Laboratory chemical synthesis research typically lacks the preplanned hazard responses found in production-scale industrial laboratories. Chemical safety management is a known challenge in education-based facilities, which is concerning for academic and national laboratory environments working with inexperienced student researchers. At the…

In building projects or renovations, architects and administrators tend to label the science instructional space as a "science classroom," as opposed to a "science laboratory." What exactly is a science classroom, and what is a science laboratory? According to OSHA's Laboratory Standard (OSHA #29 CFR part 1910.1450), "laboratory" means a facility…

EPA's Schools Chemical Cleanout Campaign (SC3) is working to encourage schools to use green cleaning practices to safely clean their classrooms and grounds. From elementary school maintenance closets to high school chemistry labs, schools use a variety of chemicals. Some of the most essential chemicals are those that keep schools clean and safe…

Examines use of fire extinguishers related to the four classes of fires (designated A, B, C, and D). Suggests that when computers or other valuable electronic equipment are in an area (including laboratories), the ABC-rated Halon 1211 should be used since it produces a very effective, noncorrosive, nonconducting mist with no residue. (JN)

Reports methods for identifying carcinogens and suspected carcinogens in the undergraduate laboratory and makes recommendations for their elimination or control. (CS)

Points out the need to educate undergraduate chemical engineering students on chemical process safety and introduces the content of a chemical process safety course offered at the University of Iowa. Presents laboratory experiments demonstrating flammability limits, flash points, electrostatic, runaway reactions, explosions, and relief design.…

The undergraduate chemistry club of the Southwest Minnesota State University offers assistance in lead-testing through the anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) technique to elementary and secondary schools. Emphasis is given to this community service activity, which has increased club membership, and promoted discussion of water quality problems in…

Described is a procedure by which the performance of chemical hoods can be tested. This procedure uses a mixture of dry ice and water to create a "smoke" for use in the test. Implications for sash design, performance evaluations and testing under standard and nonstandard conditions are discussed. (CW)

Discusses the relative danger from toxicity of some typical chemicals. Notes that some materials in solutions have low toxicity, but in dust form have high toxicity. Suggests that more chemical compounds should be treated as the dangerous compounds they are. Lists common compounds found in the lab. (MVL)

Results of on-site inspections of 11 New York colleges, laboratories and storage facilities are summarized according to: (1) chemical storage and disposal; (2) safety equipment; (3) ventilation; (4) general housekeeping; and (5) safety education. (Author/SK)

Describes a science presentation which promotes various ways to improve laboratory safety. Recommendations for storing chemicals include: minimize the type and amount of stocked materials, purchase certain chemicals in small quantities, and use plastic embedments. Cites several books for reference. (RT)

Describes simple, efficient techniques for treating hazardous chemicals so that nontoxic and nonhazardous residues are formed. Discusses general rules for management of waste chemicals from school laboratories and general techniques for the disposal of waste or surplus chemicals. Lists specific disposal reactions. (CW)

Compares safety in the chemical industry to academic chemistry laboratories based on the incidence rate for minor industrial injuries compiled by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics and the author's estimate of academic rates. Provides a list of over 50 errors and omissions commonly found in chemical laboratories. (JM)

The goal of the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP), created by North Seattle Community College, is to provide an environment that protects and promotes health and safety and complies with health and safety laws. The CHP focuses especially on the laboratory workplace (biology and chemistry), as many hazardous materials can be found there. Employee…

Enumerates variables involved in the safe operation of a fume hood. Describes a test to measure hood performance. Discusses variables which effect hood performance. Lists design changes sometimes necessary to provide more space and encourage good practices. Concludes with a summary of good hood practices. (CW)