cloth, and are free of shock or
fire hazards if used properly. Some precautions include:
Do not use if the fiberglass cloth is worn or broken, exposing the heating element;
Take care to avoid spilling water or other chemicals on the mantle, as this presents a serious
shock hazard. Depending on the spilled chemical, it may also present a fire or explosion hazard
and;
Always use with a variable transformer to control input voltage. Never plug directly into an
electrical outlet. High voltage will cause the mantle to overheat, damaging the fibreglass
insulation and exposing the bare heating element.
5.3.5.3 Hot Plates
Laboratory hot plates are normally used for heating solutions. Newly-purchased hot plates
should be designed to avoid electrical sparks; however, older hot plates may pose an electrical
spark hazard. As well, old and corroded bimetallic thermostats in these devices can eventually
fuse shut and deliver full, continuous current to a hot plate. To safely use hot plates:
Do not store volatile flammable materials near a hot plate;
Limit use of older hot plates for flammable materials and;
Check for corrosion of thermostats, and arrange for repair if necessary.
5.3.5.4 Oil, Sand and Salt Baths
Electrically heated oil baths are commonly used in situations where a stable temperature is
required, or a small or irregularly shaped vessel must be heated. Some precautions include:
Take care to avoid spilling water or volatile substances into the bath, which may result in splattering
of hot oil or smoking/ignition of the bath;
Saturated paraffin oil is suitable up to 200°C, and silicone oil should be used for temperatures up
to 300°C;
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Always monitor the temperature of the bath to ensure it does not exceed the flash point of the oil;
Mix well to prevent hot spots from forming and;
Support with a lab jack or similar apparatus so the bath can be lowered and raised easily without
manually lifting the hot bath.
Molten salt baths can be treated similarly to oil baths, except that they have a higher operating
range, up to 450°C. The bath container (and the reaction vessel being heated) must be able to
withstand these temperatures. It is also imperative that the bath be kept dry, since hazardous
sputtering and splattering may occur if the absorbed water vapour rises during heat-up.
5.3.5.5 Heat Guns
Laboratory heat guns use a motor-driven fan to blow air over an electrically-heated filament. They may be used to dry glassware or chromatography plates. The heating element in a heat gun may become red-hot during use and the on-off switches and motors are usually not spark-free. When using heat guns:
Do not use a heat gun on or near flammable materials and;
Ensure they have ground-fault circuit interrupter protection to protect the user from electric shock.
5.3.5.6 Ovens
Electric ovens are frequently used in the laboratory to dry glassware, or to remove water or
solvents from chemical samples. They should be constructed so that their heating elements and
their temperature controls are physically separated from their interiors. To safely use laboratory
ovens:
Connect the oven vent directly to an exhaust system to reduce the possibility of substances
escaping into the lab or an explosive concentration developing within the oven;
Do not use the oven to dry chemical samples which are toxic;
Glassware which has been rinsed with an organic solvent must be rinsed with distilled water
before being dried in an oven and;
Avoid using mercury thermometers in an oven – bimetallic strip thermometers are preferred.
5.3.5.7 Microwave Ovens
Microwave ovens are found in many laboratories, and when used with chemicals may pose
hazards not found in the household. As with most electrical apparatus, there is the risk of
generating sparks that can ignite flammable vapours. To minimize the risks in using microwave
ovens in laboratories:
Do not use metal containers and metal-containing objects in the microwave, as they can cause
arcing;
Do not use heat sealed containers in the microwave – explosions may result;
Do not microwave flammable or combustible material and;
Do not use laboratory microwaves for heating any food or drink.
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5.3.6 Lasers
5.3.6.1 Classification
The word laser is an acronym for "Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation"
which describes how laser light is generated at the atomic level. A laser differs from other
sources of light because it emits light coherently (i.e. same frequency, wavelength,
unidirectional).
Lasers are ranked under the following classifications based on the potential health hazards.
Class I Lasers: These systems are also classified as "Exempt" lasers. They are normally not
hazardous with respect to continuous viewing, or are designed in a way that prevents human
access to laser radiation (e.g., laser printers).
Class II Lasers (Low Risk): These lasers emit visible light, which, due to normal human reflex
responses, do not present a hazard. However, a safety risk would be posed if the output source
were brought to within close proximity of the eye and then viewed for an extended period of time.
Class III Lasers (Moderate Risk): Class III lasers can cause eye injury if viewed momentarily,
but are not capable of causing serious skin injury or hazardous diffuse reflections without the use
of collecting/conditioning optics (e.g., fiber optics, telescopes).
Class IV Lasers (High Risk): These lasers present an eye hazard from direct and diffuse
reflections. In addition, class IV lasers can cause combustion of flammable materials and produce
serious skin burns and injury from direct exposure.
5.3.6.2 Safety Work Practices
Laser light, because of its special qualities, poses safety hazards not associated with light from
conventional sources. The safe use of lasers requires all operators, and everyone near the laser
system, to be aware of the dangers involved. Users must be familiar with the instrument and the
properties of coherent, intense beams of light.
The greatest concern when using a laser is eye safety. In addition to the main beam, there are
often many smaller beams present at various angles near the laser system. These beams are
formed by specular reflections of the main beam at polished surfaces such as lenses or beam
splitters. While weaker than the main beam, such beams may still be sufficiently intense to
cause eye damage.
Laser beams are powerful enough to burn skin, clothing or paint even at some distance. They
can ignite volatile substances such as alcohol, gasoline, ether and other solvents, and can
damage light-sensitive elements in video cameras, photomultipliers and photodiodes. The user
is advised to follow the precautions below.
Post warning signs in the area of the laser beam to alert those present;
Limit access to the laser to qualified users who are familiar with laser safety practices;
Observe all safety precautions in the pre-installation and operator’s manuals;
All personnel should wear laser safety glasses rated to protect against the specific wavelengths
being generated;
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Avoid wearing watches, jewelry, or other objects that may reflect or scatter the laser beam;
Stay aware of the laser beam path, particularly when external optics are used to steer the beam;
Provide enclosures for beam paths whenever possible;
Use appropriate energy-absorbing targets for beam blocking;
Block the beam before applying tools such as Allen wrenches or ball drivers to external optics;
When not in use, lasers should be shut down completely and made off-limits to unauthorized
personnel;
Terminate the laser beam with a light-absorbing material. Laser light can remain collimated over
long distances and therefore presents a potential hazard if not confined;
It is good practice to operate the laser in an enclosed room;
Exercise extreme caution when using solvents in the area of the laser;
Never look directly into the laser light source or at scattered laser light from any reflective surface.
Never sight down the beam;
Set up the laser so that the beam height is either well below or well above eye level; and
Avoid direct exposure to the laser light. Laser beams can easily cause flesh burns or ignite
clothing and;
Never leave a laser operating unattended.
Figure 5: Laser warning sign.
For further information or assistance on laser safety, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
5.3.7 Magnetic Fields
Magnetic fields may be generated by various types of equipment including electrical generators,
diagnostic instruments, laboratory equipment and specialized research equipment (e.g. tokomak
in the Department of Physics, Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Small Animal Clinic).
Magnetic fields, which may be static or time varying, can pose the following hazards:
Static magnetic fields can attract metal objects in or on the body (e.g. tools, pacemakers, surgical
clips, implants) and;
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Induce small currents in the body which may cause local heating, possible burns, or nerve or
muscle action (in high magnetic fields).
The ability of static fields to cause cancer and other biological effects is still a topic of considerable
research.
Currently there are no regulated exposure limits to magnetic fields. Exposure guidelines are
provided by agencies such as the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists
(ACHIH) and the International Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection Association (INRPA).
Following, are general safety consideration when working around magnetic fields:
Ensure faculty, staff and students are aware of the activities, hazards and safe work practices,
associated with magnetic fields in the work area;
Ensure there are standard operating procedures for access to, work in areas, and work with
equipment where magnetic fields are present or generated;
Post warning signs at entrances and around equipment where magnetic fields are significant; and
Prevent any magnetiseable materials (e.g. tools, materials, jewelry) from entering work areas
where strong magnetic fields exist.
For further information or assistance about magnetic field safety, or exposure guidelines,
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
5.4 Housekeeping
A clean, well-organized laboratory, supports productivity, minimizes health and safety hazards,
and improves the quality of the work/learning environment. Conversely, poor housekeeping can
result in increased fire hazards, slip/trip/fall and other physical hazards, as well as increased
health hazards. Poor housekeeping is a contributing factor in many workplace injuries including
at the university.
Good housekeeping is fundamental to injury and fire prevention and requires ongoing diligence
to maintain. It should not be a special activity reserved for when “company is coming”. Following
are practices that can be performed every day to keep your laboratory clean, organized, and
safe:
Keep your floors and work areas free of clutter, trip hazards, dry and in good condition.
Clean up after you are finished working in an area or performing a task;
Regularly clean work surfaces with appropriate cleaning agents (soap and water is fine
for most surfaces). Use bleach or other appropriate disinfectants to clean work surfaces
that may have come in contact with biohazardous materials;
Clean up spills and leaks of any type quickly and properly. Call Safety Resources for assistance with spill cleanup of hazardous materials;
Keep aisles, entrances, and exits clear. Do not store combustible materials (e.g.
equipment, furniture, paper, waste, recyclables) in hallways, stairwells, or in front of
entrances or exits. Call Safety Resources for best practices in fire safety;
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Store all work materials including hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals) in appropriate
containers and storage locations. Ensure materials are labelled and inventories properly
managed;
Maintain, clean and store tools, items and equipment properly, and put them away when you are finished working with them;
Ensure waste materials are stored and disposed of properly. Do not store waste (e.g.
combustibles, chemicals) for extended periods. Call Safety Resources for assistance on
the disposal of hazardous waste;
Keep access to fire alarms, fire extinguishers, electrical panels, gas shut-offs, and other
safety equipment such as emergency eyewashes and showers clear;
A minimum clearance of 18 inches between stored articles and the ceiling in sprinklered
areas must be maintained; and
Report facility maintenance issues to the Facilities Operations and Maintenance
Customer Service Centre at 966-4496.
It is recommended that routine housekeeping practices be established specific to your
laboratory as an integrated part of the work day and activities.
Figure 6: Example of poor housekeeping.
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6 Control of Specific Hazardous Materials and Activities
6.1 Chemical Safety
6.1.1 Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS)
6.1.1.1 Classification System
The Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) is a national hazardous
materials classification system intended to provide workplace standards for the control,
handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous products which can impact the health and safety
of the workplace and its employees. Hazardous products are the name given to products,
materials, and substances that are regulated by WHMIS legislation. All hazardous products fall
into one or more of the WHMIS classes. A summary of the hazard classes under WHMIS and
their associated symbols are summarized in Table 4.
Table 4 – WHMIS Pictograms and Hazard Classes
For more detailed WHMIS information regarding general hazards and safe work practices, see
the WHMIS Resource Manual at the Safety Resources website.
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6.1.1.2 WHMIS Training
Under the Saskatchewan Employment Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, all
individuals handling or working with hazardous products must receive training in WHMIS to
ensure they understand the hazard classification system, how to recognize hazardous materials
and their associated hazards, and how to safely use, handle, store and dispose of hazardous
materials.
Workplace-specific training is the most important part of WHMIS training. The supervisor
must provide workers with training on the specific hazardous materials they will be working with.
The supervisor must also provide workers with safe handling instructions, required PPE, and the
locations of all SDSs.
WHMIS training is required in addition to Lab Safety Training. WHMIS training is available
online through the Safety Resources website,
6.1.1.3 WHMIS Labelling and Safety Data Sheets
There are two different types of WHMIS labels; supplier labels and workplace labels.
Suppliers must provide labels on containers of all hazardous products sold or imported for use in
the workplace.
Supplier labels are required to include the following information:
Product identifier (product name);
Hazard symbols;
Risk phrases;
Precautionary statements;
First Aid measures;
Reference to the SDS; and
Supplier identifier (suppler name)
In Canada, all information on the supplier label must be provided in English and French.
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Figure 7: Example of a supplier label.
As long as the hazardous product remains it its original container, with a supplier label on it, no
additional labeling is required.
A workplace label is used, for example, when a product is transferred to a new container. A
workplace label may also be used when a product is made and used on-site or when the supplier
label is missing or not readable.
A workplace label must have:
1) Product identifier/name (matching the SDS product name);
2) Hazard pictograms;
3) Safe handling precautions including:
a. Signal Word;
b. Hazard Statements;
c. Precautionary Statements; and
d. All necessary information for the safe handling of the product including:
i. Personal protective equipment required;
ii. Emergency Measures; and
iii. First Aid Measures.
4) A reference to the Safety Data Sheet
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Figure 8: Sample workplace label.
Further information on WHMIS is provided in the WHMIS Resource Manual at the Safety
Resources website (http://safetyresources.usask.ca).
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6.2 Storage
6.2.1 Chemical Storage Guidelines
Following, are general guidelines for the safe and proper storage of chemicals in laboratories:
Adhere to manufacturer recommendations for the storage of chemicals;
Do not store chemicals alphabetically;
Always keep containers sealed when not in use;
Store chemicals in the appropriate storage cabinets or cupboards,
Flammable or combustible liquids, toxic chemicals, explosive chemicals, oxidizing agents,
corrosive chemicals, water-sensitive chemicals, and compressed gases should be segregated
from each other;
Volatile liquids must be kept away from heat sources, sunlight, and electric switches;
Chemicals must be stored in such a way that they will not mix with each other if a container leaks
or breaks;
Keep pressurized gases securely strapped to a wall or bench at all times and their safety caps on
while not in use; and
Keep health toxins and other especially dangerous items properly labelled and store under added
security.
