Know the physical and health hazards associated with the chemicals you are using. Carefully read the chemical's label and material safety data sheet (MSDS) before using a chemical for the first time. These documents will provide any special handling information that you may need. After the potential hazards associated with the chemicals and the experimental processes are evaluated you can modify work procedures so that laboratory hazards are minimized or eliminated.

Keep the following guidelines in mind when handling chemicals:

• Do not work alone in the laboratory, If you do need to work alone notify someone.

• Use required personal protective equipment.

• Label all containers with chemical content.

• Never smell, inhale or taste a chemical.

• Never use mouth suction to fill a pipette. Use a pipette bulb or other pipette filling device.

• Always use chemicals with adequate ventilation or in a chemical fume hood. Refer to the MSDS and/or published technical data to determine what type of ventilation is needed.

• Use hazardous chemicals only as directed and for their intended purpose.

• Inspect equipment or apparatus for damage before adding a hazardous chemical. Do not use damaged equipment.

• Avoid direct contact with any chemical. Always wear a laboratory coat and safety glasses around where chemicals are used or stored.

• Know the location of eyewash stations and safety showers and ensure they remain easily accessible.

• Keep the work area clean and uncluttered.

• Plan appropriate protective procedures and plan positioning of equipment before beginning any new operation involving chemicals.

• Electrically ground and bond containers using approved methods before transferring or dispensing a flammable liquid from a large container.

• Unattended operations. Leave lights on, place an appropriate sign on the door, provide for containment of toxic substances in the event of a failure to an unattended operation.

• Be alert of unsafe conditions and see that they are corrected when detected.

• Use chemical containers or buckets as secondary containment when transferring chemicals between laboratories.

• Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling any chemical and whenever you leave the lab.

• Smoking, drinking, eating and the application of cosmetics is forbidden in areas where hazardous chemicals are used or stored.

• Do not store chemicals and food within the same laboratory refrigerator.

For specific information regarding chemical handling, contact your Supervisor or