- Any individual that operates the autoclaves must successfully complete a lab-specific or RMS given training on safe operating procedures for autoclaves.
- Do NOT autoclave any chemicals.
- Read the owner's manual before using the autoclave for the first time.
- Operating instructions should be posted near the autoclave.
- Follow the manufacturer's directions for loading the autoclave.
- Do not overload the autoclave compartment and allow for enough space between items for the steam to circulate.
- Be sure to close and latch the autoclave door.
- Be aware that liquids, especially in large quantities, can be superheated when the autoclave is opened. Jarring them may cause sudden boiling, and result in burns.
- At the end of the run, open the autoclave slowly: first open the door only a crack to let any steam escape slowly for several minutes, and then open all the way. Opening the door suddenly can scald a bare hand, arm, or face.
- Large flasks or bottles of liquid removed immediately from the autoclave can cause serious burns by scalding if they break in your hands. Immediately transfer hot items with liquid to a cart; never carry in your hands.
- Wear appropriate PPE, including eye protection and insulating heat-resistant gloves.
When using glass under vacuum, some general guidelines to follow:
- Inspect glassware that will be used for reduced pressure to make sure there are no defects such as chips or cracks that may compromise its integrity.
- Only glassware that is approved for low pressure should be used. Never use a flat bottom flask (unless it is a heavy walled filter flask) or other thin-walled flask that are not appropriate to handle low pressure.
- Use a shield between the user and any glass under vacuum or wrap the glass with tape to contain any glass in the event of an implosion.
Chemical Hygene Plan - Table of Contents
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- Introduction and Purpose
- Employee Information and Training
- Safe Chemical Use
- Globally Harmonized System (GHS)
- National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) Diamond
- Safety Data Sheets
- Minimize Exposure to Chemicals
- Routes of Chemical Entry
- Chemical Exposure Limits
- Chemical Exposure Monitoring
- Toxicity
- Chemical Labeling
- General Storage Guidelines
- Transportation of Chemicals
- Chemical Segregation
- Chemical Hazards
- Particularly Hazardous Substances
- Control Measures
- Physical Hazards
- Emergencies and Exposures
- Other Hazards
- Hazardous Chemical Waste Disposal
- Record Keeping
- Appendix A: Globe Selection
- Appendix B: Chemical Segregation
- Appendix C: Particularly Hazardous Substances
- Appendix D: Information on Chemical Exposures from Health Hazards
- Appendix E: Standard Operating Procedures Guide
- Appendix F: Safe Use of Pyrophoric Reagents
- Appendix G: Information on Controlled Substances
- Appendix H: Risk Assessment Guide
- Appendix I: Laboratory Emergency Readiness Guide
- Appendix J: Inspection Guide
- Appendix K: Chemical Inventory Guide
- Appendix L: Lab Equipment Guide
- Appendix M: Laboratory Management Guide
- Appendix N: Reproductive Health
- Chemical Hygiene Resources and References
- Glossary