Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering. Safety Manual

Transcription

1 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Safety Manual September 2010

2 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University SAFETY MANUAL SAFETY POLICY.. 5 Safety Responsibilities of Principal Investigators, Laboratory Instructors, and Staff Supervisors Safety Officer and Safety Committee Safety Officer s Duties Halting Unsafe Projects Project Safety Analysis Variance requests Reporting of Unsafe Apparatus, Practice, or Procedure SAFETY REGULATIONS.. 7 Personal Protection Safety Equipment and Emergency Actions Electrical Regulations Hazardous Chemicals Chemical Disposal Compressed Gas Cylinder Project Safety Analysis REGULATIONS FOR HANDLING AND STORING FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS 10 Requirements for Use of Hazardous Chemicals in the Laboratory Allowable Liquids by Container and Class Class I and Class II Liquids Refrigerated Liquid Storage Incompatible Materials Time of Storage Limitations Fire Extinguisher Location Warning Labels for Flammables Flammable Disposal to Sewer Prohibited 2

3 REGULATIONS FOR OPERATING AND MAINTAINING EXHAUST DEVICES (FUME HOODS).. 12 Exhausted Air Route Running Fans Hood Malfunction or Missing Parts Face Velocity Air Contaminants Electrical Services to Hood Lighting REGULATIONS FOR HANDLING AND STORAGE OF COMPRESSED AND LIQUIFIED GASES IN CYLINDERS.. 13 Securing Cylinders Moving Cylinders Use of Cylinder Cap Opening Cylinders and Regulator Valve Use Ventilation for Hazardous Gases Allowable Number of Cylinders per Laboratory Storage of Cylinders Usable Temperature Range of Cylinders Corrosive or Hazardous Gases Retention Time of Cylinders Leaks Tools for use with Cylinders Contamination of Contents Nitrogen, Argon, and Oxygen Cylinders Cylinder Valves Cylinders as Electrical Conductors Poisonous Gases Chemical Reactivity PROCEDURE FOR THE DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE Purpose Regulations Responsibilities Procedure 3

4 INJURY, ACCIDENT, NEAR MISS, and HAZARDOUS CONDITION REPORTING..16 Purpose Scope Responsibilities Reporting Investigation Communication Record Keeping Reporting Form PROJECT SAFETY ANALYSIS.. 19 Purpose Scope Responsibilities Report format Cover Sheet BIOLOGICAL SAFETY 23 Biosafety Principle General Biosafety Guidelines Biosafety Levels Recombinant DNA Research Disinfection and Sterilization Biological Safety Cabinets Biological Spill Response Biological Waste Disposal Record Keeping Requirements APPENDIX A...39 Safety Requirements and Practices, Texas Engineering Experiment Station and the Dwight Look College of Engineering, Texas A&M University APPENDIX B Hazardous Waste Management Program- Texas A&M University 4

5 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University SAFETY POLICY The Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering endorses the rules and regulations of the Texas A&M University Environmental, Health, and Safety Department (EHSD) and the Texas Engineering and Experiment Station and Dwight Look College of Engineering Safety Requirements and Practices. All persons studying, working or visiting any area assigned to the chemical engineering department must follow the aforementioned rules, regulations, and requirements, and the safety regulations of the department. Compliance with these rules and regulations is a condition of employment, visitations, and/or study. Principle Investigators (P.I.), instructors of laboratory courses, and supervisors of staff workers have the ultimate responsibility for safety in their laboratories or work areas. They shall 1. Insure that no hazardous chemicals are brought into a laboratory unless design, construction, and fire protection are commensurate with the associated hazard. 2. Determine that facilities are available for safe disposal of hazardous materials and waste products before introducing them into the laboratory. 3. Keep all safety equipment in proper operating condition. 4. Maintain personal protective equipment as required for the work in that laboratory unit and ensure the equipment is cared-for, cleaned, and stored. 5. Enforce compliance with the departmental safety procedures, policies, and regulations by those assigned to work in their area. 6. Establish procedures for cleaning up spills in the assigned areas, maintain adequate supplies and protective equipment for clean-up operations, and supervise the clean up. 7. Comply with the Texas Work Hazard Communication Act by training workers, keeping containers labeled, and maintaining an inventory of hazardous materials. 8. Insure that hazardous materials not in current use are properly and safely stored or disposed-of in accordance with university policy. 9. Control hazards by eliminating the causes, modifying procedures, instituting engineering controls, using protective equipment, or removing personnel. 10. Supervise the development of Project Safety Analyses. The Department Head assigns the duties of Safety Officer to a faculty member. The responsibilities of the Safety Officer are as follows: 1. Monitor compliance with safety practices throughout the department and report regularly to the Department Head. 5

6 2. Coordinate safety inspection tours of the department laboratories. There shall be at least one safety inspection each year, with more frequent tours when directed by the Department Head. (Safety inspections by EHSD may count as a Committee inspection.) 3. Administer department compliance with the University Hazard Communication Program. The Safety Officer has the authority to stop any procedure any time it is consider it unsafe. The stop order shall remain in effect until a safety analysis determines that it is prudent to continue operations. The Safety Officer shall investigate reports of safety violations, all accidents, and any incident with a potential for damage or injury. The results of the investigations, including recommendations for corrective action and penalties when applicable, shall be forwarded to the Department Head. All researchers (undergraduates, graduate students, research associates, post docs, and faculty) engaged in experimental work shall file a written report (Project Safety Analysis) concerning the safety of each research project for the Department Head s approval. The report shall describe all the hazards and shall detail the design and operating precautions taken to protect the investigator, the occupants of the building, and the environment. The report shall be submitted before construction begins on new projects or before a new researcher begins operating an existing apparatus. Prior to submission to the Department Head, the Project Safety Analysis will be approved by the P.I. and the Safety Officer. The P.I. and the Safety officer will review each project before the first operation of a new apparatus and after revisions of consequence to any experiment. For any research that cannot strictly comply with some Safety Policy or Regulation, a variance from the policy or regulation must be requested and must receive written approval from the Department Head. The P.I. shall request approval, in writing, detailing the reasons for the exceptions and the precautions being taken. Anyone with concerns about the safety of any apparatus, practice, procedure, or unsafe condition has the right and the responsibility to report directly to the Department Head or the Safety Officer as soon as possible. There shall be no reprisals for reports concerning safety. 6

