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SAFETY AND LABORATORY PRACTICE
REVISED AND UPDATED BY:
JS MOKALANE, MM RAMAKOKOVHU
DATE OF LAST REVISION: 28 January 2014
EMERGENCIES, ACCIDENTS & INJURIES
WORKING HOURS AFTER HOURS
SECURITY SERVICES (ALSO FOR AMBULANCE): 012 420 2310 (ON ANY INTERNAL PHONE JUST DIAL 2310)
OHS REPRESENTATIVE: Sr. Sonja Sauer
x4409 or 076 641 0206
DEPARTMENTAL SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES : JACK MOKALANE: x5491
MERCY RAMAKOKOVHU: x3301 WILLIAM LE ROUX: x3301 or 082 867 0538
Acting HOD: Prof Waldo Stumpf x3184
FIRST AIDERS:
Mr. William Le Roux 082 867 0538 Mr. Wihann Leipoldt x5491 or 084 625 4034
Mr. Charl Human x3301 / 083 269 5566 Dr. Dick Groot x4554
Mr. Robert Cromarty x4520 Mr. Vinod Kurup x4549
Mr. Carel Coetzee x4557 Mr. Markus Erwee x4550
Mrs. Elsie Snyman-Ferreira x3183 Mr. J.S. Mokalane
Contact one of the departmental safety representatives indicated above.
In general, in case of an emergency:
Never risk your own safety and remain calm;
Never move a casualty unless absolutely necessary;always bring the First Aider to the casualty;
One person should preferably stay with the casualty and another go for help;
Once the First Aider arrives, do as instructed, be prepared to assist but do not interfere.
FOR SAFETY IS NOT A GADGET BUT A STATE OF MIND ~ELEANOR EVERET
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Purpose of this guide ................................................................................................................................................. 1
2. Statement of Health Safety Policy .......................................................................................................................... 1
3. Health and Safety Policy of the University of Pretoria ......................................................................................... 1
3.1 Health and Safety Aspects .................................................................................................................................... 1
3.2 Safety Instructions …………………………………………………………………………………………………………1
3.3 Responsibility for safety ........................................................................................................................................ 1
3.4 Employee Awareness ............................................................................................................................................ 2
3.5 Unhealthy and substandard actions and work procedures .................................................................................... 2
3.6 Legal and statutory responsibilities ....................................................................................................................... 2
4. Occupational Health and Safety Management Structure of UP ........................................................................... 3
5. Implementation of the Safety Policy of the University of Pretoria....................................................................... 4
6. Safety Officials ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
7. Basic First Aid Principles ............................................................................................................................................ 7
7.1Basic first aid……….. ............................................................................................................................................. 7
7.2 Location of First Aid Kits (aside from the basic boxes on each level against the wall) .......................................... 7
7.3 Health History……................................................................................................................................................. 7
9. Fire Safety .................................................................................................................................................................. 9
9.1 In the event of fire… .............................................................................................................................................. 9
9.2 Fire Extinguishers…. ............................................................................................................................................. 9
10. General Health and Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 9
10.1 Smoking…………. ............................................................................................................................................... 9
10.2 Gas or Water Leaks ............................................................................................................................................ 9
11. Risk Assessment Information ................................................................................................................................... 9
12. Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health (Refer to Appendix III) ..................................................................... 11
12.1 Safety Data Information ..................................................................................................................................... 12
12.2 Personal Protection ........................................................................................................................................... 12
14. Highly Flammable Material ..................................................................................................................................... 12
14.1 Flammable compressed gases ......................................................................................................................... 12
14.2 Flammable liquids ............................................................................................................................................. 13
14.3 Incompatible chemicals ..................................................................................................................................... 13
14.4 Chemical contamination and spillage ................................................................................................................ 13
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14.5 Inherent Safety….. ........................................................................................................................................... 14
14.6 Incorrect handling procedures ........................................................................................................................... 14
14.7 Process Control …………………………………………………………………………………………………….….14
14.8 Protective Measures.......................................................................................................................................... 14
14.9 Chemicals used often, that are dangerous ........................................................................................................ 15
Appendix I: Risk assessment ................................................................................................................................... 16
Appendix II: Medical aid details ................................................................................................................................ 20
Appendix III: Control of Substance Hazardous to health (COSHH) ...................................................................... 22
Appendix IV: Incident Report ................................................................................................................................... 24
Appendix V: Waste disposal Template .................................................................................................................... 25
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EMERGENCY CONTACT
In case of the following:
1. Fire: X 2310
2. Chemical Spillage: X 2310
3. Bomb Scare: X 2310
4. First Aid: X 5491
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1. Purpose of this guide
This guide provides the basic principles of working safely and responsibly in the laboratories of the
Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering.
