Chemical Safety

Ensuring the safe and compliant use of chemicals on campus.

Improper Labeling Causes Injury from Acid Spray

September 30, 2004
What Happened?

A UC Berkeley researcher was preparing a sample for microscopy. After he had cleaned the sample with isopropanol, he poured the extra isopropanol into a container for unwanted chemicals labeled “isopropanol.” There was an immediate chemical reaction that caused the plastic container to rupture and spray the mixture around the area. He was later surprised to learn that the container actually held concentrated nitric acid in the form of spent copper etchant.

The researcher was startled and called for help. Other researchers promptly came to his assistance and called 911...

Liquid Nitrogen Dispensing and Sample Storage Use

Office of Environment, Health & Safety

Liquid Nitrogen – Dispensing and Sample Storage Use (Cryogenic Liquid)

Lead Waste

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2005

Radioactive Adioactive Waste Handling Andling Lead Waste Fact Sheet

How do I find out what PPE I need for my work?

Your LHAT voucher will show what PPE is necessary for your work. This was designated by your PI in accordance with what hazards are present in your workspace.

Drum, determine contents

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2002

RADIOACTIVE WASTE
DETERMINING THE CONTENTS OF THE DRUM AND PREPARING FOR A POTENTIAL SPILL

Chemical/Radioactive release, cleanup

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2005

EMERGENCY RESPONSE
CLEANING A RELEASE OF A CHEMICAL(S) AND RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL(S)

Waste, segregating

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2005

Radioactive waste,
Segregating waste

Hydrogen Safety Fact Sheet

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2013

Ethidium Bromide and Alternative DNA Stains Fact Sheet

2012

Ethidium Bromide and Alternative DNA Stains: Precautions, Waste Treatment and Disposal