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SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST
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SAFETY BULLETIN / July - September 2005 |
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Download a .pdf copy of this bulletin |
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Intelligent
Chemical Handling - by Kristi Hurst, Safety
Specialist |
Every substance that we come in contact with is
composed of chemicals including our food, the
air we breathe, our clothing, and even
medications. Everything is made up of chemicals.
While some chemicals are not highly toxic or
hazardous, others require special precautions to
limit exposure that could be harmful. To handle
chemicals safely, you must know and avoid their
hazards to steer clear of chemical related
illness or accidents. Some general guidelines to
follow when handling chemicals are:
- Always review the MSDS before working
with chemicals.
- Wear appropriate PPE by following the
MSDS when handling chemicals.
- Never eat, drink, chew gum or apply
cosmetics when working with chemicals.
- Ensure chemicals are properly labeled.
- Never mix a chemical with other
chemicals.
- Inspect chemical containers for
punctures, leaks, and expiration dates.
- Remove PPE and wash hands thoroughly
after handling chemicals.
- Keep containers closed and properly
stored.
- Avoid direct eye contact with chemicals.
- Never smell or taste a chemical.
- Take extra precautions when storing
flammables/combustibles.
Always make sure employees are thoroughly
trained on the safe handling and storage of
chemical containers. Some employees may not be
authorized to use certain chemicals per their
training records. Employers must ensure that
information contained on an MSDS must also be
covered with the employee at initial hire,
whenever a new chemical product is introduced,
and annually thereafter. By keeping these simple
guidelines in mind, you will dramatically reduce
the risk of chemical injuries and/or illnesses. |
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Please Note: the Safety
Bulletin is a complimentary quarterly newsletter
updating you on the latest news, trends, and
information. The contents of this newsletter do
not necessarily reflect the opinions of Safety
Resources, Inc. Safety Resources, Inc. makes no
warranties, either expressed or implied, about
the truth or accuracy of the content of the
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If you have a topic related to occupational
safety that you would like to see in the
newsletter please contact us. |
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