Laboratory Safety and Chemical Hygiene Plan

Transcription

1 Laboratory Safety and Chemical Hygiene Plan This resource developed by LabCentral for the Pagliuca Harvard Life Lab Revision 1, Effective Dec 13, 2016

2 Table of Contents 1.0 PURPOSE SCOPE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Harvard EHS Triumvirate Environmental (TEI) Facility Chemical Hygiene Officer Designated Venture Chemical Hygiene Officers HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS AND PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING Allergens and Sensitizers Asphyxiates Compressed Gas Corrosive Chemicals Flammable Chemicals Hepatotoxins Irritants Nephrotoxins Neurotoxins Oxidizers Reproductive Toxins Select Carcinogens Acutely Toxic Chemicals Aspiration Hazard Chemicals with Unknown Hazards STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES Laboratory General Safety Procedures Incident and Accident Reporting Chemical Storage Chemical Procurement Chemical Inventory Page 1 of 34

3 5.6 Housekeeping Hazard Assessment Bonding and Grounding Procedures for Prior Approval Procedures for Particularly Hazardous Substances (Select Carcinogens, Reproductive Toxins, Highly Toxic Chemicals, and Chemicals of Unknown Toxicity) EMERGENCY PROCEDURES WASTE-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Responsibilities Definitions General Procedures for Disposal Storage and Handling for Hazardous Waste Biological Hazardous Waste/Regulated Medical Waste Sharps Disposal Universal Waste Management Recycling Program EXPOSURE CONTROL MEASURES Substitution Administrative Controls Engineering Controls and Work Practices Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) SAFETY EQUIPMENT Safety Showers and Eyewash Stations INFORMATION AND TRAINING Information Training Frequency of Training Recordkeeping MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AND CONSULTATIONS Information Provided to the Physician Physician's Written Opinion REVISION HISTORY Page 2 of 34

4 1.0 PURPOSE The Pagliuca Harvard Life Lab is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all who work in or visit our facility. This Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) has been developed to meet or exceed the laboratory standard as set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 29 CFR Members of the Life Lab are expected to follow the requirements of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and participate in the facility environmental health and safety program. The Life Lab encourages all members to report unsafe processes or conditions and provide ideas to improve the safety of the work environment at the Life Lab. The purpose of the Life Lab CHP is to establish basic operational and chemical safety performance standards for work being conducted within the Life Lab laboratory facilities. The CHP describes proper laboratory practices, procedures, protective equipment, and hazard identification. 2.0 SCOPE The provisions of the CHP apply to all personnel leasing or working in laboratory space at the Life Lab facility. This program also applies to contractors who might be exposed to laboratory hazards while at the Life Lab. Members are encouraged to contribute to the continuous improvement of the CHP with specific suggestions regarding their research or processes related to chemical safety, management, and employee safety. The CHP will be reviewed annually and amended as necessary based upon the feedback provided throughout the previous year and any new recommended changes to current policies. 3.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 3.1 Harvard EHS The Harvard Department of Environmental Health and Safety serves as the primary source of leadership in anticipating environmental health and safety requirements and risks, and developing mitigation strategies to minimize impacts to the University s people, academic and research enterprise, infrastructure and operations. Page 3 of 34

5 3.2 Triumvirate Environmental (TEI) TEI is the consulting firm contracted by Harvard University to assist in the routine environmental health and safety operations for the Life Lab. TEI is responsible for Co-developing a facility-wide laboratory safety program and chemical hygiene plan with the facility chemical hygiene officer (CHO) Providing advice and assistance to designated venture chemical hygiene officers on the appropriate and safe use, storage, and disposal of chemical substances Assisting in the investigation of accidents and incidents within the laboratory Acting as a liaison between the Life Lab and the laboratory scientists for laboratory safety issues Identifying, developing, and providing training programs as appropriate for laboratory operations Maintaining appropriate records of training, inspections, audits, and other compliance activities Both a TEI consultant and an environmental specialist are on site at the Life Lab facility on a regular basis. The TEI consultant is available to answer any questions regarding chemical safety and the environmental specialist is responsible for maintaining the satellite and main accumulation areas. 3.3 Facility Chemical Hygiene Officer The Life Lab shall designate an individual to serve as the CHO for the entire facility. This individual should partner closely with the designated venture CHOs and the TEI consultant to understand what materials are being stored in the facility, the processes that are used, and the potential hazards that are associated with their use. The facility CHO shall be responsible for: Co-developing a facility-wide laboratory safety program and chemical hygiene plan with TEI Providing advice and assistance to designated venture chemical hygiene officers on the appropriate and safe use, storage, and disposal of chemical substances Coordinating the investigation of accidents and incidents within the laboratory Maintaining appropriate records of personnel training, environmental monitoring, internal and external compliance reports and OSHA reportable incidents Maintaining a facility-wide chemical inventory and SDS library 3.4 Designated Venture Chemical Hygiene Officers Each venture shall designate an individual to serve as the CHO for their operation. This individual should have knowledge of the materials and processes to be used in the laboratory and the potential hazards Page 4 of 34