2. Statement of Health Safety Policy
The University of Pretoria is committed to the highest standards of excellence in education and research. This commitment to excellence applies equally to the way in which the University accepts its responsibilities for the health and safety of all staff, students, visitors and others who may be affected by the activities of the University. Accordingly, the University will take all reasonable steps necessary to provide a healthy and safe environment for work and study. Compliance with all statutory obligations is the minimum standard. It is the duty of every employee to take care of their own health and safety and that of others who could be affected by their acts or omissions. The University policy on Health and Safety can only be effective if there is commitment by all staff, students, visitors and others at the University.
3. Health and Safety Policy of the University of Pretoria
It is the University’s official policy to protect its employees, students, visitors and property at all times through the implementation programme of excellence. The University acknowledges that specific elements are of importance in the implementation of this policy: 3.1 Health and Safety Aspects
The University is responsible for the design and implementation of practical and workable health and safety standards, methods and systems to comply with prescribed legal requirements.
3.2 Safety Instructions
Safety training must be part and parcel of the normal in-task training for employees.
3.3 Responsibility for safety
Every employee and student shall be responsible to maintain the health and safety policy in such a manner as to safeguard all people, employees, students and property. Each undergraduate, graduate student, faculty and staff member working in a research laboratory is expected to:
Attend Laboratory Safety Training provided by the department; Follow procedures and laboratory practices outlined in this training guide and in related
documents pertaining to safety, housekeeping and laboratory rules provided by laboratory
coordinators and staff members;
Use engineering controls and personal protective equipment, as appropriate;
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Report all accidents, near misses, and potential chemical exposures to your supervisor
and/or Safety Representative;
Review and approve work with particularly hazardous substances.
3.4 Employee Awareness
Interest of employees in their own and their colleague’s safety must be promoted through awareness programmes.
3.5 Unhealthy and substandard actions and work procedures
The University, its employees and students are committed to eliminate all unhealthy and unsafe actions and work procedures.
3.6 Legal and statutory responsibilities
The University is responsible to implement all legal and statutory requirements that are required by the law.
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4. Occupational Health and Safety Management Structure of UP
4. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
Chief Executive Officer (Rector)
Designated person, acting on behalf of the CEO (Vice-Rector)
Designated persons responsible for Occupational Health and Safety in their faculties,
departments and divisions (Deans, Directors, HOD’s of schools and departments)
Chairpersons of Occupational Health and safety meetings and Safety Representatives
Occupational Health and safety Inspections Occupational Health and Safety meetings
Art 16(1) Law 85 of 1993
Art 16(2) Law 85 of 1993
Art 8(1)(2) Law 85 of 1993 Admin Reg 2(1)
Art 17 and 19
Art 18 Art 20
Occupational Health and Safety Inspection reports and minutes
Feedback of Occupational Health and Safety problems for corrective action
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5. Implementation of the Safety Policy of the University of Pretoria
1. The Safety Policy is formulated to enable the Heads of Department to ensure, as far as is reasonably practical, the health, safety and welfare at work of all staff, students and visitors. The arrangements are formulated on the basis that: (a) in much of the Department’s experimental research and teaching, individuals initiate and conduct their work without instruction of management, and (b) in matters of safety, common sense and a sense of personal responsibility are of fundamental importance.
2. Statements relating to hazards in the Department are formulated and made available to all its
members through the Safety Book, which is updated annually. 3. Under the authority of the Head of Department, the Safety Committee is constituted of
representatives of all staff, under-graduate and post-graduate students. The Committee oversees the compliance with Safety Policy and endeavours to ensure safe practices. It meets at least once each term, issues minutes which are made publicly available, and reports to staff meetings.
4. All members are issued with the Safety Book each year; newcomers including day visitors are
notified about the University and Department Safety regulations. 5. The Safety Officer or a nominee meets all new researchers and arranges for appropriate training
and tests. Undergraduate students carrying out work in the Department are given Safety instructions before the onset of any practical sessions or laboratory work. Post-graduate students are instructed on Safety matters both by the University Safety Office and through lectures by the Department Safety Committee. All researchers are required to pass a Safety Test before being authorised to work in a laboratory.
6. Before commencing experimental work, study leaders must ensure that the “Risk Assessment
Forms” are completed. The completed forms must be displayed in a conspicuous position and made available to any person in the room or in the vicinity of the activity.
