Chemical Safety
Chemical safety ensures all activities involving chemicals—natural or manufactured—are done to minimize risks to people and ecosystems. It encompasses understanding chemical hazards, utilizing proper controls, providing worker education, and adhering to regulations at workplaces and beyond. These hazards include toxicity, flammability, corrosiveness, explosiveness, and carcinogenicity.
Types of Chemical Hazards and Risks
- Flammable and Explosive: Chemicals like gasoline or TNT pose fire and explosion risks.
- Toxic: Substances such as lead, mercury, and cyanide cause poisoning and chronic health issues through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact.
- Corrosive: Acids and alkalis can cause severe skin and eye burns.
- Reactive: Chemicals like sodium or hydrogen peroxide may react dangerously when exposed to heat or other substances.
- Carcinogenic: Some chemicals increase cancer risk with long-term exposure, such as benzene and asbestos
Routes of Exposure
Chemicals can enter the body by:
- Inhalation of gases, vapors, dusts, or fumes.
- Skin contact causing absorption or burns.
- Eye exposure causing irritation or blindness.
- Ingestion through contaminated food or hands
Regulatory Frameworks and Standards
Chemical safety is governed by laws and agencies that enforce workplace safety and public health protection:
- OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS): Requires labeling, safety data sheets (SDS), and training for workers about chemical hazards
- NIOSH and CDC: Provide research, exposure limits, chemical hazard information, and health recommendations EPA: Regulates chemical substances under acts like TSCA to limit environmental and human risk
- WHO: Develops global chemical safety guidelines and campaigns, addressing public health risks and lead poisoning
Best Practices for Chemical Safety
- Proper Labeling and Use of Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Ensure all chemical containers are labeled clearly and that SDSs are accessible to workers
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use appropriate gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing based on the chemical hazard. PPE reduces exposure but is secondary to engineering controls
- Engineering Controls: Employ ventilation, containment, and process modifications to minimize exposure.
- Safe Storage and Handling: Store chemicals according to compatibility and environmental requirements; avoid transferring chemicals into unlabeled containers Training and Awareness: Educate employees on chemical risks, handling procedures, emergency responses, and proper hygiene practices to prevent ingestion or contact.
- Emergency Preparedness: Establish spill response plans and provide eyewash stations, showers, and clear procedures for accidents
- Monitoring and Compliance: Conduct regular risk assessments and exposure monitoring to ensure safety limits (e.g., OSHA PELs, NIOSH RELs) are not exceeded resources
Identifying and Evaluating Hazards in Research Laboratory
Procedures & Resources
- UND's Chemical Hygiene Plan can be found in PolicyStat
- Lab Specific Chemical Hygiene Plan
Chemical Storage & Segregation Guidelines
Per the Chemical Hygiene Plan, laboratories shall submit a copy of their inventory to the Office of Safety bi-annually.
A safety data sheet (SDS) is a document that provides detailed information about the hazards of a product and safety precautions for its use. It includes critical safety information such as physical and chemical properties, storage requirements, and personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations. SDSs are required by law to be provided by manufacturers or suppliers of hazardous products to ensure safe handling and use in workplaces.
Each University department must maintain a SDS for each chemical used in their department and ensure that each SDS is readily available. Staff are required to have immediate access to SDSs. Either electronic or paper versions are acceptable, however access cannot be impeded by power or internet issues.
What is COMS?
- COMS stands for Chemical Ordering Management System.
- COMS is integrated with the Jaggaer E-Pro system and is set up for chemical purchasing.
- COMS allows University staff to find, purchase, and track chemicals from one application.
All chemicals purchased by the university, faculty, and staff must be ordered through Jaggaer Marketplace using the COMS punchout. If, for some reason, a chemical is not available in COMS, contact the Office of Safety to review order on a case-by-case basis.
