SAFETY ENGINEERING

GROUP 7

GULPRIC, IAN KARL

OGANA, HEDRICK

PANILLOS, RAQUEL

MENGOTE, CECILIO ACE

COMPANION, LLOYD IAN

ACODESIN, NICK JAYSON

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 I. FIRE SAFETY AND FIRE CODE

FIRE - a state, process, or instance of combustion in which fuel or other material is ignited and
combined with oxygen, giving off light, heat and flame.

FIRECODE - set of standards established and enforced by government for fire prevention and
safety in case of fire as in fire escapes etc.

It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety, promote economic development through the
prevention and suppression of all kinds, of destructive fires, and promote the professionalization
of the fire service as a profession. Towards this end, the State shall enforce all laws, rules and
regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote
accountability in the fire protection and prevention service.

POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARDS:

1. IGNITION FIRE HAZARDS

o Smoking materials
o Electrical faults
o Cooking equipment
o Sparks from equipment
2. FUEL FIRE HAZARDS
o Paper
o Waste
o Furniture
o Fixtures and fittings
o Wood
o Plastics
o Structural materials

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 3. OXYGEN FIRE HAZARDS
o Open windows
o Open doors
o Natural ventilation
o Holes in the structure
o Oxidizing materials

EFFECTS OF HAZARDS IN BUILDING:

Some of effects of hazards in building are:

1. Production and release of toxic gases

2. Destruction of water supply and electric supply system
3. Combustion and damage of timber structure and flammable materials in building
furniture, roofs, paper, cloths, and etc.
4. Injury to humans and animals
5. Loss of essential properties, documents, foods or lives
6. Environmental pollution and increase in global temperature

FIRE SAFETY
What Does Fire Safety Mean?

Fire safety refers to planning and infrastructure design aimed at reducing the risk of fire or
impeding the spread of a fire when one does break out.

Fire safety encompasses the use of fire-resistant building materials, preventative actions, safe
work practices, fire safety training, flame-resistant protective clothing, and more.

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IMPORTANCE OF FIRE SAFETY:

Life is more important than anything else on Earth because there is nothing more valuable than
life. Fire safety classes teach us about the devices that aid in fire prevention, the various
processes that are involved in handling such fire disaster circumstances, and how to safely exit
the building during a fire.

This fire safety training helps in reducing the risks. A fire can occur at any moment and in any
location. It could be caused by an electric fire, lamps, candles, electric space heaters, or any other
flammable item, etc. in an organization. Lack of personnel training could result in significant
property and human life loss. Fire safety training is required in both the domestic and corporate
sectors.

For example, electric space heaters that keep rooms warm might cause fire accidents in
warehouses if they are left unattended or if they are not handled correctly. As you can’t predict
when a fire will happen, proper staff training would be beneficial in dealing with a potentially
dangerous situation. Fire safety classes are always beneficial since they deal with the rescue of
people and property in danger, which can occur at any time.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?

In both the prevention and event of a fire, those responsible include employers, landlords,
owners or a person in control of the premises such as a building or facilities manager. These key
people are deemed as the ‘responsible person’ and have a duty of care to their employees or
those who live or work within their premises.

The responsibilities of the responsible person include:

• To carry out regular risk assessments of the premises and notify staff or their chosen
representatives of any identifications

• To put in place and maintain appropriate safety measures

• To plan for emergencies

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• To provide information, safety instructions and training to staff

• This helps to ensure that adequate measures are taken to prevent the event of a fire and
reduce the risk of injury and death.

5 FIRE PREVENTION TIPS

1.Maintain fire prevention systems

While it might seem obvious, it's essential that your business not only understands the importance
of installing working smoke alarms on every level of your building, but that you should test them
every month.

Sprinkler systems not only protect over 99% of buildings from fire damage, they also prevent
additional damage from occurring. After they are installed, you should establish a regular routine
to check them for potential maintenance that might need to be performed.

2.Don't forget your fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers may work effectively at putting out smaller fires and preventing them from
turning into larger fires. Put them in a location that is visible, easily accessible, and let multiple
people in the office know where they're located and how they're operated. Like your other fire
prevention systems, they also need to be annually inspected by a qualified professional, and any
old or expired extinguishers need to be replaced.

When using fire extinguishers, employees should employ the “PASS” system of early-stage
firefighting.

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3.Be aware of overloaded circuits and extension cords

Between computers, extra monitors, phones, and employee devices, outlets can become crowded
as everything works to fit. With this added workload, overheating may become a major problem.
When using any outlet, check the fit of the plug in the outlet to help avoid loose electrical
connections. A poor connection may cause overheating and quickly spark a fire. Also avoid
placing cords or wires under rugs or in high traffic areas.