7. Those in a supervisory role are expected to identify the hazards associated with the activities for
which he/she bears responsibility, to warn those who may be affected by them and to take steps to ensure that health and safety will not be endangered. All academic and technical supervisors of equipment are required to ensure safe operation, by making risk assessments which are regularly reviewed. The rate of revision of safety assessments will be left to the discretion of the study leader or supervisor of project work.
8. Each individual is required to take responsible care for his/her own health and safety and that of
other persons who may be affected by his/her acts or omissions at work. All persons have a duty not to interfere with or misuse anything provided or organised in the interest of health, safety or welfare.
9. All students are responsible to named supervisors for all aspects of their work. A list of supervisors
and their students will be compiled and posted on the notice board by the Safety Representative as soon as students have been allocated projects.
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10. Building safety inspections are carried out regularly by the Safety Representative. Safety audits are carried as needed by Occupational Health and safety officers. Inspections are followed by reports and recommendations for action.
11. All incidents and accidents must be reported to the Safety Representative. 12. The Safety Representative would then ensure that the incidents are investigated,
recommendations made and actions taken to ensure that Safety procedures are properly functioning and the probability of such incidents and accidents occurring again are minimised. The University Safety Officer is informed about the situation and if necessary further investigation is carried out in cooperation with the University Safety Officer.
13. Fire precaution procedures are explained to all newcomers to the department. Students are
required to attend lectures which deal with the issue. Fire drills are arranged by the Safety Officer on a regular basis.
14. The safety organisation is available during normal working hours. Additional restrictions
apply to essential work done outside normal working hours. The degrees of risk are in three categories: HIGH, MEDIUM and LOW. Any individual must, outside normal working hours, register in the “signing-in” book at the Department entrance (book in front of Room 3-25) and comply with the following rules: Category “A” Work (HIGH risk): Confined to normal working hours only (Working hours are 08:00 to 16:00). At least one colleague should be present within easy hailing distance. Covers the use of:
Workshop machine tools;
Substantial amount of explosive and flammable liquids and gases;
Molten salt etching of specimen;
Substantial amount of acids and alkalis;
Materials or equipment with high explosion potential;
High voltage supplies;
Toxic substances / poisons, e.g. Arsenic, Cyanide;
Any activity using Hydrofluoric Acid.
Category “B” Work (MEDIUM risk): May be carried out at any time BUT one other individual (who has passed the departmental safety induction and test and whom is familiar with the relevant experiment/equipment in use) must be present throughout the work. This category covers all work that is not A or C. Category “C” Work (LOW risk): This may be carried out at any time. It covers reading, writing and the kind of activities which would not require special precautions if conducted alone in one’s home.
EXCEPTIONS
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Any exceptions to these rules will require the individual to obtain the prior written authority of his/her supervisor and the chairman of the safety committee, specifying the task, time and any special conditions.
15. Individuals are advised, in their own interest, when entering after hours to ensure that their names are entered in the book (on Level 3, In front of Room 3-25).
16. The supervisor of any new project will be responsible for ensuring that the new activities,
together with the operation of any new equipment are planned in accordance with safety standards. For all activities the regular maintenance of safety standards is based on four requirements:
Individual adherence to laid down operating and reporting procedures;
Responsibility of supervisors to see that their subordinates/students have the necessary standard of competence and that they adhere to the laid down safety procedures;
Assessment of risks of activities and procedures prior to their being adopted;
Periodic safety walks by members of the Department’s Safety Committee. 17. Any potentially dangerous activity or equipment observed by any member of the Department
should be brought to the immediate attention of those responsible, and to the Safety Representative. It is the duty of all members of the Department to maintain vigilance on matters concerning safety.
6. Safety Officials
Head of Department (Acting) Prof WE Stumpf1 420-3184 Director: IMMRI (Acting) Dr. K. Banks 420-4552 Safety Representative JS Mokalane1 420-5491 Safety Representative MM Ramakokovhu1 420-3301 First Aider Ms E Snyman-Ferreira 420-3183 First Aider Dr DR Groot 420-4554 First Aider Mr V Kurup 420-4549 First Aider Mr W Le Roux 082 867 0538 First Aider Mr W Leipoldt 420-5491 / 084 625 4034 First Aider Mr C Human 420-3301 / 083 269 5566 UP Safety Officers: Legal aspects Mr F Fouche 420-3308 Accidents, First Aid Mr N Gerber 420-4765 Fire Coordinator Mr B Hand 420-3305 OHS Representative Ms S Sauer1 420-4409 1 All members of the safety committee of the minerals science building, in addition to Ms de Swardt, Dr Bumby from Geology and Mrs Gudmanz from the Department of Mining Engineering.