6 associated with their use. The designated venture CHO shall be responsible for: Developing a laboratory-specific Chemical and Physical Hazard Assessment Providing advice and assistance to individuals in the laboratory on the safe use and handling of materials and equipment Assisting in the investigation of accidents and incidents within the laboratory Acting as a liaison between the laboratory and TEI for safety issues Ensuring laboratory workers receive chemical and procedure-specific training Reviewing and approving the use of particularly hazardous substances Informing the facility CHO and TEI consultant of the use of particularly hazardous substances Maintaining records of any medical consultations and examinations for laboratory personnel related to job-related incidents. 4.0 HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS AND PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING Work in laboratory areas involves a variety of procedures that require the use of chemicals. These chemicals may be hazardous and can present both physical and health risks to employees. A hazardous chemical is a chemical for which there is statistically significant evidence based on at least one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed personnel. An acute health effect is an adverse health effect characterized by symptoms that develop rapidly. A chronic health effect is an adverse health effect with symptoms that develop slowly over a relatively long period of time. The term health hazard includes chemicals that are carcinogens, toxic or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives, sensitizers, and specific target organ toxic agents. The term physical hazard refers to chemicals for which there is scientifically valid evidence that it is a flammable or combustible liquid, aerosol, solid or gas; liquefied, solid, dissolved, or cryogenic gas; a gas under pressure; an explosive; an organic peroxide or other oxidizer; a flammable solid; a reactive material (e.g., pyrophoric, dangerous when wet, self-heating); or a material corrosive to metal. The designated venture CHO with the assistance of the Facility CHO will ensure that all lab personnel are aware of the locations, hazards, and appropriate control measures for work involving hazardous chemicals. In some cases, laboratory-specific procedures may be required for working with particularly hazardous substances, such as select carcinogens, reproductive toxins, highly toxic chemicals, and chemicals of unknown toxicity. Consideration and pre-planning for the necessary procedures to work Page 5 of 34

7 safely with all hazardous chemicals shall be the responsibility of the laboratory researcher and designated venture CHO. These activities should take place before a hazardous chemical is purchased and brought to the facility. The TEI consultant is available for consultation and advice on the procedures required for handling hazardous chemicals. Standard practices for working with hazardous chemicals may include the following: Review of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and other information regarding the properties of the hazardous substance, such as toxicity of the material, specific handling and storage requirements, and physical characteristics Storage in unbreakable secondary containers in ventilated areas Restricting use of hazardous substances to designated or controlled areas with special warning signs Personal or environmental monitoring Use of engineering controls to reduce potential exposures to personnel handling the materials Specific waste handling and disposal practices Some specific hazards that may be present in various laboratories at the Life Lab are listed below. 4.1 Allergens and Sensitizers A chemical allergy is an adverse reaction by the immune system to a chemical exposure. Allergic reactions can result from previous sensitization to a chemical or a structurally similar chemical. Once sensitization occurs, allergic reactions can result from exposure to extremely low doses of the chemical. Allergic reactions can be immediate, occurring a few minutes after an exposure. Anaphylactic shock is a severe immediate allergic reaction that can result in death if not treated quickly. Allergic reactions can also be delayed, taking hours or even days to develop. It is important to recognize that a delayed chemical allergy can occur even some time after the chemical has been removed. Examples of substances that may cause allergic reactions include diazomethane, formaldehyde, various isocyanates, benzylic and allylic halides, and certain phenol derivatives. 4.2 Asphyxiates Asphyxiates are substances that interfere with the transport of an adequate supply of oxygen to the vital organs of the body. Simple asphyxiates are substances that displace oxygen from the air being breathed to such an extent that adverse effects result. Carbon dioxide, argon, helium, and nitrogen are common Page 6 of 34

8 simple asphyxiates. Chemical asphyxiates prevent the body s ability to absorb oxygen and can be toxic at low airborne concentrations, for example carbon monoxide. Work with asphyxiates should be conducted in fume hoods so that no breathing air is displaced. 4.3 Compressed Gas A compressed gas is a containerized gas or mixture of gases having an absolute pressure exceeding 40 pounds per square inch (PSI) at 70 Fahrenheit (F); a containerized gas or mixture of gases having an absolute pressure exceeding 104 PSI at 130 F regardless of the pressure at 70 F; or a liquid having a vapor pressure exceeding 40 PSI at 100 F as determined by ASTM D In addition to the chemical properties of the gas itself, compressed gas cylinders are physically dangerous because the contents are stored under high pressure; punctures, heat, faulty valves, and increases in pressure may result in a rapid release of the contents. The following safety considerations should be implemented where applicable: The cylinder contents must be clearly identifiable Handle cylinders carefully and do not roll, slide, or drop. Use a cart or hand truck to transport Do not lift a cylinder by its cap Secure all cylinders while in storage, transport, or use Never tamper with cylinder valves, force connections, or use homemade adapters. Use only approved equipment. Never repair or alter cylinders, valves, or safety relief devices Only use a regulator compatible with the cylinder contents Close the cylinder valve when not in use When empty, turn off the cylinder valve and label the cylinder as empty. Store separately from full cylinders Store cylinders in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources, heat, flames, and flammable chemicals Keep the protective caps on the cylinders at all times, except when the cylinders are in active use Check for gas leaks using soapy water around the connections Do not store flammable gas cylinders with oxidizers such as nitrous oxide or oxygen; they must be separated by a minimum of 20 feet or a five-foot fire wall The Life Lab generally does not permit double-strapping of compressed gas cylinders. However, this may be allowed on a case-by-case basis upon consultation of the facility CHO. Page 7 of 34