4.Keep your space clean

Don't forget your break room! Along with making sure that space is kept clean, double check that
all appliances are positioned to let air circulate properly and keep them cool.

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5.Create a fire evacuation plan

Make sure that every member of your team is aware of the plan, that you have multiple exits
depending on where they're located within the office, and that you designate an outside meeting
space that's a safe distance away from your building. To help make this happen, assign a trusted
employee the role of safety officer to help keep the plan and all your safety efforts up-to-date.
More importantly, make sure you practice. You never know when a fire might spark and if there
is an emergency, everyone should know their role, what they need to do, and where they need to
go.

FIRE FIGHTING EQUIPMENT:

Firefighting equipment

-Firefighting equipment comes in wide varieties as per the need and demands of the buyers. These
are used to detect and prevent fire along with providing protection to natural resources, human
beings, and other properties from fire. Technologically advanced firefighting solutions are also in
high demand. Multiple industries that include- mining, construction, petrochemical, automotive,
etc. are the major consumers of this equipment.

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Types of firefighting equipment

Depending on the type of fire and amount of risk, this equipment is divided into two categories:

1. Portable
2. Fixed

Portable firefighting equipment

These types of firefighting equipment are used to deal with small fires that are detected as soon
as the fire ignites. It serves the purpose of protection and prevention.

1. Fire Blankets
-Also known as fire-retardant blankets, these are used to protect human bodies from
burning. Small fires in the house, garage, boat, caravan, kitchen, etc. can be smothered by
fire blankets. Due to their simplicity, they can be used by anyone without any special
training and can be carried by the user to different places.
2. Fire Extinguisher
-As its name suggests, it is used to extinguish the fire in case of an emergency. Almost
every commercial and non-commercial buildings have a fire extinguisher installed in it.
Being portable, it is used to deal with small fires rather than fires that are out of control and
would require the help of a fire brigade. To deal with different types of fire, extinguishers
come with different types of extinguishing agents that are filled inside the cylinder.

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 3. Fire Bucket
-The simplest equipment that can be used by anyone to deal with small fires is fire buckets.
The user can fill it with water or fire smothering powders and dump it on the fire. It is
usually red in color and has FIRE written on it.
4. Flamezorb
-It is a type of firefighting powder used in areas prone to fire like a garage. Being a non-
toxic chemical, it smothers the fire very easily. These powders come in different types of
packaging as per the need of the consumers.

Fixed firefighting equipment

These types of firefighting equipment are installed at places of higher risks or areas that are prone
to catch fire easily. They are not movable and work only for the area where they are installed, for
example, engine rooms.

1. Fire Hydrants
-They are used to provide a large amount of water supply in emergencies. The firefighters
plug the hose or pipe into the hydrant and open the valve to deal with the fire. Fire hydrants are
connection points by which water can be thrown directly onto the fire or to fill fire engines. The
pressure of the water flow helps firefighters to smother out of control fires. Because of high water
pressure, these hydrants are used only by trained firefighters to avoid injuries.

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 2. Automatic Sprinkler System
-Often regarded as the most reliable equipment for firefighting, the sprinkler system has
evolved highly. It consists of a water supply via a pipe that is connected to a sprinkler head.
Whenever a fire is detected, the sprinkler starts functioning by sprinkling high-pressure water on
the fire.

With technological advancements, this firefighting equipment can detect heat and sprinkle water
in a room before it turns into fire. This has also increased its demand not only in factories and
commercial buildings but also in residential societies. Sprinkler systems are mainly used to deal
with uncontrollable fires.

3. Water Mist System

-A water mist firefighting system makes the use of nozzles and very fine water mists that create
a foggy effect. The purpose of this firefighting solution is to deal with two fire-causing elements
i.e. heat and oxygen. Fire can be suppressed and controlled before it grows by the fine mist. It
cools the flames and evaporates the gas. Due to their high efficiency in dealing with fire these
systems are used in data centers, museums, and theaters. Consumers also prefer using it because it
saves water.

4. Hose Reel System

-To combat fires the hose reel system is connected permanently to a water supply. It
consists of a nozzle at the end of the hose, an on/off valve and a hose guide. The main usage of
this type of firefighting equipment is to deal with fires that can be smothered by a pressurized
water supply. The nozzle, in the end, is used to control the flow and direction of the water.

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IN CASE OF FIRE, WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO DO

Raise the Alarm for everyone — After you’ve discovered fire, you need to act quickly and raise
the alarm immediately, no matter how small or big the fire is—remember that fire can develop
very quickly. Then, you need to ensure everybody in the house knows about the fire. You can
shout and get everyone together.

