BEST PRACTICES

Even when not required by environmental regulations, the following best practices are recommended.

1. Store incompatible chemicals separately, i.e., separate acid, bases, organic solvents and oxidizers.
2. Flammable chemicals should be stored in a ventilated flammables storage cabinet.
3. Do not store chemicals in walkways or hallways or other means of egress.
4. Chemical containers should be stored in pans, or trays made of compatible material that will act as secondary containment if a container breaks or leaks.
5. Do not store open containers of chemicals in laboratory hoods.
6. Minimize the storage of chemicals on laboratory bench tops.
7. Store the minimum quantity of chemicals necessary.
8. Store acids and bases below eye level.
9. Make sure container caps are secure.
10. Make sure containers are properly labeled. Labels should include name of the chemical, hazards and precautions required. Do not reuse containers without relabeling the exterior.
11. Keep a chemical spill kit available adequate to clean up the largest anticipated spill that could occur in the lab. Train personnel on spill clean up procedures.
12. Clean up all spills quickly.
13. Maintain general housekeeping in the lab. Keep bench tops, aisles, and walkways clear.
14. Have an emergency evacuation plan. Train personnel in key elements of the plan and run periodic drills.
15. Minimize the storage of combustible material in labs.
16. Perform and document in a logbook periodic inspections of chemical storage areas for leaks, container deterioration. Inspection items should include the following: external corrosion, structural failure, spills and overfills due to operator error, failure of piping system (pipes, pumps, flanges, couplings, hoses, and valves), visual inspections of new tanks or containers for loose fittings, poor welds, and improper or poorly fitted gaskets, and inspect tank foundations and storage area coatings for integrity.
17. Accept chemical donations only after careful consideration of how the chemical will be used and after ascertaining that the chemical is not contaminated, out of date, etc.