lab safety and regulations by dr.brahmesh, pg biochemistry, amc, vizag, ap, india

LABORATORY SAFETY AND REGULATIONS

BYDR. G. BRAHMESHPG-BIOCHEMISTRY

• Discuss safety awareness for clinical laboratory personnel.

• List the responsibilities of employer and employee in providing a safeworkplace.

• Identify hazards related to handling chemicals, biologic specimens, andradiologic materials.

• Choose appropriate personal protective equipment when working in theclinical laboratory.

• Identify the classes of fires and the type of fire extinguishers to use foreach.

• Describe steps used as precautionary measures when working withelectrical equipment, cryogenic materials, and compressed gases andavoiding mechanical hazards associated with laboratory equipment.

• Select correct means for disposal of waste generated in the clinicallaboratory.

• Outline the steps required in documentation of an accident in theworkplace.

OBJECTIVES

1. Electric shock

2. Toxic vapors & irritants

3. Compressed gases

4. Flammable liquids

5. Radioactive material

6. Corrosive substances

7. Mechanical trauma

8. Poisons

9. Biologic materials

10.Cryogenic materials

POTENTIAL HAZARDS

LABORATORY SAFETY

Safety begins with recognition of hazards and is achieved through the application of:

Common sense.

A safety-focused attitude.

Good personal behavior/habits.

Good housekeeping.

Continual practice of good laboratory technique.

LABORATORY SAFETY

In most cases, accidents can be traced directly to two primary causes:

1. Unsafe acts (PERSONAL)

2. Unsafe conditions (ENVIRONMENTAL)

LABORATORY SAFETYLABORATORY SAFETY

3 Strategies to contain hazards:

1. Engineering Controls

2. Personal Protective Equipment

3. Work Practice Controls

LABORATORY SAFETYLABORATORY SAFETY

Occupational Safety and Health Act• Public Law 91-596, enacted on 1970.

• Goal: to provide all employees (clinical laboratorypersonnel included) with a safe work environment.

• Under this legislation, the Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) is authorized toconduct on-site inspections to determine whether anemployer is complying with the mandatory standardsand assess fines if it finds noncompliance with theregulations.

REGULATIONSREGULATIONS

Occupational Safety and Health Act• The National Institute of Occupational Safety and

Health (NIOSH) serves as OSHA’s research andadvisory arm.

• The regulations most specific to clinical laboratories :

1. Occupational Exposure to Formaldehyde Standard

2. Hazard Communication Standard

3. Occupational Exposure to Blood-borne Pathogens

4. Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals inLaboratories


Agencies other than OSHA also have regulations that affect laboratories:

• Research Conservation and Recovery Act (RSRA)

• Department of Transportation (DOT)

• Medical Waste Tracking Act

• Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)


Other government and private agencies:• National Fire Protection Association (NPFA)• National Committee on Clinical Laboratory

Standards (NCCLS)• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)• National Institute of Occupational Safety and

Health (NIOSH)• National Institute of Health (NIH)• American Conference of Governmental Industrial

Hygienists (ACGIH)


Voluntary accrediting agencies:

• Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists

• Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)


Safety Responsibility

• The employer and the employee share safety responsibility.

• The employer has the ultimate responsibility for safety and delegates authority for safe operations to supervisors.

• Safety management in the laboratory should start with a written safety policy.

SAFETY AWARENESS FOR CLINICAL

LABORATORY PERSONNEL

SAFETY AWARENESS FOR CLINICALLABORATORY PERSONNEL

EMPLOYER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Establish laboratory work methods and safety policies.

2. Provide supervision and guidance to employees.

3. Provide safety information, training, personal protective equipment, and medical surveillance to employees.

4. Provide and maintain equipment and laboratory facilities that are adequate for the tasks required.


LABORATORY PERSONNELSAFETY AWARENESS FOR CLINICAL

LABORATORY PERSONNEL

EMPLOYEE’S RESPONSIBILITIES1. Know and comply with the established laboratory

work and safety methods.2. Have a positive attitude toward supervisors, co-

workers, facilities, and safety training.3. Give prompt notification of unsafe conditions or

practices to the immediate supervisor and ensure that unsafe conditions and practices are corrected.

4. Engage in the conduct of safe work practices and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).


LABORATORY PERSONNELSAFETY AWARENESS FOR CLINICAL LABORATORY PERSONNEL

SAFETY PRACTICES

General Practices:1. Smoking, eating, and application of cosmetics are

prohibited.2. Protective garment must be worn over clothing. 3. Shoes should be made of nonporous material with

closed toes and heels.4. Contact lenses should be discouraged.5. Goggles or face shields are recommended if

contact lenses are worn.6. Dangling jewelry, long hair, and beards are not

allowed.7. Mouth pipetting should be strictly prohibited.