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7. Basic First Aid Principles
First aid supplies are available from the Laboratory Managers Office (4-3; 1-7), Dr Groot (3-41) and Mrs Elsie Snyman-Ferreira (3-26).
Accidents, however small, should always be treated and if any doubt exists as to the severity of the injury, the Safety Representative must be informed so that the person may be taken to hospital. All injuries sustained, however small, whilst working in the Department’s laboratories or offices must be recorded in the Accident Report Book kept by the Safety Representative. All incidents of any kind, even those where no injury is sustained must be reported in the Incident Report Book kept by the Safety Representative.
7.1 Basic first aid 7.1.1 Gassing
Move victim to fresh air. If necessary give mouth to mouth resuscitation using the proper mouth piece. Treat as stretcher case.
7.1.2 Swallowed
Give plenty of water or milk to drink. DO NOT induce vomiting. For cyanide, breathing apparatus to be used by first aider. The Anti-dote in the fridges on levels 3 (tearoom) and 4 (4-2) are to be given to a doctor only. Drench the patient with water, take amyl-nitrite (labelled “Tripac-Cyano) with and accompany the patient to the hospital (do not administer the antidote, only give oxygen).
7.1.3 Splashes
Strip off affected clothing, take care not to smear more of the chemical onto the patient. Shower/wash for at least 20 minutes. A shower is situated in the foyer at the top of the stairs on level 4.
7.1.4 Eye splashes
Rinse with water for 20 minutes.
7.2 Location of First Aid Kits (aside from the basic boxes on each level against the wall)
Laboratory Manager’s office – room 4-3 (level 4); room 1-7 (level 1)
Dr Groot’s office – room 3-41(level 3)
Elsie Snyman-Ferreira’s office – room 3-26 (level 3) 7.3 Health History
A copy of the emergency contact detail as well as medical history (e.g. allergies, special medicines) and medical aid detail must be:
On file in the departmental archive (files in the office of Mrs. Sarah Havenga, Louise Ackermann)
On file, along with the risk assessment of your experiment/laboratory space and MSDS’s
On file in the Safety Representative’s office If any member of the Department, or student, should be aware of a health condition, which might affect the way he/she should be treated in an emergency, he/she is advised to inform the Safety Representative. This information will be treated in the strictest confidence. Examples include allergies, diabetes and epilepsy.
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8. Emergency Exit Routes
For all levels emergency exit route refer to Appendix VI.
Level 1: Two (2) possible routes:
(a) Out of the sliding gate (emergency key in the mineral processing lab), up the ramp, assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
(b) Up the stairs, out by the front door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
Level 2: Two (2) possible routes:
(a) Exit on the western side of the passage, out by the front door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
(b) Exit on the eastern side of the passage, out by the Geology entrance door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
Level 3: Two (2) possible routes:
(a) Down the main staircase, on the western side of the passage, to the 2nd level, exit by the front door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
(b) Down the staircase on the eastern side of the passage, exit by the Geology entrance door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
Level 4: Two (2) possible routes:
(a) Down the main staircase, until the 2nd level and exit by either the front door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building, or exit the rear door and assemble at the AE du Toit building;
(b) Exit using the fire escape on the outside of the building, to access break the glass of the key box and use the exterior door in Laboratory 4-2. Assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
Level 5 (Roof): Two (2) possible routes:
(a) Down the main staircase, to the 2nd level and exit by either the front door and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building, or exit the rear door and assemble at the AE du Toit building;
(b) Down the main staircase onto level 4, exit through the door in room 4-2, down the fire escape and assemble at the emergency assembly point on the grass in front of the Natural Sciences 2 building;
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9. Fire Safety
It is the responsibility of everyone to be vigilant and report anything they may see as a fire risk to the Safety Representative. Examples include escape routes and fire extinguishing equipment which may be blocked by equipment or rubbish, un-safe housekeeping practises, etc.
Waste materials and packing should not be left in the laboratories or corridors, but should be disposed of. Polystyrene packing from computers presents a very real risk, as the fumes created by it burning are very toxic.
9.1 In the event of fire If the fire is small and can be safely extinguished, do so. Laboratory users should be acquainted with the location and use of the extinguishers. It is important to use the correct extinguisher, for example NEVER use water to extinguish a fire in the vicinity of electrical appliances or installations. If it is impossible to extinguish the fire, raise the alarm to initiate evacuation and summon help. In the event of an electrical fire, the electrical power must be switched off first.
