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Chemical
Safety
The University
of South Alabama is committed to providing a safe working
environment and believes employees have a right to know
about health hazards associated with their work. A Chemical
Hygiene Plan has been developed which includes policies,
procedures and responsibilities designed to create an
awareness of potentially hazardous chemicals in the
workplace and to train employees, students and contractors
in appropriate, safe working conditions.
It is important
that everyone assume equal responsibility for chemical
safety. Employees and students wishing to gain access
to pertinent safety information should initially contact
their supervisor or instructor. In the event information
is unavailable they can contact the Office of Safety
and Environmental Compliance for assistance. The University's
Safety and Environmental Compliance department maintains
department inventories and manages related permits.
Currently the Safety and Environmental Compliance department
maintains a permit for the treatment, storage and disposal
of hazardous chemicals.
General
Emergency Spill Procedures
Before starting any new work,
personnel should be aware of possible hazards that could
occur in his/her specific work place. They should be familiar
with any emergency procedures and the location of all
emergency equipment available in case of trouble.
The following
emergency procedures are recommended in the event of
fire, spills, explosions or other emergencies:
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Alert
others in the area of the problem. Evacuate and
secure the area. Post a clear warning sign near
the area. Contact emergency personnel (fire, medical,
etc.) |
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| 2. |
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Assist
the injured. Remove the injured from the area
only if they are in danger of further harm. If
they are not in danger, leave them until trained
personnel arrive. If you call 911, contact the
University Police so they will be aware of the
problem. |
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| 3. |
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Start
emergency first aid of the injured (CPR, decontamination
of victims, etc.) |
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| 4. |
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If
available, use outside vented chemical fume hood
to help remove fumes from the area. You may need
to contact the Central Utilities Department (6-7047)
on main campus or your facilities maintenance
department, as they may need to shut off the air
handlers to prevent the spread of fumes throughout
the building. For large spills/emergencies, pull
the fire alarm to notify authorities and this
will automatically shut off the air handlers. |
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Begin
decontamination only after the area has been secured
and any victims have been removed. Trained personnel
should conduct decontamination and clean up only. |
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| 6. |
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Above
all, DO NOT BECOME A VICTIM YOURSELF. If you are
not equipped or trained to respond to an incident,
go find someone who is. You must protect yourself. |
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