Understanding Chemical Hazards

• Chemical hazards are substances that can harm humans, animals, or the environment
• Hazards have toxic, corrosive, flammable, explosive, or reactive properties, found in laboratories, industries, agriculture, and households.

Types of Chemical Hazards

• Toxic Chemicals cause poisoning; examples include cyanide, mercury, and lead
• Corrosive Chemicals damage skin and tissues; examples include sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide
• Flammable Chemicals easily catch fire; examples include gasoline and ethanol
• Explosive Chemicals can detonate under certain conditions; examples include TNT and nitroglycerin
• Reactive Chemicals react violently with air, water, or other chemicals; examples include sodium metal and peroxides
• Carcinogens cause cancer; examples include benzene and asbestos
• Mutagens cause genetic mutations; an example is formaldehyde
• Teratogens harm fetal development; an example is thalidomide

Routes of Chemical Exposure

• Inhalation involves breathing fumes, dust, and gases
• Skin Absorption involves contact with liquids or powders
• Ingestion involves swallowing contaminated food/drinks
• Injection involves needle sticks or cuts with contaminated objects

Effects of Chemical Hazards

• Acute Effects cause immediate harm, such as burns, poisoning, and respiratory distress
• Chronic Effects are from long-term exposure leading to diseases, such as cancer and organ damage

Control Measures for Chemical Hazards

• Substitution replaces hazardous chemicals with safer alternatives
• Engineering Controls use fume hoods, ventilation, and closed systems
• Administrative Controls include proper training, labeling, and restricted access
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes gloves, goggles, lab coats, and respirators

Emergency Response

• Spill Kits are for safe cleanup of chemical spills
• First Aid involves immediate washing and antidotes if available
• Emergency Showers & Eye Wash Stations must be accessible

Safe Storage & Handling

• Store chemicals based on compatibility, such as acids away from bases
• Use proper containers, like metal cabinets for flammable liquids
• Follow Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for handling instructions