9.2 Fire Extinguishers These are provided as required by legislation and the University insurers, and are chosen to deal with various types of fire. Extinguishers are sited in safe places. When taking the decision to fight a fire, it is important that no personal risks are taken.
10. General Health and Safety
10.1 Smoking
Smoking is strictly forbidden within the Department.
10.2 Gas or Water Leaks In the event of a gas or water leak, contact the Safety Representative. After hours contact the Security Office on 420-2310 and the emergency contact, whose number is displayed on every level within the department.
11. Risk Assessment Information
The University of Pretoria is committed to achieving and maintaining the highest standards of health and safety for all employees, students and others who may be affected by the University’s activities. This is accomplished by:
The identification of all workplace hazards;
The identification of all people who may be exposed to the hazards;
The evaluation of the significant risks to which employees, students and others are exposed;
The recognition of the likelihood of foreseeable accidents, injuries or near misses occurring;
The selection of realistic and practical precautions and control measures;
Disaster management protocols.
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This process is called Risk Assessment. A risk assessment is simply a careful examination of anything that may cause harm to anyone during the course of their work. Once the assessment is completed, action can be taken to minimise the likelihood of anyone being hurt. The aim is to prevent accident and illness. It is carried out by identifying risk and using appropriate control measures to minimise or eliminate the risk. Risk assessment of all activities is required by Law. Risk assessments are to be kept on file at the relevant experimental setup (after approval), as well as given to both safety representatives to keep on file.
The following terms are referred to in the Risk Assessment form in Appendix I.
Hazard:
A hazard is anything that may cause harm. Although they may not cause harm in one form, there is always a “What if…?”. Glass bottles can be considered a hazard. Normally they are fairly harmless – but what if they are dropped? Electricity is a hazard. Whilst properly contained it is safe, but what if …?
Potential hazards include factors such as:
Mechanical: moving machinery, heavy objects that can tip or fall
Electrical: risks of electrocution
Thermal: risk of high or very low temperatures
Chemical o Toxicity: poisonous substance o Corrosives: acids, bases, oxidizing agent o Carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic: substances that cause cancer, mutations or
interfere with embryonic development o Asphyxiant: substance that displace oxygen e.g. nitrogen, argon o Flamables: substance that can burn o Explosives: unstable compound that decompose rapidly o Note sometime the risks may depend on the form of the substance e.g. many bulk metal
are quite safe to work with but may present a fire or explosion risk when finely powdered. Similarly silica is inert but may pose a health risk (silicosis) in powdered form.
Compressed gasses:
Dust: many finely divided substance and fibrous material pose a health risk when inhaled e.g. silica dust, mineral fiber insulation
Ionizing radiation: radioactive material
Electromagnetic radiation: microwaves
Light: intense light from sources such as electric arc, lasers etc
Risk:
The risk is essentially the likelihood of something happening. What if the glass bottle is dropped? – there is a risk that someone could be cut, or the risk of a hazardous chemical spill. How do we minimize the risk? By using suitable control measures, e.g. using a bottle carriage.
Control measures:
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Often the best control measures will start with the words DO NOT. Do not use a glass bottle. This will eliminate the risk altogether (IT IS VERY WISE, WHEN PLANNING TO ELIMINATE RISKS!). However, there are times when “do not” is not applicable. You must aim to reduce the risk if it is not possible to eliminate it. For example, always carry glass bottles in the carriers to prevent them slipping and breaking.
Approved forms for the assessment can be obtained from the Safety Representative. Work should never commence before the assessment has been completed and approved by the Supervisor or Study Leader.
Risk Assessments must be carried out as part of the safety management process and should include looking at the equipment used, the laboratory used and the system of work that is employed. They must be reviewed at specified times, as agreed upon between the student and study leader. Fitness of the workers/students are of the utmost importance.
Health and Safety performance will be monitored regularly to ensure that Risk Assessments are adequate and that the control measurements are being applied and working effectively. Failure to comply will result in temporary or permanent revocation of laboratory access. The Department follows a ZERO TOLERANCE policy with respect to safety.
Chemical process risk assessment
A typical assessment will involve:
Defining the process, operating conditions and plant;
Identifying the hazards;
Evaluating the risks arising from the hazards and deciding whether existing precautions are adequate or more should be done;
Selecting and specifying appropriate safety measures;
Implementing and maintaining the selected safety measures;
Emergency procedures.
You MUST start the assessment as early as possible during the development of the process/experiment. This assessment should be sufficient to identify the potential hazards and to investigate their causes. Where possible, hazards should be avoided.
