The Occupational
Safety and Health Administration’s regulation for “Occupational
Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories” (29 CFR 1910.1450)
requires all facilities engaged in the use of chemicals in a laboratory
(not just “chemistry labs”) to develop and implement a written
“Chemical Hygiene Plan” which sets forth procedures, equipment,
PPE, work practices, and policies to help protect employees from the
health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in their workplace.
The Chemical
Hygiene Officer for Clemson has developed the written Chemical Hygiene
Plan for the University; this Plan applies to all Clemson Faculty, staff,
and students who work in laboratories where hazardous chemicals are
used.
Employees are responsible for seeing that their laboratory operations
are planned and conducted in accordance with the Chemical Hygiene Plan,
for following prescribed safety practices, and developing good chemical
handling habits.
Also required
is that employees know the location of, and how to use, the emergency
equipment in his or her area (especially the safety shower andeyewash),
as well as how to obtain additional help in an emergency, and being
familiar with emergency procedures.
OSHA requires
that all lab employees be trained in Chemical Hygiene. This training
is available by contacting Clemson's Chemical
Hygienist, or on the EHS training
web site.