7 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University SAFETY REGULATIONS These regulations apply to all laboratories, shops, and other areas used for experimental work that are assigned to the Chemical Engineering Department. The regulations apply to all students, visitors, and researchers. Keep all laboratories clean and orderly. CLUTTER IS DANGEROUS. 1. NO SMOKING in any laboratory unit. 2. Keep FOOD and DRINKS away from laboratory work areas. Nothing for human consumption is permitted in rooms with toxic, infectious, or radioactive material. 3. EYE PROTECTION: All experimental and shop work requires a minimum of glasses with impact resistant lens (side shields preferred), both for the experimenter and any observer. Pouring and dispensing of toxic and flammable liquids requires goggles or full-face protection. SAFETY GLASSES or SAFETY GOGGLES must be worn whenever there is a chance of impact. Contact lens are permitted when worn with the appropriate eye protection except as prohibited by the applicable MSDS. 4. CLOTHING must be well-fitted with no loose or dangling articles. Laboratory coats over skirts or long trousers are permitted if there is no chance of entanglement. Otherwise, neither skirts nor laboratory coats are permitted, and pants to shoe-top height must be worn. Short pants can never be worn for laboratory work. Short sleeves are permitted except when the MSDS specifies arm cover. 5. SHOES must cover the entire foot and cannot have high heels. Shoe heels must be approximately vertical and must have about the same area as the heel of the foot. 6. HAIR more than shoulder length must be restrained. 7. JEWELRY has a potential for danger from snags and from trapped toxic material. Nothing more than a simple ring band, a wrist watch, and ear decorations that stay within the boundary of the ear may be worn for experimental work. No hand jewelry is permitted for work with shop machinery. 8. HARD HATS must be worn for work in areas with more than one level and wherever there are overhead hazards. 9. NO ONE is allowed to WORK ALONE with hazardous substances outside office working hours without written permission from their Research Director. 10. Know by heart the location of all SAFETY EQUIPMENT: fire extinguisher, safety showers, and eye fountains. Learn how to operate them and never block access. 7

8 11. Anticipate trouble. Have a DETAILED PLAN for shutting down safely and quickly. Be ready for power failures, emergency evacuation, and emergencies in a neighbor s apparatus. 12. Plan for two EXITS. Never work with anything flammable or explosive blocking your escape route. 13. If a FIRE starts, make sure you have a way out. IF you are the last out, shut the door to contain the fire. When safely away, activate the Fire alarm or dial to report the fire. Consider returning to fight the fire, depending upon immediate danger. 14. Protect ELECTRICAL OUTLETS from liquids. They must be off the floor and away from sinks. 15. All appliances not fitted with a third-wire ground must be plugged into a GROUND FAULT INTERRUPT (GFI). 16. Design and fabricate to avoid EXPOSED VOLTAGE. All shock hazards must be labeled. 17. All metal racks for electrical apparatus must have a VISIBLE GROUND connection. 18. The Department Head must be advised BEFORE the introduction into any laboratory of any substance that meets any of the following criteria: Has a Health Hazard rating of 3 or 4 Has a Health Hazard rating of 2 with no physiological warning Has a Reactive Hazard rating of 3 or 4 Is a Class 1A liquid Is listed by OSHA as carcinogenic or suspect carcinogenic to humans Is listed by a EPA as a priority pollutant Of special interest among the chemicals requiring a report to the Department Head are: Hydrogen Sulfide Carbon Monoxide Picric Acid Any substance listed as a possible source of explosive peroxides 19. The department facilities are not adequate for safe handling of PERCHLORIC ACID, so it shall not be brought into any laboratory. 20. DATE all chemicals when they are received and when they are opened. DISPOSE of DIETHYL ETHER and all substances listed as possible sources of explosive peroxides within six months of opening. 21. All H 2 S CYLINDERS must be returned to the supplier within six months of receipt. 22. Read, understand, and sign the MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS) before work with any substance. All instructions and precautions in the MSDS apply to the Chemical Engineering Department. 8

9 23. MERCURY is especially hazardous. All work areas with mercury must have a spill kit. Constantly monitor for beads on the floor, on the bench, hidden in cracks and drawers. A broken thermometer is a serious health threat. 24. Keep all FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS in regulation storage cabinet except the minimum required for experiments in progress. No laboratory unit may contain more than a total of ten (10) gallons of flammable liquids. 25. Experimental procedures with volatile and gaseous FLAMMABLES shall be within a mechanically ventilated enclosure containing no sources of ignition except when explicit permission has been granted by the Safety Committee and the Department Head. Class 1A and Class 1B liquids can be POURED and DISPENSED only in such an enclosure. 26. Work with volatile and gaseous TOXIC CHEMICALS only in a fume hood. Follow the MSDS instructions for respirators and leak detectors. 27. LABEL all containers before charging. Secondary labels must show the chemical name, the physical and health hazards, and the date. Never work from an unlabeled container. Protect the MANUFACTURER S LABELS. 28. Clean SPILLS immediately. Follow the instructions in the MSDS. 29. The restrictions for DISPOSAL in the SEWER are a. No flammables, solvents, or oils b. No toxic or reactive chemicals constituting more than 1% (adding water to meet this requirement or the next is not allowed) c. No carcinogen of more than 0.1% composition d. No radioactive or infectious material e. Nothing with a ph < 4 or >10 (Neutralization to meet this criterion before dumping is possible, depending on the toxicity of the products) 30. For DISPOSAL OF CHEMICALS through the University Environmental Health and Safety Department, follow the University Waste Disposal Procedures. Follow the University Guidelines for Waste Identification Tag the waste Move the waste to the designated Satellite Waste Accumulation Point 31. ALL COMPRESSED GAS cylinders must be tied down. Keep empties labeled (MT) and separated. The safety cap must be in place when no regulator is attached. Release the pressure on the regulator when there is no flow. Ask the manufacturer s distributor for instructions on leaking cylinder. Never attempt repairs. 32. All experimental projects require a PROJECT SAFETY ANALYSIS. Each Project Safety Analysis must be signed by the Safety Director and the P.I. and approved by the Department Head. 9

10 ARTIE McFERRIN DEPARTMENT of CHEMICAL ENGINEERING Texas A&M University REGULATIONS FOR HANDLING AND STORING FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS 1. Hazardous Chemicals shall not be brought into a laboratory unit unless design, construction, and fire protection are commensurate with the associated hazard. 2. The user shall determine that facilities are available for safe disposal of hazardous materials and waste products before introducing them into the laboratory. 3. All chemicals must be dated when received and when opened. 4. The maximum allowable container capacities for all classes of liquids and the types of containers are: Container Type: IA IB IC II IIIA Glass 500mL 2L 4L 4L 20L Metal or Approved 4L 20L 20L 20L 20L Plastic Safety Cans 10L 20L 20L 20L 20L Metal Drums N/A* N/A* N/A* N/A* 120L *N/A = Not Allowed 5. Every laboratory unit must be equipped to clean up a spill of the largest container of every flammable and hazardous liquid in the laboratory unit. 6. All Class I and Class II liquids 1, except those labeled to require refrigeration, shall be stored in safety cans or in a storage cabinet for flammable liquids with the vents plugged. 7. All flammable liquids requiring refrigeration shall be stored only in a refrigerator labeled by the manufacturer for the purpose. The manufacturers label should specify that the refrigerator is approved for Class I, Groups C & D 2 hazardous locations. 8. All conventional refrigerators in laboratory units must be labeled NOT FOR STORAGE OF FLAMMABLES. 9. Flammable and hazardous chemicals outside a storage cabinet, and not in a safety can, shall be the minimum number and amounts necessary for the work in progress. 10. The combined total amount of Class I and Class II liquids allowed in any laboratory unit is 40L. 10

