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Chemical Safety

Chemical Safety

Professional guidance for the safe handling, storage, transportation and emergency response of hazardous chemicals.

Independent HSE guide10 min readHigh Risk

SERNEM • Quick Technical Reference

Chemical Safety: essential answers

These answers summarize this guide; they do not replace a work permit, legal compliance decision or site-specific risk assessment.

What does this activity involve?

Hazardous chemicals may cause poisoning, burns, respiratory illness, fire, explosion and environmental contamination. Every chemical must be identified, risk assessed and handled according to its Safety Data Sheet (SDS), labeling requirements and workplace procedures.

What are the main hazards?

  • • Toxic exposure
  • • Chemical burns
  • • Skin and eye irritation
  • • Respiratory hazards

See the full hazard list below.

What are the essential controls?

  • • Read the Safety Data Sheet before using any chemical.
  • • Ensure all containers are correctly labeled.
  • • Store incompatible chemicals separately.
  • • Use approved storage cabinets for flammable substances.

The full control measures are listed below.

What should be checked before work?

  • ✓ SDS available
  • ✓ Containers labeled
  • ✓ Correct PPE worn
  • ✓ Ventilation adequate
  • ✓ Emergency shower accessible
  • ✓ Eyewash station operational

The complete checklist appears further down this page.

Overview

Hazardous chemicals may cause poisoning, burns, respiratory illness, fire, explosion and environmental contamination. Every chemical must be identified, risk assessed and handled according to its Safety Data Sheet (SDS), labeling requirements and workplace procedures.

Main Hazards

  • • Toxic exposure
  • • Chemical burns
  • • Skin and eye irritation
  • • Respiratory hazards
  • • Fire and explosion
  • • Chemical reactions
  • • Environmental contamination
  • • Incorrect storage of incompatible chemicals
  • • Chemical spills
  • • Pressurized containers

Required PPE

  • ✓Chemical-resistant gloves
  • ✓Chemical splash goggles
  • ✓Face shield where required
  • ✓Chemical-resistant clothing
  • ✓Safety footwear
  • ✓Respiratory protection when required by the risk assessment

Essential Controls

  1. 1Read the Safety Data Sheet before using any chemical.
  2. 2Ensure all containers are correctly labeled.
  3. 3Store incompatible chemicals separately.
  4. 4Use approved storage cabinets for flammable substances.
  5. 5Provide adequate ventilation.
  6. 6Inspect containers for leaks or damage.
  7. 7Use secondary containment where required.
  8. 8Never mix chemicals unless authorized.
  9. 9Maintain emergency showers and eyewash stations.
  10. 10Dispose of chemical waste according to regulations.
  11. 11Train employees on chemical hazards and emergency procedures.
  12. 12Report spills immediately.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Using chemicals without reading the SDS
  • ×Removing labels from containers
  • ×Mixing incompatible chemicals
  • ×Improper storage
  • ×Ignoring PPE requirements
  • ×Using damaged containers
  • ×Poor housekeeping
  • ×Blocking emergency showers or eyewash stations
  • ×Improper waste disposal
  • ×Failing to report spills

Chemical Safety Checklist

  • ✓SDS available
  • ✓Containers labeled
  • ✓Correct PPE worn
  • ✓Ventilation adequate
  • ✓Emergency shower accessible
  • ✓Eyewash station operational
  • ✓No leaks detected
  • ✓Chemicals stored correctly
  • ✓Waste containers available
  • ✓Spill kit ready
  • ✓Workers trained
  • ✓Emergency contacts displayed

Chemical Emergency Response

Stop the work immediately if a chemical leak, spill or uncontrolled reaction occurs. Isolate the area, notify emergency personnel and follow the SDS instructions. Use the appropriate spill kit and PPE. Flush exposed skin or eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes unless the SDS specifies otherwise, and seek medical attention when necessary.

Technical References

OSHA links lead to official US regulations. Always confirm local legal requirements, scope of applicability, and site-specific procedures. Other listed sources remain informational references until their official links are verified.

OSHA 1910.1200 ↗OSHA Hazard Communication StandardGlobally Harmonized System (GHS)

SERNEM Workflow

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