Evacuate Everyone — You should have an escape route planned beforehand that everyone in your
house is familiar with. You would want to be prompt and calm while evacuating everyone. As you
escape, remember to stay together if you can, feel the doors you go through with your hand to
check that the fire is not on the other side, only open the doors you need to and close ones you can
to slow the spreading fire, do not try to investigate the fire and delaying time to save belongings,
crawl on the floor if there is smoke and put your nose as low as possible because the air is cleaner
closer to the floor. Once you are safe, you can then call the fire department near you.

Your clothes caught fire — When your clothes catch fire do not run around because it will only
make them faster. Yet, you need to stop immediately, drop to the ground, and roll around because
it will smother the flames. Or when you have access to heavy material, such as a coat or blanket,
and water, you can wet the material then have someone put them on the burning clothes.

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED

You should consider the following instruction if you are trapped inside by the fire.

1. Put thick bedding or towels along the bottom of the door to seal the gap so the smoke
cannot get in and contaminate your lungs.
2. Stay near an open window to get fresh air and let the Firefighters see you.
3. If you cannot open a window, you must break the window then cover the jagged glass with
thick towels.
4. You can then shout out for help from your neighbors.
5. Do not jump out of the window, unless you’re on the ground or the first floor, you can try
to lower yourself to arm’s length, then drop to the ground.

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 6. If you’re too high to try it, just call the fire department near you.
7. Wait for the firemen to get you and don’t go back in for any reason.

CALL THE FIRE RESCUE TEAM

Once you’re out and safe, try to find a phone and call the fire-rescue department near you. When
you speak to the operator you need to give your whole clear address, tell them what is on fire, also
explain if anyone is trapped and which room they are in and just give as much information as you
can so they can help you.

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 II. INDUSTRUIAL HYGIENE

INTRODUCTION

Industrial hygiene has been defined as “that science and art devoted to the anticipation, recognition,
evaluation, and control of those environmental factors or stresses arising in or from the workplace,
which may cause sickness, impaired health and well-being, or significant discomfort among
workers or among the citizens of the community.”

INDUSTRIAL HYGIENISTS

Industrial hygienists use environmental monitoring and analytical methods to detect the extent of
worker exposure and employ engineering, work practice controls, and other methods to control
potential health hazards.

Industrial hygienists analyze, identify, and measure workplace hazards or stresses that can cause
sickness, impaired health, or significant discomfort in workers through chemical, physical,
ergonomic, or biological exposures. Two roles of industrial hygienist are to spot those conditions
and help eliminate or control them through appropriate measures.

WORKSITE ANALYSIS

A worksite analysis is an essential first step that helps an industrial hygienist determine what
jobs and work stations are the sources of potential problems. During the worksite analysis, the
industrial hygienist measures and identifies exposures, problem tasks, and risks. The most-
effective worksite analyses include all jobs, operations, and work activities. The industrial
hygienist inspects, researches, or analyzes how the particular chemicals or physical hazards at
that worksite affect worker health. If a situation hazardous to health is discovered, the industrial
hygienist recommends the appropriate corrective actions.

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EXAMPLES OF JOB HAZARDS

To be effective in recognizing and evaluating on-the-job hazards and recommending controls,

industrial hygienists must be familiar with the hazards' characteristics.

Potential hazards can include air contaminants, and chemical, biological, physical, and ergonomic
hazards.

• Air Contaminants

These are commonly classified as either particulate or gas and vapor contaminants. The most
common particulate contaminants include dusts, fumes, mists, aerosols, and fibers.

o Dusts are solid particles generated by handling, crushing, grinding, colliding, exploding,
and heating organic or inorganic materials such as rock, ore, metal, coal, wood, and grain
o Fumes are formed when material from a volatilized solid condenses in cool air. In most
cases, the solid particles resulting from the condensation react with air to form an oxide.
o The term mist is applied to liquid suspended in the atmosphere. Mists are generated by
liquids condensing from a vapor back to a liquid or by a liquid being dispersed by splashing
or atomizing. Aerosols are also a form of a mist characterized by highly respirable, minute
liquid particles.
o Fibers are solid particles whose length is several times greater than their diameter, such as
asbestos.
o Gases are formless fluids that expand to occupy the space or enclosure in which they are
confined. They are atomic, diatomic, or molecular in nature as opposed to droplets or
particles which are made up of millions of atoms or molecules. Through evaporation,
liquids change into vapors and mix with the surrounding atmosphere. Vapors are the
volatile form of substances that are normally in a solid or liquid state at room temperature
and pressure. Vapors are gases in that true vapors are atomic or molecular in nature.