11 11. Transfers of Class I liquids shall be made only in a laboratory hood or in an area ventilated to keep the flammable vapor concentration below 25% of the lower flammable limit. Either location must be free of ignition sources. 12. Incompatible materials shall be segregated to prevent contact. 13. DISPOSE of diethyl ether and all substances listed as possible sources of explosive peroxides within six months of opening. 14. Six months after opening any chemical that may become hazardous with age (diethyl ether in particular), the chemical remaining shall be shall be disposed of safely. 15. Class I liquids shall not be transferred between metal containers without an electrical connection between the two containers. 16. A portable fire extinguisher must be installed within 25 feet of all flammable liquid storage cabinets. 17. No flammable or combustible liquid of any quantity can ever be poured or released into any building sewer or drain. 1 (National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Classification) Class I flammable liquids are those with a flash point below 37.8 C (100 F) and a Reid vapor pressure not exceeding mm Hg (40 psia) at that temperature. Class I liquids are subdivided as follows: IA- Flash point below 22.8 C (73 F) and boiling point below 37.8 C (100 F) IB- Flash point below 22.8 C (73 F) and boiling point at or above 37.8 C (100 F) IC- Flash point between 22.8 C (73 F) and 37.8 C (100 F) Class II flammable liquids are those with flashpoints at or above 37.8 C (100 F) and below 60 C (140 F). Class IIIA flammable liquids are those with flash points at 60 C (140 F) and above but below 200 F. Class IIIB flammable liquids are those with flashpoints above 93.3 C (200 F). 2 National Electrical Code classifications depending on the properties of the flammable vapors that may be present. Class I locations are those in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the ai in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. Group C includes atmospheres with ethylene, ether, or vapors of equivalent hazard. Group D includes vapors like gasoline, acetone, natural gas, propane or others of equivalent hazard. 11

12 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University REGULATIONS FOR OPERATING AND MAINTAINING EXHAUST DEVICES (FUME HOODS) 1. Air EXHAUSTED from laboratory hoods shall not be recirculated and shall not pass unducted through other spaces. 2. The fans for all exhaust devices containing flammable or toxic materials shall be kept running at all times. 3. If for any reason the fan stops drawing air through the hood, the hood shall immediately be labeled: INOPERATIVE DANGER DO NOT USE 4. Every fume hood shall be tested to determine the greatest sash opening that gives an average FACE VELOCITY of 100 ft/minute. That position shall be clearly marked on the hood structure. The test shall also determine that flow across the entire face is INTO the hood when the sash is at the marked position. 5. All operations with chemicals that can generate flammable or toxic AIR CONTAMINANTS shall be conducted inside an exhaust device. For fume hoods, the sash must be at the position determined in the test described in 4 above. For other exhaust devices, all panels must be securely in place. 6. Any fume hood with any opening other than the sash and the exhaust duct shall be labeled: INOPERATIVE DANGER DO NOT USE 7. Exhaust devices shall have a means of containing SPILLS. 8. The controls and disconnects for all ELECTRICAL SERVICES shall be outside the hood within easy reach. No electrical outlets are allowed inside the hood. 9. LIGHTING shall be from fixtures completely outside the hood or from explosion-proof lighting within the hood. 12

13 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University REGULATIONS for HANDLING and STORAGE of COMPRESSED and LIQUIFIED GASES in CYLINDERS 1. All cylinders shall be SECURED IN PLACE except while being moved. (Fastened to a hand truck is not adequate security except for moving and for acetylene welding rigs.) 2. MOVE cylinders only with hand truck specifically designated for the purpose. The cylinder must be firmly secured to the hand truck. 3. Keep the CAP screwed on when a regulator is not attached. Do not lift cylinders by the cap. 4. CYLINDERS NOT NECESSARY for current laboratory work shall be stored in a safe location outside the laboratory work area. 5. NEVER OPEN the cylinder valve without a regulator firmly installed. 6. Cylinders of all gases that have a HEALTH HAZARD RATING OF 3 OR 4 and those having a rating of 2, with no physiological warnings, shall be kept in a continuously mechanically ventilated hood or cylinder storage cabinet. There shall be no more than three cylinders of gases with Health Hazard 3 or 4 per hood. 7. No laboratory work area shall contain more than: a) Three 10 x 50 flammable gas and /or oxygen cylinders plus b) Two 9 x 30 liquefied flammable gas cylinders plus c) Three 4 x 15 cylinders containing gases with Health Hazards of 3 or 4 8. Cylinders shall NOT BE STORED with Class I or Class II FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS. 9. Label EMPTY cylinders (MT) and stored them separately from others. 10. Arrange cylinder STORAGE according to content and time of receipt. Separate flammables from oxidizers by at least 20 feet. 11. REGULATORS and piping systems shall be used only with the gases for which they are designed and identified. Never attempt to modify or repair a gas regulator. 12. Never expose any cylinder to a FLAME, and never allow the ambient temperature to exceed 125 F. Do not subject any cylinder to CRYOGENIC temperatures. 13. Cylinders containing CORROSIVE GASES or gases with a Health Hazard Rating of 3 or 4, e.g. H 2 S, or containing material that may become unstable in storage shall be returned within six months unless the manufacture specifies a shorter period. 13

14 14. The maximum retention time for cylinders containing flammables and those with oxygen is 36 months. 15. If tightening a valve gland or packing nut does not stop a LEAK, do not attempt repairs. Close the cylinder valve, tag the cylinder to indicate it leaks, and place the cylinder in a hood that is mechanically ventilated continuously, or in a well ventilated area. Notify the supplier and receive instructions. It is illegal to ship any leaking cylinder by common carrier. 16. Never use WRENCHES or TOOLS except those approved by the manufacturer. NEVER apply a wrench to valves having hand wheels, and never hammer or tap the hand wheel. 17. NEVER permit the chance of CONTAMINATION of the cylinder contents. 18. NITROGEN, OXYGEN, AND ARGON cylinders must always be vertical. 19. Never check for LEAKS with a flame. 20. Before REMOVING A REGULATOR, close the cylinder valve and release all pressure from the regulator. 21. Keep the cylinder valve closed whenever there is NO FLOW. 22. Cylinders must NEVER be CHANCE CONDUCTORS of electric current. 23. A self-contained breathing apparatus must be readily available to workers handling POISON GAS. 24. Compressed gas containers must not contain gases capable of combining chemically. 14

