General Chemical Safety Guidelines

The basic safety rule is MINIMIZE EXPOSURE. To be harmful a chemical must get in you or on you. The fewer molecules that find you, the better.

General Guidelines applicable to all chemicals		Other guidelines and information
Minimize chemical exposure
	Avoid skin contact as much as possible.		Quick Risk Assessment Lab Self-inspection form MSDS Carcinogenic substances Chemical Hygiene Plan Compressed Gases Cryogenic liquids Flammable liquids Fume hoods Glove and PPE selection Glove boxes Hydrofluoric acid Incompatible chemicals Peroxide-forming chemicals Picric acid Reactives Shipping chemicals Spills and leaks Sulfides, hydrogen sulfide Unattended processes
	Wear eye protection where chemicals are used or stored.
	Provide adequate ventilation.
	Wear gloves selected on the basis of the hazards.
	Wear lab coats and other protective clothing.
	Do not eat or drink in the lab. Do not apply cosmetics, lip balm.
	Wash hands after removing gloves, before you leave lab.
	Don’t pipet or start a siphon by mouth.
	Keep personal belongings away from chemicals.
Be knowledgeable. Do not underestimate risk.
	Obtain and read MSDS prior to initial handling of a chemical.
	Assume that any unfamiliar chemical is hazardous.
	Consider mixtures to be as hazardous as any component.
	Know emergency procedures for your lab, department, building.
	Know location of emergency shower, eyewash station, first aid kit.
Use proper engineering controls and safe procedures.
	Substitute less hazardous chemicals when practical.
	Provide adequate ventilation. Use fume hood and/or glove box.
	Label all chemical containers.
	Keep work areas clean and uncluttered.
	Dispose of surplus and waste chemicals promptly.