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We recently had Sigma Aldrich (along with Neal Langermann) give an
excellent lecture at UC Irvine on safe handling of pyrophorics.  Dr. Mark
Potyen ( Sigma)  recommended having a fire watch (two-man operation)
during transfer of pyrophoric agents  as well as the use of fire resistant
clothing and gloves,  We have provided nomex lab coats and gloves to our
researchers.  Sigma also provided information on transfer techniques.

 If you're interested, I would recommend that you contact Scott Batcheller
at Sigma Aldrich.  I believe they are developing a video presentation.

Rebecca Lally, CIH
University of California Irvine


> Here at this institution we have labs that run the gamut from those that
> have an incidental use of less-hazardous chemicals to those that utilize
> large quantities of flammable liquids and reactives.
>
> We understand that this was not the only issue surrounding the tragic
> accident but after UCLA we examined the fabric of the lab coats being
> utilized and found that (rather than cotton) most existing lab coats are
> 60-80% polyester and were selected for the price, lightness, and permanent
> press qualities.
>
> One of the things that we could accomplish immediately was reinforce our
> training program to specifically instruct and require research scientists
> in high-hazard laboratories (those that use flammable liquids and reactive
> chemicals) 1) not to wear synthetic clothing into the labs and 2) utilize
> all cotton lab coats.
>
> We also have a door sign program in which we can specifically require
> cotton or even fire resistant lab coats for specific labs if necessary.
>
> Has anyone else examined this issue and what were your conclusions?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Chris
>
>