Safely storing chemicals
Below are some general guidelines for the safe storage of chemical, biological, and radiological materials:
- Store materials according to the manufacturer’s specifications in a designated location.
- Ensure all stored containers are in good condition, closed, and properly labeled.
- Store all hazardous materials in containers, cabinets, or on shelving compatible with the associated hazard or material.
- Segregate chemicals by hazard class (flammable liquids, organic acids, oxidizers). Chemicals that belong in the same hazard class may be stored alphabetically. You can refer to the Chemical Storage Guidelines (PDF) for an overview of this information.
- Use secondary containment for all liquid hazardous materials to prevent environmental release. Hazardous liquids should be stored less than 60 inches from the floor.
- Secure all storage shelves and cabinets to the wall to prevent tipping.
- Ensure that storage locations are dry, adequately vented, and away from heat sources.
- Provide inventories of hazardous materials stored in the laboratory annually to EH&S. Update the inventory upon significant changes in amounts or processes.
- Additional requirements for specific hazardous materials are described in Section G of the Laboratory Safety Manual (PDF) or may be obtained from the safety data sheet (SDS), container label, or laboratory standard operating procedure (SOP).
Safely handling chemicals
Below are some general guidelines for the safe use of chemical, biological, and radiological materials:
- Before use, review the hazard information on the container label in an SDS or equivalent (Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, Merck Index).
- Follow safety precautions as specified in the approved Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
- Use the appropriate equipment for processes that release hazardous vapors, fumes, particulates, or aerosols. To determine the appropriate equipment, refer to "Chemical Fume Hoods" in the appendix of the Laboratory Safety Manual (PDF).
- Separate incompatible materials.
- Do not leave hazardous processes unattended.
- Do not pipette or siphon by mouth.
- Do not smell or taste chemical, biological, or radiological materials.
- Ensure that all containers are properly closed when not in use.
- Work with the minimum amount necessary for the procedure. Return excess materials to storage.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment. For more details, refer to “Personal Protective Equipment” in Section D of the Laboratory Safety Manual (PDF).
- Avoid working alone in the laboratory, especially if using hazardous materials. When unavoidable, make arrangements with the PI, laboratory supervisor, or a colleague to periodically check on your status.
Additional requirements for specific hazardous materials are described in Section G of the Laboratory Safety Manual (PDF) or may be obtained from the SDS, container label, or SOP.
