Safety Data Sheets (SDS, formerly Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), are the main
source of information about a chemical. The SDS contains the physical and chemical
characteristics of the chemical, health effects, exposure limits, precautionary measures,
and first aid information. Manufacturers are required to develop an SDS for the hazardous
chemicals they produce and provide the SDS to the user. SDSs must be readily available
to workers. Departments are encouraged to maintain a file of SDSs for the chemicals
they use. To obtain an SDS during normal hours call EHS at 540-831-7790. The university
contracts with this company to supply SDSs by fax. When requesting an SDS have the
name of the chemical (check spelling very carefully), and the name and address of
the manufacturer ready. It is also helpful to have the CAS number or any other number
that may identify the product.
Emergency Showers
Emergency showers are required in areas where concentrated acids or alkalis are used.
They must be within 10 seconds of the hazard. Water flow should be 20 gpm. Emergency
showers are inspected annually by EHS. Please ensure that the shower is not obstructed
and that the pull chain is easily accessible. Call EHS if you need an emergency shower
installed in your area.
Eye Wash Units
Eye wash units are required in areas where irritating chemicals may be splashed into
the eyes. They must be located within 10 seconds of the hazard. Eye wash units should
provide a gentle flow of water for 15 minutes. Eye wash units are inspected annually
by EHS. It is recommended that the eye wash unit be flushed for a minute every week
to ensure that the lines remain free of microorganisms. Please ensure that access
to the unit is not obstructed. Small squeeze bottles of water are not acceptable as
an eyewash unit. Call EHS if you need a proper eye wash unit installed.
Fume Hoods
Operations that give off flammable gases, toxic vapors, or noxious odors should be
done in a chemical fume hood. Please notify EHS before purchasing a fume hood to ensure
that the proper hood has been ordered and that it will be installed correctly. Fume
hoods are inspected annually by EHS. When in use, match the arrows to ensure adequate
air flow into the hood. The sash should be closed when the hood is not in use to conserve
energy. To reduce turbulence in the hood, storage should be kept to a minimum.
Spill Response
Consult the Emergency Response Plan for the proper procedures for handling chemical spills. Major spills must be cleaned
up by EHS personnel. Major spills are typically greater than one quart of a flammable
or highly toxic material or one gallon of any other chemical. Evacuate the area and
call the Campus Police and EHS. Small spills can be cleaned up by properly trained
individuals on the spot. Prevent the spill from spreading, entering drains or leaking
onto the ground. EHS has the proper training and equipment to handle most chemical
spills on campus. If EHS cannot handle the spill, they will call the proper emergency
responders and contractors. Please call EHS if you need assistance in cleaning up
a spill or if you need a chemical spill response kit.
Inspections
Laboratories are inspected twice a year by EHS to ensure compliance with the university’s Chemical Hygiene Plan. This plan is required by OSHA and describes how the university will handle chemicals
safely in laboratories. Inspections may be announced or unannounced.