SAFETY PRACTICESSAFETY PRACTICES

Labels and Signage:

• All chemical containers should be clearly labelled.

• Appropriate signs to identify hazards are critical.

• Areas where flammables, hazardous or toxicchemicals, and carcinogens are stored or beingused must be clearly marked.

• Areas where blood and body fluids are being storedor analyzed should be clearly marked with abiohazard mark.

SAFETY PRACTICESSAFETY PRACTICES

Flammable

Poison / Toxic

Oxidizer

Harmful / Irritant

Explosion

Environmental Hazard

Corrosive

Biohazard

Radioactive

SAFETY PRACTICES

Labels and Signage:

• The National Fire Protection Association(NFPA) developed a standard hazards-identification system (diamond-shape, color-coded symbol), which has been adopted bymany clinical laboratories.

SAFETY PRACTICES

SAFETY PRACTICES

1. Hoods

Fume Hoods

Biological Hoods

2. Chemical storage equipment

3. Personal protective equipment (PPE)

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

HOODS

Fume Hoods

• Fume hoods are used when chemical reagents mayproduce a hazardous fume.

• The sash or window should be lowered whenworking in the hood.

• Air flow should be checked to assure properventilation.

• Controls such as power, gas, and vacuum should belocated externally to prevent a spark that may causea fire when using volatiles.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

HOODS

Biosafety / Biological Hoods

• Biological safety cabinets (BSCs)

• Biological hoods remove particles that may infect theperson working with the biologically infectedspecimen.

• These hoods contain a HEPA (high-efficiencyparticulate air) filter and are used typically in amicrobiology laboratory.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

BIOSAFETY LEVEL AGENTS

1 Bacillus subtilisMycobacterium gordonae

Agents include those that have no knownpotential for infecting healthy people.

2HIV, HBVBacillus anthracisYersinia pestis

Agents associated with human disease; routesof transmission include percutaneous injury,ingestion, and mucous membrane exposure.

3Mycobacterium tuberculosisMold stages of systemic fungiFrancisella tularensisBrucella spp.

Indigenous/exotic agents that may causeserious or potentially lethal disease throughthe inhalation route of exposure.

4ArbovirusArenavirusFilovirusSmallpox virus

Dangerous/exotic agents which post highindividual risk of aerosol-transmittedlaboratory infections that are frequently fatal,for which there are no vaccines or treatmentsavailable.

CLASSIFICATION OF BIOLOGIC AGENTS BASED ON HAZARD

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

CHEMICAL STORAGE EQUIPMENT

• Safety equipment is available for the storage andhandling of chemicals and compressed gases.

• Safety carriers should always be used to transport500-mL bottles of acids, alkalis, or other solvents,and approved safety cans should be used for storing,dispensing, or disposing of flammables in volumesgreater than 1 qt.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

CHEMICAL STORAGE EQUIPMENT

• Safety cabinets are required for the storage offlammable liquids, and only specially designed,explosion-proof refrigerators should be used to storeflammable materials.

• Only the amount of chemical needed for the dayshould be available at the bench.

• Gas cylinder supports or clamps must be used at alltimes, and large tanks should be transported usinghandcarts.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

• The parts of the body most frequently subject toinjury in the clinical laboratory are the eyes, skin,and respiratory and digestive tracts. Hence, the useof personal protective equipment is very important.

• All contaminated PPE must be removed and properlydisposed of before leaving the laboratory.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

General Considerations:

• All blood samples and other body fluids should becollected, transported, handled, and processed usingstrict precautions.

• Gloves, gowns, and face protection must be used ifsplashing or splattering is likely to occur.

• Consistent and thorough hand washing is an essentialcomponent of infection control.

• Centrifugation of biologic specimens produce finelydispersed aerosols that are a high-risk source ofinfection.

• Ideally, specimens should remain capped duringcentrifugation.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Hand Washing:

• Hand washing is one of the major ways of preventing the spread of infectious agents.

• Even if gloves are worn, hand washing is necessary because of microscopic holes in gloves that may occur.

• When dealing with patients, hand washing should be done between each patient even if gloves are worn.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

STERILIZATION & DISINFECTION

Sterilization – is a process whereby all forms of microbiallife, including bacterial spores, are killed. Sterilization maybe accomplished by physical or chemical means.

PHYSICAL METHODS:

1. Incineration – most common method

2. Moist heat – simplest and fastest method

3. Dry heat

4. Filtration

5. Ionizing radiation

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY


Sterilization – is a process whereby all forms of microbiallife, including bacterial spores, are killed. Sterilization maybe accomplished by physical or chemical means.

CHEMICAL METHODS:

1. Ethylene oxide gas – most common sterilant

2. Formaldehyde vapor and vapor-phase H2O2

3. Glutaraldehyde

4. Peracetic acid

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY


Disinfection - it is the process destroying pathogenicmicroorganisms EXCEPT spores. Disinfection may beaccomplished by physical or chemical means.