9 4.4 Corrosive Chemicals There are two classifications for corrosive chemicals: chemicals that are corrosive to skin and eyes, and chemicals that are corrosive to metals. Skin corrosion means the production of irreversible damage to the skin following the application of a test substance for up to four hours. Chemicals that are corrosive to metal are substances or mixtures that will materially damage or destroy metals by chemical action. Acids and bases are common corrosive chemicals that can cause severe tissue damage and also damage metals depending on the corrosivity of the chemical. The primary means of protection from corrosive chemicals is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including: gloves, goggles, face shields, aprons, lab coats, or other chemical-resistant clothing. Extreme caution must be exercised when handling corrosive chemicals. The following safety considerations should be implemented, where applicable: When transporting acids and bases, do not handle by the neck alone; support the weight of the bottle from the bottom when handling or pouring Do not store acid and bases with flammable liquids or oxidizing chemicals Do not store corrosives above eye level Do not store acids and bases together Do not store inorganic and organic acids together Store all corrosives in secondary containment to prevent any spillage from leaking Reference the chemical s SDS for proper handling, PPE, and storage requirements If a corrosive comes in contact with your skin or clothing, thoroughly wash the affected areas using the safety showers or hand sinks for 15 minutes If a corrosive comes in contact with your eyes, first thoroughly flush your eyes in an emergency eyewash station for 15 minutes and then seek emergency medical attention 4.5 Flammable Chemicals Flammable liquid chemicals are liquids with a flashpoint below F. Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid will give off enough flammable vapors at or near its surface so that with sufficient air and a source of ignition it ignites. Flammable solid chemicals are solids that are liable to cause fire through friction, absorption of moisture, spontaneous chemical change, or retained heat from manufacturing or processing or which can readily ignite and when ignited burn so vigorously and persistently as to create a serious hazard. Page 8 of 34

10 Flammable gas means a gas having a flammable range in air at 20 C and a standard pressure of kpa. Basic precautions when working with flammable chemicals include: Do not allow smoking or other sources of open flames in areas where flammable chemicals are used or stored Know the location of fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and emergency exits in the laboratory Do not store flammable liquids in domestic-type refrigerators. Use only refrigerators rated for flammables Do not store flammables with oxidizing agents (e.g., nitric, perchloric, and sulfuric acids) Do not expose flammable liquids to potential sources of ignition such as electrical equipment, heat, burners, or open flames To prevent accidental electrical charge, use bonding and grounding equipment whenever applicable (e.g. when pouring volumes greater than 20 gallons). Use non-sparking tools when necessary Store flammable liquids in an approved fire-rated flammable storage cabinet Do not store flammable liquids on the floor unless protected by secondary containment Minimize the amount flammable liquids that are in use, being stored, and that are generated as wastes Storage of flammable liquids greater than 10 gallons within a laboratory fire area must be in an approved and labeled flammable storage cabinet 4.6 Hepatotoxins Chemicals that are toxic to the liver are called hepatotoxins. The effects of hepatotoxins depend on the amount, point of entry, and distribution speed of the toxin, as well as on the health of the person. Signs and symptoms include jaundice and liver enlargement. Examples of hepatotoxins include carbon tetrachloride and nitrosamines. Hepatotoxins should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Use adequate general or local exhaust ventilation to keep airborne concentrations below the permissible exposure limits. A chemical fume hood is recommended for use of hepatotoxins. 4.7 Irritants An irritant is a non-corrosive chemical that causes a reversible inflammatory effect on living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact. A wide variety of organic and inorganic chemicals are irritants; thus, Page 9 of 34