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Table 6 – Storage Guidelines
Class of WHMIS Materials Recommended Storage Incompatible WHMIS Materials
for Storage
Flammable Liquids In grounded flammable storage
cabinet
Corrosives (acids and bases),
Oxidizers, Poisons
Flammable Solids Store in a separate dry, cool area
away from incompatible materials
Corrosives (acids and bases),
Oxidizers, Poisons
Compressed Gases – Flammable Store in a cool, dry gas storage area
away from incompatible materials
Oxidizers and Toxic Compressed
Gases, Oxidizing Solids,
Corrosives, Poisons
Compressed Gases – Oxidizing Store in a cool, dry gas storage area
away from incompatible materials Flammable Gases
Compressed Gases – Poisonous
Store in a cool, dry toxic gas storage
area away from incompatible
materials
Flammable Liquids, Flammable and
Oxidizing Gases, Oxidizers,
Corrosives
Corrosives – Acids Store in a separate storage cabinet
away from incompatible materials
Flammable Liquids and Solids,
Corrosives (bases), Oxidizers,
Toxics
Corrosives – Bases Store in a separate storage cabinet
away from incompatible materials
Flammable Liquids and Solids,
Corrosives (acids), Oxidizers,
Toxics
Oxidizers
Store in a spill tray inside a
noncombustible cabinet, separate
from incompatible materials
Flammable and Combustible
Liquids and Solids, Corrosives,
Toxics
Poisons
Store separately, in vented, cool, dry
area in an unbreakable chemically
resistant secondary container
Flammable Liquids and Solids,
Corrosives (acids and bases),
Oxidizers
Biohazardous Materials Special storage Refer to MSDS
Explosives Special storage
Shock Sensitive Materials Store in secure location away from all
other chemicals
Flammable Liquids, Oxidizers,
Corrosives (acids and bases),
Poisons
Water Reactive Chemicals Store in a dry, cool location and
protect from water fire sprinklers
Separate from all aqueous
solutions, Oxidizers
Radioactive Materials Special storage
General Chemicals – Non-
Reactive
Store on general laboratory benches
or shelving preferably behind glass
doors
Refer to MSDS
Table 7 - Examples of chemical storage incompatibility.
Chemical Incompatible With The Following Common Chemicals
Acetaldehyde Acetic anhydride, acetic acid, acetone, ethanol, sulfuric acid
Acetic acid Chromic acid, nitric acid, hydroxyl compounds, ethylene glycol, perchloric acid, peroxides, permanganates
Acetone Concentrated nitric and sulfuric acid mixtures, and strong bases Acetylene Chlorine, bromine, copper, fluorine, silver, mercury Alkaline metals (e.g. powdered aluminum or magnesium, sodium, potassium)
Water, carbon tetrachloride and other chlorinated hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, halogens
Ammonia (anhydrous) Mercury, chlorine, calcium hypochlorite, iodine, bromine, hydrofluoric acid (anhydrous)
Ammonium nitrate Acids, powdered metals, flammable liquids, chlorates, nitrites, sulfur, finely divided organic or combustible materials
Aniline Nitric acid, chromic acid, hydrogen peroxide
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Chemical Incompatible With The Following Common Chemicals
Bromine Ammonia, acetylene, butadiene, butane, methane, propane (or other petroleum gases), hydrogen, sodium carbide, turpentine, benzene, finely divided metals
Carbon (activated) Calcium hypochlorite, all oxidizing agents Carbon tetrachloride Diborane, fluorine, sodium
Chlorates Ammonium salts, acids, powdered metals, sulfur, finely divided organic or combustible materials
Chromic acid and chromium trioxide Acetic acid, naphthalene, camphor, glycerol, glycerine, alcohol, turpentine, all other flammable liquids
Chlorine Ammonia, acetylene, butadiene, butane, methane, propane (or other petroleum gases), hydrogen, sodium carbide, turpentine, benzene, finely divided metals
Chlorine dioxide Ammonia, methane, phosphine, hydrogen sulfide Copper Acetylene, hydrogen peroxide Cumene hydroperoxide Acids (organic or inorganic) Cyanides Acids
Dimethyl sulfoxide Perchloric acid, silver fluoride, potassium permanganate, cetylchloride, benzene sulfonyl chloride
Flammable liquids Ammonium nitrate, chromic acid, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, sodium peroxide, halogens
Fluorine Isolate from all other chemicals.
Hydrocarbons such as butane, propane, benzene, and gasoline
Fluorine, bromine, chlorine, chromic acid, sodium peroxide
Hydrocyanic acid Nitric acid, alkali Hydrofluoric acid (anhydrous) Ammonia (aqueous or anhydrous)
Hydrogen peroxide Copper, chromium, iron, most metals or their salts, alcohols, acetone, organic materials, aniline, nitromethane, flammable liquids, combustible materials
Hydrogen sulfide Fuming nitric acid, other acids, oxidizing gases, acetylene, ammonia (aqueous or anhydrous), hydrogen
Iodine Acetylene, ammonia (aqueous or anhydrous), hydrogen Mercury Acetylene, fulminic acid, ammonia, oxalic acid
Nitric acid (concentrated) Acetic acid, aniline, chromic acid, hydrocyanic acid, hydrogen sulfide, flammable liquids, flammable gases, copper, brass, any heavy metals
Oxalic acid Silver, mercury
Perchloric acid Strong bases, Strong acids, Amines, Phosphorus halides, Alcohols, Organic materials, Powdered metals, Strong reducing agents.
Phosphorus (white) Air, oxygen, alkalis, reducing agents Potassium Carbon tetrachloride, carbon dioxide, water Potassium chlorate Sulfuric and other acids Potassium permanganate Glycerol, ethylene glycol, benzaldehyde, sulfuric acid Silver Acetylene, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, ammonium compounds, fulminic acid Sodium Carbon tetrachloride, carbon dioxide, water
Sodium peroxide Ethyl or methyl alcohol, glacial acetic acid, acetic anhydride, benzaldehyde, carbon disulfide, glycerin, ethylene glycol, ethyl acetate, methyl acetate, furfural
Sulfuric acid Potassium chlorate, potassium perchlorate, potassium permanganate (and similar compounds of light metals such as sodium, lithium)
Select information provided courtesy of WorkSafeBC, Laboratory Health and Safety Handbook.
Bretherick’s Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards, 7th Edition (2006).
A chemical incompatibility chart published by the
United States Environmental Protection Agency is provided in Appendix C.
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6.1.2 Flammable and Combustible Liquid Storage
Flammable and combustible materials are those that can ignite, explode or react with other
chemicals. Flammable liquids and combustible liquids must be kept in closed containers and
stored in approved storage cabinets when quantities exceed that defined in Table 8.
Table 8 - Flammable and combustible liquid storage requirements
Properties* Laboratory Storage Maximums**
Flammable Liquids
Class 1A: flash point below 22.8°C and a boiling
point below 37.8°C
Class 1B: flash point below 22.8°C and a boiling
point at or above 37.8 °C
Class 1C: flash point at or above 22.8°C and
below 37.8°C
Individual containers: 5 L
Safety containers: 25 L
Outside of a flammable storage cabinet (total): 50 L
Inside of a flammable storage cabinet: 250 L
Combustible Liquids
Class II: flash point at or above 37.8°C and below
60°C
Class IIIA: flash point at or above 60°C and below
93.3°C
Outside of a flammable storage cabinet: 300 L total for all
flammable and combustible liquids
Inside of a flammable storage cabinet: 500 L total for all
flammable and combustible liquids
*Class I flammable liquid will have a flash point below 37.8°C. Any liquid with a flash point of 37.8oC or greater which
is used or stored at or above its flash point shall be considered a Class I Flammable Liquid.
**Maximum storage quantities include any flammable or combustible waste that is being generated.
Figure 9: Example of a flammable storage cabinet with safety containers.
Image courtesy of Cole-Parmer.
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6.1.3 Placement and Storage of Compressed Gases
High pressure cylinders, whether or not they contain flammable or explosive gasses, are
potentially dangerous. Rupture or sudden discharge can make these cylinders extremely
dangerous.
Before moving a cylinder to a storage area, a point of use, or before returning the cylinder to the
supplier, ensure the following:
The outlet valve is fully closed;
Remove the regulator. Never move a cylinder with the regulator attached;
The outlet valve dust plug or pressure cap is on tight for cylinders equipped with these protection
devices; and
The valve protection cap is properly secured in place on cylinders with neck threads.
When moving compressed gas cylinders:
Always use a cart or hand truck designed for this purpose. Ensure the cylinder is secured to the
cart during transport with a chain or strap. Cylinders should not be dragged, rolled or manually
carried;
Figure 10: Example of a cylinder cart.
Never drop cylinders or allow them to strike each other violently;
Cylinders shall not be lifted by the valve cap;
Magnets shall not be used for lifting cylinders; and
Ensure the pathway is clear prior to moving cylinder. Be aware of flooring grade changes and use
an elevator, if available.
After moving a cylinder to its point of storage or use, secure the cylinder in place. Use cylinder
stands, clamps, chains, or other securing devices. Cylinders should be placed so that the valve
handle at the top is easily accessible at all times.
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The following safety measures should be adhered to when storing gas cylinders.
Only store cylinders in designated areas and segregated by hazard class;
All cylinders must be secured in place to prevent accidental knock over;
Cylinders must be secured in an upright position by a cylinder stand, clamp, chain or cable at a
point approximately 2/3 of the height of the cylinder;
Figure 11: Compressed gas cylinder storage area.
Cylinders used in laboratories must be secured individually (one restraint per cylinder);
Store small cylinders in a box or crate that will keep them upright and large enough to prevent
cylinders from falling out;
Do not store cylinders in high traffic areas;
Do not store cylinders near the edges of platforms;
Do not store cylinders in areas where there are activities that could damage or contaminate the
cylinders;
Do not store cylinders under overhead hoists that can drip oil or grease on cylinders,
contaminating them;
Do not store gas cylinders with flammable materials;
Propane cylinders are not to be stored in buildings, laboratories or used indoors;
Gas cylinders shall not be stored or allowed to come in contact with heat sources;
As with any hazardous material, gas cylinders can not to be stored in public hallways or other
unprotected areas;
When the cylinder is not in use the valve protection cap shall be in place to protect the valve; and
Clearly mark empty cylinders and store separately from full cylinders.
When not in use in the laboratory, compressed gases are to be stored in approved gas storage
rooms. There are some exemptions from the storage regulations that would allow storage of
compressed gases outside of approved gas storage rooms (e.g. research laboratory):
Flammable gases have an exemption of up to 25 kg of flammable gas that may be stored outside
of an approved gas storage room;
Compressed gases (nitrogen, helium, etc.) have an exemption of up to 150 kg of compressed gas
that can be stored outside of an approved gas storage room; and
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Toxic and corrosive gases have a 0 kg storage exemption. Absolutely no quantity of these gases
can be stored outside of an approved gas storage room.
Although there are storage exemptions for specific classes of compressed gases, storage
outside of approved storage rooms is not recommended.
Additional information on the safety handling of compressed gases may be found in the Safety
Resources document, Compressed Gas Cylinder, Safe Handling, Use and Storage Guide.
Safety Resources can assist in the review and development of a storage plan and to answer
questions about hazardous material storage.
6.2 Biosafety
6.2.1 Biohazardous Material
Biological Material is any material that originates from living organisms, which may be infectious or non-infectious. This includes parts of and/ or tissues from organisms that are or were living.
Biohazardous material is a biological material or condition that poses a health risk to humans,
animals, plants or the environment.
Biohazardous materials may cause disease in other living organisms or cause significant impact
to the environment. Some examples include:
Certain types of proteins, recombinant DNA and/or genetically modified microorganisms;
Organisms infectious to humans, animals or plants (e.g. parasites, virus, bacteria, fungi, prions,
protozoa);
Biologically active agents derived from living organisms (e.g. toxins, allergens, venoms); and
Inanimate objects that come into contact and/or are contaminated with the infectious biological
material.
Biosafety is the application of knowledge, techniques and equipment to prevent personal,
laboratory and environmental exposure to potentially infectious agents or biohazards, and
to provide a safe environment in areas where biological work/research is performed. The main
objectives of biosafety are to confine biohazards and to reduce potential exposure to the
workers, persons outside of laboratory, and to the environment.
Examples of biohazard warning signs are shown in Figure 12.
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Figure 12: Examples of biohazard warning signs on campus.
6.2.2 Laboratory Acquired Infections
Laboratory Acquired Infections (LAIs), also known as occupational illnesses, can occur as a
result of exposure to a pathogen (a biohazard) in a laboratory setting. LAIs can be symptomatic
or asymptomatic in nature and have the potential to spread to other individuals within the
working environment, and/or to the community. The information gathered from reported LAIs
can be used to identify gaps in biosafety containment, processes and procedures, improve
biosafety training, and to raise awareness about LAIs in the work environment.
Understanding the route of exposure to pathogens in the laboratory is an integral step in
preventing LAIs. Once the possible routes of exposure have been identified for a particular
pathogen, the techniques and safety controls necessary to prevent an exposure can be
determined. Common exposure routes include:
Inhalation (e.g. breathing in aerosols);
Ingestion (e.g. eating in the laboratory, transferring of agents to mouth by contaminated fingers or
items);
Inoculation/puncture (e.g. needle sticks, scratches or animal bites); or
Absorption through mucous membrances.
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6.2.3 Risk Groups
Biological/biohazardous materials are classified into one of four risk groups based on their
properties and risk of causing disease.
