Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials

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Questions and Answers

What should be avoided when handling chemicals according to safe practices?

Returning chemicals to their original packaging (correct)

Always wearing personal protective equipment

Keeping chemical containers sealed

Using marked reagents for experiments

What is the first step recommended before using any hazardous material?

Store all materials in a labeled container

Carefully read the ingredients list (correct)

Perform job duties without thinking

Purchase personal protective equipment

Why is it important to inspect personal protective equipment (PPE) before use?

To determine the manufacturing date

To ensure it matches the color scheme of your outfit

To show compliance with workplace policies

To confirm its effectiveness in providing protection (correct)

What is the primary goal of chemical treatment for hazardous waste?

To reduce water solubility or neutralize acidity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a proper procedure when handling hazardous materials?

Understanding emergency procedures and equipment Signup and view all the answers

What actions should be taken regarding chemical containers?

Containers should be properly labeled and not damaged Signup and view all the answers

Which method relies on microorganisms to manage organic waste?

Biological treatment Signup and view all the answers

What is a key reason to wash hands thoroughly after handling materials?

To reduce the risk of contamination Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant environmental concern associated with hazardous waste incineration?

Air pollution Signup and view all the answers

What should you never do while handling hazardous materials?

Consume food or beverages Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following processes is NOT a method of physical waste treatment?

Bioremediation Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline is recommended for the storage of flammable liquids?

In approved flammable liquid storage cabinets Signup and view all the answers

How should hazardous materials be stored?

In well-ventilated and cool areas, separate from incompatible materials Signup and view all the answers

How should incompatible chemicals be handled during storage?

Physically separated from each other Signup and view all the answers

Which treatment method involves the use of high temperatures to process waste?

Thermal treatment Signup and view all the answers

What is a necessary step for storing corrosive chemicals safely?

Place in trays to contain spillage Signup and view all the answers

What is required for the disposal of chemicals by sanitary sewer?

Written permission from EHS Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a container of chemical waste is leaking or open?

It will not be removed Signup and view all the answers

Which document provides information on handling, storage, and safety precautions for chemicals?

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Signup and view all the answers

What law controls toxic substances and hazardous waste in the Philippines?

RA 6969 Signup and view all the answers

What should always be read before using a chemical?

The label Signup and view all the answers

Which type of chemicals can be diluted and poured down the drain?

Dilute bleach and hydrogen peroxide Signup and view all the answers

What incident is known as the world's worst industrial disaster due to a chemical release?

Bhopal Gas Tragedy Signup and view all the answers

Which action must be taken if there is any change in chemical formulation?

Require a fresh review by EHS Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred storage method for flammable liquids?

In a metal cabinet or unheated area outside Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a general principle for safely storing hazardous chemicals?

Store all chemicals together regardless of compatibility Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when transporting hazardous chemicals?

Keeping a record of the chemicals being transported Signup and view all the answers

Where should corrosive materials ideally be stored?

In a plastic tub or tray to contain leaks Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to prevent incidents involving hazardous chemicals?

Prepare emergency plans for possible spill incidents Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about transporting hazardous chemicals?

Dedicated transport vehicles are preferred for dangerous goods Signup and view all the answers

Which practice should be avoided when storing household chemicals?

Storing incompatible substances together Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a requirement when transporting hazardous chemicals?

Ensure the driver is trained in emergency procedures Signup and view all the answers

What must be done when transporting dangerous goods by road or rail?

Use suitable packaging that is labeled for precautionary measures. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is best for disposing of hazardous substances?

Separate hazardous substances and send them to special disposal facilities. Signup and view all the answers

Under which regulation is chemical waste managed in the United States?

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Signup and view all the answers

What is required on chemical waste containers according to the labeling rules?

Full chemical names and quantities for each chemical. Signup and view all the answers

What type of containers is preferred for storing hazardous waste?

Plastic bottles, if compatibility isn’t an issue. Signup and view all the answers

What information must be included on the Hazardous Waste Information Form?

Full chemical names, quantities, and place of origin. Signup and view all the answers

For what reason must chemical waste be segregated during storage?