11 skin contact with all laboratory chemicals should be avoided. Use of a properly functioning chemical fume hood is recommended when handling irritants that can be inhaled. At minimum, safety glasses, lab coat, long pants, protective gloves, and closed-toed shoes should be worn when handling any potential irritant. 4.8 Nephrotoxins Nephrotoxins are chemicals that inhibit, damage, or destroy the cells and/or tissues of the kidneys. Signs and symptoms include edema and proteinuria. Examples of nephrotoxins include halogenated hydrocarbons, and heavy metals. Both acute and chronic exposure to certain organic chemicals can cause inflammation, injury or severe damage to the kidneys. Use of proper engineering controls such as a fume hood to minimize exposure is recommended when handling any nephrotoxin. 4.9 Neurotoxins Neurotoxic chemicals can induce an adverse effect on the structure or function of the central and/or peripheral nervous system, which can be permanent or reversible. Neurotoxic chemicals may cause narcosis, slurred speech, decrease in motor functions, and staggered gait. Many neurotoxins are chronically toxic substances whose adverse effects are not immediately apparent. Examples include mercury and carbon disulfide Oxidizers Oxidizers are chemicals that initiate or promote combustion in other materials, causing fire either of itself or through the release of oxygen or other gases. Examples include perchloric acid, nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide, potassium persulfate, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), and lead nitrate. Precautions for handling oxidizers should include the following: Minimize the amount of oxidizers used and stored Isolate from incompatible chemicals (e.g., organics, flammable, dehydrating, or reducing agents) Do not store oxidizers in wooden cabinets or on wooden shelves Do not return unused material to the original container Store in tightly closed containers in cool, dry, ventilated areas 4.11 Reproductive Toxins Reproductive toxins are chemicals that affect reproductive capabilities by causing chromosomal damage (mutations) and negative effects on fetuses (teratogens). Reproductive toxins have adverse effects on Page 10 of 34

12 various aspects of reproduction, including fertility, gestation, lactation, and general reproductive performance. Reproductive toxins can affect both men and women. Male reproductive toxins can in some cases lead to sterility. Two well-known male reproductive toxins are ethylene dibromide and dibromochloropropane. When a pregnant woman is exposed to a chemical, generally the fetus is exposed as well because the placenta is an extremely poor barrier to chemicals Select Carcinogens A carcinogen is a substance capable of causing cancer. Carcinogens are particularly insidious toxins because they may have no immediate apparent harmful effects. Carcinogens should be handled using prudent practices. A chemical is considered to be a carcinogen if: It has been evaluated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and found to be a carcinogen or potential carcinogen It is listed as a carcinogen or potential carcinogen in the Annual Report on Carcinogens published by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) (latest edition) It is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen 4.13 Acutely Toxic Chemicals Chemicals that are acutely toxic produce adverse health effects following oral or dermal administration of a single dose of a substance, multiple doses given within 24 hours, or an inhalation exposure of four hours Aspiration Hazard Aspiration toxicity includes severe acute effects such as chemical pneumonia, varying degrees of pulmonary injury, or death following aspiration. Aspiration is the entry of a liquid or solid directly through the oral or nasal cavity, or indirectly from vomiting into the trachea and lower respiratory system. Some hydrocarbons (petroleum distillates) and certain chlorinated hydrocarbons have been shown to pose an aspiration hazard in humans. Primary alcohols and ketones have been shown to pose an aspiration hazard only in animal studies Chemicals with Unknown Hazards Unknown chemicals, or those for which complete physical and chemical hazards are not known, must be assumed to be hazardous and highly toxic. They should be handled with extreme caution and treated as Page 11 of 34

13 highly toxic by inhalation, ingestion, and absorption. Appropriate PPE must be worn when working with any unknown chemical. 5.0 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES The Life Lab supports the implementation of prudent laboratory practices when working with chemicals in a laboratory. These include general and laboratory-specific procedures for work with hazardous chemicals, emergency procedures, and laboratory waste procedures. Procedures have been put in place to protect laboratory personnel from health hazards and physical hazards in the laboratories. Each venture will institute their own specific standard operating procedures corresponding to the types of operations occurring in their lab. 5.1 Laboratory General Safety Procedures Good laboratory practice requires constant awareness and the use of routine safety precautions specifically designed to guard against the unexpected. The Life Lab has established general policies and procedures that are applicable to all laboratories to ensure personnel maintain healthy and safe work practices in the laboratory. All laboratory personnel working in laboratories must adhere to the following policies when laboratory work involves the use of hazardous chemicals: Always read and understand the Safety Data Sheet for the chemicals you work with before handling Do not use broken or chipped glassware, and dispose of broken or chipped glassware in a designated marked container Never pipette by mouth; always use a pipette aid or suction bulb Do not apply cosmetics in the laboratory Food and drink are forbidden in the laboratory Wash hands and arms thoroughly before leaving the laboratory, even if gloves have been worn All chemical containers such as test tubes, beakers, and flasks, must be labeled with the full chemical name and chemical hazard Minimize chemical exposure: avoid chemical exposure to skin at all times Avoid underestimation of risk: assume that all substances of unknown hazard or toxicity are hazardous and toxic Provide adequate ventilation: the best way to prevent exposure to airborne substances is to Page 12 of 34