To obtain access to COMS ordering, contact the Lab & Research Safety Officer at und.safety@und.edu
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that causes cancer and various respiratory illnesses. Buildings constructed prior to 1980 may contain asbestos. However, asbestos-containing materials are still being manufactured today. Therefore, the only true way to identify if asbestos is present in a material is to have it tested. Asbestos is commonly found in older appliances, brake pads and linings, insulation, shingles, siding, putties, and caulking. Generally, it is not a problem unless the asbestos-containing material is friable (if under normal pressure from finger turns into powder) and airborne.
All University owned buildings are required to be inspected by a North Dakota state-certified inspector for the presence of asbestos-containing materials prior to the beginning of any renovation or demolition projects. All individuals involved in the removal of asbestos-containing materials must be properly trained and be certified with the state of North Dakota.
If you have questions regarding asbestos or suspect a material in your work environment contains asbestos, call the Facilities Department, 701.777.2591.
Compressed gas cylinders may contain up to 2500 PSI of pressure. Serious accidents can occur when the valves of these cylinders are broken off. The escaping gases can create a jet action of sufficient force to propel the cylinder like a "rocket". This "rocket" can penetrate through walls of buildings and cause injury to persons in its vicinity. The improper storage, movement, and use of gas cylinders is a major safety hazard.
When using high-pressure compressed gas cylinders, always be aware of the following safe work practices:
- Empty cylinders must be plainly marked "MT" or "EMPTY" and removed to a segregated storage area.
- To prevent tipping, cylinders must be secured in position regardless of status (in use or storage; full or empty) by restraining straps or chains mounted to a rigid surface.
- When cylinders are not in use, insure that the valve is in the off position and not leaking. Valve covers must be firmly in place.
- Only use regulators and gauges designed for the particular gas to be used. Never force-fit gauges and regulators, because leaks may appear creating additional hazards.
- Always store cylinders with valve end "UP" and valve cover installed.
- When movement of the cylinders is required, transport cylinders with a wheeled cart. Do not slide or roll cylinders.
- Storage of high-pressure gas cylinders must be in a well-ventilated area and away from excessive heat or ignition sources.
- During storage, oxygen and other oxidizing compressed gas cylinders must be separated from compressed gas cylinders containing flammables.
- If cylinders must be filled, do so according to regulatory and manufacturer guidelines.
- Department of Transportation (DOT) rules require that hydrostatic testing procedures be used as preventive maintenance to detect cylinder fatigue. Refuse delivery on cylinders not having the hydrostatic test date marked on the cylinder.
Overview
Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane (DCM), is a common solvent used in a variety of research, industrial, and consumer applications. It’s found in many academic research labs for its effectiveness in dissolving compounds and its low boiling point.
Background
In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determined that DCM poses an unreasonable risk to human health and issued a final ruleexternal site (opens in a new window) under the Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA). This rule bans most consumer and commercial uses of DCM due to its health risks.
While the new rule allows continued use in research labs under certain conditions, it requires that labs adhere to a Workplace Chemical Protection Program (WCPP) to limit exposure and ensure safe handling.
Health Risks
Due to its high volatility, inhalation exposure to vapors is a significant hazard of working with DCM. Exposure to DCM can cause both short-term and long-term health effects, including:
- Cancer risk – Based on animal studies, prolonged exposure can increase cancer risk.
- Neurotoxicity – Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
- Organ damage – Potential harm to the heart, liver, and nervous system.
- Irritation – Skin and eye irritation upon contact.
- Asphyxiation risk – High concentrations in poorly ventilated areas can lead to oxygen deprivation.