Risk Group 1 (RG1): A category of biological agents or microorganisms that is unlikely to cause
disease in healthy workers, animals, or plants (e.g. healthy animal tissue, regular everyday germs
from the environment). Risk Group 1 organisms pose a low risk to individuals and to the
community (public health).
Risk Group 2 (RG2): A category of human and/or animal pathogens that are able to cause
serious disease in a human but are unlikely to do so. Effective treatment and preventative
measures are available and the risk of spreading the disease caused by those pathogens is low
(e.g. human blood tissue, Salmonella, Staphalococcus. aureus). Risk Group 2 organisms pose a
moderate risk to the health of individuals and a low risk to public health.
Risk Group 3 (RG3): A category of human and/or animal pathogen that is likely to cause serious
disease in a human. Effective treatment and preventative measures are usually available and the
risk of spreading the disease caused by those pathogens is low (e.g. Anthrax, Rabies, Foot and
Mouth Disease). Risk Group 3 organisms pose a high risk to the health of individuals and a low
risk to public health. Risk Group 3 work is only permitted at the International Vaccine Centre
(InterVac).
Risk Group 4 (RG4): A category of human and/or animal pathogen that is able to cause very
serious disease in a human or animal. Effective treatment and preventative measures are not
usually available and the risk of spreading the disease caused by those pathogens is high (e.g.
Ebola virus). Risk Group 4 organisms pose a high risk to the health of individuals and a high risk
to public health. Research work with Risk Group 4 pathogens is not permitted at the University of
Saskatchewan.
Figure 13: Biohazardous material risk group classification.
RG4
RG3
RG2
RG1Low Risk
High Risk
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6.2.4 Laboratory Design
Laboratories where biohazardous materials are to be stored and used are subject to specific
physical and operational requirements under the Canadian Biosafety Standards and Guidelines
(CBSG) (2nd Ed. 2015) to ensure appropriate containment of the materials, and health and
safety for those working with these materials, as well as the public. Facility containment level
requirements will depend on the identified risk group, characteristics and properties of the
biological material, and the particular procedures that are to be performed.
Containment levels and associated facility requirements range from those for a well-designed
basic laboratory handling non-infectious materials (containment level 1) to a high containment
facility designed to handle and work with highly infectious risk group 4 pathogens (containment
level 4). Most laboratories on campus are either containment level 1 or containment level 2
facilities. For example, laboratories within the new Health Sciences D-wing have all been
designed to meet containment level 2 requirements (see Figure 14). The International Vaccine
Centre is a certified containment level 3 facility.
Figure 14: Example of a laboratory (Health Sciences) designed to containment level 2 standards.
For further information on containment levels and laboratory design requirements for your
facility, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
6.2.5 University Biosafety Requirements
In accordance with the University of Saskatchewan Biosafety Policy and Biosafety Code of
Practice, and associated procedures, individuals intending to acquire, possess, use, store,
transport or dispose of organisms, select biological materials or biohazardous materials must
obtain a university issued biosafety permit. Other university authorizations such as ethics
approval through Research Services may also be required (e.g. when working with humans or
animals).
The biosafety permitting system is an internal authorization system intended to ensure those
acquiring and working with biohazardous materials have appropriately considered health, safety
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and environmental hazards and have implemented protective measures commensurate with
identified risks.
The biosafety permitting process has been designed to meet the regulatory requirements and
associated standards of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the Canadian Food
Inspection Agency (CFIA), as well as university requirements.
Safety Resources staff are available to assist clients in acquiring or amending biosafety permits,
assisting to determine protective measures and other biosafety related requests. For
assistance, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
6.2.6 General Safe Work Practices
A number of general work practices can minimize the risk of exposure to biohazardous
materials. Specific safety requirements will vary depending on the risk group and physical
properties of the biohazardous material, and the nature of the work being performed.
Adhere to the requirements under university issued biosafety permits, the Biosafety Code of
Practice, supporting procedures and associated regulations;
Ensure a local risk assessment has been conducted to identify the properties and hazards
associated with the biohazardous materials being used including primary exposure routes, known
diseases, and signs and symptoms of associated illnesses;
Ensure your facility meets containment level requirements for the material being used and/or
stored;
Follow established standard operating procedures and requirements for safely working with the
materials;
When moving biological and biohazardous material, good microbiological laboratory practices
should be implemented to prevent contamination and inadvertent spills;
Control access to the laboratory; only authorized individuals should be permitted to work in the
laboratory;
Control access to the biological material; only authorized individuals should be permitted to
handle biological material;
Adhere to immunization and medical surveillance requirements as recommended or required;
Wear appropriate PPE (laboratory clothing, gloves, eye or face protection, respiratory protection
as required);
Keep laboratory clothing separate from street clothing;
Do not wear laboratory clothing or PPE outside the laboratory;
Do not eat, drink, smoke, store food or utensils, apply cosmetics, or insert or remove contact
lenses in the laboratory;
Tie back or otherwise restrain hair;
Do not pipette by mouth;
Limit use of needles, syringes, and other sharp objects;
Perform aerosol generating procedures involving infectious materials or toxins in a biosafety
cabinet (BSC);
Centrifugation of infectious material where inhalation is the primary route of infection, shall be
carried out in sealed safety cups that are unloaded in a BSC;
Wash hands frequently and in particular after working with biological/biohazardous materials;
Keep working areas, staff rooms and storage areas clean and tidy;
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Using the appropriate disinfectants and/or decontamination methods (such as autoclaving) for the
biohazardous materials being used, decontaminate work surfaces and equipment after use and at
the end of the day;
Do not dispose of hazardous materials with regular garbage, or through the sanitary disposal
system (drains). Dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with laboratory procedures and the university’s Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard;
Routinely inspect your workplace and address identified health and safety issues;
Immediately report unsafe conditions to your supervisor;
Immediately report to your supervisor exposure incidents or when you begin to experience signs
and symptoms that may be associated with an exposure incident; and
Know emergency and spill response procedures for your laboratory and building.
For specific containment physical parameters and operational procedures on working with
biohazardous material, including inventory management, training requirements, PPE, common
laboratory equipment, transportation and movement of biohazardous materials,
decontamination, and waste management, refer to the Canadian Biosafety Standards and
Guidelines.
6.3 Animal Handling Safety
6.3.1 Animal Care and Use
The use of animals for research, teaching and testing is a privilege, which comes with specific
responsibilities: to ensure that good science is done; to meet our ethical responsibilities for
ensuring that every animal is treated humanely and not subjected to unnecessary pain or
distress, and; to work within the accepted standards for experimental animal care and use.
Animal work requires special consideration depending on the nature of the work, the source of
the animals, the species of animals, etc. Working with animals poses added risks, physical
injuries from bites and scratches, exposure to zoonosis (diseases that can be transmitted from
animals to humans), and allergies. At the University of Saskatchewan, ethics review, education
and compliance are managed through the Research Services and Ethics Office. The Research
Services and Ethics Office, with the Animal Research Ethics Board, ensure that the standards
and guidelines for experimental animal care and use, as defined by the Canadian Council on
Animal Care (CCAC), are upheld and met.
The University of Saskatchewan requires all animal users to complete the University Animal
Care Committee (UACC) Animal Care Course (online non-credit experimental animal care and
use core course). The university also offers practical skills training in rodent and livestock
handling, anaesthesia, surgical skills, and aquatic animal care. Site specific training for the
specific tasks should always be conducted by competent workers. Other university training may
be required.
For more information on the university Animal Care and Use Program, including protocol
submission and training, visit the Research Service and Ethics Office website.
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6.3.2 General Safe Work Practices
Learning and practicing good handling techniques, including restraint are very important to reduce
stress and the risk of injury not only to the animal but to the researcher. Procedures with animals
such as taking samples, surgery and post mortems include other hazards. Anesthetics and
analgesics are chemicals (drugs) intended to cause loss of consciousness and/or loss of
sensitivity to pain for the animal. These drugs can have the same effect on a researcher if they
are exposed.
Some general safety practices when working with animals include:
When animals are moved to a new facility, animals should be allowed to acclimate;
If handling animals regularly is a requirement of the project, animals should be acclimated to the
specific handling;
Wear appropriate PPE (e.g. laboratory coat, gloves, safety glasses);
Remain calm when handling animals;
Handle animals gently but firmly;
Use animal restraints when possible;
Use an assistant whenever possible;
Sharps should only be used as necessary;
Avoid recapping needles;
Always have the sharp container nearby to avoid transporting a sharp while maintaining restraint;
and
Know and understand the MSDS for chemical hazards in your workplace.
Animals can harbour infectious organisms, which can be naturally occurring or introduced. The
level of infectious organisms can be dependent on the type of work being conducted. As such
medical surveillance should be implemented. Vaccination may be required for work with known
or suspected infectious materials if the procedures and the material pose a high risk of infection
to the researcher (e.g. rabies). Know and understand the potential infectious organisms the
research animals may harbour, including the signs and symptoms of exposure. Notify your
supervisor if you become or suspect you have been exposed to infectious materials. Contact
Safety Resources at 306-96-4675 to establish a reporting structure in your workplace.
Occupational acquired allergies and sensitivities to laboratory animals (e.g. rats, mice, rabbits)
and larger animals (e.g. cats, dogs, sheep) is an issue for those who work with animals
regularly. Understanding the routes of exposure for the allergens in the workplace is the first
step to addressing the issue. Implementing the appropriate safety controls can help to minimize
or eliminate the risk of exposure. It is also important to understand the signs and symptoms of
allergies and sensitivities, and to report these to your medical practitioner and your supervisor.
For further information, refer to the document, Occupational Acquired Allergies and Sensitivity
Awareness Guide on the Safety Resources website, http://safetyresources.usask.ca/.
Working with animals adds another element to the biosecurity risk assessment. It is important to
ensure the safety of the staff and animals from animal rights offenses, theft and vandalism, as
well as safety procedures for emergencies such as fire and natural disasters. Animals are also
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susceptible to diseases that may be carried by personnel into the animal suites. Precautions
need to be taken for entry and exit of authorized personnel.
For further information or assistance no safe animal handling, contact Safety Resources at 306-
966-4675.
6.4 Radiation Safety
6.4.1 What is Radiation?
Radiation is the propagation of energy emitted from the nucleus of unstable nuclei during
radioactive decay, or from a radiation device. Radiation can take the form of waves
(electromagnetic radiation), or various subatomic particles, neither of which are detectable with
our senses. Substances that emit radiation are referred to as nuclear substances. Devices that
emit radiation are termed radiation devices.
Figure 15: Radiation.
Radiation is further subdivided into two broad categories: ionizing and non-ionizing. Ionizing
radiation has sufficient energy to ionize (remove electrons from) atoms as it passes through and
interacts with matter. Conversely, non-ionizing radiation does not possess sufficient energy to
ionize atoms. Because ionizing radiation is more energetic, it can directly damage living cells,
and therefore poses a hazard to individuals working with or in the vicinity of radioactive
substances and radiation devices which emit this class of radiation.
Examples of ionizing radiation are radioisotopes, cosmic radiation (radiation from space), radon,
radiation from X-ray machines, and accelerators. Examples of non-ionizing radiation include
visible light, microwaves, and radio waves.
6.4.2 Radioactive Materials
Radioactive substances at the university typically take two major forms, sealed sources and
unsealed sources. Sealed sources are commercially manufactured devices in which the
radioactive material is enclosed and sealed into the device (e.g. a disk or rod). In a sealed
source, the radioactive substance is not easily removed as it bonded to a capsule or cover to
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prevent contact. Common types of sealed sources include disk sources used for instrument
calibration, sample irradiator or sources found in radiation devices. Conversely, unsealed
sources are open radioactive substances such as liquids, powders, or rocks. Unsealed sources
are easily dispersible and can pose a risk of contamination if not handled properly.
Radioactive substances, devices, and storage containers, as well as areas on campus where
radioactive substances are used or stored will be marked with a radiation warning symbol
similar to those shown in Figure 16.
Figure 16: Radiation warning signs on campus.
6.4.3 Types of Radiation
Radiation exists in several physical forms, each with unique characteristics that define how and
to what extent, it interacts with matter. The radiation type, size, electric charge and rate of decay
all impact the level of hazard posed by radiation and the protective measures required to work
with it safely. Summarized below, are some of the fundamental characteristics of the most
common types of radiation; alpha particles, beta particles, neutrons and gamma/X-rays.
Alpha particles – Are particles (two protons and two neutrons identical to a helium nucleus)
emitted by some heavy unstable materials during radioactive decay. Examples of alpha emitting
radionuclides include Am-241, U-238, Ra-226, and Po-210. Relatively speaking, alpha particles
are heavy subatomic particles (roughly 2,000 time heavier than an electron), and as such, are
considered highly ionizing radiation. Because of their ionization ability, alpha particles interact
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strongly with surrounding atoms as they pass through air or any other material. Consequently,
alpha particles do not travel far before stopping. Alpha particles can travel only a few
centimeters in air and cannot penetrate the dead outer layer of your skin. Externally (outside the
body), alpha particle radiation poses a very low risk to humans. However, because of its
ionization ability, alpha radiation emitted internally (inside the body) poses a hazard.
Beta particles – Are tiny, fast moving electrons emitted from select unstable materials during
radioactive decay. Examples of beta emitting radionuclides include S-35, P-32, and C-14. Beta
particles travel further in air and are more penetrating than alpha particles, but can be easily
stopped by materials such as Plexiglas. Beta particles can penetrate the outer dead layer of
your skin into living tissue. Beta particles are able to ionize atoms they interact with and thus
pose an external radiation hazard as well as an internal radiation hazard if beta emitting
radionuclides are taken into the body.
