Chapter 8 - Chemical Hazards
Chemicals can present a wide range of physical and health hazards. Many substances exhibit more than one hazard class, and the risks associated with a chemical depend on both its intrinsic properties and how it is used. Several factors influence the severity of a hazard and the likelihood of harmful exposure, including:
- Concentration of the chemical
- Physical state (solid, liquid, gas)
- Physical processes (heating, cooling, grinding, cutting, aerosol generation, etc.)
- Chemical reactions (mixing, dilution, purification, distillation, decomposition, etc.)
- Storage conditions (temperature, light exposure, incompatibles, container integrity, moisture, etc.)
Laboratory hazard identification is based on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of chemical classification, which includes physical hazards (e.g., flammables, oxidizers, explosives), health hazards (e.g., corrosives, toxic substances, sensitizers, carcinogens), and environmental hazards where applicable. Hazard information for any chemical can be found in the SDS (Safety Data Sheet), Section 2.
The following sections describe major chemical hazard classes and the precautions required for their safe handling in the laboratory. Additional information on DOT hazard classifications is included in the Chemical Segregation section where relevant for shipping, receiving, and transport activities.