15 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE PURPOSE: To ensure that all hazardous waste is disposed of properly and in accordance with the Texas A&M University Safety Manual. REGULATIONS: All Chemical Engineering Department hazardous waste will be disposed of in accordance with Texas A&M University Hazardous Waste Management Program. A condensed version of these guidelines is included in Appendix B of this Safety Manual. The complete chapter is available at The TAMU Safety Manual on Hazardous Waste Disposal (Chapter 14) is available at RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Individuals generating chemical waste are responsible for correctly identifying, storing, and tagging the waste as defined in the above-mentioned guidelines. 2. The Departmental Safety Director will assure disposal tags are available and will monitor departmental compliance with the waste disposal regulations. PROCEDURE: When a container is ready for disposal, tag the waste as per the University Guidelines*, and move the tagged waste to the applicable Satellite Accumulation Area (Zachry-Room 99, Brown- Room1M2A). In the Satellite Accumulation Area, segregate the waste into the appropriate group (Halogenated solvents, Non-halogenated solvents, Acids (inorganic or organic), Bases (inorganic or organic), Heavy metals (silver, cadmium, lead, mercury, etc.), Poisons (inorganic or organic), Reactives (cyanides, sulfides, water reactive chemicals, peroxides, etc.). For the Brown building, tags are available in the supplies cabinet in room 247, and waste may be dropped off at room 1M2A using your card access. * Do not date the Hazardous Waste Disposal Tag or remove the bottom half of the tag as per the University Guidelines. Hazardous Waste in Satellite Accumulation Areas is automatically picked up at least once per week, and EHSD puts a date on the tags when the waste is picked up. 15

16 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University INJURY, ACCIDENT, NEAR MISS, and HAZARDOUS CONDITION REPORTING PURPOSE: SCOPE: The purpose of this procedure is to minimize accidents and injuries by early identification of the unusual situations that cause or contribute to such as accidents, injuries and near misses. The purpose is for fact-finding and improvement in safety and health, not fault finding. We must learn from our mistakes. This procedure applies to all Chemical Engineering Department faculty, staff and students. Every accident, near miss, unsafe condition or injury, no matter how small, should be reported and investigated. RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Reporting Anyone involved in, or observing, an accident, injury, near miss or unsafe condition should A. Take immediate action to assure that the situation is under control and any injuries have received medical attention commensurate with their severity. The immediate action could be as little as notifying the involved parties of a hazardous situation. B. At the earliest convenient time, fill out an Accident, Near Miss, Hazardous Condition, Injury form and route it to the Safety Director. 2. Investigation The Safety Director will meet with the personnel involved and A. Determine the cause of accidents, near misses or injuries and/or review the unsafe condition B. Make recommendations to the responsible faculty and the Department Head to eliminate the hazardous situation 3. Communication The Safety Director will communicate accidents, injuries, near misses and unsafe conditions to all Chemical Engineering Department faculty, research associates, staff, and graduate students to increase safety and health awareness. The communications will contain no names of involved parties and will concentrate on the facts related to the incident or injury and the remedies recommended. The sole intent is to make others aware of what can happen so that they will not make a similar mistake. 16

17 4. Record Keeping The Safety Director will review the injuries, accidents, near misses and unsafe conditions at least quarterly to identify trends that might require Department Action. A quarterly report will be issued to the Department Head and faculty. Reports will be retained five years. 17

18 Report No. Department of Chemical Engineering Injury, Accident, Near Miss, and Hazardous Condition Reporting System INJURY Any occupational injury (No matter how minor) ACCIDENT Any event that results in injury or illness, spills or releases, property damage, or $ loss NEAR MISS Any event that could under different circumstances result in an accident HAZARDOUS CONDITION Any unusual situation that could cause or contribute to an injury or accident ORIGINATOR SUPERVISOR LOCATION and TIME OF I, A,NM,HC DESCRIPTION OF I, A, NM, IMMEDIATE ACTION TAKEN WHAT WOULD CORRECT THE CONDITION OR PREVENT INJURY, ACCIDENT, or NEAR MISS RECURRENCES? GIVE TO SAFETY DIRECTOR ADDITIONAL CORRECTIVE ACTION: TAKEN RECOMMENDED SIGNATURE SAFETY DIRECTOR Date 18 DEPT. HEAD Date

19 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University PROJECT SAFETY ANALYSIS PURPOSE: SCOPE: To assure the safety of all research experiments by a thorough safety review of each departmental project. All undergraduate students, graduate students and research associates engaged in experimental work shall file a written report on the safety of each project. In the Project Safety Analysis, all the hazards involved in the project shall be described, and the design and operating precautions taken to protect the investigator, the occupants of the building, and the environment shall be detailed. The report shall be submitted before construction begins on new projects or before a new researcher begins operating an existing apparatus. RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Researcher Develop a Project Safety Analysis (PSA) for their project, according to the attached format. Submit the PSA (with the following cover sheet) to their research supervisor for the supervisors review and approval. 2. Research Supervisor Review, approve, and sign each Project Safety Analysis submitted by their researchers. Forward the PSA to the Safety Director. 3. Advisory Committee If requested by Research Supervisor, review and approve the Project Safety Analysis of graduate students. Forward the PSA to the Safety Director. 4. Safety Director/Safety Committee Review and approve/disapprove all Project Safety Analyses. Forward the PSA to the Department Head. 5. Department Head Review and approve/disapprove all Project Safety Analyses. 6. Graduate Secretary After a PSA has been approved/disapproved by the Department Head, distribute copies of the Project Safety Analysis to the Researcher, Research Supervisor and Safety Director. Place the original document in a permanent departmental file. 19

20 1. Title Page and Introduction PROJECT SAFETY ANALYSIS FORMAT Researcher Location General Description and Objective 2. Apparatus and Process 3. Hazard Analysis Diagram Equipment Details Process Description Utilities Chemicals (raw materials, intermediates, by products, and utility chemicals) Physical Hazards (Temperature, pressure, noise ) Chemical Hazards (Toxic, reactive, flammable, radioactive ) Biological Hazards Electrical Hazards Glass Hazards Design Precautions Operating Precautions Material Compatibility Limits of safe operation Response to unsafe conditions Reagent Storage Waste Hazards Waste Disposal Toxic Detectors Personal Protection (equipment and clothing) Availability of emergency response equipment Work Hazard Communication Compliance (labels) 4. Check Lists (Step-by-step procedures) Preliminary Start up Data gathering (including sampling) Shut-down Emergency shut-down 20

21 5. Potential Accidents and Responses (description of the worst-case possibilities with calculations) Utility failure (power, water, air, steam) Leaks Spills (specify the containment measures, clean-up measures) Equipment failure Uncontrolled reaction Fume Hood or other ventilation failure Fire Failure of compressed gas cylinder Building evacuation Etc. 6. Documentation and Maintenance Record (with dates): 7. Equipment Labels Equipment and instrument manuals available MSDS read and signed Schedule for testing critical components (ALARMS, check valves, relief valves ) Schedule for testing safety equipment (fume hood, fire extinguisher, eye-wash, safety shower, respirator, toxic detectors ) Care of personal protective equipment Utility Shut-off Emergency Shut-down Normal Operation Warning Signs 8. Compliance with Department Safety Policy A statement that the Project is in compliance with the Departmental Safety Policy and Safety Regulations 21