PHYSICAL METHODS:

1. Boiling at 100oC for 15 minutes

2. Pasteurizing at 63oC for 30 minutes or 72oC for 15 seconds

3. Non-ionizing radiation such as UV light – long wavelength and low energy

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY


Disinfection - it is the process destroying pathogenicmicroorganisms EXCEPT spores. Disinfection may beaccomplished by physical or chemical means.

CHEMICAL METHODS:

1. Alcohols – 70% ethanol

2. Aldehydes – 2% glutaraldehyde

3. Halogens – 10% hypochlorite(bleach), iodophor

4. Heavy metals – 1% silver nitrate

5. Quaternary ammonium compounds

6. Phenolics – carbolic acid derivatives

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Spills:

• Any blood, body fluid, or any other potentially infectious material spill must be cleaned up and the area or equipment disinfected immediately.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Spills:

Recommended clean-up includes the following:

1. Wear appropriate protective equipment.

2. Use mechanical devices to pick up broken glass or other sharp objects.

3. Absorb the spill with paper towels, gauze pads, or tissue.

4. Clean the spill using a common aqueous detergent.

5. Disinfect the spill site using approved disinfectant or 10% bleach, using appropriate contact time.

6. Rinse the spill site with water.

7. Dispose of all materials in appropriate biohazard containers.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Blood-borne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan

• To minimize employee exposure, each employer must have a written exposure control plan.

• The plan must be available to all employees whose reasonable anticipated duties may result in occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials.

• The exposure control plan must be discussed with all employees and be available to them while they are working.

• The employee must be provided with adequate training of all techniques described in the exposure control plan at initial work assignment and annually thereafter.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Blood-borne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan

• All necessary equipment and supplies must be readily available and inspected on a regular basis.

• Special precautions must be taken when handling all specimens because of the continual increase of infectious samples received in the laboratory.

• Adopting a Standard Precautions policy, which considers blood and other body fluids from all patients as potentially infective, is required.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

• Healthcare personnel are at risk for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeiciency virus (HIV).

• Exposures occur through needlesticks or cuts from other sharp instruments contaminated with an infected patient's blood or through contact of the eye, nose, mouth, or skin with a patient's blood.

• Important factors that inluence the overall risk for occupational exposures to bloodborne pathogens include the number of infected individuals in the patient population and the type and number of blood contacts.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

• Most exposures do not result in infection. • Following a specific exposure, the risk of infection may

vary with factors such as these:

1. The pathogen involved

2. The type of exposure

3. The amount of blood involved in

the exposure.

4. The amount of virus in the patient's

blood at the time of exposure.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

How can occupational exposures be prevented?

• Many needlesticks and other cuts can be prevented by using safer techniques (for example, not recapping needles by hand), disposing of used needles in appropriate sharps disposal containers, and using medical devices with safety features designed to prevent injuries.

• Using appropriate barriers such as gloves, eye and face protection, or gowns when contact with blood is expected can prevent many exposures to the eyes, nose, mouth, or skin.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

RISK OF INFECTION AFTER EXPOSURE

What is the risk of infection after an occupational exposure?

HBV• Healthcare personnel who have received hepatitis B vaccine and

developed immunity to the virus are at virtually no risk for infection. • For a susceptible person, the risk from a single needlestick or cut

exposure to HBV-infected blood ranges from 6-30% and depends on the hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status of the source individual.

• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-positive individuals who are HBeAg positive have more virus in their blood and are more likely to transmit HBV than those who are HBeAg negative.

• While there is a risk for HBV infection from exposures of mucous membranes or nonintact skin, there is no known risk for HBV infection from exposure to intact skin.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

HCV• The average risk for infection after a needlestick or

cut exposure to HCV-infected blood is approximately 1.8%.

• The risk following a blood exposure to the eye, nose or mouth is unknown, but is believed to be very small; however, HCV infection from blood splash to the eye has been reported.

• There also has been a report of HCV transmission that may have resulted from exposure to nonintact skin, but no known risk from exposure to intact skin

BIOLOGICAL SAFETYHIV

• The average risk of HIV infection after a needlestick or cut exposure to HlV-infected blood is 0.3% (i.e., three-tenths of one percent, or about 1 in 300). Stated another way, 99.7% of needlestick/cut exposures do not lead to infection.

• The risk after exposure of the eye, nose, or mouth to HIV-infected blood is estimated to be, on average, 0.1% (1 in 1,000).

• The risk after exposure of non-intact skin to HlV-infected blood is estimated to be less than 0.1%. A small amount of blood on intact skin probably poses no risk at all. There have been no documented cases of HIV transmission due to an exposure involving a small amount of blood on intact skin (a few drops of blood on skin for a short period of time).