New Exposure Limits
The new EPA regulation significantly lowers the allowable exposure levels for DCM compared to OSHA’s previous standards (see table below). For context, the new eight-hour time-weighted average (TWA) for DCM exposure is 2 ppm, which is 12.5 times lower than the previous OSHA limit of 25 ppm. This means that even low-level exposure that was previously considered acceptable will now require enhanced protective measures, such as improved ventilation, increased monitoring, adjustments to work practices, and/or the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
| Exposure Limit | OSHA Standard | New EPA Rule |
|---|---|---|
| 8-Hour Time Weighted Average (TWA) | 25 ppm | 2 ppm |
| 15-minute Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) | 125 ppm | 16 ppm |
| Action Level | 12.5 ppm | 1 ppm |
Common DCM Uses
Chemical Synthesis and Sample Preparation
DCM is often used in chemical synthesis and sample preparation due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of compounds and low boiling point. Researchers will need to:
- Identify safer alternative solvents where possible (see "Alternative Solvents" below).
- Update lab procedures to reflect proper handling requirements under the new rule.
- Ensure that ventilation, work practices, and personal protective equipment (PPE) meet the new safety standards.
Cleaning and Degreasing
Some labs use DCM for cleaning delicate lab equipment and removing grease or residue. Under the new rule:
- Labs must evaluate the possibility of switching to alternative cleaning agents (e.g., ethyl acetate, heptanes).
- Enhanced safety protocols, including proper ventilation and PPE, must be implemented if continued use is necessary.
- If the enhanced safety protocols are not sufficient to control DCM exposure, labs may need to establish regulated areas for any cleaning operations involving DCM.
Required Actions for Labs
To comply with the new EPA rule, the Office of Safety requires the following steps:
Chemical Inventory Update
- If your lab uses DCM, make sure it is listed in your chemical inventory.
- Check all biological kits or commercial products for DCM.
Chemical Disposal
- If your lab has DCM that is no longer in use, submit a Waste Manifest and have it removed from inventory.
- Non-research use of DCM (e.g., paint, paint strippers, aerosol sprays) is prohibited under the new rule.
Exposure Monitoring and Training
Lab safety manuals must be updated to reflect the new requirements, including a description of the use and handling of DCM.
Alternative Solvents
Researchers are encouraged to replace DCM with safer alternatives where possible.
| Application | Alternative Solvents | Additional Resources |
|---|---|---|
|
Chromatography |
Ethyl acetate/ethanol mixtures, heptanes, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), other various ether and ester solvents |
|
|
Extractions and Purifications |
Ethyl acetate, MTBE, toluene, 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF), other various ether and ester solvents |
Chlorinated solvents: their advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives |
|
General Solvent Use |
Heptanes, ethyl acetate, cyclopentyl methyl ether, 2-MeTHF, other various ether and ester solvents |
Greener solvent alternatives for common lab processes
|
Note: Other chlorinated solvents, such as 1,2-dichloroethane, are under EPA review and may face similar restrictions soon. Therefore, they should not be considered as alternatives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, lead poisoning is a leading environmental health risk. Lead accumulation in a person's system may lead to fatigue, sudden behavioral change, abdominal pain, anorexia, chronic headaches, joint aches, depression, anemia, impotence, and severe fetal damage in unborn infants.
Most homes and buildings built before 1978 contain lead paint. Lead can be present on any painted surface, but it is most commonly found on windows, trim, doors, railings, outside walls, and bare soil around the home. Surfaces that have been repainted may have layers of lead paint underneath. A lead inspection can tell where lead may be located.
Two common sources of lead exposure include:
- Ingestion (lead paint)
- Inhalation (lead-containing dust)
Lead based paint is of greatest concern under the following circumstances:
- Areas where young children or pregnant women are present
- Areas with flaking or deteriorating paint
- Homes or buildings that were built or painted prior to 1978
- Scraping, sanding, or disturbing old paint can release large amounts of toxic lead dust
Other sources of lead:
- Drinking water - from lead plumbing and lead solder
- The job - being exposed to lead at work and carrying it home on clothes
- Old toys and furniture - old paint that is peeling or cracking
All areas that may contain lead paint must be identified before maintenance or other work is done, especially if the work produces heat, such as welding, brazing, etc.
Lead based paint issues at the University are typically handled by the Facilities Department (701.777.2591). The Office of Safety serves as an informational resource regarding lead based paint, and other lead hazards.