14 prevent their escape into the working atmosphere by use of hoods and other ventilation devices Sink disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials is prohibited 5.2 Incident and Accident Reporting The Life Lab tracks all incidents and accidents that occur on site so that corrective actions can be taken in EHS improvements are needed. The Life Lab is not responsible for reporting incidents to OSHA on behalf of the ventures. This is solely the responsibility of each venture. All incidents and accidents that result in personal injury or illness, damage, and/or a potential for significant injury or property loss to Life Lab property must be properly reported to the facility CHO and the TEI consultant within 5 days of the incident. Incidents are to be investigated by the employee s supervisor or designee and reviewed by the Life Lab safety officer or designee. Laboratory personnel must complete an Incident Report when an accident or near miss occurs. 5.3 Chemical Storage All chemicals in the laboratory should have a designated storage area and should be returned after each use or at the end of each work shift, whichever occurs first. Flammable cabinets are located throughout the laboratories for storage of flammable chemicals Corrosive cabinets are located throughout the laboratories for storage of corrosive chemicals Avoid storing chemicals on bench tops and floors Storage trays or secondary containers should be used to minimize spillage of material if a container breaks or leaks Avoid storing chemicals in the fume hood because containers and equipment can interfere with airflow, clutter the work space, and increase the amount of material that could become involved in a hood fire Avoid storing chemicals in direct sunlight or near a heat source Physically separate incompatible chemicals using secondary containment bins or trays, and/or store at another designated location All chemical containers must be properly labeled and stored in labeled storage areas The label must include the full chemical name and associated hazards Avoid storing chemicals above eye level Refrigerators used for storage of flammable chemicals must be explosion-proof or laboratory-safe Page 13 of 34

15 units Periodic inventories should be conducted and unneeded or expired items should be discarded Please refer to the Chemical Segregation and Storage Guide for more detailed information on chemical classes and chemical incompatibilities. 5.4 Chemical Procurement The designated venture CHO is responsible for approving the use of chemicals by laboratory scientists and ensuring appropriate storage for those chemicals. The designated venture CHO should consider how much of a particular chemical is needed for the work to be performed, the amount of storage space available, and the length of time the material will be required. The Life Lab encourages ordering only the minimum amount of hazardous material required. 5.5 Chemical Inventory The Facility CHO shall maintain an up to date inventory of all chemicals used in the facility. A facility-wide chemical inventory will be coordinated periodically by the facility CHO and/or TEI consultant. This inventory will be used to determine that all facility chemicals are being properly stored and that the Life Lab maintains compliance with chemical storage permit limits. The designated venture CHO is responsible for assisting the Facility CHO and/or TEI consultant in the maintenance of the chemical inventory. 5.6 Housekeeping The designated venture CHO is responsible for maintaining their space in a neat and orderly manner. Good housekeeping can prevent accidents and incidents. Keep the work area clean and uncluttered; label and store chemicals and equipment properly. Clean up the work area and put away chemicals on completion of each operation and at the end of each day Laboratory fume hoods and work areas should be kept clean and free of debris at all times Do not allow trash to accumulate in any area; it can be a fire hazard and/or obstruct emergency equipment and egress routes Do not store food or drink in any laboratory. Food shall not be brought into any area designated for chemical storage Access to exits, emergency equipment, and utility controls must never be blocked Page 14 of 34

16 5.7 Hazard Assessment The designated venture CHO shall conduct a hazard assessment of procedures and proposed experiments to identify the physical and health hazards of chemicals used in the laboratory and determine the risk of exposure to laboratory personnel by completing the Chemical and Physical Hazard Assessment form. A hazard assessment includes: identifying the hazard type(s), selection of appropriate PPE, training for laboratory personnel, storage and handling requirements, control measures, signs and symptoms of an exposure, and spill and decontamination procedures. The TEI consultant is available for consultation and advice on conducting a hazard assessment. The designated venture CHO is responsible for informing the facility CHO of any new hazardous chemicals or procedures to be used in the facility. 5.8 Bonding and Grounding Bonding and grounding of flammables is extremely important to reduce the risk of explosion and fire due to static electricity that builds up during the transfer of flammable liquids. Bonding prevents the generation of static electricity by minimizing the electrical potential between two objects, such as a dispensing drum and a safety can. Grounding minimizes the electrical potential between the containers and the ground. Bonding and grounding is required when transferring flammable liquids in metal equipment in order to avoid static-generated sparks for volumes of 20 gallons or greater. 5.9 Procedures for Prior Approval Laboratory research personnel must obtain prior approval from the designated venture CHO before conducting procedures that involve a significant change in chemical amounts, chemical usage, new equipment, or a situation where one must work alone or with particularly hazardous substances. General safety considerations include: Experimental design Equipment design Work space adequacy Development of an SOP Work preparedness Hazard assessment Page 15 of 34