TREATMENT FOR THE EXPOSURE

Is vaccine or treatment available to prevent infections

either blood-borne pathogens?

HBVHepatitis B vaccine has been available since 1982 to prevent HBV infection. All

healthcare personnel who have a reasonable chance of exposure to blood or body luids should receive hepatitis B vaccine. Vaccination ideally should occur during the healthcare worker’s training period. Workers should be tested 1-2 months after the vaccine series is complete to make sure that vaccination has provided immunity to HBV infection. Hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) alone or in combination with vaccine (if not previously vacci-nated) is effective in preventing HBV infection after an exposure. The decision to begin treatment is based on several factors, such as:

1. Whether the source individual is positive for hepatitis B surface antigen2. Whether you have been vaccinated3. Whether the vaccine provided you immunity

HCV

• There is no vaccine against hepatitis C and no treatment after an exposure that will prevent infection.

• Neither immune globulin nor antiviral therapy is recom-mended after exposure.

• For these reasons, following recommended infection control practices to prevent percutaneous injuries is imperative.

HIV• There is no vaccine against HIV. However, results

from a small number of studies suggest that the use

of some antiretroviral drugs after certain occupational

exposures may reduce the chance of HIV

transmission.

• Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is recommended for

certain occupational exposures that pose a risk of

transmission.

• However, for those exposures without risk of HIV

infection, PEP is not recommended because the drugs

used to prevent infection may have serious side

effects.

What specific drugs are recommended for postexposure treatment?

HBV• If you have not been vaccinated, then hepatitis B

vaccination is recommended for any exposure regardless

of the source person’s HBV status.

• HBIG and/or hepatitis B vaccine may be recommended

depending on the source person’s infection status, your

vaccination status and, if vaccinated, your response to

the vaccine.

HCV• There is no postexposure treatment that will prevent

HCV infection.

HIV• The Public Health Service recommends a 4-week course of a

combination of either two antiretroviral drugs for most HIV

exposures, or three antiretroviral drugs for exposures that may

pose a greater risk for transmitting HIV (such as those involving a

larger volume of blood with a larger amount of HIV or a concern

about drug-resistant HIV).

• These recommendations are intended to provide guidance to

clinicians and may be modified on a case-by-case basis.

• Determining which drugs and how many drugs to use or when to

change a treatment regimen is largely a matter of judgment.

• Whenever possible, consulting an expert with experience in the

use of antiviral drugs is advised, especially if a recommended

drug is not available, if the source patient's virus is likely to be

resistant to one or more recommended drugs, or if the drugs are

poorly tolerated.

How soon after exposure to bloodborne pathogens should

treatment starts?

HBV• Postexposure treatment should begin as soon as

possible after exposure, preferably within 24

hours, and no later than 7 days.

HIV

• Treatment should be started as soon as possible,

preferably within hours as opposed to days, after the

exposure.

• Although animal studies suggest that treatment is less

effective when started more than 24-36 hours after

exposure, the time frame after which no beneit is

gained in humans is not known.

Airborne Pathogens

• A tuberculosis (TB) exposure control program must be established and risks to laboratory workers must be assessed.

• Those workers in high-risk areas may be required to wear a respirator for protection.

• All health workers considered to be at risk must be screened for TB infection.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Shipping of Specimens

• There are two types of specimen classifications:

1. Known or suspect infectious specimens – are labelled “infectious substances” if the pathogen can be readily transmitted to humans or animals and there is no effective treatment available.

2. Diagnostic specimens – are those tested as routine screening or for initial diagnosis.

• Each type of specimen has rules and packaging requirements.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Shipping of Specimens

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Housekeeping

• Work surfaces should be frequently cleaned with a disinfectant and at the beginning and end of each shift.

• Trash, infectious waste, and dirty glassware should not be allowed to accumulate in large quantities in the laboratory.

• Containers of discarded specimens and causative agents should be covered when not in use.

• The disinfectant should be a 10% bleach solution, which is made fresh every 24 hours.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Needles and Sharps

• Needles, blades, broken glass, and other sharp objectspose a physical hazard and a potential infectioushazard to the laboratory and support personnel.

• All disposable needles and other sharps should bediscarded into puncture-resistant and leak-proofcontainers marked with the biohazard symbol.

• These containers should be discarded according toinstitutional policy when they are one-half to three-fourths full.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Needles and Sharps

• Most institutions incinerate sharp containers.

• Needles should not be recapped unless a recapping device is used.

• Needles should never be cut because cutting may splatter blood or other fluids into the environment.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

Employee Training

• Each new laboratory employee should be instructed in safe work practices before exposure to hazardous substances or situations.

• Annual training in chemical safety and in exposure control is required by OSHA and must be documented.