A written safe work procedure should culminate from the risk assessment, and must be made available to persons performing the work.
12. Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health (Refer to Appendix III)
All members of the Department and students working in the laboratories must conform to Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations. COSHH forms must be correctly completed before starting any work involving chemicals. These forms may be obtained from the Safety Representative. Any guidance about the completion of these forms can be obtained from the Supervisor or a member of the Safety Committee.
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12.1 Safety Data Information Users of chemicals MUST obtain material safety data sheets (MSDS) about these chemicals from the internet (e.g. www.sigma-aldrich.com or www.merck.co.za) or can be obtained from the MERCK Chemical Store on campus. 12.2 Personal Protection Various items such as laboratory coats, gloves, eye protection, etc. can be obtained from the Safety Representative.
The COSHH regulations are a legal framework for controlling the exposure of workers to hazardous substances. COSHH requires that no work which is liable to expose anyone to substances hazardous to health shall be carried out until an assessment has been made and appropriate control measures taken.
13. Disposal of Hazardous Chemicals and Waste
Strict legislation controls the disposal of chemical waste and clearly defines the Duty of Care of all waste producers regarding the identification, segregation, packaging and transport of waste.
Waste must not be disposed of by discharging into the drains. Always remember to minimize quantities of reagents used in order to minimize waste.
Hazardous chemicals and laboratory waste for disposal should be in secure containers, clearly labelled as to their contents and also numbered (on lids if in bottles, jars, etc.) according to the item number given to them on the disposal application form.
Bottles, jars, etc should be placed upright in a robust box (e.g. A photocopier paper box with the base reinforced using the lid). Any waste in bags should be doubled bagged.
An application form should be completed in full, no abbreviations are formulae should be used. Brand names are inadequate, consult the MSDS for product constituents.
The guidelines for waste disposal is attached to this manual as appendix II. Coordinate all disposals with Mr. William Le Roux (x4520).
14. Highly Flammable Material
14.1 Flammable compressed gases Gas cylinders must be secured in a gas bottle stand or chained to the wall. Care must be taken to ensure there are no ignition sources (including sparks) when gases are liberated into the room. All laboratories must have adequate extraction systems and good ventilation. Ensure that there are no leaks and close the valve when not in use. A mild soap detergent and a soft paintbrush must be used to test for leaks. The correct tubing must be used. Greases and oils must never be allowed to come into contact with compressed oxygen as they can ignite spontaneously.
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There must be adequate separation between flammable gases and gases capable of supporting combustion. Everyone working with compressed gas cylinders must take the following precautions:
Always transport cylinders in a trolley with regulators removed
Always clamp or chain cylinders. When changing cylinders, never have more loose cylinders than people to control them safely
Always use the appropriate reduction and safety valves
Always turn off the main cylinder valve when it is not in use, and use the minimum opening when necessary
Always test the valves on new cylinders of toxic gases in the open air before removal to a laboratory
Never lay acetylene cylinders flat
Oxygen: grease must not be used on fittings or allowed to contaminate them as oxidation and spontaneous ignition may occur
Hydrogen: Extreme care should be taken when using hydrogen at a concentration of greater than 4% by volume in air forms an explosive mixture.
14.2 Flammable liquids The quantity of any highly flammable liquid stored should be kept to a minimum. Any such liquid not required for use should be stored in a safe manner. Unnecessary transport of highly flammable liquids should be avoided. Large quantities of highly flammable liquids should not be stored in laboratories, but in suitable closed containers in a purpose-built storeroom of fire resisting construction. Small quantities of highly flammable liquids may be stored in suitable closed containers kept in a cupboard in the laboratory. Highly flammable liquids should always be handled in a fume cabinet. Do not leave containers of flammable solvents on bench tops, open shelves or fume cupboards – always store them in a safe manner. When using such solvents, make sure that all flames are extinguished and display a warning notice. 14.3 Incompatible chemicals Take care when mixing chemicals, as many chemicals are highly reactive. This is also important to remember when disposing of unwanted chemicals. FULL DETAILS CONCERNING INCOMPATIBILITY IS USUALLY ON THE MSDS OF A PARTICULAR CHEMICAL. THERE IS ALSO A LIST IN THE APPENDIX ON WASTE HANDLING OF THIS MANUAL. Ensure that a good quality fume cupboard is used when working with chemicals which have fumes heavier than air. These fumes may accumulate in a ventilation system where extraction is incomplete. 14.4 Chemical contamination and spillage Regard all chemicals as poisonous
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(but also don’t fear them – they only harm when used incorrectly)
Wear protective clothing and appropriate footwear. Before using any chemical ascertain what kind of first
aid treatment would have to be administered in the event of an accident. Certain chemicals require specific
antidotes which should be clearly labelled and easily accessible. A second person should always be
present at a safe distance when work using poisonous substances is being carried.