Neutrons – Are electrically neutral particles similar in size to protons emitted from select
unstable materials during radioactive decay. An example of a neutron emitting material is an
AmBe-241 source. Neutrons are highly penetrating posing an external and internal hazard to
humans. Neutron radiation sources require special handling procedures.
Gamma Rays – Gamma rays are monochromatic electromagnetic radiation emitted from select
unstable materials during radioactive decay. Examples of radionuclides that emit gamma
radiation include Co-60 and I-131. Gamma rays are very penetrating and can travel great
distances through matter. Gamma rays can completely pass through the human body. Materials
such as concrete and lead are used for shielding to help reduce exposures to workers. Gamma
rays pose an external and internal risk to humans.
X-Rays – Are electromagnetic radiation similar to gamma rays but lower in energy. Common
sources of X-rays include X-ray machines.
It is noted that many radioactive substances may emitted multiple types of radiation. As an
example, Cs-137 and I-131 emit beta radiation as well as gamma radiation. The radioactive
material Am-241 primarily emits alpha particles, but also gamma radiation.
6.4.4 Radiation Exposure
We are all exposed to radiation every day of our lives from natural sources of background
radiation in our environment (e.g. from the cosmos, radon, and from the Earth).
Occupationally, an individual may be exposed to radiation externally from working directly with
or in the vicinity of radioactive substances and/or a radiation device (see Figure 17). An
individual may also be exposed to radiation if/when radioactive substances are ingested,
inhaled or absorbed into the body.
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Figure 17: Types of radiation exposure.
Acute exposure to high levels of radiation can cause immediate health effects to individuals
exposed within a short time after exposure (e.g. nausea, reddening of skin). Health effects from
chronic exposures to low levels of radiation may increase the risk of developing an adverse
health effect years after exposure (e.g. some cancers).
Occupationally, exposure limits to radiation are established by regulatory agencies to minimize
adverse health effects associated with exposure to sources of radiation in the workplace.
Through appropriate safe work practices, radiation doses to faculty, staff and students at the
university are well below public dose limits specified by regulatory agencies.
6.4.5 Laboratory Design
Laboratories where radioactive materials are to be stored and used are subject to specific physical
and operational requirements under the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to ensure
optimization of radiation protection and keeping doses from radiation as low as reasonably achievable. Room classification requirements will depend on the amount of radioactive material
handled in the room and on the nature of the work performed. Classification levels and associated
facility requirements range from those for a well-designed basic level laboratory to a containment
level laboratory. Most laboratories on campus are basic level facilities. Certification of laboratories
of intermediate level and higher requires the approval from CNSC.
For further information on classification levels and laboratory design requirements for your facility,
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
6.4.6 University Radiation Safety Requirements
Under the University of Saskatchewan Radiation Safety Policy, individuals working with nuclear
substances or radiation devices must meet all legislative requirements and must adhere to the
administrative procedures and operational rules for their possession, use, storage,
transportation and disposal as set forth in the university’s Radiation Safety Code of Practice and
supporting procedures.
RadiationSource
External Exposure Internal Exposure
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If you plan to possess, use, store, transport, or dispose of radioactive substances or radiation
devices, contact Safety Resources for specific requirements for working safely with these types
of materials and devices.
Individuals working directly with nuclear substances and radiation devices will also require
specific radiation safety training.
For assistance in radiation safety, or for more information on the university’s Radiation Safety
Program, call Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
6.4.7 Nuclear Substance Safe Work Practices
The foundation of radiation safety is the ALARA principle which is to keep all exposures As Low
As Reasonably Achievable.
Following are general principles that should be followed to minimize your radiation exposure
when working with or in the vicinity of radioactive substances:
Work only in areas you are authorized to work;
Become aware of the particular radiation sources and hazards in your work areas;
Ensure you have received radiation safety training prior to handling radioactive substances;
Have and follow written safe work procedures including shutdown procedures for emergency
response;
Wear proper PPE such as gloves, laboratory coat, protective eyewear, closed toed and closed
heeled shoes, and long pants;
Minimize/limit the amount of time working with or spent near radioactive sources. Plan your work
and optimize your procedures and tasks to minimize the amount to time spent working with the
materials;
Increase the distance between you and the source of radiation. For example, work at arm’s length
or away from sources of radiation when possible;
Place shielding materials between you and the radioactive source to absorb the radiation, when
necessary (e.g. Plexiglas, lead);
Do not consume food or drink in the laboratory;
Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands before leaving the work area;
Monitor work surfaces where radioactive materials are used for contamination;
Routinely inspect your workplace and address identified health and safety issues;
Communicate concerns, issues and incidents to your supervisor;
Discard all radioactive waste in designated radioactive waste containers and in accordance with
the university’s Hazardous Waste Disposal Standard; and
Know emergency and spill response procedures for your laboratory and building.
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6.4.8 X-Ray Machines
X-ray machines are radiation emitting devices designed to create and direct X-rays for diagnostic
purposes, measurement and analysis techniques, and for research.
Faculty, staff and students who work with X-ray machines should adhere to the following safe
work practices:
Have appropriate radiation safety training for the X-ray equipment;
Have established operating procedures for the safe use of the equipment;
Wear appropriate PPE when using the equipment (e.g. safety glasses, shielded clothing, gloves);
Wear assigned dosimeters as applicable. Dosimeters, if required, would be assigned by Safety
Resources; and
Maintain the X-ray equipment in accordance with manufacturer and regulatory requirements.
The use of X-ray machines falls under the provincial Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace
Safety, and as such, must be registered with the province.
For assistance with X-ray equipment, to procure and register an X-ray machine, and for safety
advice, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
6.4.9 Nanotechnology / Nanoparticles
Nanotechnology is the name for a wide range of research technologies and materials that
create, manipulate, and use particles that have one thing in common – their extremely small
size.
Most research concentrates on particles with at least one dimension of less than 100 nm, some are smaller yet or bound together. There are many types of nanomaterials – they can be layers, particles, tubes, shells, quantum dots, etc. as well they may be aqueous or dry. Note: other terms in nanotechnology research include nanoscience, nanoparticles, nanomaterials, nanotubes, nanoshells or ultra-fine particles.
The health effects of unintentional nanoparticle exposure is not only based on the physical characteristics, such as the shape, size, crystal structures, surface coatings, surface texture, surface charge, surface reactivity and other factors. But also, nanoparticles usually do not have the same characteristics as its parent material, and its reactions can sometimes be unpredictable. Often, nanomaterials will be stronger, lighter, more reactive, or conduct electricity in a different way than the parent material.
Safety Resources offers several resources to nanotechnology researchers including SOP templates, access to the CSA Standard for Nanotechnology in the Workplace, provision of a short mandatory training session for nanoparticle researchers to review nanoparticle health and safety requirements and answer any questions, as well as a risk assessment form to help ensure researcher health and safety throughout the lifecycle of nanoparticle sample (from creation, manipulation, storage, transportation and imaging, through to proper spill cleanup and disposal). For more information, or to schedule training contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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7 Laboratory Safety Equipment
7.1 First Aid Kits
Stocked first aid kits are available in all laboratories. First aid kits must be inspected regularly
and restocked as required. For a list of contents, refer to Table 10 of the Saskatchewan
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.
Figure 18: First Aid kit.
7.2 Fume Hoods
Fume hoods are a ventilated enclosure designed to capture and contain hazardous vapours,
gases and fumes and exhaust them from the building. Fume hoods are designed to protect the
worker. When a fume hood is used properly, only about 0.0001% to 0.001% of the material
released in the hood actually escapes and enters the laboratory. Fume hoods provide no
protection to the products being used in the fume hood, or to the environment (unless
exhausted vapours are filtered).
To ensure maximum protection, the following guidelines should be adhered to while using a
fume hood.
Check the Safety Resources inspection sticker on the hood to ensure it has been
inspected within the past 12 months – Safety Resources measures the face velocity of all
hoods annually, notes any deficiencies, and refers them to the Facilities Operation and
Maintenance for correction. Recommended face velocities are between 80-140 feet per minute
(fpm).
Cease using a fume hood if it alarms – Most fume hoods will display the face velocity flow rate
and will alarm should the face velocity fall outside acceptable operational limits.
Do not store chemicals/materials in the hood – Using a fume hood for storage can disrupt the
airflow within the hood that is vital for containing hazardous vapours.
Wear a laboratory coat, eye protection and gloves when working with a fume hood – The
use of a laboratory fume hood does not negate the need to wear appropriate personal protective
equipment.
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Never remove the airfoil or modify the hood – Altering a fume hood in any fashion will affect
the hoods performance to contain hazardous vapours, putting the worker using the hood at risk.
Always position the fume hood sash at the indicated height between you and your work –
The sash should always be kept at the indicated height to ensure that the airflow across the sash
opening will always be sufficient as well as provide some protection to the worker from splashes
and splattering.
Open/position the fume hood sash slowly – Opening a sash rapidly can cause the vapours to
be expelled from the fume hood into the immediate vicinity of the room.
Move slowly within the fume hood – When working in a fume hood, moving your arms and
hands in a quick or fast manner can affect the containment of the hood and vapours may escape
out of the hood and into the room.
Never put your head in the hood when in use – Inserting ones head into a fume hood while in
use will result in an exposure to the worker.
Work only within the dished (recessed) area of the fume hood surface – In this area of the
fume hood, the potential to capture and contain vapours is the greatest. As well, small spills will
be contained in this area.
Remove electrical units or other spark sources from the fume hood when flammable
liquids or gases are present – Do not place power strips or surge protectors in the hood. Plug in
all electrical equipment outside of the hood.
Minimize pedestrian traffic in front of the fume hood – Excess traffic in front of a fume hood
can affect air flow around the fume hood and subsequently containment, allowing hazardous
vapours to escape from the fume hood and into the room.
Keep doors and windows closed while the fume hood is in use – Opening and closing doors
and windows can affect the fume hoods containment.
In a power outage, lower the fume hood sash to within 5 cm (2 inches) of the airfoil –
Lowering the sash will help keep fumes/vapours within the fume hood while still allowing for
airflow through the hood via the chimney effect.
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Figure 19: Fume hood.
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7.3 Snorkels
Some laboratories are equipped with snorkel ducts, which consist of a bell mouth and an
articulated connection to the exhaust system. The main difference between your laboratory
chemical fume hood and the snorkel is that the latter does not fully surround the reaction at the
point of release. For this reason, snorkels are not a substitute for a laboratory fume hood when
handling toxic chemicals. Snorkels are far less effective in capturing dusts, mists, or fumes, and
can typically only capture contaminants released within 15 cm (6 inches) of the unit. Snorkels
are extremely susceptible to cross drafts.
A good use for laboratory snorkels is the capture and removal of thermal updrafts from bench
top heating processes, or as local ventilation for bench top apparatuses such as gas
chromatographs. Snorkels generally operate at 45 feet per minute (fpm).
Figure 20: Snorkel.
7.4 Canopy Hoods
Canopy hoods are similar in design to range hoods found above stoves in homes or commercial
venues. Canopy hoods work best capturing lighter than air vapours or contaminants and their
use should be restricted to this purpose. One drawback to these types of hoods is that the
contaminated air passes through the workers breathing zone.
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7.5 Slot ventilation
When properly designed and installed a slot hood can be more effective at capturing
contaminants than a snorkel or canopy hood. These types of hoods are effective at capturing
vapours that are heavier than air.
7.6 Biosafety Cabinets
Biosafety cabinets are a ventilated enclosures designed to provide personnel, environmental
and product protection when appropriate practices and procedures are followed.
Figure 21: Biosafety cabinet.
Detailed operational procedures for the proper use of a BSC are provided in the Biosafety
Cabinet Safety Guidelines.
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7.7 Eyewashes and Safety Showers
Where there may be a risk to the eyes of a worker from corrosive or other harmful substances
or where there may be a risk of substantial contamination of a worker or of a worker’s clothing
from corrosive or other harmful substances an approved emergency eyewash and safety
shower must be provided by the employer.
Approved eyewashes and safety showers are provided by the university (except for self-
contained units) where the need for them has been identified. The criteria for eyewashes and
safety showers are:
Eyewashes and safety showers are to be tempered (provide lukewarm water);
Once activated, the flow of lukewarm water begins within 1 second;
Once activated, the units remain on until they are physically turned off (hands-free operations). No
spring return mechanisms are allowed;
There must be flushing water for a minimum of 15 minutes;
Flushing water is provided at a flow rate of 1.5 L per minute for eyewashes and 75.7 L per minute
for safety showers;
Eyewashes must be able to flush both eyes simultaneously;
Units must be within 55 feet of where work with hazardous materials occurs; and
Water must be clean and not acidic or basic.
Figure 22: Emergency eyewash and shower.
Under the provincial health and safety regulations, emergency eyewashes and showers must be
function tested weekly to confirm their operation. Weekly function tests are expected to be
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performed by laboratory personnel and recorded. Safety Resources will supply procedures,
equipment and training for staff to perform the function tests. If an emergency eyewash or
shower is suspected or determined to not be working, Facilities Operation and Maintenance
should be contacted.
Safety Resources performs annual comprehensive function tests of all emergency eyewashes
and showers on campus. If you require assistance, please contact Safety Resources at 306-
966-4675.
7.8 Fire Extinguishers
Hand held fire extinguishers are provided in all university buildings. The type of fire extinguisher
that is used on campus, exclusively, is the ABC dry powder extinguisher. This fire extinguisher
type will extinguish a type A (combustible materials), B (flammable/combustible liquids) or C
(energized electrical equipment) fire, any one of which could occur in a laboratory or general
office spaces on campus.