22 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University PROJECT SAFETY ANALYSIS Project Name: TEES Project Number: Researcher: Date: The attached Project Safety Analysis has been reviewed by the undersigned and approval is given for the work to proceed. Any major modifications of equipment or changes in procedures will require additional approval of your Supervisor, the Department Safety Officer, and the Department Head. In executing this work, you must abide by the Safety Procedures of the Department, College, and University and you must inform your Supervisor of any operations outside these procedures. Research Supervisor: Date: Advisory Committee: Safety Officer: Department Head: Date: Date: 22

23 Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering Texas A&M University Biological Safety The following Biological Safety rules are essentially a copy of the Texas A&M University Safety Manual - Biological Safety- Chapter 12. Biosafety Principle The primary principle of biological safety (i.e., biosafety) is containment. The term containment refers to a series of safe methods for managing infectious agents in the laboratory. The purpose of containment is to reduce or eliminate human and environmental exposure to potentially harmful agents. Primary and Secondary Containment There are two levels of biological containment primary and secondary. Primary containment protects people and the immediate laboratory environment from exposure to infectious agents. Good microbial techniques and safety equipment provide sufficient primary containment. Examples of primary barriers include safety equipment such as biological safety cabinets, enclosed containers, and safety centrifuge cups. Occasionally, when it is impractical to work in biological safety cabinets, personal protective equipment, such as lab coats and gloves may act as the primary barrier between personnel and infectious materials. Secondary containment protects the environment external to the laboratory from exposure to infectious materials. Good facility design and operational practices provide secondary containment. Examples of secondary barriers include work areas that are separate from public areas, decontamination facilities, handwashing facilities, special ventilation systems, and airlocks. Elements of Containment Ultimately, the three key elements of biological containment are laboratory practices, safety equipment, and facility design. To ensure minimal exposure, employees must assess the hazards associated with their work and determine how to apply the biosafety principle appropriately. 23

24 IMPORTANT: Employees working with infectious agents or potentially infectious materials must be aware of the hazards associated with their work. These workers must be trained and proficient in biosafety procedures and techniques. General Biosafety Guidelines Biohazardous materials require special safety precautions and procedures. Follow these guidelines when working with infectious agents: Personal Hygiene Guidelines: Wash your hands thoroughly, as indicated below: After working with any biohazard After removing gloves, laboratory coat, and other contaminated protective clothing Before eating, drinking, smoking, or applying cosmetics Before leaving the laboratory area Also, Do not touch your face when handling biological material Never eat, drink, smoke, or apply cosmetics in the work area Clothing Guidelines: Always wear a wrap-around gown or scrub suit, gloves, and a surgical mask when working with infectious agents or infected animals. Wear gloves over gown cuffs. Never wear contact lenses around infectious agents. Do not wear potentially contaminated clothing outside the laboratory area. Remove contaminated clothing as follows: 1. Remove booties from the back. 2. Remove head covering from the peak. 3. Untie gown while wearing gloves. 4. Remove gloves by peeling them from the inside out. 5. Remove the gown by slipping your finger under the sleeve cuff of the gown. Handling Procedures: Use mechanical pipetting devices. Minimize aerosol production. Add disinfectant to water baths used for infectious substances. Use trunnion cups with screw caps for centrifuging procedures. Inspect the tubes before use. 24

25 Use secondary leak-proof containers when transporting samples, cultures, inoculated petri dishes, and other containers of biohazardous materials. Syringes: Avoid using syringes and needles whenever possible. If a syringe is necessary, minimize your chances of exposure by following these guidelines: Use a needle-locking or disposable needle unit. Take care not to stick yourself with a used needle. Place used syringes into a pan of disinfectant without removing the needles. Do not place used syringes in pans containing pipettes or other glassware that require sorting. Do not recap used needles. Dispose of needles in an approved sharps container. Work Area: Keep laboratory doors shut when experiments are in progress. Limit access to laboratory areas when experiments involve biohazardous agents. Ensure that warning signs are posted on laboratory doors. These signs should include the universal biohazard symbol and the approved biosafety level for the laboratory. Ensure that vacuum lines have a suitable filter trap. Decontaminate work surfaces daily and after each spill. Decontaminate all potentially contaminated equipment. Transport contaminated materials in leak-proof containers. Keep miscellaneous material (i.e., books, journals, etc.) away from contaminated areas. Completely decontaminate equipment before maintenance or repair work on the equipment. Universal Precautions: Clinical and diagnostic laboratories often handle specimens without full knowledge of the material's diagnosis; these specimens may contain infectious agents. To minimize exposure, observe universal precautions when handling any biological specimen. Consider all specimens to be infectious and treat these materials as potentially hazardous. CDC and NIH Biosafety Levels The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have established four biosafety levels consisting of recommended laboratory practices, safety equipment, and facilities for various types of infectious agents. Each biosafety level accounts for the following: Operations to be performed 25

26 Known and suspected routes of transmission Laboratory function Biosafety Level 1 Biosafety Level 1 precautions are appropriate for facilities that work with defined and characterized strains of viable organisms that do not cause disease in healthy adult humans (e.g., Bacillus subtilis and Naegleria gruberi). Level 1 precautions rely on standard microbial practices without special primary or secondary barriers. Biosafety Level 1 criteria are suitable for undergraduate and secondary education laboratories. Biosafety Level 2 Biosafety Level 2 precautions are appropriate for facilities that work with a broad range of indigenous moderate-risk agents known to cause human disease (e.g., Hepatitis B virus, salmonellae, and Toxoplasma spp.). Level 2 precautions are necessary when working with human blood, body fluids, or tissues where the presence of an infectious agent is unknown. The primary hazards associated with level 2 agents are injection and ingestion. Most TAMU research laboratories should comply with Biosafety Level 2 criteria. Biosafety Level 3 Biosafety Level 3 precautions apply to facilities that work with indigenous or exotic agents with the potential for aerosol transmission and lethal infection (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis). The primary hazards associated with level 3 agents are autoinoculation, ingestion, and inhalation. Level 3 precautions emphasize primary and secondary barriers. For primary protection, all laboratory manipulations should be performed in a biological safety cabinet or other enclosed equipment. Secondary protection should include controlled access to the laboratory and a specialized ventilation system. Biosafety Level 4 Biosafety Level 4 precautions are essential for facilities that work with dangerous and exotic agents with a high risk of causing life-threatening disease, the possibility of aerosol transmission, and no known vaccine or therapy (e.g., Marburg or Congo-Crimean viruses). Level 4 agents require complete isolation. Class III biological safety cabinets or full-body air-supplied positive-pressure safety suits are necessary when working with level 4 agents. In addition, isolated facilities, specialized ventilation, and waste management systems are required. There are no Biosafety Level 4 facilities at TAMU. 26