For compatibility reasons, not alphabetical arrangement. Signup and view all the answers

What label must be present on hazardous waste containers?

Hazardous Waste. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

General Rules for Handling Chemicals

Do not return chemicals to their original packaging.
Keep chemical containers closed.
Never use the wrong or an unmarked reagent.
Never use spatulas, stirrers or other objects in a storage container for chemicals.

Handling Hazardous Materials at Home

Carefully read the ingredients list of any product or chemical you use.
Purchase appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves or goggles.
Be aware of the hazardous materials you come into contact with.
Follow safe procedures when handling hazardous materials.

11 Rules for Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials

Follow all established procedures and perform job duties as trained.
Be cautious and plan ahead. Consider potential hazards.
Always use required PPE and inspect it before each use. Replace worn-out or damaged PPE.
Ensure all containers are properly labeled and the material is contained appropriately. Report any damaged containers or illegible labels.
Read labels and the material safety data sheet (MSDS) before using any material to understand hazards and precautions.
Use all materials solely for their intended purpose.
Never eat or drink while handling materials, and if your hands are contaminated, avoid cosmetics or contact lenses.
Identify properties and hazards of chemical products and materials by reading labels and referring to SDSs.
Store all materials properly, separate incompatibles, and store in ventilated, dry, cool areas.
Keep yourself and your work area clean. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling any material. Clean work surfaces at least once a shift.
Learn about emergency procedures and equipment. This includes evacuation procedures, emergency reporting procedures, and procedures for handling fires, spills, and medical emergencies.

Chemical Waste Treatment Methods

Chemical treatment: Involves breaking down hazardous waste into non-toxic gases or modifying the chemical properties of the waste.
Thermal treatment: High-temperature processing, often involving combustion.
Biological treatment: Uses bacteria, nematodes, or other small organisms to break down organic wastes.
Physical treatment: Concentrates, solidifies, or reduces the volume of waste. Physical processes include evaporation, sedimentation, flotation, filtration, and solidification.

Safe Chemical Storage

Label all chemical containers and tightly close the cover.
Provide a specific storage space for each chemical, and ensure return after each use.
Store volatile toxics and odoriferous chemicals in ventilated cabinets.
Store flammable liquids in approved flammable liquid storage cabinets.
Protect chemicals from direct sunlight or localized heat.
Store corrosive chemicals in trays large enough to contain spills or leaks.
Store chemicals by reactive class (e.g., flammables with flammables, oxidizers with oxidizers).
Separate incompatible chemicals physically. Consult the SDS for each chemical for proper storage instructions, and make it accessible to the storage area.
Maintain an accessible and regularly updated chemical inventory.
Use bottle carriers to transport glass bottles containing hazardous chemicals.
Segregate waste chemicals.

Safe Storage of Household Chemicals

Store flammable liquids preferably outside in a metal cabinet or in an unheated area. Never store near an open flame or spark.
Store corrosive materials in a place like a plastic tub or tray to prevent spills in case of leaks.
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Storing Hazardous Chemicals Safely

Ensure safe design, location, and installation of storage and handling systems (e.g., racking systems, tanks).
Separate incompatible substances to prevent reactive chemicals interacting.
Control potential ignition sources around flammable substances.
Use appropriate safety signage and placards.
Prepare for spill containment and have clean-up systems in place.
Establish emergency plans for incidents involving hazardous chemicals.
Have appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and store it correctly (e.g., respirators sealed).
Ensure fire-fighting equipment is easily accessible.
Secure chemicals from unauthorized access.

Transporting Hazardous Chemicals

Maintain vehicle properly, display appropriate EIP and class labels, and use appropriate vehicle painting.
Use dedicated transport tanker vehicles or at least dedicated use of specific material only. Interchangeability can cause mishaps.

