Hazardous Materials
Container Labeling
Every chemical or material container must be clearly and properly labeled. The label must include the identity of all hazardous components and applicable hazard warnings. Secondary containers such as squeeze bottles and other refillable storage units must be labeled in the same manner. Whenever possible, obtain pre-labeled secondary containers from the material supplier.
Resources
- Hazardous Materials: Labels & Pictograms – OSHA
- A Guide to GHS Classification and Labeling – OSHA
- Personal Protective Equipment – OSHA
- Hazard Communication Q&A – WA LNI
- Workers’ Guide to Hazardous Chemicals – WA LNI
- NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards – CDC
Employee Training
Employees must be trained on the hazardous materials in their work area at the time of hire and whenever a new hazardous material is introduced into their work area. Training should include familiarization with the hazardous materials inventory (safety data sheet binder), how to utilize and understand label information, and the hazards and protective measures specific to their work. Occasionally an employee may be required to perform non-routine work that may expose them to hazardous materials. In such cases, the employee must be informed of all hazardous materials to which they may be exposed via the same training guidelines as above.
Personal Protective Equipment
Protective clothing and/or equipment MUST be used whenever required by federal, state, or local regulation. Each department is responsible for providing proper protective equipment for all students and employees, and must ensure such equipment is functional and in good repair.
Safety Data Sheets
In every area where students or employees work with or may be exposed to hazardous materials, a list of all such materials must be kept in an easily accessible location. Supervisors are responsible for maintaining and updating their lists, including SDS for each hazardous material. Students and employees should know where the binder is kept and be instructed on how to use SDS information. Suppliers should provide an SDS with purchase or make them available for download on their website. The College also provides access to MSDSOnline as a resource. If you need assistance with SDS, contact the Chemical Safety Officer.