4.5 Risk assessment
Before conducting an experiment, ask yourself, “What would happen if…?” Answering this question requires an understanding of the hazards associated with the chemicals and equipment involved.
For each experiment, start by identifying the properties of the chemicals involved. Use Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to find information about the substance or mixture. Chemical manufacturers are required to provide updated SDSs. Before starting a new experiment, always conduct a risk assessment, document it in writing, and make sure it is available where the work or experiment is performed.
When working with chemicals containing unknown properties, conduct risk assessments in the same manner as you would for hazardous chemicals. When possible, substitute more hazardous substances with less hazardous alternatives.
During the risk assessment, consider scenarios such as power outages, water supply disruptions, or evacuations. Determine appropriate actions to take in response to these situations.
Use the risk assessment function within the KLARA system (preferred). Alternatively, you can use a simplified form, which you can download from this website. To access the risk assessment Excel sheet, visit the 4. General rules section on the Department of chemistry sharepoint.
Risk assesement sheet - General rules section on the Kemicentrum Canvas page (login with Lucat)
If you don’t have access to SharePoint, you can directly download the risk assessment sheet from the website.
Risk assessment function within the KLARA system - HR website at Lund university staff page
Risk assessment steps
Planning your work - consider the following aspects
- Chemicals
- Solutions
- Equipment
- Laboratories
- Method (preparation, transport, execution, termination)
- Cleaning up and waste disposal.
Risk identification
- Identify hazards (anything that may cause harm).
- Check Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals.
- Are there any legal requirements?
- Consider experimental conditions where risk is increased.
- Decide who may be harmed and how.
- Evaluate the risks and take appropriate actions, such as replacing hazardous chemicals, using personal protective equipment, and providing education.
Risk assessment
- Document your findings.
- Review the risk assessment.
- Make sure the risk assessment is approved and signed by the person in charge.
Risk assment forms for non-chemicals
For non-chemical risk assessments, you can find relevant forms on the Lund University HR website. Explore the Biosafety section on the HR website for more information.
Biosafety (Biosäkerhet) - HR-webben (in Swedish)