Other types of extinguishers that may be required in select work environments on campus
include type D extinguishers for fires that involve combustible metals such as sodium, lithium
magnesium, and type K fire extinguishers for fires involving combustible cooking oils and fats.
The fire extinguisher use types are clearly indicated on the front of the extinguisher.
Figure 23: ABC fire extinguisher.
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Fire response procedures including building evacuation procedures are provided in your
building’s local emergency response plan. Ensure that you know the location of the nearest fire
extinguisher and fire alarm pull station.
Fire extinguishers are inspected annually by Safety Resources.
For information regarding fire safety training or questions regarding fire extinguisher
maintenance and/or replacement, and emergency response, contact Safety Resources at 306-
966-4675.
7.9 Autoclaves
Infectious material and toxins, together with associated waste (e.g., petri dishes, pipettes,
culture tubes, and glassware), can be effectively decontaminated in an autoclave. The
effectiveness of decontamination by steam autoclaving is dependent on the temperature to
which the material is subjected as well as the length of time it is exposed. Proper operation,
loading, and monitoring of autoclaves are critical to ensure decontamination is achieved.
Particular attention should be given to packaging, including the size of the containers and their
distribution in the autoclave. Items should be arranged in a manner that allows the free
circulation and penetration of steam.
Figure 24: Autoclave.
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8 Training
Appropriate training and competency for all faculty, staff and students regardless of where they
are working/learning is a critical element of a strong health and safety program.
Based on the work/research activities to be performed and the work environment, supervisors
must assess and determine what training is required for faculty, staff and students they oversee
as well the retraining frequencies.
Fundamental to ensuring faculty, staff and students are equipped to safely begin their work in a
laboratory environment is to provide comprehensive orientation safety training. Safety Resource
provides a general health and safety orientation but this training does not adequately address
specific work environments, operational processes, procedures and rules, hazards and
protective measures that govern the laboratory environment. Consequently, supervisors must
ensure all faculty, staff and students working in a laboratory receive a site-specific safety
orientation which include the following topics:
Faculty, staff and student roles and responsibilities in support of health and safety;
Work activities being performed in the laboratory environment;
Hazards in the laboratory (health and physical hazards);
Operational procedures, processes and rules governing the laboratory and work including
protective measures (e.g. techniques, equipment use and care, required PPE, engineering
controls, use, storage and disposal of hazardous materials);
Specific training and defined competency levels for specific procedures and techniques (as
determined by the supervisor);
Emergency preparedness and response for the laboratory and building (e.g. where safety
equipment is located; response procedures); and
Reporting of hazards, concerns and incidents.
Minimum training and awareness expectations at the university are summarized in Table 9.
It is best practice that all training provided to faculty, staff and students be documented including
appropriate testing and acknowledgements by participants. Workplace specific training records
are to be maintained by supervisors and/or the department. Safety Resources maintains training
records for all training it provides.
Training courses offered by Safety Resources may be registered for through the Safety
Resources website, http://www.safetyresources.usask.ca. For more information on required
safety training, training templates, forms, checklists, or for other training needs, contact Safety
Resources at 306-966-4675.
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Table 9 - Safety training requirements
Training Course Applicable To Training Provider Retraining
Frequency
Employee Safety
Orientation New employees Safety Resources None
Site/Job Specific Safety
Orientation New employees
Supervisors/Faculty/
Instructors None
Site/Job Specific
Training (safety and/or
other training)
All faculty, staff and students Supervisors/Faculty/
Instructors
Laboratory
specific
Supervisor Safety
Orientation Supervisors Safety Resources 7 years
Workplace Hazardous
Materials Information
Systems (WHMIS)
All faculty, staff and students
who work or handle
hazardous materials
Safety Resources
3 years
Site-Specific WHMIS
All faculty, staff and students
who work or handle
hazardous materials
Supervisor At least
annually
Laboratory Safety
All faculty, staff and students
who work in laboratory
environments
Safety Resources 3 years
Biosafety All faculty, staff and students
under a biosafety permit Safety Resources 3 years
Biowaste Training All faculty, staff and students
who use BioMed Disposals Safety Resources 3 years
Radiation Safety &
Radiation Safety
Refresher
All faculty, staff and students
under a nuclear substance
permit
Safety Resources 3 years
Transportation of
Dangerous Goods
Faculty, staff and students
shipping and receiving
dangerous goods
Safety Resources
2 (air),
3 (ground)
years
Emergency Response
Training All faculty, staff and students Supervisor Annually
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9 Emergency Preparedness and Response
9.1 Local Emergency Response Plan
The University of Saskatchewan has developed local emergency response plans for all colleges
and administrative units on campus. Local emergency plans (ERPs) serve to provide basic
response procedures for faculty, staff and students when in an emergency situation. The local
ERPs developed include the most common type of emergencies that could occur on campus:
Medical emergencies;
Evacuation;
Flood;
Safety Equipment Failure;
Suspicious People and Activity;
Lockdown;
Violence;
Severe Weather;
Bomb Threats;
Lost Children;
Power Outage;
Spill of Hazardous materials;
Loss or Theft of hazardous Materials; and
Personnel or Students in Crisis
Figure 25: Chemical spill.
Not all ERP’s will contain all the elements listed above as each ERP is developed specifically for
the building or area that it will represent. It is essential that all faculty, staff and students review
and understand their local ERP and its elements so as to know how to respond in the event of
an emergency.
In the event of a major emergency, the University of Saskatchewan Institutional Emergency
Management Plan supersedes all local emergency response plans. It is noted that local
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emergency plans do not govern the actions of civic emergency services or supersede any
applicable legislation relating to emergency measures.
For assistance with developing a local ERP, contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
9.2 Incidents
Faculty, staff or students involved in an incident, spill or near miss incident while engaged in
activities at, or conducting work for the university shall adhere to the following incident response
and reporting processes.
The individuals involved in the incident are responsible to:
Seek appropriate medical attention. In a medical emergency, call 911;
Notify their supervisor as soon as possible;
Complete an incident report via the university’s online incident reporting system at
http://www.safetyresources.usask.ca/. For assistance in completing an incident report, please
contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675;
Participate and cooperate with their supervisor and Safety Resources representatives on the
review of the incident, and the determination and implementation of appropriate corrective and
preventative measures to minimize a recurrence and;
If professional medical attention was sought, complete a Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation
Board (WCB) Employee Initial Report of Injury (W1) form.
The individual’s supervisor is responsible to:
Discuss the incident with the individual who reported the incident and perform an investigation to
determine the cause of the incident, and corrective and preventative measures to minimize a
recurrence;
If professional medical attention was sought by the individual,
o Complete a WCB Employer Initial Report of Injury (E1) Form.
o Assist the individual in the completion of a WCB W1 form.
o Fax the completed E1 and W1 forms to the WCB at 1-888-844-7773 and to Wellness
Resources at 306-966-2882.
WCB E1 and W1 forms are provided electronically to the supervisor by Wellness Resources
upon receipt of an online incident report. WCB E1 and W1 forms are available upon request by
Wellness Resources. For assistance with the completion of WCB forms, please call Wellness
Resources at 306-966-4580.
Safety Resources will follow up on reported incidents, provide advice, and support to ensure
that appropriate corrective and preventative actions have been taken. Safety Resources also
maintains incident statistics which are available to the campus community.
For assistance, please contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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References
Government of Canada, Canadian Biosafety Standards and Guidelines, 2nd Edition (2015).
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). National Fire Code of Canada, 2010
Occupational Health and Safety CSA Z1000-6 Canadian Standards Association
Safety Matters, Volume 8 Issue 1, Columbia University EH&S
Renovation, Renewal and Replacement of Facilities Policy, University of Saskatchewan
Facility Decommissioning Standard, Safety resources, University of Saskatchewan
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations, Transport Canada, Government of Canada
Material Handling Ergonomic Manual, Wellness Resources, University of Saskatchewan
Laboratory Ergonomics Manual, University of Saskatchewan
Electrical Safety Guide for Non-Electrical Workers, Safety Resources, University of
Saskatchewan
Chemical and Laboratory Safety Program, Health and Safety Unit, University of Regina
Radiation Safety Manual, Safety Resources, University of Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan Employment Act, Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety,
Government of Saskatchewan
The Occupational Health and Safety regulations, Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace
Safety, Government of Saskatchewan
Hazardous Product Act, Department of Justice, Government of Canada
Controlled Products Regulations, Department of Justice, Government of Canada
Compressed Gas Cylinder Safe Handling, Use and Storage, Safety Resources, University of
Saskatchewan
American National Standard for Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment, Z358.1-2009,
ANSI/ISEA
Laboratory Health and Safety Handbook, WorkSafe BC,
Bretherick’s Handbook or Reactive Chemical Hazards, 7th Edition (2006)
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Appendix A
Personal Protective Equipment
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Personal Protective Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to clothing or equipment a worker can wear to
protect against injury from chemicals, heat, flying debris. PPE is worn to protect against
exposures from workplace hazards when engineering and/or administrative controls are unable
or insufficient alone in providing protection from these hazards.
Following are common types of PPE that are used in laboratory environments. In some work
areas, other types of PPE may be required. If you have questions, or require assistance,
contact Safety Resources.
1 Gloves
Gloves must be worn whenever hazardous goods are being handled. Gloves must be thick
enough to provide protection from the hazard (e.g. heat, caustic chemicals), and must be able to
withstand the conditions in which they will be used (chemical resistance). Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) should be consulted on the proper gloves to wear when handling particular
chemicals. Manufacturer websites often have glove selection guides that will provide resistivity
data for certain glove materials against a variety of chemicals.
Some gloves are designed for single use. If your lab uses disposable gloves, do not wash and
re-use them, they are meant for single use. Your lab will have specific requirements that will
dictate whether you use disposable or reusable gloves. Follow these requirements when
making your choice.
Fit – Is important because a glove that is too big or too small will not be worn as it should.
Gloves that are too small will cut off circulation and be uncomfortable. Gloves that are too big
will be cumbersome and contribute to spills and accidents.
Lining – Add comfort and durability to a glove; they also however, add cost. Some gloves are
manufactured with a lining by necessity; here you will have no choice.
Powdering – Is added to some gloves to allow them to be slipped on and off more easily.
Powdering can contribute to latex sensitivity (in latex gloves) and latex protein can leach into the
powder. If this powder is released into the air and inhaled by a sensitized person, results can be
severe.
Thickness – Of a glove influences its resistance to physical and chemical attack; in general, the
thicker the glove the better the protection. Increased thickness, however, leads to decreased
sensitivity and dexterity.
Material selection – Is the most important criteria with respect to chemical resistance. See the
table below as a guideline to be used in selecting materials. More information may be obtained
from glove manufacturers, see them for final confirmation of material selection. Compatibility,
breakthrough times, permeation rates and degradation are some factors to be considered.
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Table 10 - Glove selection guide
Material Of Construction Good Against Comments
Viton –
Fluoroelastomer
PCBs, benzene, chlorinated and
aromatic solvents, gas. Limited physical strength but very
flexible.
Neoprene –
Synthetic rubber
Most organic and inorganic acids,
caustic, alcohols, solvents, oils.
Resistance is very dependent on method of
manufacture (solvent or water dipped).
Latex –
Natural rubber Acids, alkalis, salts, ketones.
Contain sensitizing proteins. Use only if
necessary. Form fitting (elastic).
Multi-Layer –
Silvershield, Norfoil
Vinyl chloride, acetone, ethyl ether,
superb resistance against a wide
variety of compounds.
Virtually no cut resistance, lightweight,
flexible.
Vinyl (PVC) –
Thermoplastic
Excellent resistance to most acids,
and petroleum hydrocarbons. Good abrasion resistance.
Nitrile –
Synthetic rubber
Good general resistance; alcohols,
acids.
Good physical strength, good flexibility,
form fitting.
2 Footwear
Proper footwear must be worn at all times when a worker is handling or in the immediate area
where chemicals or other hazardous goods are being used. Proper footwear in these
circumstances means closed toed and closed heeled shoes that are robust enough to provide protection from the expected danger (e.g. leather uppers). Shoes should also have a flat sole
(provide stability) with some tread to provide slip resistance.
Figure 26: Appropriate footwear for a laboratory. Image courtesy of Iowa State University.
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3 Pants
Pants that cover the entire leg (down to the top of the footwear) must be worn at all times when
handling hazardous goods or in the immediate area where hazardous goods are in use.
4 Laboratory Coats
Choose the appropriate laboratory coat for the hazards that are present. When working with
highly flammable compounds or reactive compounds that can spontaneously combust a fire
resistant laboratory coat, such as Nomex, should be used. Laboratory coats need to fit well and
be worn properly (sleeves not rolled up, buttoned up, etc.). They should reach down to the knee.
Waist length lab coats should not be worn in labs as they do not provide sufficient protection.
Laboratory coats must be removed when leaving the lab and put back on upon entering.
5 Eye Protection
Approved protective safety glasses must be worn wherever hazardous goods or conditions
exist. These glasses must have impact resistant safety approved lenses and come equipped
with side shields. Regular everyday prescription eyewear is not acceptable for use in a lab. If
the worker chooses to wear prescription eyewear, it must have safety approved, impact
resistant lenses and be equipped with side shields. When conditions exist where extra
protection beyond what safety glasses would offer is required (e.g. working with highly caustic
compounds), goggles should be worn. Face shields can be worn in these circumstances to
provide additional protection to the neck and face. Contact lenses should not be worn in a lab
under any circumstance. Recommended eye protection is summarized in Table 11.
