When is a chemical hygiene plan required?
For all workplaces meeting the Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) definition of a laboratory using hazardous chemicals.
What are the major elements of a chemical hygiene plan?
Standard operating procedures, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), training, exposure controls, waste disposal, emergency response.
Who is responsible for developing the chemical hygiene plan?
The employer is responsible for establishing the plan. If you need support on developing your Lab Safety / Chemical Hygiene Program, please Contact Us. Our skilled team of EH&S specialists is ready to assist you.
What qualifications should the chemical hygiene officer have?
Knowledge of lab operations, experience with chemicals, able to enforce plan.
How often must the chemical hygiene plan be reviewed?
Annually is recommended to keep it current.
When does the chemical hygiene plan need to be updated?
When new hazards are introduced that are not addressed in the plan.
Does the plan need to list all hazardous chemicals used?
Yes, an inventory of chemicals and hazards must be included.
Does the plan need to address facility maintenance?
Yes, it must cover inspection procedures, equipment servicing, housekeeping.
What training records must be maintained?
Names, training dates, topics covered, and sign offs of attendees.
Can standard operating procedures be embedded in the plan?
Yes, they should be included as appendices if extensive.
What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must the plan cover?
Proper selection and use of eye, face, hand, body and respiratory protection.
Must a lab safety manual be prepared separately?
No, the chemical hygiene plan serves as the required manual.
How does the plan relate to other laws like HazCom, waste disposal?
It must integrate and align with all other applicable regulations.
What exposure records must the plan specify maintaining?
Personal monitoring results, measurements of hazardous chemicals.
Does the plan need to discuss project approval requirements?
Yes, review and approval process for higher risk experiments.
Can standard lab safety plans be purchased?
Yes, but they require customization for each workplace’s specific hazards. CDMS has extensive experience creating customized Chemical Hygiene Plans compliant with 29 CFR 1910.1450(e) and 8 CCR 5191. Our experts will evaluate your lab operations. Contact Us and request a facility assessment
What are Occupational Safety & Health Association (OSHA) violations and fines for lack of a plan?
Citations, fines, and other enforcement actions.
Does the plan need to be submitted to regulators?
No, but it must be available upon request for inspection.
How long must chemical hygiene plans be retained?
For duration of operations. Retain old versions for several years.
Where are chemical hygiene plan requirements found in the standards?
29 CFR 1910.1450 and 8 CCR 5191 – The Laboratory standard.
What should I do if I suspect a chemical exposure incident?
Immediately notify your supervisor and seek medical attention if needed. Report the incident to the appropriate authorities in your organization.
What are Chemical Exposure Limits, and why are they important?
Chemical Exposure Limits are concentration levels set to protect employees from harmful chemical exposure. Understanding these limits is crucial for maintaining a safe work environment.
What is the purpose of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)?
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide essential information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling of chemicals. They are crucial for employees to understand the risks associated with each chemical.
How can I access MSDS for the chemicals used in my laboratory?
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be readily accessible in the workplace. They can be found in a binder, electronically, or through a designated system within your organization.
What are the signs and symptoms of chemical exposure?
Signs may include nausea, dizziness, skin irritation, and respiratory problems. Symptoms vary depending on the chemical. Promptly report any unusual symptoms.
What are the common methods for detecting the presence of chemicals in the lab?
Methods include chemical sensors, gas detectors, colorimetric test strips, and analytical instruments like gas chromatographs.
How can I identify physical and health hazards associated with chemicals?
Refer to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and labels for information on hazards. Additionally, the training will cover recognizing common hazards such as flammability, corrosiveness, and toxicity.
Where can I find the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)?
The Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) should be available in the laboratory, often near the entrance or in a designated area. Ask your supervisor or safety officer for its location.
What protective measures should I take to prevent chemical exposure?
These measures include using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), proper ventilation, safe handling practices, and following the guidelines outlined in the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP).
What should I do if I spill a hazardous chemical in the laboratory?
Follow the spill response procedures outlined in the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP), which may include evacuating the area, containing the spill, and notifying appropriate personnel.
How can I dispose of hazardous chemicals safely?
Refer to the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) and follow proper disposal guidelines, which may involve using designated waste containers and arranging for hazardous waste pickup.