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 • Chemical Hazards

Harmful chemical compounds in the form of solids, liquids, gases, mists, dusts, fumes, and vapors
exert toxic effects by inhalation (breathing), absorption (through direct contact with the skin), or
ingestion (eating or drinking). Airborne chemical hazards exist as concentrations of mists, vapors,
gases, fumes, or solids. Some are toxic through inhalation and some of them irritate the skin on
contact; some can be toxic by absorption through the skin or through ingestion, and some are
corrosive to living tissue.

The degree of worker risk from exposure to any given substance depends on the nature and potency
of the toxic effects and the magnitude and duration of exposure. Information on the risk to workers
from chemical hazards can be obtained from the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that OSHA's
Hazard Communication Standard requires be supplied by the manufacturer or importer to the
purchaser of all hazardous materials. The MSDS is a summary of the important health, safety, and
toxicological information on the chemical or the mixture's ingredients. Other provisions of the
Hazard Communication Standard require that all containers of hazardous substances in the
workplace have appropriate warning and identification labels.

• Biological Hazards

These include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other living organisms that can cause acute and chronic
infections by entering the body either directly or through breaks in the skin.

o Occupations that deal with plants or animals or their products or with food and food
processing may expose workers to biological hazards. Laboratory and medical personnel
also can be exposed to biological hazards. Any occupations that result in contact with
bodily fluids pose a risk to workers from biological hazards.
o In occupations where animals are involved, biological hazards are dealt with by preventing
and controlling diseases in the animal population as well as properly caring for and
handling infected animals. Also, effective personal hygiene, particularly proper attention
to minor cuts and scratches especially on the hands and forearms, helps keep worker risks
to a minimum.

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 o In occupations where there is potential exposure to biological hazards, workers should
practice proper personal hygiene, particularly hand washing. Hospitals should provide
proper ventilation, proper personal protective equipment such as gloves and respirators,
adequate infectious waste disposal systems, and appropriate controls including isolation in
instances of particularly contagious diseases such as tuberculosis.

• Physical Hazards

These include excessive levels of ionizing and nonionizing electromagnetic radiation, noise,
vibration, illumination, and temperature.

o In occupations where there is exposure to ionizing radiation, time, distance, and shielding
are important tools in ensuring worker safety. Danger from radiation increases with the
amount of time one is exposed to it; hence, the shorter the time of exposure the smaller the
radiation danger.
▪ Distance also is a valuable tool in controlling exposure to both ionizing and nonionizing
radiation. Radiation levels from some sources can be estimated by comparing the
squares of the distances between the worker and the source. For example, at a reference
point of 10 feet from a source, the radiation is 1/100 of the intensity at 1 foot from the
source.
▪ Shielding also is a way to protect against radiation. The greater the protective mass
between a radioactive source and the worker, the lower the radiation exposure.
▪ In some instances, however, limiting exposure to or increasing distance from certain
forms of nonionizing radiation, such as lasers, is not effective. For example, an
exposure to laser radiation that is faster than the blinking of an eye can be hazardous
and would require workers to be miles from the laser source before being adequately
protected. Shielding workers from this source can be an effective control method.

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 o Noise, another significant physical hazard, can be controlled by various measures. Noise
can be reduced by installing equipment and systems that have been engineered, designed,
and built to operate quietly; by enclosing or shielding noisy equipment; by making certain
that equipment is in good repair and properly maintained with all worn or unbalanced parts
replaced; by mounting noisy equipment on special mounts to reduce vibration; and by
installing silencers, mufflers, or baffles.
▪ Substituting quiet work methods for noisy ones is another significant way to reduce
noise-for example, welding parts rather than riveting them. Also, treating floors,
ceilings, and walls with acoustical material can reduce reflected or reverberant noise.
In addition, erecting sound barriers at adjacent work stations around noisy operations
will reduce worker exposure to noise generated at adjacent work stations. It is also
possible to reduce noise exposure by increasing the distance between the source and
the receiver, by isolating workers in acoustical booths, limiting workers' exposure time
to noise, and by providing hearing protection. OSHA requires that workers in noisy
surroundings be periodically tested as a precaution against hearing loss.
o Another physical hazard, radiant heat exposure in factories such as steel mills, can be
controlled by installing reflective shields and by providing protective clothing.

• Ergonomic Hazards

The science of ergonomics studies and evaluates a full range of tasks including, but not limited to,
lifting, holding, pushing, walking, and reaching. Many ergonomic problems result from
technological changes such as increased assembly line speeds, adding specialized tasks, and
increased repetition; some problems arise from poorly designed job tasks. Any of those conditions
can cause ergonomic hazards such as excessive vibration and noise, eye strain, repetitive motion,
and heavy lifting problems.

