5. General rules for work with chemicals

Prudent laboratory practices

Minimizing chemical exposures is essential. While few laboratory chemicals are entirely without hazards, it’s crucial to adopt general precautions when handling all substances. Additionally, specific guidelines for particular chemicals should be followed. Even for substances with no known significant hazards, exposure should be minimized. Special precautions are necessary when working with substances that present special hazards. Assume that any mixture is more toxic than its most toxic component and treat all substances of unknown toxicity as toxic.

To prevent inadvertent exposure to hazardous chemicals, develop and encourage safe habits and thereby promote a strong safety culture.

1) Plan ahead

• Conduct a risk assessment analysis before beginning any experiment.
• Obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the chemicals you are going to work with. SDS provides essential information, including physical data (melting point, boiling point, flash point, etc.), toxicity, health effects, first aid procedures, reactivity, storage guidelines, disposal methods, protective equipment, and spill-handling procedures. You can find safety data sheets in the KLARA chemical database.

2) Minimize exposure to chemicals

• When working with flammable or health-hazardous substances, use a fume hood or similar protective equipment.
• Prevent skin contact with laboratory chemicals.

3) Do not underestimate hazards or risks

• Always label all preparations and reagent vessels with the chemical names. Use appropriate pictograms according to CLP (Classification, Labelling, and Packaging).
• Every chemical container, whether obtained from a vendor or produced in the laboratory, must have labels that clearly specify the associated hazards of that chemical.
• Remember that even test tubes, beakers, etc. intended for storage and waste bottles should be labeled with the appropriate pictogram.

4) Be prepared for accidents

• Before starting an experiment, know the specific actions to take in case of accidental release of hazardous substances.
• Display emergency telephone numbers prominently in the lab.
• Familiarize yourself with the location of safety equipment, fire alarms, and telephones.
• Know whom to notify in the event of an emergency.
• Be prepared to provide basic emergency treatment.
• Keep your co-workers informed of your activities so they can respond appropriately.