Chemical Safety
Various type of chemicals is being used
widely in most of the industry on daily basis for various requirements.
If these chemicals are not handled properly,
they can result in to acute and chronic effects on the users and environment.
HAZARDOUS AREA CLASSIFICATION PART 3
Following Precautions are needed to be
taken while handling chemicals.
Check the label of the container and
understand how to use it properly. If in doubt, ask the HSE Officer or the
Supervisor about correct method of use.
Always use the basic PPE such as chemical
gloves, mask, protective clothing, & face shield etc. before opening any
chemical container.
Read the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) before
using any chemical to find out recommended PPE, First Aid Measures, Fire
Fighting Measures, & Accidental Spillage Control Measures.
Check out for the legal regulations for
disposal and provide for the same to avoid improper disposal of empty
containers.
Crush the containers before disposing so
that nobody can reuse the container for other purposes & get exposed to
harmful effects.
Do not store the chemicals in containers
other than its own as it it can lead to
accidental consumption and/or other
accidents. e.g. thinner used to dilute paint or glue is often colorless and can
be mistaken with water if stored in a water bottle.
Do not store chemicals in a disposable
container like water bottle.
Do not keep the chemical container
without correct labeling.
Remember that chemicals can cause
irreversible damage to your body and money cannot buy your organs back for you
again.
As the ill effect of chemicals on body
is seldom noticeable instantly, it is always wise to use all the recommended
PPE and remain safe.
Know the symbols used on the containers,
to indicate properties of the particular chemical such as flammable, harmful,
toxic, oxidizing, explosive, radioactive etc.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using
the chemicals.
Wash your hands and other exposed body
parts thoroughly after using chemicals.
Use only recommended cleaning agents.
e.g. cleaning glue from hands with thinner is a wrong practice as thinner
penetrates through skin and is harmful to the body.
Permit to Work PTW Interview Q & A
HSE Auditing: Conducting Effective Audits
As far as possible, use harmless
chemicals as substitute and eliminate the risk of exposure to dangerous
chemicals.
Provide proper ventilation while working
in enclosed areas.
Keep the protective clothing & other
PPE clean. Wash protective clothing from time to time to avoid exposure.
Keep chemical spill kit in the storage
area and provide training to employees on the use of the same.
Provide firefighting equipment in the
chemical storage area.