• The laboratory should appoint a person to be responsible for laboratory safety training.

BIOLOGICAL SAFETY

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Hazard Communication

• Employees must be informed of the health risks associated with those chemicals.

• This ensures that health hazards are evaluated for all chemicals that are produced and that this information is relayed to employees.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

To comply with the new Hazard Communication Standard,clinical laboratories must:

Plan and implement a written hazard communicationprogram.

Obtain material safety data sheets (MSDS) for eachhazardous compound present in the workplace andhave the MSDS readily accessible to employees.

Educate all employees annually on how to interpretchemical labels, MSDS, and health hazards of thechemicals and how to work safely with the chemicals.

Maintain hazard warning labels on containers receivedor filled on site.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)The written CHP must include the following:

1. Criteria for and methods of monitoring chemicalexposure

2. Standard operating procedures for handling hazardouschemicals

3. Criteria for implementing engineering controls (fumehoods)

4. Use of personal protective equipment and otherhygiene practices

5. Special precautions for extremely hazardous chemicals

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

The written CHP must include the following:

6. Specific measures to ensure that fume hoods and otherequipment are working properly

7. Provision for employee information and training

8. Provision for medical consultation and examination

9. Designation of a chemical hygiene officer responsiblefor implementation of the CHP.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Material Safety Data Sheet

• The MSDS is a major source of safety informationfor employees who may use hazardous materialsin their occupations.

• Employers are responsible for obtaining from thechemical manufacturer or developing an MSDSfor each hazardous agent used in the workplace.

• A standardized format is not mandatory, but allrequirements listed in the law must beaddressed.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Material Safety Data SheetInformation contained on a material safety data sheet includes the following:

– Product name and identification

– Hazardous ingredients

– Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

– Physical and chemical data

– Health hazard data and carcinogenic potential

– Primary routes of entry

– Fire and exposure hazards

– Reactivity data

– Spill and disposal procedures

– Personal protective equipment recommendations

– Handling

– Emergency and first aid procedures

– Storage and transportation precautions

– Chemical manufacturer’s name, address, and phone number

– Special information section

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Categories of Chemicals:

• Since the laboratory deals with a wide variety ofchemicals, clinical laboratory scientists mustunderstand the potential hazards involved in theiruse.

• Chemicals may have health hazards or physicalhazards.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Categories of Chemicals:

1. Corrosives – chemicals with a pH of ≤2 or≥12.5.

2. Toxic substances – poisons, irritants, asphyxiants

3. Carcinogens – capable of causing cancer.

4. Mutagens and teratogens – capable of causingchromosomal aberrations or congenitalmalformations.

5. Ignitable – flammables and combustibles.

6. Reactive – explosive and oxidizers.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CORROSIVE CHEMICALS

• Corrosive chemicals are injurious to the skin or eyesby direct contact or to the tissue of the respiratoryand gastrointestinal tracts if inhaled or ingested.

• Commonly used corrosives in the laboratory:

Concentrated acids – such as hydrochloric, nitric,sulfuric, and acetic

Concentrated alkalis – sodium hydroxide, potassiumhydroxide, and ammonium hydroxide.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

TOXIC SUBSTANCES

• Toxic substances include poisons, irritants, andasphyxiants.

• They do not act directly with human tissue butinterfere with the metabolic processes of the body.

• They may enter the body by:

1. Ingestion

2. Inhalation

3. Skin absorption

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CARCINOGENS

• Carcinogens are chemicals that have been shown tocause cancer in animals or humans.

• Chemicals labeled or noted on the MSDS as beingcarcinogenic, cancer-causing, potential carcinogen,or cancer suspect should be clearly labeled.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CARCINOGENSOSHA regulated carcinogenic chemicals include:

Chloromethyl methyl ether – vinyl chloride N-Nitrosodimethylamine N-2-Fluorenylacetamide (2-AAF) Benz[a]pyrene 4-Aminobiphenyl Benzidine 1-Naphthylamine 2-Naphthylamine 4-Nitrobiphenyl Benzene Ethylenimine p-Dimethylaminoazobenzene β-Propiolactone bis-Chloromethyl ether

CHEMICAL SAFETY

MUTAGENS & TERATOGENS

Teratogen – anything capable of disrupting normalfetal growth and producing malformation, e.g.,drugs, poisons, radiation, physical agents such aselectroconvulsive shock, infections.

Mutagen – a physical or chemical agent that iscapable of causing a heritable alteration in theDNA, which induces a genetic mutation, e.g., drugs,UV light, ionizing radiation.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

REACTIVE CHEMICALS

• Reactive compounds have molecular structures of high reactivity.

• EXPLOSIVES

– An explosive chemical is one that rapidly decomposes and produces energy that creates an explosion.

– Example: picric acid, in its crystalline form, is known to be explosive upon impact.