14.5 Inherent Safety Where possible, you should first identify, eliminate or reduce hazards by inherently safer design. THIS IS THE KEY PHILOSOPHY CONCERNING SAFETY IN OUR DEPARTMENT. Inherently safer methods can fundamentally affect the process. It will be easier to use such methods if you consider them in the early stages of process development.
14.6 Incorrect handling procedures
Never touch a chemical with your bare hands
Do not pour hot solutions into reagent bottles
Always use funnels or glass rods when pouring concentrated acids or alkalis
Funnels should not be too small for the work being carried out
Never pour water onto acid
Suitable precautions must be taken when opening bottles
Take care which direction the opening of a container is facing when there might be a violent reaction
Any procedure involving toxic gases and vapours must be carried out in a suitable fume cupboard
Use mechanical pipettes AND NOT mouth pipettes
Do not smell chemicals to aid identification. Apart from an immediate reaction e.g from ammonia, the long term consequences can be far more serious.
Use the correct procedure for the disposal of chemical waste
Ensure that there is not possible exothermicity that is not under control: e.g. when sulphuric acid is added to water, it reacts exothermically and produces heat, which can lead to glass beakers cracking, if the heat is not properly distributed by stirring the mixture, slowly and adding only small amounts of acid at a time.
14.7 Process Control Process control includes the use of sensors, alarms, trips and other control systems that either take automatic action or are manual intervention to prevent the conditions for uncontrolled reactions occurring. Specifying such measures requires a thorough understanding of the chemical process involved, especially the limits of the safe operation.
14.8 Protective Measures Protective measures do not prevent a runaway but reduce the consequences should one occur. They are rarely used on their own as some preventative measures are normally required to reduce the demand upon them. As they operate once a runaway has started, a detailed knowledge of the reaction under runaway conditions is needed for their effective specification.
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14.9 Chemicals used often, that are dangerous Be aware of experiments where HF acid (for which a special calcium-gluconate gel antidote is required in
case of spills/contamination) or cyanide (oxygen bottle for first aid on level 4, across from room 4-12;
TRIPAC-CYANO that should go with patient to hospital in the fridge on level 4 in room 4-5 or on level 3 in
the kitchen of the tearoom) is used – these chemicals are very dangerous and often a student under-
estimates them.
15. Laboratory Rules and Practice in a Nutshell
Read before entering the Labs: SAFETY IN THE LABORATORIES (LEARN OFF BY HEART!)
1. A safety test written each year allows to enter laboratories, make sure that you have had safety
induction once and written a test in any given year;
2. Eating or drinking in the lab is not permitted (it is an offence in terms of the OHS act);
3. A risk assessment is required to do any laboratory work;
4. Make sure your risk assessments & MSDS documents are always available for inspection;
5. Always wear the relevant personal protective equipment (PPE) when working;
6. Always wear closed shoes in all laboratories – without feet, no work can be productive;
7. A clean workspace creates a safer workplace – keep your lab clean, it is after all the space in
which you create your work which you are proud of;
8. An unattended setup is a danger – monitor your experiment at all times.
9. Working alone is dangerous (especially for you) and not allowed for most risk categories;
10. Please make sure that you are declared competent to work with equipment and chemicals (always
ask the safety representative before commencing work);
11. Report all accidents/potential dangers, near misses and potential chemical exposures
immediately.
WHEN IN DOUBT ASK YOUR SAFETY REPRESENTATIVE!
FOR SAFETY IS NOT A GADGET BUT A STATE OF MIND ~ELEANOR EVERET
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Appendix I: Risk assessment
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT Department of Materials Science and Metallurgical Engineering
RISK ASSESSMENT (SAFETY TASK ASSESMENT)
Project title:
Project Location(s):
Brief description of the work:
SUMMARY OF RISK ASSESMENT
Physical Yes No
Electrical Yes No
Chemical Yes No
Biological Yes No
Radiation/Fire Yes No
Noise and vibration Yes No
*For the risk marked yes, the relevant attached assessment should be conducted.
