LABORATORY SAFETY

Monthly Inspections 

The monthly inspection is comprised of a 1-page checklist and can be completed by any lab member. The monthly inspection checklist should be clearly posted on the door of the lab so that it’s completion can be verified. If you require help with the monthly checklist please email megan_wong@sfu.ca.

Annual Inspections

The annual inspection is completed by the Lab PI or designate and Megan Wong. An EHS representative may also join upon request. Annual inspections will always be scheduled in advance and the inspections are now moving to an online platform. 

Door signs are valid for one year after they are printed; however the sign must be reprinted if:

1. New hazards are introduced into the lab
2. There is a significant change to the quantity and type of chemicals stored in the lab
3. Emergency contacts have changed
    

A common mistake in many labs at SFU is the improper storage of gas cylinders. Gas cylinders must have two-point chain restraints: one placed one third from the top and the other placed at one third from the bottom (see left).

Please note that bench clamps and strap restraints must not be used. If you need to upgrade your cylinder restraints or would like them inspected, please contact megan_wong@sfu.ca.

Another common issue is the stockpiling of gas cylinders in labs. Building codes dictate that cylinders stored in labs must be either in use (connected through a regulator or other mechanism) or acting as a single reserve for a cylinder that is in use. All other cylinders must be in a designated storage area.

Please notify Megan Wong if you are purchasing flammable, toxic, or oxidizing gases.
 

Fume hoods should not be used as long term storage for chemicals or equipment (unless they are clearly labelled as for storage only). If you need to store your chemicals in a flammables cabinet or acid cabinet and you do not have access to one please contact Megan Wong. All shelving used to store chemicals must have a lip to prevent chemicals falling in the event of an earthquake.

Any chemicals that are transferred from their original containers must have a workplace label. A workplace label must contain the following elements:

1. Product identifier
2. Safe handling information (hazards associated with the product and basic precautions)
3. Referral to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Workplace labels can be written directly on the bottle in clearly writing using permanent marker. Two other options are to buy premade bottles with workplace labels for common chemicals (e.g., acetone, ethanol) or to print on chemical resistant labels. Workplace labeled bottles for common chemicals can be purchased from science stores. If you would like to enquire about printing using chemical resistant labels please contact megan_wong@sfu.ca.

All peroxide forming chemicals must be identified with a peroxide former label (see left). It is mandatory for peroxide-forming compounds to be labelled and that you test them at the appropriate interval (e.g., every 3 months, after opening and closing, etc…). Labels can be picked up at Science Stores at no cost and a list of common peroxide formers and their testing periods can be found in the EHS Laboratory Safety Manual (this list is not exhaustive, check your SDS sheet to determine if chemicals are peroxide formers). If your lab is using peroxide forming chemicals, make sure to review chemical safety fact sheet for peroxide formers so that you are aware of the hazards and control measures.