17 5.10 Procedures for Particularly Hazardous Substances (Select Carcinogens, Reproductive Toxins, Highly Toxic Chemicals, and Chemicals of Unknown Toxicity) The following procedures must be followed when performing laboratory work with particularly hazardous substances: These substances must be used and stored only in designated areas with restricted access Designated areas may be used for work with these materials and may be the entire laboratory, a glove box, an area of a laboratory, or a device such as a chemical fume hood. The designated area must be clearly posted with signs that: o o o o Identify the hazards Notify when the hazardous material is in use Restrict untrained personnel from the work area Clearly define the designated area Only the smallest amount of a chemical required by the procedure shall be used or stored When possible only order the required amounts to avoid unnecessary decanting or weighing out the material All laboratory personnel working with these chemicals shall be familiar with the hazards and proper procedures for accidental release All laboratory personnel will be familiar with the signs and symptoms of exposure and know emergency procedures to follow in case of an exposure General PPE to be worn at all times when working with these materials are safety glasses, gloves, long sleeve laboratory coats, and no open-toed shoes The designated work area shall always be decontaminated after each process, experiment, or when the work is completed All waste products from the process shall be managed in a compatible container 6.0 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Emergencies shall be handled in accordance with the Life Lab Emergency Action and Contingency Plan. The EACP details specific actions to be taken for reasonably foreseeable emergency situations including: Local Area or Facility evacuations Medical emergencies Page 16 of 34

18 Fire and explosion Chemical/Biological spills 7.0 WASTE-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM The purpose of the Life Lab Waste Management Program (WMP) is to establish the means by which the Life Lab intends to comply with the numerous local, state, and federal guidelines with regard to their waste streams. Hazardous wastes are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP); they must be collected, labeled, packaged, and disposed of according to these applicable federal and state hazardous-waste regulations. These guidelines and the waste-disposal training program have been developed to assist individual laboratories with the handling and disposing of routine waste by-products. The details of this WMP apply to all members of the Life Lab. Any specific questions concerning this program should be directed to the TEI consultant. 7.1 Responsibilities It is the responsibility of the waste generator to adhere to proper waste-management and disposal policies. It is the responsibility of each individual working in the laboratories to follow the procedures outlined in this document for the proper disposal of various waste streams. The Life Lab adheres to a strict policy of no sink disposal of hazardous waste or material. 7.2 Definitions Hazardous Wastes A hazardous waste is any solid, liquid, sludge, or containerized gas that is to be discarded, has served its intended use, is a manufacturing by-product, process waste from specific or non-specific sources, a listed unused chemical, which exhibits certain characteristics. Specifically, hazardous wastes: Exhibit the characteristic of ignitability; and/or Exhibit the characteristic of corrosivity; and/or Exhibit the characteristic of reactivity; and/or Exhibit the characteristic of toxicity; and/or Page 17 of 34

19 are listed hazardous waste by the EPA; and/or are listed hazardous by the DEP Biological Hazardous Waste/Regulated Medical Waste Biological hazards, also known as biohazards, refer to biological substances that pose a threat to the health of living organisms, primarily that of humans. This can include medical waste or samples of a microorganism, virus, or toxin (from a biological source) that can affect human health. The following types of waste are defined as infectious or physically dangerous medical waste: Blood and Blood Products: discarded human blood and blood products in free-draining, liquid state, body fluids contaminated with visible blood, and materials dripping or saturated with blood Cultures and Stocks of Infectious Agents and Associated Biologicals: all discarded cultures and stocks of infectious agents and associated biological, biotechnological byproduct effluents, cultures of specimens from medical and pathological laboratories, cultures and stocks of infectious agents from research laboratories, wastes from the production of biologicals, and discarded live and attenuated vaccines intended for human use Sharps: discarded medical articles that may cause punctures or cuts, including but not limited to all used and discarded hypodermic needles and syringes, Pasteur pipettes, broken medical glassware, scalpel blades, disposable razors, and suture needles Biotechnological By-Product Effluents: any discarded preparations made from genetically altered living organisms and their products For more details, please refer to the Biological Safety and Exposure Control Plan. 7.3 General Procedures for Disposal Any material that meets the criteria of a hazardous waste shall not be treated or otherwise changed to alter its characteristics as a hazardous waste. Dispose of all waste in designated, labeled containers. Any questions about proper disposal methods should be directed to TEI consultant. In addition: Do not combine different waste streams (e.g. biohazardous and hazardous or incompatible hazardous materials) Do not overfill containers Manage common laboratory waste (uncontaminated gloves, paper towels, etc.) in the general trash Page 18 of 34