Table 11 - Eye protection guide
Hazard Type Common Related Tasks Safety
Glasses Goggles Welding Laser
Face
Shield
Impact –
flying objects such as
large chips, fragments,
particles, dirt
Chipping, grinding, machining,
masonry work, riveting and
sanding
X (or) X X
Heat –
hot sparks, splash from
molten metal and high
temperature exposure
Furnace operations, pouring,
casting, hot dipping, gas cutting
and welding
X (or) X X
Chemicals –
splash, fumes, vapours,
irritating mists
Chemical handling, degreasing
and plating X X
Dust –
nuisance
Woodwork, buffing and general
dusty conditions X
Optical radiation –
radiant energy, glare
and intense light
Welding, torch cutting, brazing,
glare and intense light soldering
and laser work
X X X
Biologicals –
splashes
Sonification, pipetting, handling
animals and biohazardous
materials, post-mortem exams
X X
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6 Respiratory Protection
In work environments where individuals may be exposed to airborne hazardous materials (e.g.
dusts, chemicals, vapours, aerosols, gases) in concentrations that may be harmful, respiratory
protection may be required. Examples of respiratory protection devices are shown in Figure 27.
If it is believed that respiratory protection may be required, contact Safety Resources. Safety
Resources will work with you to assess whether the need for a respiratory protection, respiratory
types, fit testing, maintenance and training. Anyone utilizing respiratory protection must be fit
tested every two years. Contact Safety Resources to be fit-tested.
Figure 27: Example of an air purifying respirator.
7 Hearing Protection
Hear protection refers to protective devices design to be worn in or around the ears to protective
the individual from hearing loss that could result from exposure to loud levels of noise in the
work/learning environment.
Where it is determined that individual exposures to noise in work areas on campus exceed 80
dBA Lex, or noise levels in work areas consistently exceeds 90 dBA, hearing protection devices
shall be made available to faculty, staff, students, and visitors. Examples of hearing protective
devices are shown in Figure 28.
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Figure 28: Examples of hearing protective devices.
Hearing protection devices shall:
Meet Canadian Standards Association, CAN/CSA Z94.1-02 Hearing Protection Devices -
Performance, Selection, Care, and Use;
Have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) high enough to reduce the noise at the eardrum to 85
dBA, or lower;
Properly fit the wearer;
Be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s use and care instructions;
Never be modified in any way; and
Be replaced immediately if there is evidence of wear and tear, or the effectiveness has been
compromised.
Materials or devices not intended for hearing protection shall not be used as a substitute for
hearing protection devices.
Individuals requiring hearing protection should be given the opportunity to select from a variety
of appropriate models so that a preferred and comfortable selection may be made. Various
types and models of earplugs and earmuffs are available from local suppliers.
For assistance with assessing noise levels in your work environment, or hearing protective
devices contact Safety Resources at 306-966-4675.
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Appendix B
Definitions
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Definitions
Reproduced from CCOHS Website (http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/whmis_ghs/glossary/)
Accidental release measures – the steps to be taken in response to spills, leaks, or releases of a hazardous
product to prevent or minimize adverse effects on people and property.
ACGIH® – see American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
Acid, Acidic – See pH.
Acute – sudden or brief. “Acute" can describe either the duration (length) of an exposure or a health effect. An acute
exposure is a short-term exposure (lasting for minutes, hours or days). An acute health effect is an effect that
develops immediately or within minutes, hours or even days after an exposure. (See also “Chronic”.)
Acute toxicity – hazardous products classified in this hazard class cause fatal, toxic or harmful effects if swallowed,
in contact with skin and/or if inhaled. Acute toxicity refers to adverse effects following:
oral (swallowing) or dermal (skin) administration of a single dose, or multiple doses given within 24 hours, or
an inhalation exposure of 4 hours or of a duration that is converted to four hours.
Acute inhalation toxicity could result from exposure to the hazardous product itself, or to a product that, upon contact
with water, releases a gaseous substance that is able to cause acute toxicity. (See also “LC50” and “LD50”.)
Acute toxicity estimate (ATE) – a numerical value that is used to evaluate acute toxicity. For an ingredient, the ATE
is the LC50 or the LD50, if available, or a converted acute toxicity point estimate that is based on an experimentally
obtained range or the classification category. For a mixture, the ATE is calculated for oral, dermal and inhalation
toxicity based on the ATE values for all relevant ingredients and the percentage concentration in the product.
Administrative controls – controls that alter the way the work is done, including timing of work, policies and other
rules, and work practices such as standards and operating procedures (including training, housekeeping and
equipment maintenance).
AIHA® – AIHA® stands for American Industrial Hygiene Association.
Alkali, Alkaline – see pH.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH®) – an international association of
occupational hygienists that develops guidelines for the practice of occupational hygiene, including Threshold Limit
Values (TLVs®) and Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs®). This publication serves as the basis for occupational
exposure limits in many jurisdictions around the world.
ANSI – ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute.
Asphyxiant – see Simple asphyxiants.
Aspiration hazards – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may be fatal if the hazardous product is
swallowed and enters the airways. Aspiration toxicity includes severe acute effects, such as chemical pneumonia,
varying degrees of pulmonary injury or death, following the entry of a liquid or solid directly through the mouth or
nose, or indirectly from vomiting, into the trachea and lower respiratory system.
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Auto-ignition temperature – the lowest temperature at which a product ignites when no spark or flame is present.
Base, Basic – See pH.
Bailment – the transfer of possession without transferring ownership. (See also “Sell”.)
Bioaccumulative potential - describes the potential for the substance or certain components of a mixture to
accumulate in animal or plant life, and possibly pass through the food chain.
Biological Exposure Indices (BEIs®) - guidance values developed by ACGIH to assess biological monitoring
results. Biological monitoring involves the measurement of the concentration of a chemical indicator (such as the
substance itself or a chemical formed from the substance by the body) in body components (e.g., blood, urine) of
people who have been exposed to the substance. Biological monitoring is used to indicate how much of the
substance has been absorbed into the body. The BEI generally identifies a concentration below which nearly all
workers should not experience adverse health effects.
Biohazardous infectious materials – hazardous products that are classified in this hazard class are
microorganisms, nucleic acids or proteins that cause or are a probable cause of infection, with or without toxicity, in
humans or animals.
Boiling point – see Initial boiling point.
Bulk shipment - a shipment of a hazardous product that is contained in any of the following, without intermediate
containment or intermediate packaging,
a vessel that has a water capacity equal to or greater than 450 l,
a freight container, road vehicle, railway vehicle or portable tank,
the hold of a ship, or
a pipeline.
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) – an occupational health and safety information
service with the mandate to promote workplace health and safety, and encourage attitudes and methods that will lead
to improved worker physical and mental health. CCOHS provides a wide range of products and services, including
free access to a large collection of factsheets on occupational health and safety topics.
CANUTEC - CANUTEC stands for Canadian Transport Emergency Centre, which is operated by the Transportation
of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Directorate of Transport Canada. CANUTEC provides information and communications
assistance in case of transportation emergencies involving dangerous goods. It is accessible in Canada by
telephone, 24 hours a day, year round at (613) 996-6666 (collect) or *666 on a cell phone.
Carcinogenicity – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may cause cancer or are suspected of causing
cancer. These products are liable to lead to cancer or increase the incidence of cancer.
CAS Registry Number – the Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number. This identification number is assigned to
a chemical by the Chemical Abstracts Service, a division of the American Chemical Society.
Ceiling (C) – See Occupational exposure limit values.
Chemical name – a scientific designation of a material or substance:
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that is made according to the naming rules of either the Chemical Abstracts Service, a division of the
American Chemical Society, or the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, or
that is internationally recognized and that clearly identifies the material or substance.
Chemical stability – the ability of a product to remain unchanged under normal ambient and anticipated storage and
handling conditions of temperature and pressure. An unstable product may decompose, burn or explode under
normal environmental conditions. Any indication that the product is unstable gives warning that special handling and
storage precautions may be necessary.
Chronic– long-term or prolonged. “Chronic” can describe either the length (duration) of an exposure or a health
effect. A chronic exposure is a long-term exposure (lasting for months or years). A chronic health effect is an adverse
health effect resulting from long-term exposure or a persistent adverse health effect resulting from a short-term
exposure.
Closed cup – a test procedure used to measure the flash point of a product, using a closed cup, which prevents the
vapour from escaping. A closed cup flash point is generally lower than a flash point measured using an open cup
method.
CNS – CNS stands for central nervous system.
Coefficient of water/oil distribution – the ratio of a product’s distribution between the water and oil portions of a
mixture of water and oil. A value of less than 1 indicates that the product is more soluble in oils. A value of greater
than 1 indicates that the product is more soluble in water.
Combustible dusts – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may form combustible dust concentrations
in air. These products are in the form of finely divided solid particles that, upon ignition, are liable to catch fire or
explode when dispersed in air.
Combustible liquids – combustible liquids are included in the Flammable Liquids hazard class. Combustible liquids
will not ignite or burn as readily as Flammable Liquids.
Complex mixture – a mixture that has a commonly known generic name and that is:
naturally occurring,
a fraction of a naturally occurring mixture that results from a separation process, or
a modification of a naturally occurring mixture or a modification of a fraction of a naturally occurring mixture
that results from a chemical modification process.
Petroleum distillates and turpentine are examples of complex mixtures. A complex mixture can be comprised of many
individual ingredients whose concentrations may vary from batch to batch.
Conditions to avoid – conditions such as heat, pressure, shock, static discharge, vibrations or other physical
stresses that might result in a hazardous situation involving the product.
Confidential business information (CBI) – also known as “trade secrets” - certain information does not have to be
disclosed on a WHMIS 2015 SDS and/or label if the supplier or employer believes that providing the information
could affect (hurt) their business. Health Canada must approve the claim, which must follow the rules set out under
the Hazardous Materials Information Review Act. CBI examples include the chemical identity or concentration of an
ingredient in a hazardous product.
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Container – includes a bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum or similar package or receptacle but does not
include a storage tank. (See also “Outer container”.)
Control parameters – includes occupational exposure limits and biological limit values. Depending on their source,
occupational exposure limit values have different names and often have different numerical values. (See also
“Occupational exposure limit values”.)
Controls – measures used to protect workers from exposure to a hazardous product. Control measures include
engineering controls (e.g., ventilation), administrative controls (e.g., scheduling, training) or personal protective
equipment.
Corrosive to metals – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are liable to damage or destroy metal by
chemical action.
Critical temperature – the temperature above which a pure gas cannot be liquefied, regardless of the degree of
compression.
Decomposition temperature – the temperature at which the product chemically decomposes.
Density – the weight of a product for a given volume. Density is usually given in units of grams per millilitre (g/mL) or
grams per cubic centimetre (g/cc). The volume of a product in a container can be calculated from its density and
weight.
Dilution ventilation – See Ventilation.
Disposal considerations – information for safe handling for disposal, and recommended methods for disposal of the
hazardous product, including any contaminated packaging.
Engineering controls – controls used to separate a worker from a hazard. These controls include design of or
modifications to plants, equipment, or processes to reduce or eliminate hazards (e.g., process enclosure, isolation of
an emission source, or ventilation).
Evaporation rate – a term that indicates how quickly a product evaporates compared to n-butyl acetate. The
evaporation rate of butyl acetate is 1. A value greater than 1 means the product has a high evaporation rate and will
mix with air very quickly.
Explosive limits – see Lower explosive limit (LEL) or Lower flammability limit (LFL) and Upper explosive limit (UEL)
or Upper flammability limit (UFL).
Exposure limit values – see Occupational exposure limit values.
Extinguishing media – agents which can put out fires involving the product. Common extinguishing agents are
water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical, and "alcohol" foam. It is important to know which extinguishers can be used
(suitable extinguishing media) so they can be made available at the worksite. It is also important to know which
agents cannot be used (unsuitable extinguishing media) since an incorrect extinguisher may not work or may create a
more hazardous situation. If several products are involved in a fire, an extinguisher effective for all of the products
should be used.
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Eye irritation – hazardous products classified for Eye irritation, as part of the Serious eye damage/eye irritation
hazard class, produce changes in the eye which are fully reversible within 21 days. Effects could include redness,
itching or swelling.
First-aid measures – the initial care that can be given by an untrained responder to a person who is experiencing
symptoms of exposure to the product.
Flammable (or flammability) limits – see Lower explosive limit (LEL) or Lower flammability limit (LFL) and Upper
explosive limit (UEL) or Upper flammability limit (UFL).
Flammable – able to ignite (catch fire) easily.
Flammable aerosols – hazardous products classified in this hazard class contain one or more flammable
components in an aerosol dispenser and that, when dispensed, are liable to ignite. Products that contain flammable
components in an aerosol dispenser at a concentration less than or equal to 1.0% and that have a heat of
combustion less than 20 kJ/g are excluded from this hazard class.
Flammable gases – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are gases that have a flammable range when
mixed with air (at 20 deg C and 101.3 kPa).
Flammable liquids – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are liquids that have a flash point of not
more than 93 deg C.
Flammable solids – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are readily combustible solids or solids that
are liable to cause or contribute to fire through friction. A “readily combustible solid” means a powdered, granular or
pasty hazardous product that can be easily ignited by brief contact with an ignition source and, when ignited, has a
flame that spread rapidly.
Flash back – occurs when a trail of flammable gas, vapour or aerosol is ignited by a distant spark, flame or other
source of ignition. The flame then travels back along the trail of gas, vapour or aerosol to its source. A serious fire or
explosion could result.