Improperly designed tools or work areas also can be ergonomic hazards. Repetitive motions or
repeated shocks over prolonged periods of time as in jobs involving sorting, assembling, and data
entry can often cause irritation and inflammation of the tendon sheath of the hands and arms, a
condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome.

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Ergonomic hazards are avoided primarily by the effective design of a job or jobsite and by better
designed tools or equipment that meet workers' needs in terms of physical environment and job
tasks. Through thorough worksite analyses, employers can set up procedures to correct or control
ergonomic hazards by using the appropriate engineering controls (e.g., designing or redesigning
work stations, lighting, tools, and equipment); teaching correct work practices (e.g., proper lifting
methods); employing proper administrative controls (e.g., shifting workers among several
different tasks, reducing production demand, and increasing rest breaks); and, if necessary,
providing and mandating personal protective equipment. Evaluating working conditions from an
ergonomics standpoint involves looking at the total physiological and psychological demands of
the job on the worker.

Overall, industrial hygienists point out that the benefits of a well-designed, ergonomic work
environment can include increased efficiency, fewer accidents, lower operating costs, and more
effective use of personnel.

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CONTROLLING HAZARDS

Industrial hygienists recognize that engineering, work practice, and administrative controls are the
primary means of reducing employee exposure to occupational hazards.

• Engineering controls minimize employee exposure by either reducing or removing the

hazard at the source or isolating the worker from the hazard. Engineering controls include
eliminating toxic chemicals and substituting non-toxic chemicals, enclosing work
processes or confining work operations, and the installation of general and local ventilation
systems.
• Work practice controls alter the manner in which a task is performed. Some fundamental
and easily implemented work practice controls include (1) changing existing work
practices to follow proper procedures that minimize exposures while operating production
and control equipment; (2) inspecting and maintaining process and control equipment on a
regular basis; (3) implementing good housekeeping procedures; (4) providing good
supervision; and (5) mandating that eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or gum,
and applying cosmetics in regulated areas be prohibited.
• Administrative controls include controlling employees' exposure by scheduling production
and tasks, or both, in ways that minimize exposure levels. For example, the employer might
schedule operations with the highest exposure potential during periods when the fewest
employees are present.
• When effective work practices or engineering controls are not feasible or while such
controls are being instituted, appropriate personal protective equipment must be used.
Examples of personal protective equipment are gloves, safety goggles, helmets, safety
shoes, protective clothing, and respirators. To be effective, personal protective equipment
must be individually selected, properly fitted and periodically refitted; conscientiously and
properly worn; regularly maintained; and replaced, as necessary.

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 III. HAZARD COMMUNICATION & CHEMICAL SAFETY

WHAT IS HAZARD?

A hazard is a potential source of harm. Substances, events, or circumstances can constitute hazards
when their nature would allow them, even just theoretically, to cause damage to health, life,
property, or any other interest of value.

HAZARD COMMUNICATION

Action in the right-to-know movement was precipitated by OSHA in late 1983 with the
promulgation of the hazard communication standard (29 CFR 1910.1200, 1983). A significant
provision of this standard is the requirement that manufacturers and importers must label
containers that they ship and provide an MSDS for each hazardous chemical they produce or
import. Employers in industries who make use of the hazardous substances also have
responsibilities to maintain hazard communication programs to protect their employees. Hazard
communication programs should be considered very important, as a large amount of OSHA
inspection activity across all industries continues to center upon this facet of worker safety and
health.

GLOBALLY HARMONIZED SYSTEM (GHS)

The GHS is a system for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labeling
of chemicals in the Philippines.

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HAZARDS OF CHEMICALS

There are two basic types of chemical hazards

➢ Physical Hazards

➢ Health Hazards

Physical Hazards- Chemicals are classified as having Physical

Hazards if they are the following:

• Explosive

• Compressed Gas

• Combustible Liquids

• Flammable

• Unstable

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 • Water Reactive

• Oxidizers

Some chemicals may be safe by themselves, but become dangerous when in contact with other
substances.

Health Hazards- Chemicals are classified as being a health hazard if they:

• Can cause cancer

• Are poisonous (toxic)

• Cause harm to your skin, internal organs, or nervous system

• Are corrosive - such as acids

• Cause allergic reactions after repeated exposure

Chemicals can enter the body through:

▪ your lungs if you breath fumes, mists or dust

▪ your skin if liquid or dust touches or spills on you or splashes in your eyes

▪ your mouth if you eat after handling chemicals

accidental swallowing of a chemical

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CONTAINER LABELING

Uniform Labeling System

Our university “Uniform Labels” are used to ensure we have one labeling system. These may be
placed on containers when chemicals are delivered to us or chemicals are transferred to other
containers.

