Laboratory Defined
It's important to know that not all laboratories are covered by the Laboratory Standard.
For example, most quality control laboratories are not covered under the standard. These laboratories are usually adjuncts of production operations, which typically perform repetitive procedures for the purpose of assuring reliability of a product or a process.
OSHA 1910.1450 applies only to small non-production laboratories that uses small quantities of hazardous chemicals. These laboratories might conduct research and development and related analytical work.
Laboratory Use of Hazardous Chemicals
"Laboratory use of hazardous chemicals" means handling or using chemicals in which all of the following conditions are met:
- Chemical manipulations are carried out on a "laboratory scale" (i.e., work with substances in which the containers used for reactions, transfers, and other handling of substances is designed to be easily handled by one person).
- Multiple chemical procedures or chemicals are used.
- The procedures involved are not part of a production process, nor do they in any way simulate a production process.
- Protective laboratory practices and equipment are available and in common use to minimize the potential for worker exposure to hazardous chemicals.
The Laboratory Standard consists of five major elements:
- hazard identification
- chemical hygiene plan
- information and training
- exposure monitoring
- medical consultation and examinations
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-2. Which of the following is a condition or characteristic of "laboratory use of hazardous chemicals?"
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