20 Disposal of chemical and hazardous materials or wastes in the sink is prohibited. Sink disposal of rinse water from glass washing and analyzers will be allowed on a case-by-case basis to ensure compliance with the facility Industrial Sewer Use Permit issued by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Refer to the Drain Disposal Guide for more details All waste generated in the laboratory should be placed in its appropriate receptacle on a per-shift basis 7.4 Storage and Handling for Hazardous Waste All hazardous waste generated at the Life Lab must be accumulated and stored in a Satellite Accumulation Area (SAA) before being transferred to the Main Accumulation Area (MAA) SAAs are used for the accumulation of waste generated at the point of generation All SAA hazardous waste containers must be labeled with the words Hazardous Waste, the full names of all chemical constituents, and the proper hazard class (ignitable, corrosive, toxic, or reactive The date must be written on the waste label the day it becomes full SAA containers can remain in the SAA indefinitely or until they become full. Full containers must be moved into the MAA within three days of the full date When waste containers are not in active use, all containers must be closed and sealed Waste must be stored in containers compatible with the constituents of the waste The MAA must remain secured from unauthorized entry Secondary containment bins must be used to prevent mixing of incompatible waste streams and to ensure spilled waste remains on an impermeable surface Hazardous waste shall be moved from the SAA to the MAA, as determined by generation rate, by a TEI environmental specialist. The Facility CHO and/or TEI is responsible for the management of the MAA Lab-Pack Chemicals Expired or unwanted chemicals should not remain in chemical stock areas, but should be characterized, and if determined to be hazardous waste, moved to the MAA Scientists should examine their chemical inventory periodically to determine if there are any expired or unwanted chemicals that need to be discarded. The TEI environmental specialist is available to help scientists determine: Page 19 of 34

21 o o the appropriate disposal method of any or all expired or unwanted materials the appropriate SAA to which expired or unwanted hazardous materials should be temporarily stored until moved to the MAA Empty Bottle Disposal All chemical bottles of five gallons or fewer must be prepared for disposal according to the following protocol in order to be disposed as regular trash: any bottle that is not properly prepared for disposal cannot be placed in regular waste bins and must be disposed of as hazardous waste in the lab-debris drum in the waste room. Containers larger than five gallons cannot be disposed as regular trash; contact operations for disposal instructions for containers larger than five gallons. Triple rinsing is required for the following empty chemical containers: acutely hazardous substances, viscous substance, and corrosives (acids and bases). o Please use a suitable solvent for each material. If unsure, contact the Life Lab CHO or TEI consultant o If the container is broken, DO NOT triple rinse. Dispose of as hazardous waste or in a brokenglass container, whichever is appropriate. o DO NOT triple rinse containers that contain water-reactive chemicals. Dispose of as hazardous waste o DO NOT triple rinse containers that contain sodium azide as this can create hydrogen azide gas which is an explosive, toxic gas. Dispose of as hazardous waste Triple Rinse Guidelines: o o o o Use an appropriate solvent for the first rinse Rinse with enough solute to coat the inside of the bottle with each rinse. Depending on the size of the container, this can range from 5 ml to 50 ml of solute per rinse Following the first rinse with an appropriate solvent, water may be used for the second and third rinses Collect the rinsate in the aqueous chemical-waste container at the nearest satellite accumulation area Triple Rinsed Bottle Disposal: Page 20 of 34

22 o o Deface all labels or place a triple rinsed label over the original chemical label Place all defaced/triple rinse labeled bottles into the closest recyclable materials receptacle If the container has a strong aroma, please place in the fume hood and notify the Life Lab CHO Solvent Bottle Protocol: o o o For solvents with a moderate-to-great vapor pressure, triple rinsing the bottles is not necessary once the bottle is considered RCRA empty (no visible materials) Empty bottles are defaced or labeled with an EMPTY label Place all defaced/empty labeled bottles into the closest recyclable materials receptacle Broken Glass Disposal Broken glass should not be disposed in general trash receptacles Clean glass bottles or broken glass must be disposed of in cardboard Deposit Broken Glass Here boxes Contaminated broken glass must be disposed of as solid hazardous waste 7.5 Biological Hazardous Waste/Regulated Medical Waste All regulated medical waste shall be placed in a leak-proof container Do not place leaking waste into the bags Do not overfill bags Do not leave or dispose of red biowaste bags near the general trash 7.6 Sharps Disposal All used needles and syringes are considered contaminated sharps and should be disposed of in sharps containers Contaminated sharps should be designated as either hazardous waste or biological waste and treated accordingly All contaminated sharps (needles, syringes, broken glass, razor blades, glass pipettes, plastic serological pipettes, etc.) shall be disposed of in an approved sharps container All needle/syringe assemblies are to be disposed of intact. In order to prevent needle-stick injuries, needles are not to be recapped, bent, or broken Page 21 of 34

23 7.7 Universal Waste Management Fluorescent lamps, batteries other than alkaline, and mercury-containing devices such as thermometers are classified as Universal Waste in Massachusetts and cannot be disposed in the general trash. Harvard University provides a recycling program for some of the materials listed above. Please refer to Section Recycling Program The Life Lab, Harvard EHS and TEI are all committed to conducting business in an ethical, socially responsible and environmentally sustainable manner and therefore highly encourages recycling of laboratory packaging whenever possible. Most plastics, cardboard, and glass containers can be recycled through the city of Boston. Suggested recyclable materials o o o Plastics such as pipette tip boxes Broken down corrugated boxes Triple-rinsed glass/clean reagent bottles Ensure that these materials are placed in the recyclable materials containers so that they can be properly managed by the city. Blue single-stream recycling bins are available throughout the facility. Printer toner cartridges may also be recycled. Marked cardboard boxes are provided in the recycling area of the shipping/receiving area. A white recycling bucket is provided in the recycling area of the shipping/receiving area for the following materials: o Batteries All sizes of rechargeable batteries (separately bagged or taped terminals) Lithium batteries (separately bagged or taped terminals) Alkaline batteries o Electronic waste Cell phones PDA s Thumb drives All accessories, chargers, plugs, cables & cords, ballasts Page 22 of 34