Two (2) Basic “Uniform Labels”

HMIS - Hazardous Material Identification System

NFPA - National Fire Protection Association

Both types must identify the chemical name and hazards

Uniform Labels

Pictures may be used to identify hazards and required protection

This information may also be on the manufacturer’s label

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HMIS AND NFPA LABELS ARE VERY SIMILAR

Both use colored boxes to identify specific hazards

Numbers or codes in the boxes tell you the hazard value

Higher number = higher hazard

NFPA and HMIS Label Colors

Red - Fire Hazard

Blue - Health Hazard

Yellow - Reactivity Hazard - explosive, unstable

White - Special Hazards - corrosive, radioactive, water reactive, acid

NFPA Label

The purpose of the NFPA 704 labeling system is to provide a way of quickly identifying the
various fire related hazards associated with a particular material. The NFPA 704 "diamond" is
commonly found on bulk storage containers, but is also widely used on chemical containers and
the MSDS.

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NFPA Flammability Codes

4- Materials that will rapidly or completely vaporize at atmospheric

pressure and normal ambient temperature, or that are readily dispersed
in air and that will burn readily. Liquids with a flashpoint below 73ºF
and a boiling point below 100ºF.

3- Liquids and solid that can be ignited under almost all ambient
temperature conditions. Liquids with a flashpoint below 73ºF and a
boiling point above 100ºF or liquids with a flashpoint above 73ºF but
not exceeding 100ºF and a boiling point below 100ºF.

2- Materials that must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures
before ignition can occur. Liquids with flashpoint above 100ºF but not exceeding 200ºF

1-Materials that must be preheated before ignition can occur. Liquids that have a flashpoint above
200ºF.

0-Materials that will not burn.

NFPA Health Hazard Codes

4-Materials that on very short exposure could cause death or

major residual injury.

3-Materials that on short exposure could cause serious temporary

or residual injury

2-Materials that on intense or continued, but not chronic exposure

could cause incapacitation or possible residual injury.

1-Materials that on exposure would cause irritation but only

minor residual injury.

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0-Materials that on exposure under fire conditions would offer no hazard beyond that of ordinary
combustible material.

NFPA Reactivity Hazard Codes

4- Materials that in themselves are readily capable of

detonation or of explosive decomposition or reaction at normal
temperatures and pressures.

3-Materials that in themselves are capable of detonation or

explosive decomposition or reaction but require a strong
initiating source or which must be heated under confinement
before initiation or which react explosively with water.

2-Materials that readily undergo violent chemical change at elevated temperatures and pressures
or which react violently with water or which may form explosive mixtures with water.

1-Materials that in themselves are normally stable, but which can become unstable at elevated
temperatures and pressures.

0-Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire exposure conditions, and which
are not reactive with water

NFPA Special Hazard Codes

ACID = Acid Products

ALK = Alkali or Bases

COR = Corrosive Products

OX = Oxidizer

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W =Reacts with water

= Radioactive

What do I do… If there is no label or I cannot read the label?

STOP - do not use the chemical

TELL your supervisor

READ the MSDS and have another label put on the container

HANDLING CHEMICALS SAFELY

Be aware of your surroundings and keep the following items in mind:

General Safe Handling Practices

• If you are using flammable chemicals, make sure any

ignition sources have been extinguished and heat is kept
away.

• If you are using more than one chemical, make sure

they will not react dangerously with one another.

• If you notice any fumes, vapors, bubbling, or unusual

odors, stop what you are doing, vacate the area and
request assistance.

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Minimize Your Exposure

Proper chemical handling includes selecting the right kind of personal protective equipment (PPE)
for the specific chemical hazard. In particular, you must select a glove that provides adequate
protection against the individual chemical you are using (check the SDS for details), if necessary.
When pouring or handling liquid chemicals, make sure you don proper splash protection (including
gloves, aprons, and goggles).

A functional workplace ventilation system can prevent unnecessary inhalation exposures and
reduce or eliminate the need for respiratory protection. Proper ventilation can also reduce the
potential for fire hazards. Examples of workplace ventilation systems include:

• Dust collection systems on woodworking equipment.

• Using spray hoods when painting.

• Snorkel vents over chemical and welding operations.

Contact EH&S for a hazard evaluation if you are unsure if the chemical you are handling requires
special PPE, ventilation, or respiratory protection.

Housekeeping and Personal Hygiene

• Do not use or store chemicals in non-work areas such as eating areas or in locker rooms. Eating
and drinking is prohibited in work areas and must be assigned to a specific area or room.