– The MSDS for each chemical received by the laboratory should be consulted for potential hazards.

• OXIDIZERS

– Oxidizers are compounds which are capable of reacting with and oxidizing (i.e., giving off oxygen) other materials.

– The primary hazard associated with this class of compounds lies in their ability to act as an oxygen source, and thus to stimulate the combustion of organic materials.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

COMMON OXIDIZING GROUPS

CHEMICAL GROUP CHEMICAL FORMULAPeroxide O2

-2

Nitrate NO3-

Nitrite NO2-

Perchlorate ClO4-

Chlorate ClO3-

Chlorite ClO2-

Hypochlorite ClO-

Dichromate Cr2O7-2

Permanganate MnO4-

Persulfate S2O2-2

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR OXIDIZERSCLASS

RATINGHAZARD DESCRIPTION

1

An oxidizing material whose primary hazard is that it may increase the burning rate of combustible material with which it comes in contact.

Examples: Potassium dichromate Silver nitrate Hydrogen peroxide (8 – 27.5%) Nitric acid (<70% conc.)

2

An oxidizing material that will moderately increase the burning rate of which may cause spontaneous ignition of combustible material with which it comes in contact.

Examples: Potassium permanganate Calcium hypochlorite (<50% wt.) Hydrogen peroxide (27.5 – 52% conc.) Nitric acid (>70% conc.)

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR OXIDIZERSCLASS

RATINGHAZARD DESCRIPTION

3

An oxidizing material that will cause a severe increase in the burning rate of combustible material with which it comes contact or which will undergo vigorous self-sustained decomposition when catalyzed or exposed to heat.

Examples: Potassium chlorate Hydrogen peroxide (52 – 91% conc.) Calcium hypochlorite (>50% wt.) Perchloric acid (60 – 72.5% conc.)

4

An oxidizing material that can undergo an explosive reaction when catalyzed or exposed to heat, shock, or friction.

Examples: Ammonium perchlorate Guanidine nitrate Hydrogen peroxide (>91% conc.) Perchloric acid (>72.5%)

CHEMICAL SAFETY

REMEMBER these things about oxidizers:

• The primary hazard is the ability to act as an oxygensource, especially hazardous during fire situation.

• These materials present a fire and explosion hazardwhen in contact with organic or combustiblematerials. All contact with organic or combustiblematerial must be avoided.

• They are generally corrosive.

• The hazards associated with the use of perchloricacid are particularly severe.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

REMEMBER these things about oxidizers:

• Perchloric acid may NOT be used in any hood exceptthose specially designed for perchloric acid use.

• Strong oxidizing agents, such as chromic acid, shouldbe stored and used in glass or other inert, andpreferably unbreakable, containers.

• Corks or rubber stoppers must NEVER be used.

• Reaction vessels containing appreciable amounts ofoxidizing materials should never be heated in oilbaths, but rather on a heating mantle or sand baths.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Other reactive chemicals

Compounds with redox groups (hydrazine,hydroxylamine)

Compounds that react violently with water or air(anhydrous metal oxides)

Pyrophoric compounds that spontaneously reactwith air

Compounds that form peroxides over time andbecome explosive – such as diethyl ether.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Storage of Chemicals

• Chemicals should be stored in an uncluttered areathat is properly ventilated and away from a heatsource.

• They should not be stored above eye level.

• It is not a good idea to store chemicals alphabetically.

• Inorganic compounds should be stored separatelyfrom organics.

– Inorganic acids should be stored together with theexception of nitric acid.

– Nitric acid should be isolated from other acids.

– Acetic acid can be stored with inorganic acids.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

Storage of Chemicals

• Water-reactive chemicals such as sodium, potassium,and metal hydrides should be segregated from otherchemicals and stored in a dry environment.

• These areas should NOT be equipped with sprinklersystems.

W

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CONCENTRATED ACID / BASE SPILLS:

• Dilute first with water before clean-up isattempted.

• The spill should then be covered with aneutralizer:

Boric acid – for bases

Sodium bicarbonate – for acids

• The spill should then be absorbed with anabsorbent material.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

CONCENTRATED ACID / BASE SPILLS:

• Dispose according to the institutional policy on chemical waste disposal.

• The surface should then be cleansed with soap and water after the chemical is cleaned up.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

SOLVENT SPILLS:

• If a solvent is spilled, no water or diluent should beadded and the solvent should not be allowed to flowdown a drain.

• Since solvents may present a fume problem,respiratory protective equipment needs to beavailable.

• After absorption with absorbent material, the materialshould be placed in a closed container to preventfumes from escaping.

• All containers should be labeled with the chemicalname and any hazard and disposed as chemical waste.

CHEMICAL SAFETY

FIRE SAFETY

FLAMMABLE & COMBUSTIBLE CHEMICALS

• Flammable and combustible liquids, which areused in numerous routine procedures, are amongthe most hazardous materials in the clinicalchemistry laboratory because of possible fire orexplosion.