24 o Electronic media (erase all sensitive data, break or crush) CD s DVD s Audio & video tapes Jewel boxes o Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs (in bags) Materials that cannot be recycled o Plastic bags o Light bulbs (other than CFL bulbs) o Broken glass o Styrofoam containers o Aerosol cans o Any materials that could potentially be contaminated by chemical or biological materials If you need to dispose of the items listed above and are unsure how, please contact the Life Lab CHO or TEI. 8.0 EXPOSURE CONTROL MEASURES For the laboratory use of OSHA regulated substances, the Life Lab shall assure that laboratory personnel s exposures to such substances do not exceed the permissible exposure limits specified in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart Z. To minimize laboratory personnel s exposure to hazardous chemicals the following control measures for reducing chemical exposure should be implemented: Substitution of less-hazardous chemical or processes Engineering controls Administrative controls Personal protective equipment (PPE) Substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) are basic principles used to control hazards and exposures. Before the proper control (s) can be selected, a hazard assessment of the process, activity, or material should be conducted. 8.1 Substitution Every hazard assessment should first determine if the hazardous conditions can be prevented, e.g., Page 23 of 34

25 substituting with a less-hazardous chemicals or process. Substitution is one of the most-effective ways to eliminate or reduce exposures because it removes the hazard at the source. 8.2 Administrative Controls Administrative controls are changes in work procedures such as written safety guidelines, rules, supervision, schedules, signs, labels, SDSs, and training to reduce employee exposure to hazardous chemicals Safety Data Sheets SDSs are documents created by the chemical manufacturer that describe the substance. Some of the information found on an SDS includes: chemical and physical characteristics, handling requirements, storage and disposal information, and signs and symptoms of exposure. SDSs that are received with incoming chemical shipments are maintained and made readily available for all laboratory personnel. The facility CHO is responsible for obtaining SDSs for chemicals used and stored in the building Signs and Labels All hazardous materials, hazardous waste, and chemical storage areas shall be appropriately labeled indicating the hazards present and any other relevant regulatory requirements. The designated venture CHO shall ensure that original labels on chemical containers will not be removed or defaced. All laboratories shall be posted with signage addressing the hazards of the materials contained in the laboratory, requirements for personal protective equipment, and any special hazards located in the lab. Special hazards include the presence of biohazard materials. The facility CHO shall be responsible for posting and maintain laboratory door signs. 8.3 Engineering Controls and Work Practices Engineering controls and work practices eliminate or reduce exposure to chemical and/or physical hazards. They include process change, substitution, isolation, ventilation, and source modification, described below: Process change consists of changing a process to make it less hazardous Substitution consists of substituting for a less-hazardous material, equipment, or process (e.g., use of soap and water in place of solvents for cleaning, use of automated instead of manually operating equipment) Page 24 of 34

26 Isolation is applied when a barrier is inserted between a hazard and those who might be affected by that hazard. Separating personnel from hazardous operations, processes, equipment, or environments using a physical barrier or distance may provide the necessary isolation Ventilation can be either local (fume hoods) or general (dilution of air contaminants) that exhausts or supplies air properly to eliminate or reduce inhalation hazards Source modification consists of changing a hazard source to make it less hazardous (e.g., wetting dust particles or lowering the temperature of liquids to reduce off-gassing and vaporization) Fume Hoods Work with hazardous materials in chemical fume hoods is a preferred engineering control to protect lab personnel from exposure. When possible, perform work in a fume hood. Chemical fume hoods are to be used for hazardous chemicals that have a health hazard or physical hazard. These include: Acutely toxic materials Carcinogens Corrosive materials Flammables Oxidizers Reactive materials Note: Biohazardous material may not be used in chemical fume foods. Work with biohazardous material should be conducted in a biosafety cabinet. The Life Lab ensures the proper function of all chemical fume hoods by testing and certifying them biannually. Fume hoods at the Life Lab are equipped with digital air-flow monitors with low-flow alarms. Check the monitor to ensure that performance is within acceptable ranges as indicated by the monitor; if the air-flow monitor is alarming, do not work inside the hood until the problem is corrected. No work involving hazardous materials is to be conducted in a faulty hood. The following practices are recommended while working with fume hoods. The fume hood sashes shall remain closed when not in use and should not be raised above the certification line during use Do not store unnecessary materials, equipment, or chemicals in the fume hood. The fume hoods have ventilated cabinets beneath the bench surface that can be used for storage of hazardous, flammable, or volatile chemicals Page 25 of 34