Flash point – the lowest temperature at which the application of an ignition source causes the vapours of a liquid to
ignite (catch fire). The lower the flash point, the more easily the product will ignite and burn.
Fugitive emission – a gas, liquid or solid, vapour, fume, mist, fog or dust that escapes from process equipment or
from emission control equipment or form a product where workers may be readily exposed to it.
Freezing point – the temperature below which a liquid product becomes solid. (See also “Melting point”.)
Fumes – very small, airborne, solid particles formed by the cooling of a hot vapour. For example, a hot zinc vapour
may form when zinc-coated steel is welded. The vapour then condenses to form fine zinc fume as soon as it contacts
the cool surrounding air. Fumes are smaller than dusts and are more easily breathed into the lungs.
Gases under pressure – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are compressed gases, liquefied gases,
dissolved gases, or refrigerated liquefied gases. Compressed gases, liquefied gases and dissolved gases may
explode if heated. Refrigerated liquefied gases may cause cryogenic (severe cold) burns or injury.
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These products consist of a gas contained in a receptacle under a pressure of 200 kPa or more at 20 deg C, or that is
liquefied, or liquefied and refrigerated, but excludes any gas that has an absolute vapour pressure of not more than
300 kPa at 50 deg C or that is not completely gaseous at 20 deg C and 101.3 kPa.
General ventilation – see Ventilation.
Germ cell mutagenicity – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may cause or are suspected of causing
genetic defects. These products are liable lead to an increased occurrence of mutations in the germ (reproductive)
cells.
Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) –an international system that
defines and classifies the hazards of chemical products, and communicates health and safety information on labels
and SDSs in a standardized way. The GHS is developed through consensus at the United Nations. The GHS “purple
book” is a guidance document. Only the elements of GHS that have been explicitly adopted in legislation (e.g., in the
HPR) are enforceable.
Handling and storage – the basic precautions to be followed when handling and for storing a hazardous product, or
the basic equipment to be used during handling and storing.
Hazard – the potential for harmful effects. The hazards of a product are evaluated by examining the properties of the
product, such as toxicity, flammability and chemical reactivity.
Hazard class – a way of grouping products together that have similar hazards or properties.
Hazard category – the subdivision within a hazard class that tells you about how hazardous the product is (the
severity of hazard). Category 1 is always the greatest level of hazard (it is the most hazardous within that class). If
Category 1 is further divided, Category 1A within the same hazard class is a greater hazard than category 1B.
Category 2 within the same hazard class is more hazardous than category 3, and so on.
Hazard classification – the hazard class and category assigned to a hazardous product based on the comparison of
the properties of the hazardous product with the criteria for each hazard class in the HPR.
Hazardous combustion product – hazardous substance(s) formed when the product burns. These substances may
be flammable, toxic, reactive and/or have other hazards.
Hazard statement – a required phrase assigned to a category or subcategory of a hazard class that describes the
nature of the hazard presented by a hazardous product.
Hazardous decomposition product – hazardous substance(s) that may be released when a product reacts with
other substances, as a result of aging, reaction with airborne oxygen or moisture or exposure to light.
Hazardous ingredient – an ingredient in a mixture that, when evaluated as an individual substance according to the
HPR, is classified in a category or subcategory of a health hazard class.
Hazardous product – a product, mixture, material or substance that meets the criteria to be classified in one or more
of the hazard classes of the HPR.
Hazardous Products Act / Hazardous Products Regulations – The Hazardous Products Regulations (HPR) are
Canadian federal regulations enabled by the Hazardous Products Act (HPA). They are part of the national Workplace
Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS 2015), and replace the Controlled Products Regulations (CPR).
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The HPR applies to all suppliers (importers or sellers) in Canada of hazardous products intended for use, handling or
storage in Canadian work places. The regulations specify the criteria for classification of hazardous products. They
also specify what information must be included on labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).
Health hazards not otherwise classified (HHNOC) – hazardous products classified in this hazard class have a
health hazard that is different from any other health hazard addressed in the HPR. These hazards must have the
characteristic of occurring following acute or repeated exposure and having an adverse effect on the health of a
person exposed to it, including an injury, or resulting in the death of that person. If a product is classified in this
hazard class, the hazard statement on the label and SDS will describe the nature of the hazard.
Health professional – as defined by the Hazardous Products Regulations, are
a. physicians who are registered and entitled under the laws of a province to practice medicine and who are
practicing medicine under those laws in that province; and
b. nurses who are registered or licensed under the laws of a province to practice nursing and who are
practicing nursing under those laws in that province.
HPA – the Hazardous Products Act. See “Hazardous Products Act / Hazardous Products Regulations”.
HPR – the Hazardous Products Regulations. See “Hazardous Products Act / Hazardous Products Regulations”.
IARC – IARC stands for the International Agency for Research on Cancer. IARC is an agency of the World Health
Organization. IARC evaluates information to identify environmental factors that can increase the risk of human
cancer. These factors include chemicals, complex mixtures, occupational exposures, physical agents, biological
agents and lifestyle factors. IARC publishes lists of agents which are classified as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1),
probably carcinogenic to humans (Group 2A), possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), or not classifiable as to
its carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).
IDLH – IDLH stands for Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health. For the purposes of respirator selection, the U.S.
NIOSH defines the IDLH concentration as the airborne concentration that poses a threat of exposure to airborne
contaminants when that exposure is likely to cause death or immediate or delayed permanent adverse health effects
or prevent escape from such an environment. The purpose of establishing an IDLH exposure concentration is:
• to ensure that the worker can escape from a given contaminated environment in the event of failure of
the respiratory protection equipment, and
• is considered a maximum level above which only a highly reliable breathing apparatus providing
maximum worker protection is permitted.
In the event of failure of respiratory protective equipment, every effort should be made to exit immediately.
Impervious – is a term used to describe protective gloves and other protective clothing. If a protective material is
impervious to a substance, then that substance cannot readily penetrate through the material or damage the material.
Different materials are impervious (resistant) to different substances. No single material is impervious to all
substances. If a SDS recommends wearing impervious gloves, you need to know the specific type of material from
which the gloves should be made.
Importer – is a person or company that brings a hazardous product into Canada for sale to, or use at, a work place.
Importers have the same WHMIS responsibilities as suppliers. An employer can be an importer.
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Incompatible materials – substances which, when combined with a hazardous product, could react to produce a
hazardous situation (e.g., explosion, release of toxic or flammable materials, liberation of excessive heat).
Individual protection measures (or Personal protective equipment (PPE)) – the clothing or equipment that a
worker handling a hazardous product wears to reduce or prevent exposure to the product. Individual protection
measures may include coveralls, face shields, aprons, gloves or respirators. The exact type of gloves and respirators
should be specified, e.g., “vinyl gloves” or “organic vapour cartridge respirator”.
Initial boiling point – the temperature of a liquid at which its vapour pressure is equal to the standard pressure of
101.3 kPa, (i.e., the temperature at which the first gas bubble appears).
Initial supplier identifier – the name, address and telephone number of the manufacturer or the importer of the
hazardous product who operates in Canada.
Interactive effects – the potential effects from exposure to more than one substance at the same time. The effects of
the individual substances may be increased or decreased due to the combined exposure.
Label – a group of written, printed or graphic information elements that relate to a hazardous product. The label is to
be affixed to, printed on or attached to the hazardous product or the container in which the hazardous product is
packaged.
Laboratory sample – a sample of a hazardous product that is packaged in a container that contains less than 10 kg
of the hazardous product and that is intended solely to be tested in a laboratory. The definition of laboratory sample
does NOT include a sample that is to be used:
• by the laboratory for testing other products, mixtures, materials or substances; or
• for educational or demonstration purposes.
LC50 (Lethal Concentration50) – the airborne concentration of a substance or mixture that causes the death of 50
per cent of the group of animals in tests that measure the ability of a substance or mixture to cause poisoning when it
is inhaled. These tests are usually conducted over a 4-hour period. The LC50 is usually expressed as parts of test
substance or mixture per million parts of air (ppm) for gases, or as milligrams of test substance or mixture per litre of
air (mg/l) for dusts, mists or vapours.
LD50 (Lethal Dose50) – the single dose of a substance or mixture that causes the death of 50 per cent of the group
of animals in tests that measure the ability of a substance or mixture to cause poisoning when it is swallowed (oral
exposure) or absorbed through the skin (dermal exposure). The LD50 can vary depending on factors such as the
species of animal tested and by the route of entry. The LD50 is usually expressed as milligrams of substance or
mixture per kilogram of test animal body weight (mg/kg).
Local exhaust ventilation – see Ventilation.
Lower explosive limit (LEL) or Lower flammability limit (LFL) – the lowest concentration of a substance in air that
will burn or explode when it is exposed to a source of ignition. At concentrations below the LEL, the mixture is “too
lean” to burn or explode. The LEL is the same as the LFL. (See also “Upper explosive limit (UEL) or Upper
flammability limit (UFL)”.)
Manufacturer – a supplier who, in the course of business in Canada, manufactures, produces, processes, packages
or labels a hazardous product and sells it.
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Manufactured article – an article that:
is formed to a specific shape or design during manufacture, the intended use of which is dependent in whole
or in part on the shape or design, and
will not release or otherwise cause an individual to be exposed to a hazardous product when being installed,
if the intended us of the article requires it to be installed, or under normal conditions of use.
Examples of manufactured articles include a screwdriver, a refrigerator, or an empty cylinder.
Mechanical ventilation – see Ventilation.
Melting point – the temperature at which a solid product becomes a liquid. It is important to know the freezing or
melting point for storage and handling purposes. For example, a frozen or melted product may burst a container. As
well, a change of physical state could alter the hazards of the product. (See also “Freezing point”.)
Mixture – a combination of, or a solution that is composed of, two or more ingredients that, when they are combined,
do not react with each other. (This definition does not include any such combination or solution that is a substance.
(See also “Substance”.)
Mutagenicity – see Germ cell mutagenicity.
Natural ventilation – see Ventilation.
NIOSH – NIOSH stands for National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH is a branch of the United
States government. It is the mission of NIOSH to develop new knowledge in the field of occupational safety and
health, and to transfer that knowledge into practice.
NOEL – NOEL stands for No Observable Effect Level.
NOS – NOS stands for Not Otherwise Specified.
NTP – NTP stands for National Toxicology Program. This program is part of the United States Department of Health
and Human Services. The NTP has a program for testing the potential short-term and long-term health effects,
including the carcinogenicity, of chemicals.
Occupational exposure limit values or exposure limits – the airborne concentration of a substance that must not
be exceeded in workplace air. Exposure limits have various names and often have different numerical values in
different jurisdictions. In most Canadian provinces and territories, the exposure limits are called Occupational
Exposure Limits (OELs). (See also “Control parameters” and “Threshold limit values (TLV®s)”.)
There are three different types of exposure limits in common use:
• Time-weighted average (TWA) exposure limit is the time-weighted average concentration of a
chemical in air for up to 10 hours a day, 40 hours a week, to which nearly all workers may be exposed
day after day without harmful effects. “Time-weighted average” means that the average concentration
has been calculated using the duration of exposure to different concentrations of the chemical during a
specific time period (usually 8 hours). In this way, higher and lower exposures are averaged over the
day or week.
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• Short-term exposure limit (STEL) is the average concentration to which workers can be exposed for a
short period (usually 15 minutes) without harmful effects. ACGIH specifically defines the harmful effects
as irritation, long-term or irreversible tissue damage, reduced alertness or other toxic effects. The
number of times the concentration reaches the STEL and the amount of time between these
occurrences can also be restricted.
• Ceiling (C) is the concentration which should not be exceeded at any time.
Other OEL-related terms:
“SKIN” notation (SKIN) means that contact with the skin, eyes and mucous membranes (e.g., the mouth) can
contribute to the overall exposure. This notation indicates that measures should be used to prevent absorption by
these routes, e.g., the use of protective gloves.
Permissible Exposure Limit (PELs) are the legal occupational exposure limits in the United States set by the U.S.
OSHA.
Recommended Exposure Limits (RELs) are the occupational exposure limits set by the U.S. NIOSH.
Odour threshold – the lowest concentration of a product that most people can smell.
OECD – OECD stands for Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. The OECD has published
"Guidelines for Testing of Chemicals." These guidelines contain recommended procedures for testing chemicals for
toxic and environmental effects, and for determining physical and chemical properties.
OSHA – OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It is the branch of the United States
government which sets and enforces occupational health and safety legislation.
Organic peroxides – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are reactive and may cause a fire or
explosion if heated. Organic peroxide means an organic (carbon containing) liquid or solid that contains two oxygen
atoms joined together (the bivalent -O-O structure).
Outer container – the most outward container of a hazardous product that is visible under normal conditions of
handling, but does not include the most outward container if it is the only container of the hazardous product. See
also “Container”.
Oxidizing gases, Oxidizing liquids, or Oxidizing solids – hazardous products classified in these hazard classes
may cause or intensify a fire, or cause a fire or explosion. Oxidizing gases are liable to cause or contribute to the
combustion of other material more than air does. Oxidizing liquids and Oxidizing solids are liable to cause or
contribute to the combustion of other material.
Particles Not Otherwise Specified (PNOS) - a term defined by ACGIH® to describe particles for which there is no
evidence of specific toxic effects such as fibrosis or systemic effects. (This term was previously called “particulates
not otherwise classified (PNOC) and/or nuisance dust/nuisance particulate). These substances are not to be
considered inert, however, and can produce general toxic effects depending on the airborne concentration. High
levels of particles in the air may reduce visibility and can get into the eyes, ears, and nose. Removal of these
substances by washing or rubbing may cause irritation.