27 Biosafety Summary Animal Biosafety Four biosafety levels are also described for infectious disease work with laboratory animals. Safety practices, equipment, and facilities are designated by Animal Biosafety Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4. Refer to the Laboratory Safety chapter for more information regarding the use of hazardous materials with laboratory research animals. For More Information A copy of the CDC/NIH criteria for laboratory and animal biosafety levels is available from the Environmental Health & Safety Department. Recombinant DNA Research As an institute that receives NIH funding, TAMU is obligated to ensure that all recombinant DNA (rdna) work conducted at TAMU conforms with Federal rdna guidelines. This task falls jointly to the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and the Environmental Health & Safety Department. The IBC reviews all protocols involving rdna, rules on the appropriateness of proposed containment procedures, and sets suitable biosafety levels. The Environmental Health & Safety Department inspects individual laboratories and verifies that practices and facilities meet the requisite biosafety level assigned by the IBC. The Federal rdna guidelines define rdna as "... molecules which are constructed outside of living cells by joining natural or synthetic DNA segments to DNA molecules that can replicate in a living cell." The Federal definition also includes the replicated progeny of these molecules as well as cells, plants, and animals that harbor such molecules. Transgenic plants and animals also come under the guidelines, even if the transgenic DNA was not cloned prior to introduction. Investigators who possess rdna in any form must file an rdna protocol with the IBC. A copy of the TAMU Policies and Procedures for Research Involving Recombinant DNA is available from the Environmental Health & Safety Department. 27

28 Disinfection and Sterilization Biological safety depends on proper cleanup and removal of potentially harmful agents. Disinfection and sterilization are two ways to help ensure biological safety in the laboratory. Disinfection: Reduction of the number of pathogenic organisms by the direct application of physical or chemical agents. Sterilization: Total destruction of all living organisms. The following sections discuss guidelines and procedures for biological disinfection and sterilization. General Guidelines Choosing the best method for disinfection and sterilization is very important. The proper method depends on the following: Target organisms to be removed Characteristics of the area to be cleaned Once you have chosen the proper method for disinfection or sterilization, follow these guidelines to ensure laboratory safety: Disinfect frequently all floors, cabinet tops, and equipment where biohazardous materials are used. Use autoclavable or disposable materials whenever possible. Keep reusable and disposable items separate. Minimize the amount of materials and equipment present when working with infectious agents. Sterilize or properly store all biohazardous materials at the end of each day. Remember that some materials may interfere with chemical disinfectants use higher concentrations or longer contact time. Use indicators with autoclave loads to ensure sterilization. Mark clearly all containers for biological materials (e.g., BIOHAZARDOUS - TO BE AUTOCLAVED.). 28

29 Types of Disinfectant Use the following table to aid in the selection of Uses disinfectants: Disinfectant Ethyl or isopropyl alcohol at 70-80% concentration is a good Alcohols general purpose disinfectant; not effective against bacterial spores. Effective against vegetative bacteria, fungi, and viruses Phenols containing lipids; unpleasant odor. Concentration of 5-8% formalin is a good disinfectant against Formaldehyde vegetative bacteria, spores, and viruses; known carcinogen; irritating odor. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds Chlorine Iodine Cationic detergents are strongly surface active; extremely effective against lipoviruses; ineffective against bacterial spores; may be neutralized by anionic detergents (i.e., soaps). Low concentrations ( ppm) are active against vegetative bacteria and most viruses; higher concentrations (2,500 ppm) are required for bacterial spores; corrosive to metal surfaces; must be prepared fresh; laundry bleach (5.25% chlorine) may be diluted and used as a disinfectant. Recommended for general use; effective against vegetative bacteria and viruses; less effective against bacterial spores; Wescodyne diluted 1 to 10 is a popular disinfectant for washing hands. NOTE: See the Radiation Safety chapter for information pertaining to the use of ultraviolet lights as a method of disinfection. 29

30 Sterilization Methods There are three common methods for sterilizing laboratory materials: wet heat, dry heat, and ethylene oxide gas. WET HEAT When used properly, the damp steam heat from an autoclave effectively sterilizes biohazardous waste. Sterilization occurs when contaminated materials reach 15 psi pressure at 250 F or 121 C for at least 30 minutes. IMPORTANT: For the autoclave process to be effective, sufficient temperature, time, and direct steam contact are essential. Every TAMU department that autoclaves biohazardous waste should have written documentation to ensure the waste is sterile. Parameters for sterilization and standard operating procedures should include requirements for verifying sterilization. Potential problems with wet heat sterilization and autoclaves include the following: Heavy or dense loads require higher temperature for sterilization. Poor heat conductors (e.g., plastic) take longer to sterilize. Containers may prevent steam from reaching the materials to be sterilized. Incomplete air removal from the chamber can prevent contact between the steam and the load. Deep trays can interfere with air removal. Tightly stacked loads can impede steam circulation and air removal. Double-bagging will impede steam penetration. Carcasses do not allow steam penetration. Some bags and containers rated as autoclavable have thermal stability but they do not allow steam penetration. To ensure that all materials are sterile, always test autoclave loads. Remember, however, that some sterilization indicators are incomplete. Autoclave tape, for example, verifies sufficient external temperature exposure, but it does not indicate internal equipment temperature, exposure time, or steam penetration. Thermocouples or other instrumentation can also indicate temperature, but they do not verify sterility. A biological indicator is the most effective monitor to ensure sterility. Commercially available strips or vials of Bacillus species endospores, for example, are suitable biological indicators. 30

31 DRY HEAT Dry heat is less effective than wet heat for sterilizing biohazardous materials. Dry heat requires more time (two to four hours) and a higher temperature ( F or C) to achieve sterilization. A Bacillus species biological indicator can verify dry heat sterilization. ETHYLENE OXIDE GAS Ethylene oxide gas is lethal to all microorganisms. Because it is also a known carcinogen and potentially explosive (Freon and carbon dioxide mixtures are stable), minimize your exposure and use extreme care when working with this gas. Ethylene oxide sterilizers and aerators must be properly vented. Ethylene oxide gas is most effective with heat-resistant organisms and heat sensitive equipment. The effectiveness of ethylene oxide gas may be affected by the following: Temperature: The antimicrobial activity of ethylene oxide increases with increased temperature. Normal sterilization temperature is F or C. Ethylene Oxide Concentration: Sterilization time decreases with increased gas concentration. Normal concentration is mg/l. Humidity: Relative humidity of 30-60% is necessary. Exposure Time: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Biological Safety Cabinets A biological safety cabinet is a primary barrier against biohazardous or infectious agents. Although biological safety cabinets surround the immediate workspace involving an agent, they do not provide complete containment (i.e., aerosols can escape). Therefore, careful work practices are essential when working with agents that require a biological safety cabinet. NOTE: A biological safety cabinet is often referred to by other names such as: biohood, tissue culture hood, or biological fume hood. All biological safety cabinets contain at least one High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter. These cabinets operate with a laminar air flow (i.e., the air flows with uniform velocity, in one direction, along parallel flow lines). Biological safety cabinets must be inspected and certified: When newly installed After filter or motor replacement After being moved Annually Contact the Environmental Health & Safety Department for more information about Biological Safety cabinet inspections. The following sections discuss safety procedures and guidelines for working with various types of biological safety cabinets. 31