• Always wash your hands after working with chemicals. Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals
may have delayed effects.

• Always clean up equipment and work surfaces if they come into contact with chemicals and
avoid placing chemical containers on the floor or at the end of a bench or table to prevent a spill.

• Keep containers closed when not in use.

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KNOW WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A SPILL

Personal safety is the highest priority when a spill occurs. Depending on the scope of the spill and
your training in spill clean-up procedures, you may be able to clean up a spill yourself or with the
help of coworkers who are also trained in spill clean up. EH&S is available to clean up spills if
you are not trained in these procedures or if the spill is large.

In case of a small spill that does not present a significant hazard:

• Cordon off the affected area.

• Don the proper PPE for the chemical that has spilled (according to the SDS).

• Surround the spill using paper towels or the absorbent material from your spill kit.

• Proceed to clean up the spill using the same materials.

• Dispose of all clean-up materials as hazardous waste.

In the case of a large spill, call police dispatch at 911.

CHEMICAL STORAGE

Chemicals must be physically segregated according to hazard class to prevent adverse chemical
reactions. The segregation rules apply to all chemicals, regardless of their physical state (solid,
liquid, or gas). If space is limited, incompatible chemicals can be placed in separate secondary
containments in the same cabinet. Proper chemical segregation can be accomplished by
designating storage cabinets, tubs, bins, or specific areas for a specific hazard class. Hazardous
classes include:

• Flammable: fuel, welding gases, solvents, paint thinner, acetone, spray aerosols

• Combustible: flux, paint, wood dust, stain, cutting fluid, some adhesives, oil

• Oxidizers: oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, bleach, certain cleaners

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• Toxics: mercury, lead, alloys containing cadmium or beryllium, chlorinated solvents or
degreasers, solders, pesticides

• Acids: etching solutions, battery acid

• Bases: caustic or alkaline materials, ammonia based cleaners and some chemical strippers

• Reactives: polymer kits, epoxy resin

Chemicals must be stored in secondary containment, such as plastic tubs, and should not be
scattered around the shop. Ensure that these materials are properly restrained when they are stored
in cabinets or on shelving. Avoid storing chemicals near sources of heat or combustion.

Chemical containers must be compatible with the chemicals they are holding. For example,
corrosive chemicals, such as strong acids and bases, will corrode metal containers.

All chemical containers must also be clearly labeled with the manufacturer’s original label. If you
transfer any chemicals to another container, you are required to provide your own label. Containers
must be clearly labeled with the product identifier (from the SDS), and general information about
the hazards of the chemical. No more than 10 gallons of flammable chemicals may be stored
outside of a flammable storage cabinet at any time. Keep oily rags in a separate, flash proof metal
container. When chemicals are not in use, they must be tightly sealed. If containers are damaged,
leaking, or corroded, the contents must be transferred to a new properly labeled container or
disposed of as hazardous waste.

HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL WASTE

When a chemical product is discarded or is no longer useable, it typically becomes a hazardous

waste, which requires special disposal procedures. Old or expired chemicals that cannot or will
not ever be used should be disposed of as hazardous waste. Remember that waste can be decreased
by purchasing only the amount of a chemical that you need or by substituting non-hazardous
products for hazardous chemicals.

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WHAT IS HAZARDOUS WASTE?

A waste meets the definition of hazardous waste if it has one or more of the following hazardous
characteristic(s): it is flammable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic. These are referred to as
characteristic wastes. Hazardous wastes that could be generated in the shops include oil, oily rags,
used solvent, paint, aerosol cans, etc.

WHAT DO I DO WITH HAZARDOUS WASTE?

1. Identify and Label with a Hazardous Waste Tag.

A Hazardous Waste Tag must be placed on each

hazardous waste container upon start of accumulation
and must be kept on the container at all times. The EH&S
Office can assist the shop in creating hazardous waste
tags and using available software to support the proper
labeling and pick-up of hazardous waste.

See Figure 10.1 for an example of a complete tag.

2. Follow the container requirements.

• Liquid container requirements:

○ Containers must be free of exterior contamination.

○ Containers must be chemically compatible and the size should be

suitable for the material stored. Figure 10.1 – Sample

Hazardous Waste Tag
○ Containers must be in good condition with screw tops or sealed
lids.

○ Containers must not be leaking, rusting, or have any other defects.

○ Containers must not be filled to the top (only fill 90% full, leaving 10% air space)

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 • Dry container requirements:

○ Dry waste must be double bagged in transparent, sturdy bags and cannot have sharp or protruding
edges.

3. Store the waste safely in the shop:

• Collect and store hazardous waste in the same or adjacent room where it is generated before it is
transported.