• They are classified according to flashpoint1. Flammable liquids have a flashpoint below 100 or 140oF.

2. Combustible liquids have a flashpoint at or above 100 or140oF.

FIRE SAFETY

HEAT

FUEL OXYGEN

FIRE TRIANGLE


FIRE SAFETY

Uninhibited

reaction

Fuel

Oxygen

Heat


FIRE SAFETY

FIRE CLASSGEOMETRIC

SYMBOL

PICTOGRAM / PICTURE

SYMBOLINTEDED USE

AGarbage can

and wood pile

burning

Ordinary solid

combustibles

BFuel container

and burning

puddle

Flammable liquids and

gases

CElectric plug

and burning

outlet

Energized electrical

equipment

D Combustible metals

K Pan burning Cooking oils and fats

FIRE SAFETY

TYPE SUITABLE FOR USE ON FIRE CLASSES

WATER

FOAM

DRY CHEMICAL

(POWDER)

CARBON DIOXIDE

CLASS D POWDER

FIRE SAFETY

PASS

ULL

IM

QUEEZE

WEEP

To operate a fire extinguisher:

FIRE SAFETY

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• Laboratories have a great deal of electrical equipment in proximity to sinks, liquids or other grounded surfaces.

• HAZARDS:

1. Burns

2. Shock

3. Electrocution

4. Ignition

5. Explosion

• Fire and explosion hazards are avoided by preventing the occurrence of high temperatures.

• Circuit breakers, fuses, and ground fault interrupters (GFI)are designed to detect overloaded circuits that could cause ignition and explosion.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Precautionary Measures

• Use only explosion-proof equipment in hazardous atmospheres.

• Be particularly careful when operating high-voltage equipment, such as electrophoresis apparatus.

• Use only properly grounded equipment (three-prong plug).

• Check for frayed electrical cords.

• Promptly report any malfunctions or equipment producing a “tingle” for repair.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY


• Do not work on “live” electrical equipment.

• Never operate electrical equipment with wet hands.

• Know the exact location of electrical control panel forthe electricity to your work area.

• The use of extension cords is NOT ALLOWED. Inemergency situations, use only approved extensioncords (properly grounded, heavy-duty) and do notoverload circuits.

• Have ground checks and periodic preventivemaintenance performed on equipment.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

COMPRESSED GASES

• Compressed gas cylinders of varying sizes can befound in laboratories and especially in researchlaboratories.

• Since the cylinders are pressurized, they can become“torpedoes” that can even penetrate block walls ifthe main valve stem is sheared by falling over.

• A good working practice when using a flammable gasis to allow only one cylinder of gas to be in use at atime and to use the smallest size possible.

COMPRESSED GASES

• Gas cylinders, both flammable and non-flammable,should never be stored in fire safety cabinets withflammable and combustible liquids.

• They should be grouped by type and stored in aventilated room reserved exclusively for cylinderstorage. The room should have a fire resistancerating of at least 2 hours.

COMPRESSED GASES

• Cylinders should always be secured by a chain or other device to prevent them from falling over and shearing the valve stem.

• When cylinders are transported, valve protective caps should be used.

• When cylinders are not in use, the valves should be tightly closed.

COMPRESSED GASES


• Know the gas that you will use.

• Store tanks in a vertical position.

• Keep cylinders secured at all times.

• Never store flammable liquids and compressed gases in the same area.

• Use the proper regulator for the type of gas in use.

• Do not attempt to control or shut off gas flow with the pressure relief regulator.

• Keep removable protection caps in place until the cylinder is in use.

COMPRESSED GASES


• Make certain that acetylene tanks are properly piped (the gas is incompatible with copper tubing).

• Do not force a “frozen” or stuck cylinder valve.

• Use a hand truck to transport large tanks.

• Always check tanks on receipt and then periodically for any problems such as leaks.

COMPRESSED GASES

PrecautionaryMeasures

• Make certain that the cylinder is properly labeled to identify the contents.

• Empty tanks should be marked “EMPTY”.

COMPRESSED GASES

CRYOGENIC MATERIALS

• Liquid nitrogen – probably one of the most widely used cryogenic fluids (liquefied gases) in the laboratory.

• Hazards of cryogenic material:– Fire or explosion

– Asphyxiation

– Pressure build-up

– Embrittlement of materials

– Tissue damage (similar to that of thermal burns)

CRYOGENIC MATERIALS


• Only containers constructed of materialsdesigned to withstand ultralow temperaturesshould be used for cryogenic work.

• The use of eye/face protection, hand protectionto guard against the hazards of touching super-cooled surfaces is recommended.