32 Types of Cabinets The following table outlines various types of biological safety cabinets: Type of Cabinet Class I Class II: Type A Type B1 Type B2 Type B3 Class III or Glovebox Operation and Use Only exhaust air is filtered. The user and environment are protected but the experiment is not. Operator's hands and arms may be exposed to hazardous materials inside the cabinet. This cabinet may be used with low to moderate-risk biological agents. Vertical laminar air flow with filtered supply and exhaust air. The user, product, and environment are protected. Recirculates 70% of the air inside the cabinet. Do not use with flammable, radioactive, carcinogenic, or high-risk biological agents. Recirculates 30% of the air inside the cabinet and exhausts the rest to the outside. May be used with low to moderate-risk agents and small amounts of chemical carcinogens or volatiles. Offers total exhaust with no recirculation. Same as Class II Type A, but vented to the outside of the building. Gas-tight and maintained under negative air pressure. Used to work with highly infectious, carcinogenic, or hazardous materials. All operations are conducted through rubber gloves 32

33 attached to entry portals. Using Biological Safety Cabinets Follow these guidelines for proper use of biological safety cabinets: Preparation: Leave safety cabinets on at all times. Otherwise, turn the blower on and purge the air for at least five minutes before beginning work. Never turn off the blower of a biological safety cabinet that is vented to the outside. Turn off the UV light if it is on. Never work in a unit with the UV light illuminated. (UV light will damage your eyes.) Do not depend on the UV germicidal lamp to provide a sterile work surface; wipe down the surface with a disinfectant (70% alcohol is usually suitable). NOTE: For more information on ultraviolet lights, refer to the Radiation Safety chapter. Place everything needed for your procedure inside the cabinet prior to beginning work. Arrange the equipment in logical order. Provide a container for wastes inside the cabinet. (Remember, nothing should pass through the air barrier until the entire procedure is complete.) Never place any items on the air-intake grilles. Place a disinfectant-soaked towel on the work surface to contain any splatters or spills that occur. Keep the laboratory door shut and post signs stating "CABINET IN USE" on all the doors. Restrict activities that will disturb the cabinet's airflow, such as entry, egress, and walking traffic. Cabinet Use: Conduct work at least four inches from the glass view panel. The middle third area is ideal. Limit arm movement and avoid motions that could disturb airflow. If a burner is necessary, use the Touch-O-Matic type with a pilot light. Since flames cause air turbulence, place burners to the rear of the workspace. Never use flammable solvents in a biological safety cabinet unless it is a total-exhaust cabinet (e.g., Class II B2). Experiment Completion: Enclose or decontaminate all equipment that has been in direct contact with the infectious agent. Cover all waste containers. To purge airborne contaminants from the work area, allow the cabinet to operate for five minutes with no activity inside the cabinet. Remove all equipment from the cabinet. 33

34 Decontaminate interior work surfaces. IMPORTANT: Biological safety cabinets are not a substitute for good laboratory practices. Because aerosols can escape, take precautions to minimize aerosol production and to protect oneself from contamination. Clean Benches A clean bench has horizontal laminar air flow. The HEPA-filtered air flows across the work surface towards the operator, providing protection for the product, but no protection for the user. Because clean benches offer no protection, use a clean bench only to prepare sterile media. Do not use clean benches when working with pathogenic organisms, biological materials, chemicals, or radioactive materials. Importing and Shipping Biological Materials The Public Health Service provides Foreign Quarantine regulations for importing etiologic agents and human disease vectors. Other regulations for packaging, labeling, and shipping are administered jointly by the Public Health Service and the Department of Transportation. The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the importation and shipment of animal pathogens and prohibits the importation, possession, and use of certain animal disease agents that pose a serious threat to domestic livestock and poultry. Biological Spill Response The exact procedure for responding to a biological spill depends on the material, amount, and location of the spill. In general, follow these steps immediately after a biological spill occurs: 1. Warn others. 2. Leave the room; close the door. 3. Remove contaminated garments. 4. Wash your hands. 5. Notify your supervisor. Follow these steps to clean up a biological spill: 1. Wait for any aerosols to settle. 2. Put on protective clothing, as appropriate. 3. Apply disinfectant to the contaminated area. 4. Cover the area with paper towels to absorb the disinfectant. 5. Wipe up the towels and mop the floor. 6. Autoclave all contaminated wastes. NOTE: Spill cleanup must be appropriate for the hazards involved. Call the Environmental Health & Safety Department for assistance. 34

35 If a spill occurs inside a biological safety cabinet, follow these steps: 1. Decontaminate materials while the cabinet is operating to prevent contaminants from escaping. 2. Spray or wipe all affected equipment with an appropriate disinfectant. (Wear gloves while doing this.) 3. If the spill is large, flood the work surface with disinfectant and allow it to stand for 10 to 15 minutes before removing it. Biological Waste Disposal The Texas Department of Health (TDH) and the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission (TNRCC) regulate the disposal of biohazardous waste. Waste that contains infectious materials and waste that may be harmful to humans, animals, plants, or the environment is considered biohazardous. Examples of biohazardous waste include the following: Waste from infectious animals Bulk human blood or blood products Microbiological waste (including pathogen-contaminated disposable culture dishes, and disposable devices used to transfer, inoculate, and mix pathogenic cultures) Pathological waste Sharps Hazardous rdna and genetic manipulation products TAMU's Biological Waste Disposal Program (available from the Environmental Health & Safety Department) stipulates that biohazardous waste meets strict safety requirements for the following: Segregation Treatment Labels Packaging Transportation Documentation Biohazardous waste mixed with hazardous chemical or radioactive waste must be treated to eliminate the biohazard prior to disposal. After treatment, manage the hazardous waste through the Environmental Health & Safety Department. IMPORTANT: Disinfect all infectious material prior to disposal. 35

36 The following sections offer general safety guidelines and procedures for disposing of biological waste. Segregation Segregation is necessary when working with hazardous biological agents. Any waste that could cause a laceration or puncture must be disposed of as "Sharps." Sharps must be segregated from other waste. Do not mix waste that requires incineration with glass or plastics. Do not mix biological waste with chemical waste or other laboratory trash. Segregate hazardous biological waste from nonhazardous biological waste. Handling and Transport Follow these guidelines for handling and transporting biohazardous waste: Properly trained personnel (not the custodial staff) are responsible for transporting treated biological waste to the dumpster or incinerator. Only properly trained technical personnel may handle untreated biohazardous waste. Contain and label all treated waste before transporting it to the incinerator or dumpster. Avoid transporting untreated biohazardous materials and foul or visually offensive materials through non laboratory areas. Do not use trash/laundry chutes, compactors, or grinders to transfer or process untreated biohazardous waste. Labeling Biohazardous Waste Follow these guidelines for labeling biohazardous waste: Label clearly each container of untreated biohazardous waste and mark it with the Biohazard Symbol. Label containers intended for landfill disposal to indicate the method of treatment. Cover the Biohazard Symbol with this label. Label autoclave bags with special tape that produces the word "AUTOCLAVED" upon adequate thermal treatment. Apply this tape across the Biohazard Symbol before autoclaving the bag. Label all containers for sharps as "ENCAPSULATED SHARPS." Label nonhazardous biological waste as "NONHAZARDOUS BIOLOGICAL WASTE." 36