DECLARATION:
We the undersigned have assessed the activity and the associated risks and declare that the risks will be controlled by the methods listed. Those participating in the work have read the assessment. The work will be reassessed whenever there is significant change and at least annually. Name of Researcher/ Student : _________________________ Researcher/ Student signature : __________________________ Name of Supervisor : __________________________ Supervisor signature : __________________________ Date : __________________________ Date of next review : __________________________
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For office use only:
Approved by: Reference Number
Name: J.S. Mokalane
Designation: Laboratory Manager
Signature:
Date:
* L = Low, M= Medium, H= High
Electrical hazard
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
Chemical hazard
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
Physical hazard
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
18
Radiation/ Fire hazard
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
Noise and Vibration hazard (s)
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
Biological hazard
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
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Other hazard (s)
Potential hazard Risk (s) *Ratings Risk control measure
20
Appendix II: Medical aid details
Name of student: ……………………………………………………………………………...
Name of Medical Aid: ………………………………………………………………………...
Medical Aid number: ………………………………………………………………………….
Initials and Surname of Medical Aid member: ……………………………………………..
Address to which medical aid accounts must be sent: …………………………………...
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………..
Health History
Allergies ………………………………………………………………………………………
Medical conditions ……………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Anything else we should know concerning your health …………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………….. ………………………….
Name & Signature Date
DISCLAIMER:
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I, …………………………………… …..…....……………….. (full names) student number:. ……......………….
hereby declare that, should I participate in any activity of the University of Pretoria, I understand and accept
that I shall do so entirely at my own risk. I hereby fully indemnify the University of Pretoria and any of their
members, employees, contractors and agents from any liabilities of whatever nature and cause, for
personal injury (including but not limited to bodily, physical or mental injury), any property damage or loss
(to my own property or that I cause to the property of others), and any other liability incurred during related
activities.
I hereby confirm that: (read and tick all boxes)
□ I have understood, and
□ I have accepted the terms of this indemnity, and
□ I confirm that all information that I have provided in this form is correct.
____________________________ _______________________________
SIGNATURE Date and Place of signature
Initials and surname (please print):
ID number:
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Appendix III: Control of Substance Hazardous to health (COSHH)
Reference number Location
Name of Substance
(Please Attach MSDS) Manufacturer of substance
Physical Form Assessor and Date
Description of activity
Person at risk: Lecturers Students Cleaners Contractors Others
HAZARDS CLASSIFICATION
Hazard type:
Gas Vapour Fume Dust Liquid Solid Other (State)________________________________________
Route of exposure:
Inhalation Skin Eyes Ingestion Other (State)_____________________________
WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMIT
Long term exposure level (8hr) Short exposure level (15mins)
STATE THE RISK TO HEALTH FROM IDENTIFIED HAZARDS
CONTROL MEASURES
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PPE REQUIRED WHEN USING THE SUBSTANCE
FIRST AID MEASURES
STORAGE
DISPOSAL OF SUBSTANCES
Hazardous Waste Return to supplier Other (State) ______________________________________
Is exposure adequately controlled? YES NO
Risk rating after control measure HIGH MEDIUM LOW
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Appendix IV: Incident Report
1. Details of the person completing the form
Name : Designation
Signature: Date
2. Details of the victim
Name : Gender Male Female
Employee Visitor Student *UG **PG
Job title : Visitor’s company
Signature Date and Time
*UG= Undergraduate **PG= Postgraduate
3. Details of incident
Date & Time of incident Location
Description of the incident (Please attach extra sheet if there is any additional information)
Nature and extent of incident (i.e., laceration, pull, etc.)
Was medical treatment provided Yes No Refused
Will the victim miss time from work/ class Yes No
4. Details of the witness
Name: Contact number(s):
For office use only:
Reference number Date Time Location
2014/ /
Name: J.S. Mokalane
Signature:
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Appendix V: Waste disposal Template
Treatment Request Form (TRF)
TPT Sales Person TRF Number Special Request Transport Own Transport: TPT to arrange transport: Generator Details Waste Management Details Company Name Pretoria University Oricol environmental Services Contact Person COMPLETE Paul Eloff Cell Number COMPLETE 074 184 3497 Tel Number COMPLETE 011 922 5900 Fax Number COMPLETE 011 922 5901 Email Address COMPLETE [email protected] Physical Address COMPLETE 16 Vuurslag ave, Spartan, Gauteng
Item
No
.
Product Name 1C/P Container
Capacity and Type
Number of Containers
Estimated Quantity
2Physical
Nature of Waste
Material
TOTAL ______________________ 1 Categorize C for Chemicals and P for Pharmaceuticals
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27
28
29
30
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Appendix VI: Emergency exit routes
Level 1
32
Level 2
33
Level 3
34
Level 4
35
Level 5
