11.1. Fume Hoods
Any work with hazardous substances that could generate airborne gases, vapors, aerosols, mists, dusts, or smoke must be performed in a laboratory fume hood.
EHSS inspects fume hoods in University laboratories at least annually to verify proper performance. Fume hoods that fail to meet these criteria are identified and reported to Facilities Services for repair. The PI will be notified if a fume hood in their laboratory does not meet acceptable performance standards and will be advised to cease work that requires use of the fume hood.
Any problems or operation concerns associated with a fume hood should be reported to EHSS and/or Facilities Services immediately.
Additional information on the proper use, operation and limitations of fume hoods can be obtained by completing the online EHSS Fume hood Operation Training.
11.2. Eyewashes
Emergency eyewash equipment is located in laboratories where corrosive chemicals are used. Unobstructed access to eyewashes must be maintained at all times. Eyewashes must not be blocked by equipment, trash or other items.
In the event of eye contact with a corrosive chemical, an eyewash should be used to flush the eyes for a minimum of 15 minutes.
EHSS conducts routine annual inspections of the emergency eyewash equipment to verify proper function. If a problem is identified, a notice is posted at the eyewash and Facility Services is notified to make repair(s). It is recommended that laboratory personnel activate the eyewash weekly to verify its function. Periodic activation of the eyewash will help prevent the accumulation of scale/sedimentation in the pipes supplying water to the eyewash.
Any problems or operation concerns associated with an emergency eyewash should be reported to EHSS and/or Facilities Services immediately.
Additional information on the proper use, operation and limitations of eyewash equipment can be obtained by watching the online EHSS Emergency Wash Equipment Demonstration video.
11.3. Safety Showers
Emergency safety showers are located in or outside of laboratories where chemicals are used. Unobstructed access to safety showers must be maintained at all times. Safety showers must not be blocked by equipment, trash or other items.
In the event of skin contact with a hazardous chemical, clothing should be removed from the affected area, and the shower should be used to flush the area for a minimum of 15 minutes.
EHSS conducts routine annual inspections to verify proper function of safety showers. If a problem is identified, a notice is posted at the shower and Facility Services is notified to make repair(s).
Any problems or operation concerns associated with a safety shower should be reported to EHSS and/or Facilities Services immediately.
Additional information on the proper use, operation and limitations of safety showers can be obtained by watching the online EHSS Emergency Wash Equipment Demonstration video.
11.4. Drench Hoses
Drench hoses are another mechanism to facilitate emergency washing. Drench hoses do not replace the need for an eyewash and/or a safety shower in the laboratory. If used as a body shower, follow-up washing, under a safety shower should be done to thoroughly rinse the body of chemicals. Unobstructed access to drench hoses must be maintained at all times. Drench hoses must not be blocked by equipment, trash or other items.
Additional information on the proper use, operation and limitations of drench hoses equipment can be obtained by watching the online EHSS Emergency Wash Equipment Demonstration video.