37 Disposal Methods Different materials require different disposal methods to ensure safety. Follow these guidelines for physically disposing of biological waste. Animal Carcasses and Body Parts: Incinerate the materials or send them to a commercial rendering plant for disposal. Solid Animal Waste: All animal waste and bedding that is infectious or harmful to human, animals, or the environment should be treated by incineration, thermal disinfection, or chemical disinfection. Liquid Waste: Liquid waste, including bulk blood and blood products, cultures and stocks of etiological agents and viruses, cell culture material, and rdna products should be disinfected by thermal or chemical treatment and then discharged into the sanitary sewer system. Metal Sharps: All materials that could cause cuts or punctures, must be contained, encapsulated, and disposed of in a manner that does not endanger other workers. Needles, blades, etc. are considered biohazardous even if they are sterile, capped, and in the original container. Pasteur Pipettes and Broken Glassware: Place in a rigid, puncture resistant container. Disinfect by thermal or chemical treatment, if contaminated. Label the container as "Broken Glass" and place it in a dumpster. NOTE: If broken glass is commingled with metal sharps, encapsulation is required for disposal. Plastic Waste: Contaminated materials must be thermally or chemically treated and placed in a properly labeled, leak-proof container for disposition in the dumpster. Materials that are not contaminated may be placed directly in the dumpster. Microbiological Waste: Solids must be thermally or chemically treated and placed in a properly labeled, leak-proof container for disposition in the dumpster. Liquids must be thermally or chemically treated and then discharged into the sanitary sewer system. Human Pathological Waste: Human cadavers and recognizable body parts must be cremated or buried. Other pathological waste from humans and primates must be incinerated. Genetic Material: Materials containing rdna or genetically altered organisms must be disposed of in accordance with NIH Guidelines and the TAMU Biological Waste Disposal Program. Nonhazardous Biological Waste Most biological waste that is not infectious or otherwise hazardous to humans, animals, plants, or the environment may be discarded as regular waste or sewage. The only exceptions are animal carcasses and body parts. These wastes must be incinerated or sent to a commercial rendering plant for treatment. In addition, there are no record-keeping requirements for nonhazardous biological waste. Follow these guidelines for nonhazardous biological waste: It is recommended to autoclave or disinfect all microbial products, even if they are not biohazardous. Avoid disposing of waste in a manner that could cause visual or odorous problems. 37

38 Do not label nonhazardous biological waste as hazardous (e.g., do not use the Biohazard Symbol, red bags, etc.). Instead, it is recommended to label the container as "NONHAZARDOUS BIOLOGICAL WASTE." Use nonhazardous animal bedding and manure for compost or fertilizer when possible. Recordkeeping Requirements Each TAMU department that generates biohazardous waste must comply with the recordkeeping requirements of the TAMU Biological Waste Disposal Program and State regulations. Written records must contain the following information: Date of treatment Amount of waste treated Method/conditions of treatment Name (printed) and initials of person performing the treatment If a department generates more than 50 pounds per calendar month of biohazardous waste, the records must also include a written procedure for the operation and testing of any equipment used and a written procedure for the preparation of any chemicals used in treatment. The records must also include either the results of a biological indicator or a continuous readout (e.g., strip chart) to demonstrate proper parameters for effective treatment. Bloodborne Pathogens Bloodborne pathogens are biological agents that cause human disease. Examples of bloodborne diseases include the following: Hepatitis Syphilis Malaria Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Two significant and deadly bloodborne diseases are hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HIV. These pathogens may be present in the following: Human blood Body fluids, such as saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, phlegm, and other body fluids visibly contaminated with blood Unfixed human tissues or organs other than intact skin HIV or HBV cultures Blood, organs, or other tissues from experimental animals infected with HIV or HBV. Blood borne pathogens may enter the body and infect you through a variety of means, including the following: Accidental injury with a sharp object contaminated with infectious material. Open cuts, nicks, and skin abrasions that come into contact with infectious materials. Other potential sites of transmission include acne sores and the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, or eyes. Unprotected sexual activity with someone who is infected with the disease. Indirect transmission, such as touching a contaminated object and then transferring the pathogen to the mouth, eyes, nose, or open skin. 38

39 Currently, TAMU is not covered by Federal or State regulations concerning blood borne pathogens. If you suspect you have been exposed to a blood borne pathogen, report the incident to your supervisor immediately. Appendix A Safety Requirements and Practices Texas Engineering Experiment Station And the Dwight Look College of Engineering Texas A&M University 39

40 Safety Requirements and Practices Texas Engineering Experiment Station and the Dwight Look College of Engineering Texas A&M University Safety (including Environmental Health, Safety, and Security or EH&S) is the responsibility of all individuals employed by the Texas Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) and all faculty, staff, and students of the Dwight Look College of Engineering. TEES, and the Dwight Look College of Engineering, enjoy a program jointly developed and maintained with the Texas A&M University s Environmental Health and Safety Department of safety on the College Station campus facilities. A safe, healthful, and secure environment begins at the operational level: the student at the fume hood, the staff member in the shop, the researcher at the lab bench, the teacher in the classroom, and the accountant at a desk are all examples of where this process begins in our laboratories, shops, offices and other at-risk locations. Employees and students have the first level of responsibility; their attitudes, work habits, and understanding of preventive safety principles are critical to a safe, healthful, and secure academic and research environment. The faculty and immediate supervisors of the students and staff have the next level of responsibility, and must strive to instill safe traits and monitor safety practices in their laboratory, shop, and office personnel. Like research integrity, scientific discipline, and fiscal responsibility, safety is a product of culture, sound management, and common sense. TEES must provide leadership and support for safety, and must address the issues and concerns identified by faculty, staff, and students in order to reduce risk to acceptable levels. This conscientious and shared understanding and responsibility is the core of identifying hazards, reducing risk to acceptable levels, and implementing appropriate controls to facilitate a safe, healthful, and secure work environment. Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public in the performance of their professional duties." Code of Ethics - National Society of Professional Engineers Good research needs both the GENIUS to make new discoveries and the DISCIPLINE to do it safely. Charles V. Shank, Director, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory G. Kemble Bennett, Ph.D., P.E. Director, Texas Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) Dean, Dwight Look College of Engineering Vice Chancellor for Engineering, The Texas A&M University System 40 Date Signed: