My thoughts.
If chemicals are being used whether in chemistry or biology, students need information on the safer use of the chemical. If they are working independently as you suggested - research, an understanding of the physical and chemical properties of the substances they are using is essential. Also, what is the toxicity of the chemical?
GHS training without a doubt is essential. Reading the SDS sheet, understanding signal words, pictograms, phys/chem properties, toxicity, and disposal are all essential. Also, devote time to the labels on the containers - signal words, pictograms, precautionary statements.
I am sure your CHO and the Chemistry Dept. would be great resources.
-----Original Message-----
From: Stuart, Ralph <Ralph.Stuart**At_Symbol_Here**KEENE.EDU>
To: DCHAS-L <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU>
Sent: Tue, Mar 22, 2016 1:57 pm
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Thought question: Chemical safety for biologists
I have a question that I'd like input from the DCHAS community on:
The quick version is:
What information about chemical safety do biologists need to know?
The longer version of the question is that I'm working with the KSC undergrad biology lab coordinator to develop introductory lab safety training for biology research students who work with a relatively limited suite of chemicals, some of which are flammables, others of which are significantly toxic, many of which are neither.
- For example, do these students need to hear about all of the GHS hazard classes in the 1.5 hours available for the training?
- What kind of information do they need about chemical resistance of lab gloves?
- How much detail do they need to understand best practices for chemical storage cabinets and use of other lab ventilation devices?
etc.
Thanks for any help with thinking this through.
- Ralph
Ralph Stuart, CIH, CCHO
Chemical Hygiene Officer
Keene State College
ralph.stuart**At_Symbol_Here**keene.edu