Checklist for Transporting Hazardous Chemicals

Avoid transporting with food, water, or other reactive chemicals.
Follow separation and segregation rules for transporting mixed classes of hazardous chemicals.
Secure hazardous chemicals on the vehicle to prevent movement or falling.
Keep a record of the chemicals being carried.
Separate foodstuffs from chemicals.
Ensure the required signs and equipment are present on the vehicle.
Verify the driver has the correct license and training in emergency procedures.

Transporting Dangerous Goods by Road or Rail

Use suitable labeled packaging that allows anyone in contact with it to take appropriate precautions.
Use the appropriate vehicle, container, tank, or wagon according to the goods' classification.
Display required information about the goods on the vehicle or container.
Follow proper procedures during loading and unloading.

Disposing of Hazardous Substances

Dispose of hazardous substances without endangering the environment or human health.
Separate hazardous substances from other waste items and send them to special disposal facilities.

Chemical Waste and the EPA

Chemical waste is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
Chemical waste cannot be disposed of in regular trash or the sewer system.
Most chemical wastes must be disposed of through the EHS Hazardous Waste Program.

Disposing of Chemical Waste in the Laboratory

Store chemical wastes in appropriate containers; plastic bottles are preferred over glass for storing hazardous waste when compatibility is not an issue.
Segregate chemical waste by compatibility, not alphabetically..

Labeling Chemical Waste Containers

Full chemical name and quantity of the waste. For mixtures, list each chemical.
Date of waste generation.
Place of origin (department, room number).
PI's name and telephone number.
Bottle number assigned on the corresponding waste sheet.
The tag or label must include the words "Hazardous Waste."

Hazardous Waste Information Form

Full chemical name and quantity of the waste.
Date of waste generation.
Place of origin (department, room number).
PI's name and telephone number.
Contact name for questions or access.
Bottle number (in numerical order).
Speed type or account number.

Submitting the Hazardous Waste Information Form

Submit the completed form to the Environmental Health and Safety Office by Tuesday at noon.
Chemical waste removal will occur on Thursday of that week.
Each container must be listed separately, tagged, and sealed. Leaking or open containers will not be removed.

Disposing of Chemicals via Sanitary Sewer

Disposal of chemicals through sanitary sewer is only possible with written permission from EHS.
Contact the Director or Chemical Waste Manager for further information.

Disposal of Chemicals via Solid Waste System

Submit a complete list of all chemicals to be disposed of to EHS.
EHS will review and provide written approval on a case-by-case basis.
Any change in formulation requires a fresh review by EHS.
Disposal of any chemical into the solid waste disposal system is not allowed.

Disposal of Common Chemicals

Use proper safety precautions.
Dilute bleach and hydrogen peroxide to pour down the drain.
Store solvents for special collection.
Recycle automotive fluids.
Drain all aerosol canisters.
Return pool chemicals to your local pool store.

Mishandled Chemicals and Major Industrial Disasters

1984 - Bhopal, India: A pesticide plant chemical release (gas leak) that was the world's worst industrial disaster. Over 500,000 people were exposed to methyl isocyanate, and the immediate death toll was 2,259.
2006 - Mercury Exposure - St. Andrew's School, Parañaque, Philippines: 24 students were sickened due to mercury poisoning.
2017 - Manila Science High School, Philippines: Five people were exposed to a mercury spill after cleaning staff spilled 60mL of mercury.

Chemical Handling and Adherence to Laws

RA 8749 (Clean Air Act of 1999)
RA 9275 (Philippine Clean Water Act)
PD 1586 (Environmental Impact Statement System)
RA 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous Waste Control Act)
RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act)
RA 9512 (Environmental Education Act of 2008)

Exercise Study Notes

Question 1: A written document pertaining to material composition, product handling, storage, disposal, safety precautions, and required PPE is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Question 2: True. A chemical is a substance produced by a chemical process or exhibiting a chemical effect.
Question 3: Before using a chemical, you should always read the label (B).

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Description

Test your knowledge on the essential rules for safely handling chemicals and hazardous materials. This quiz covers general safety practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and specific handling protocols to ensure safety at home and in the workplace. Learn how to avoid risks and promote safety in your environment.