• Keep the containers closed and inspect them for signs of leaks, corrosion, or deterioration
regularly.

• Report damaged containers to EH&S. EH&S will help with the transfer of contents to an
appropriate container.

• Segregate chemical wastes to prevent incompatible mixtures. For example, do not mix acids with
bases, acids

with cyanide compounds, or oxidizers with organic materials.

• Label storage areas according to the types of chemicals kept there (e.g., “Corrosive”,
“Flammable”, etc.).

• Storage of hazardous waste under the sink is prohibited. Dispose of waste within 90 days from
the first point of generation. Coordinate waste pick-up with the EH&S

Office prior to reaching the 90 day limit.

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WHAT ABOUT SPECIAL WASTES?

Contact EH&S if you think you may have a special waste, such as an unknown chemical or a
container that is damaged or corroded.

HOW CAN I DECREASE HAZARDOUS WASTE?

Some hazardous chemicals can be substituted with non-hazardous products, like using aqueous
parts washers instead of solvent based ones. Other wastes can be decreased by not purchasing large
quantities of chemicals

when only a small quantity is necessary for a job. If a certain chemical has an expiration date, use
the older containers first. If possible, use substances that can be neutralized or stabilized either
physically or chemically.

Use less hazardous substitutes when feasible.

WHAT DO I DO WITH EMPTY CHEMICAL CONTAINERS?

Containers that held chemicals or hazardous waste are only considered empty when material
cannot be poured or scraped from them. Most empty containers do not need to be managed as
hazardous waste, but there are some exceptions. You will need to dispose of a container as
hazardous waste if it contains waste residue or if its capacity is greater than five gallons.

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?

• Don’t dispose of chemicals down the drain or in regular trash receptacles.

• Unknown chemicals may require special analysis. Contact the EH&S Office for further details
on proper handling of unknown chemicals

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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

In addition to labeling, chemical manufacturers or importers must provide MSDSs for hazardous
substances. The hazard communication standard lists specific categories of information that must
be included in the MSDSs.

FIGURE 5.1 Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). (This form is available on the Companion
Website.)

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A delicate issue of MSDSs is the problem of dealing with trade secrets. There is likely no industry
more sensitive about trade secrets than the chemical industry and the OSHA standard addresses
this issue in detail. The manufacturer or importer, and in turn the employer, can withhold specific
chemical identities from the MSDS, but only if they can justify this position according to specific
criteria contained in the standard. Even then, they must disclose the chemical identities to health
professionals on request, in accordance with criteria specified in the standard. In nonemergency
situations, the manufacturer, importer, or the employer may require a confidentiality agreement.
Disputes are anticipated as an inevitable consequence of conflicting interests between the
manufacturers and persons claiming a need to know chemical identities. Accordingly, the
standards provide for referrals to OSHA to weigh the evidence on both sides, and, if appropriate,
subject the manufacturer, importer, or employer to OSHA citation. Another problem to consider
is how to deal with mixtures in which a hazardous

substance is only an ingredient. What must be done depends on circumstances best illustrated by
a decision diagram (see Figure 5.2).

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In the lower right portion of the decision diagram note that if the ingredient is a carcinogen, tinier
concentrations (one-tenth of 1%) are required to be identified for reporting as a content of the
mixture.

Employee Hazard Communication Program

After the manufactured or imported chemical is distributed to others, responsibility for protection
of employees from potential exposure becomes the responsibility of the employer in those firms
that “use” (i.e., “package, handle, react, or transfer”) the hazardous substances. A principal
requirement for such employers is that they have a written hazard communication program. The
safety and health manager should ensure that employees know about this program because the
workers themselves may be asked about it by federal enforcement inspectors. One required
component in the written program is a list of the hazardous chemicals known to be present in the
workplace. For each of the hazardous chemicals listed, an MSDS must be on hand and available
to employees. If the substance was purchased prior to the right-to-know era and no MSDS is on
hand for a given substance, the employer is required to obtain or generate one.

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REFERENCES:

https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/fire%20code

https://www.ufginsurance.com/about-
ufg/simplesolutionsblog/simplesolutionsblog/2019/10/16/fire-prevention-month-5-safety-tips

https://bannerfire.co.uk/blog/the-importance-of-fire-safety/

https://www.safeopedia.com/definition/740/fire-safety

https://www.firesealdirect.co.uk/advice-centre/how-do-fires-spread/

Rieske, D & Asfahl, Industrial Safety and Health Management (1983- ), 6th Ed.

Hazard Communication -University of Southern Indiana Chemical Safety on the Job (2019), The
Regents of the University of California.

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