PEL – See Occupational exposure limit values.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) – see “Individual protection measures”.
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pH – a measure of a product’s acidity or alkalinity. A pH of 7 is neutral. Products with a pH of greater than 7 are
alkaline. Alkalinity increases as the number increases. Products with a pH of less than 7 are acidic. Acidity increases
as the number decreases.
Physical hazards not otherwise classified (PHNOC) – hazardous products classified in this hazard class present a
physical hazard that is different from any other physical hazard addressed in the HPR. These hazards must have the
characteristic of occurring by chemical reaction and resulting in the serious injury or death of a person at the time the
reaction occurs. If a product is classified in this hazard class, the hazard statement on the label and SDS will describe
the nature of the hazard.
Physical state – indicates whether a product is a solid, liquid or gas.
Pictogram – a graphical composition that includes a symbol along with other graphical elements, such as a border or
background colour.
Precautionary statement – a phrase that describes the recommended measures to take in order to minimize or
prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous product or resulting from improper storage or
handling of a hazardous product.
Process enclosure – the operation in which the product is used is completely enclosed. A physical barrier separates
the worker from the potential health or fire hazard. Process enclosure is usually recommended if the product is very
toxic or flammable.
Product identifier – the brand name, chemical name, common name, generic name or trade name of a hazardous
product.
Pyrophoric gases, Pyrophoric liquids, or Pyrophoric solids – hazardous products classified in these hazard
classes can catch fire spontaneously (very quickly) if exposed to air. Pyrophoric liquids and Pyrophoric solids are
liable to ignite within five minutes after coming into contact with air. Pyrophoric gases are liable to ignite
spontaneously in air at a temperature of 54 deg C or less.
Polymerization – a chemical reaction that involves the combination of simple molecules to form large chain-like
macro-molecules. This reaction can sometimes be observed as the “hardening” of a “non-inhibited” liquid product.
Reactivity - Describes the intrinsic ability of a product to undergo a hazardous chemical change (e.g., organic
peroxide, oxidizer, self-reactive, pyrophoric, self-heating).
Relative density – the weight of a product compared to the weight of an equal volume of water. Products with a
relative density greater than 1 are heavier than water. Products with a relative density less than 1 are lighter than
water.
Reproductive toxicity – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may damage or are suspected of
damaging fertility and/or the unborn child (baby). This hazard class has an additional category for products that may
cause harm to breast-fed children. Reproductive toxicity refers to:
• adverse effects on sexual function and fertility
• adverse effects on the development of the embryo, fetus or offspring, or
• effects on or via lactation
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Respiratory or skin sensitization – see “Respiratory sensitizers” and/ or “Skin Sensitizers”.
Respiratory sensitizers – hazardous products classified as Respiratory sensitizers, as part of the Respiratory or
skin sensitization hazard class, may cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled. These
products are liable to lead to hypersensitivity (increased sensitivity) of the airways following inhalation.
Route of exposure – refers to the way in which a product can enter the body. Workplace chemicals can affect the
body if inhaled, following skin contact (including absorption through the skin) or eye contact, and if ingested
(swallowed).
RTECS® - RTECS® stands for Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) - a document that contains specified, required information about a hazardous product,
including information related to the hazards associated with any use, handling or storage of the hazardous product in
a work place.
Sell (a hazardous product) – offer for sale or distribution, expose for sale or distribution (e.g., advertising), have in
possession for sale or distribution or distribute – whether for consideration or not - to one or more recipients. The
definition also includes the transfer of possession of a hazardous product that creates a bailment. Bailment means
the transfer of possession without transferring ownership.
Self-heating substances and mixtures – hazardous products classified in this hazard class are products that may
catch fire, or that may catch fire when in large quantities. These solid or liquid products are liable to self-heat by
reaction with air and without energy supply. These products differ from pyrophoric substances in that they will ignite
only after a longer period of time or when in large amounts.
Self-reactive substances and mixtures – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may cause a fire or
explosion if heated. These products are liable to undergo a strongly exothermic (producing heat and energy)
decomposition, having a heat of decomposition equal to or greater than 300 J/g, even without participation of oxygen.
Serious eye damage/eye irritation – see “Serious eye damage” and/or “Eye irritation”.
Serious eye damage – hazardous products classified for Serious eye damage, as part of the Serious eye
damage/eye irritation hazard class, can produce tissue damage in the eye or serious physical decay of vision that is
irreversible or not fully reversed within 21 days. Effects could include permanently impaired vision or blindness.
Signal word - in respect of a hazardous product, the word “Danger” or “Warning” that is used to alert the reader of
the product label or SDS to a potential hazard and to indicate its severity.
Significant new data – is new data regarding the hazard presented by a hazardous product that:
• changes its classification in a category or sub-category of a hazard class, or
• results in its classification in another hazard class, or
• changes the ways to protect against the hazard presented by the hazardous product.
Simple asphyxiants – hazardous products classified in this hazard class may displace oxygen in air and cause rapid
suffocation. These products are gases that are liable to cause asphyxiation by the displacement of air.
Skin corrosion/irritation – see “Skin corrosion” and/or “Skin irritation”.
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Skin corrosion – hazardous products classified for Skin corrosion, as part of the Skin corrosion/irritation hazard
class, cause severe skin burns and eye damage. Skin corrosion means the production of irreversible damage to the
skin, namely, visible necrosis (tissue death) through the epidermis and into the dermis (layers of the skin), and
includes ulcers, bleeding, bloody scabs and, within a 14-day observation period, discolouration due to blanching of
the skin, complete areas of alopecia (loss of hair), and scars.
Skin irritation – hazardous products that classify for Skin irritation, as part of the Skin corrosion/irritation hazard
class, are liable to cause reversible damage to the skin. Effects could include redness, itching, or swelling.
“SKIN” Notation - See Occupational exposure limit values.
Skin sensitizers – hazardous products that classify as Skin sensitizers, as part of the Respiratory or skin
sensitization hazard class, may cause an allergic skin reaction. These products are liable to lead to an allergic
response following skin contact.
Solubility – the ability of a product to dissolve in water or another liquid. Solubility may be expressed as a ratio or
may be described using words such as insoluble, very soluble or miscible. Often, on a SDS, "Solubility" describes
solubility in water. Solubility information is useful for planning spill clean-up, and fire-fighting procedures.
Specific target organ toxicity (STOT) - Repeated exposure – hazardous products classified in this hazard class
cause or may cause damage to organs (e.g., liver, kidneys or blood) following prolonged or repeated exposure to the
product.
Specific target organ toxicity arising from repeated exposure means specific toxic effects on target organs that arise
from repeated exposure to a hazardous product, including all health effects liable to impair function of the body or any
of its parts, whether reversible or irreversible, immediate or delayed. This hazard class excludes health hazards
addressed by the Acute toxicity, Skin corrosion/irritation, Serious eye damage/eye irritation, Respiratory or skin
sensitization, Germ cell mutagenicity, Carcinogenicity, Reproductive toxicity or Aspiration hazard classes.
Specific target organ toxicity (STOT) - Single exposure – hazardous products classified in this hazard class cause
or may cause damage to organs (e.g., liver, kidneys, or blood) following a single exposure to the product. This hazard
class also includes a category for products that cause transient (temporary) respiratory irritation, or transient
(temporary) drowsiness or dizziness.
Specific target organ toxicity arising from a single exposure to a hazardous product means specific, non-lethal toxic
effects on target organs that arise from a single exposure to a hazardous product including all health effects liable to
impair function of the body or any of its parts, whether reversible or irreversible, immediate or delayed. This hazard
class excludes health hazards addressed by the Acute toxicity, Skin corrosion/irritation, Serious eye damage/eye
irritation, Respiratory or skin sensitization, Germ cell mutagenicity, Carcinogenicity, Reproductive toxicity or
Aspiration hazard classes.
STEL - STEL stands for Short-Term Exposure Limit. (See Occupational exposure limit values.)
Storage requirements – specific instructions to safely store the hazardous product and prevent hazardous
conditions from developing during storage.
Substance - any chemical element or chemical compound - that is in its natural state or that is obtained by a
production process - whether alone or together with:
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a. any additive that is necessary to preserve the stability of the chemical element or chemical compound,
b. any solvent that is necessary to preserve the stability or composition of the chemical element or chemical
compound, or
c. any impurity that is derived from the production process.
Substances and mixtures which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases – hazardous products in this
hazard class react with water to release flammable gases. In some cases, the flammable gases may ignite
spontaneously (very quickly). These products are liquids and solids that, by interaction with water, are liable to
become spontaneously flammable or give off flammable gases in dangerous quantities.
Suitable extinguishing media – see Extinguishing media.
Supplier – a person who, in the course of business, sells or imports a hazardous product.
Synonyms - alternative names for the same substance. For example, methanol and methyl hydrate are synonyms
for methyl alcohol. Synonyms may help in locating additional information on a substance.
Threshold limit values (TLV®s) – airborne concentrations of substances to which it is believed that nearly all
workers may be exposed day after day without experiencing adverse effects. ACGIH® develops these values.
Toxicity – a product’s ability to cause adverse health effects in people exposed to it.
Trade Name – the name under which a product is commercially known. Some products are sold under common
names, such as Stoddard solvent or degreaser, or internationally recognized trade names, like Varsol. Trade names
are sometimes identified by symbols such as (R) or (TM).
Trade secret – see Confidential business information.
Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) – federal legislation that controls the conditions under which
dangerous goods may be transported on public roads, in the air, by rail or by ship. Its purpose is to protect the health
and safety of persons in the vicinity of transport accidents involving those goods.
Transport information – basic classification information for the transporting/shipment of a product by road, rail, sea
or air.
TWA – TWA stands for Time-Weighted Average. (See “Occupational exposure limit values”.)
UN number – the four-digit identification number issued in accordance with the United Nations Model Regulations.
Unsuitable extinguishing media – see Extinguishing media.
Upper explosive limit (UEL) or Upper flammability limit (UFL) – the maximum concentration of a product in air
that will burn or explode when it is exposed to a source of ignition. At concentrations greater than the UEL, the
mixture is “too rich” to burn or explode. The UEL is the same as the UFL. (See also “Lower explosive limit (LEL) or
Lower flammability limit (LFL)”.)
Vapour – the gaseous form of a mixture or substance released from its liquid or solid state.
Vapour density – the weight of a vapour or gas compared to the weight of an equal volume of air. Products with a
vapour density greater than one are heavier than air and can accumulate in low areas.
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Vapour pressure – the pressure exerted by the vapour formed over a liquid in a closed container under standard test
conditions and reported as an absolute pressure.
Ventilation – the movement of air, which is intended to remove contaminated air from the work place. There are
several different kinds of ventilation.
• Mechanical ventilation – the movement of air by mechanical means (e.g., a wall fan). There are two kinds
of mechanical ventilation: general ventilation and local exhaust ventilation.
o General ventilation – also known as dilution ventilation - is the removal of contaminated air from
the general area and the bringing in of clean air. This movement of air dilutes the amount of
contaminant in the work environment. General ventilation is usually suggested for non-hazardous
products.
o Local exhaust ventilation – is the removal of contaminated air directly at its source. This type of
ventilation can help reduce worker exposure to airborne substances more effectively than general
ventilation, because it does not allow the substance to enter the work environment. It is usually
recommended for hazardous airborne substances.
• Natural ventilation – is a type of general ventilation which depends on natural instead of mechanical means
for air movement. Natural ventilation can depend on the wind or the difference in temperature from one area
to another to move air through a building. Therefore, it is unpredictable and unreliable.
Viscosity – a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. There are two types of viscosity values:
• dynamic viscosity which measures internal resistance to flow of a fluid under an applied force, and
• kinematic viscosity which is the ratio of dynamic viscosity to density.
VOC – VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compound.
WHMIS – WHMIS stands for Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System. WHMIS is Canada’s national
hazard communication system for hazardous products in the work place. It applies to suppliers, importers, and
distributors of hazardous products that are sold in or imported into Canada and intended for use, handling or storage
in Canadian work places, as well as to the employers and workers who use those products.
WHMIS 1988 – The original WHMIS system enacted in 1988 through the Hazardous Products Act and the Controlled
Products Regulations is now referred to as “WHMIS 1988”.
WHMIS 2015 – On February 11, 2015, the Government of Canada published the Hazardous Products
Regulations (HPR), which, in addition to the amendments made to the Hazardous Products Act (HPA), modified
WHMIS 1988 to incorporate the GHS for workplace chemicals. This modified WHMIS is referred to as WHMIS 2015.
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Appendix C
Chemical Compatibility Chart
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Chemical Compatibility Chart
The chemical compatibility chart is a quick method to determine which classes of chemical
compounds are incompatible and therefore should not be stored in close proximity to each other
or mixed together when disposing of chemicals.
To use the chart, find the chemicals of interest. Starting with the chemical closest to the top of
the chart, read across the chart from left to right until you reach the end of the line. Then read
down the chart until you reach the second chemical of interest. If there is an “X” in the box
where the two chemicals intersect, then these chemicals are incompatible. For example, to
determine if halogenated compounds and olefins are incompatible determine which compound
is closest to the top of the chart, in this case halogenated compounds. Read across this line to
the end then down to the line where olefins is located (line 11). The box where these two
intersect has an “X” in it indicating that halogenated compounds and olefins are incompatible.
Although this a valuable tool to determine incompatibilities for more detailed information refer to
the material safety data sheets for specific chemicals of interest.
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