Introduction:

Chemicals are used to some degree at nearly every workplace from industrial plants, to laboratories, to agriculture, to maintenance functions, and even in office environments. Whether chemicals are added as part of a production process, used to clean or lubricate equipment, or exist as the byproduct of some other action, they can pose a hazard to workers. Some are highly corrosive or toxic. Others are flammable, may oxidize quickly, or may react with other substances to create a deadly situation.

When chemicals are stored or handled properly, the inherent risk is minimized. But if something goes wrong and a chemical is spilled, appropriate action must be taken immediately to prevent injury to workers and others, and to minimize the potential damage to other materials and facilities.

The best way to deal with a chemical spill is to avoid having one in the first place. The key is to follow proper procedures for storing, transferring, handling, using, and disposing of chemicals. All workers on at workplace should be trained to recognize the hazards and proper procedures associated with every chemical they may encounter, including the actions they need to take when a spill occurs. OSHA 1994 and Environmental Quality Act 1974 and its related-regulations clearly state that the employees have the ‘right-to-know’ on chemicals used and scheduled wastes generated, the hazard/risk posed to them, identify the point of use /discharge and how to handle them.

Learning Objectives:

• To have proper knowledge in safe management of chemicals at workplace;
• To understand hazards & risks associated in chemical usage; and
• How to react to a Chemical Spill Emergency Response.

Target Group:

Safety and Health Committee Members, Emergency Response Team (ERT) Members, Chemical Handlers, Safety & Health Officer, Department Supervisors, Facilities Members.