B. Responsibilities

B1. Program Coordinator

The Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator will serve as the program's coordinator. The Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator will do the following:

• Provide technical assistance to laboratory supervisors and workers concerning appropriate storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
• Remain current on rules and regulations concerning chemicals used in laboratories on campus.
• Conduct Laboratory Safety Surveys (LSSs) to assess level of compliance with the CHP.
• Inform new faculty and staff of the information contained in the CHP. Train or coordinate for retraining of Department Chemical Hygiene Officers and Laboratory Supervisors.
• Maintain a library of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) and other laboratory health and safety literature.
• Interact with regulators and agencies, maintain records, and file required reports.
• Oversee and maintain the Chemical Inventory Management System (ChIM).

B2. Department Chairperson

Each department chairperson of a science department that uses chemicals will:

• Support the CHP and assist their Department Chemical Hygiene Officer (DCHO) in maintaining awareness and compliance with the plan.

• Prepare budget requests for health and safety improvements.

The current department chairpersons are:

B3. Department Chemical Hygiene Officer (DCHO)

Essential to our Chemical Hygiene Plan are Departmental Chemical Hygiene Officers. The following individuals have experience and knowledge of their department's operations and will act as DCHO's for their respective departments. The current DCHOs are:

The duties and responsibilities of the DCHO are to :

• Coordinate with the departmental faculty and staff in developing and carrying out appropriate laboratory safety, hygiene, and disposal programs specific to their individual departments.
• Maintain and distribute current legal documents for regulated substances used within their department.
• Conduct periodic safety inspections at least once a semester; coordinate for the correction of deficiencies.

B5. Laboratory Supervisors

A laboratory supervisor is anyone overseeing any type of laboratory work. This could include faculty and staff mentors, principal investigators, instructors, and/or other researchers. No one is exempt from the appropriate safety precautions. Lab supervisors must serve as good role models for their technical staff and students by observing all rules and recommendations, wearing protective equipment, and being enthusiastic about safety. Laboratory supervisors are responsible for administration of the Chemical Hygiene Plan. Untrained workers (or students) cannot be permitted to work with chemicals. Every laboratory supervisor will ensure that:

• All personnel working in their laboratory(s) are aware of and practice appropriate precautions.
• Rules and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are enforced and discipline is maintained.
• Emergency equipment is available and in proper working order and that everyone has been trained on its use.
• Information and training on special or unusual hazards or equipment is provided and documented.
• Appropriate safety plans and emergency procedures have been developed and are followed.
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) are readily accessible and are reviewed before unfamiliar work or work with new chemicals commences.
• Personal protective equipment is available and used.
• All Hazardous Waste Regulations, including waste minimization, are complied with.
• Periodic inspections and surveys of the laboratory work area are conducted.
• Notify the DCHO prior to commencement of any new process or activities covered by this program.

B6. Employees

• Follow all health and safety procedures and rules.
• Report all hazardous conditions to your supervisor immediately.
• Report any job related injury or illnesses to your supervisor and seek treatment as soon as possible.
• Refrain from the operation of any equipment or instruments without proper instruction and authorization.
• Wear or use prescribed personal protective equipment.
• Remain aware of the hazards of ALL chemicals in the laboratory and how to handle hazardous chemicals safely.
• Request information and training when unsure about how to handle an unfamiliar or hazardous chemical or procedure.

Last modified: December 08, 2000