Information on the basic level of control for working with chemicals
Departments must set out and implement a basic level of control for those who may be exposed to chemicals. In each laboratory where there is a risk of chemical exposure, safety rules must be drawn up and clearly displayed for workers to see.
Although the rules should reflect the specific activities and risks, all laboratory safety rules must include the following statements:
only authorised persons may enter and/or work in the laboratory
laboratory coats must be worn
sensible footwear must be worn eg no open sandals
eating, drinking, smoking, mouth pipetting and applying make-up is forbidden
no storing of food or drink for human consumption is allowed
all work must be carried out in accordance with risk assessment
all waste must be disposed of in accordance with University policy
all accidents and dangerous occurrences must be reported and recorded on an accident report form.
University policy on ionising radiation and biological safety outline additional controls, including the use of eye protection within containment laboratories.