• The gloves, of impermeable material, should fitloosely so that they can be taken off quickly ifliquid spills on or into them.

CRYOGENIC MATERIALS


• To minimize violent boiling/frothing andsplashing, specimens to be frozen should alwaysbe inserted into the coolant very slowly.

• Cryogenic fluids should be stored in well-insulated but loosely stoppered containers thatminimize loss of fluid resulting from evaporationby boil-off and that prevent plugging andpressure build-up.

CRYOGENIC MATERIALS

RADIATION SAFETY

There are four types of ionizing radiation hazards:

1. Alpha particles – plutonium

2. Beta particles – 3H, 14C, 32P

3. Electromagnetic radiation – not composed of atomic particles

Gamma rays – 125I and 131I

X-rays

4. Neutrons – arise from spontaneous fission of some isotopes and are produced by atomic reactors and accelerators.

RADIATION HAZARDS

MECHANICAL AND ERGONOMIC HAZARDS

• Centrifuges – must be balanced to distribute the load equally

• Autoclaves – steam under pressure

• Homogenizers

• Laboratory glassware – be careful in handling breakable and sharp objects

• Sharp instruments – dispose in puncture-resistant containers

MECHANICAL HAZARDS

Repetitive strain disorders:

1. Tenosynovitis

2. Bursitis

3. Ganglion cysts

4. Acute musculoskeletal injury

• Primary contributing factors associated with repetitive strain disorders:

– Position / posture

– Applied force

– Frequency of repetition

ERGONOMIC HAZARDS

DISPOSAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

• In some cases, it is permissible to flush water-solublesubstances down the drain with copious quantities ofwater.

• Strong acids and bases should be neutralized beforedisposal.

• Foul-smelling chemicals should never be flusheddown the drain.

• Other liquid wastes, including flammable solvents,must be collected in approved containers andsegregated into compatible classes.

CHEMICAL WASTES

• Flammable material can also be burned in speciallydesigned incinerators with afterburners andscrubbers to remove toxic products of combustion.

• Before disposal, hazardous substances that areexplosive, such as carcinogens and peroxides, shouldbe transformed into less hazardous forms wheneverfeasible.

• Solid chemical wastes that are unsuitable forincineration must be buried in a landfill. Thispractice, however, has created an environmentalproblem, and there is now a shortage of safe sites.

CHEMICAL WASTES

• A general license by the Nuclear RegulatoryCommission is required for use of radioimmunoassay(RIA) kits in the clinical laboratory even when exemptmaterial is used.

• Under these guidelines, effluents from RIA in-vitrotests may be flushed into the sanitary sewer anddiluted with large amounts of water.

• When disposing of radioisotopes into the sanitarysewer, designate one sink for this purpose. This sinkshould be clearly labeled and routinely monitoredwith a wipe test for residual radioactivity.

RADIOACTIVE WASTES

• Other material such as disposable tubes and pipetsthat have been in contact with the radioisotopes maybe safely discarded in the routine trash after all theradioactive labels are removed.

• If the waste also contains biohazardous material, itmay be autoclaved before disposal into routine trash.

• The radiation safety officer should always beconsulted about policies dealing with radioactivewaste disposal.

RADIOACTIVE WASTES

• All biomedical waste should be placed into a leak-proof container that is puncture-resistant andequipped with a solid, tight-fitting lid. All containersmust be clearly marked with the word “biohazard” orits symbol.

• All sharp instruments, such as needles, blades, andglass objects, should be placed into puncture-resistant containers before placing them inside thebag and container.

• Needles should not be transported, recapped, bent,or broken by hand.

BIOHAZARDOUS WASTES

• Potentially biohazardous material, such as blood orblood products and contaminated laboratory waste,cannot be directly discarded.

• Contaminated combustible waste can be incinerated.

• Contaminated non-combustible waste, such asglassware, should be autoclaved before beingdiscarded.

• Special attention should be given to the discarding ofsyringes, needles, and broken glass that could alsoinflict accidental cuts or punctures.

BIOHAZARDOUS WASTES

ACCIDENT DOCUMENTATION AND

INVESTIGATION

• Any accidents involving personal injuries, even minorones, should be reported immediately to asupervisor.

• It is particularly important that the appropriateauthority be notified immediately if any individualsustains a needle puncture during blood collection ora cut during subsequent specimen processing andhandling.

ACCIDENT DOCUMENTATION AND INVESTIGATION

The investigation report should include:

1. Information on the injured person

2. Description of what happened

3. Cause of the accident (environmental or personal);

4. Other contributing factors

5. Witnesses

6. Nature of the injury

7. Actions to be taken to prevent recurrence.

ACCIDENT DOCUMENTATION AND INVESTIGATION

THANK YOU

lab safety and regulations by dr.brahmesh, pg biochemistry, amc, vizag, ap, india

Health & Medicine