Emergencies in the Chemistry Laboratory | ACS College Safety Video #6

Summary

This video educates viewers on handling common lab emergencies by following the RAMP protocol: recognize hazards, assess risks, and minimize risks. It covers safety measures for broken glass, chemical spills on individuals, and lab surfaces, as well as fire safety, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and proper response. The video also highlights the significance of knowing the location of emergency equipment and the correct procedures to follow in case of an incident, ensuring lab safety.

Takeaways

• 🛡️ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected based on risk assessments and is crucial for safety in the lab.
• 🧪 Chemicals are removed during scenes without PPE to ensure no chemical hazards are present.
• 🔍 The RAMP method (Recognize, Assess, Minimize, and Prepare) is fundamental for lab safety, especially in emergency situations.
• 🚨 Emergency equipment must be available, regularly inspected, and its location noted upon entering the lab.
• 👀 In case of chemical exposure to eyes, use the eye wash station for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• 💧 For liquid spills on skin, immediately flush the area with water and remove contaminated clothing if necessary.
• 🧹 Clean up broken glass with a brush and dustpan, and dispose of it in a special container, not a regular waste bin.
• 🧯 Small fires can often be extinguished by depriving them of oxygen, such as with a watch glass or beaker.
• 🛠️ Larger fires may require the use of an ABC fire extinguisher, and the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) should be followed.
• 🏃‍♂️ In the event of a lab evacuation, turn off electrical equipment and gas burners, close the sash, and exit the lab safely.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the personal protective equipment (PPE) mentioned in the video?

The PPE is selected based on a risk assessment of the chemicals used in the experiment and conditions simulated in the activity to protect the actors from potential hazards.

Why were all chemicals removed when the presenter was not wearing PPE in the lab?

Chemicals were removed to eliminate chemical hazards when the presenter was not wearing PPE, ensuring safety during filming.

What are the first three steps of RAMP discussed in the video?

The first three steps of RAMP are recognize hazards, assess risks, and minimize risks, which are crucial for preventing lab accidents.

What is the significance of knowing the location of emergency equipment when entering a lab?

Knowing the location of emergency equipment is part of preparing for emergencies and ensures quick access in case of an incident.

What should one do if they encounter broken glass in the lab?

One should isolate the area, inform their instructor, and use a brush and dustpan to clean up the glass, disposing of it in a special container.

How should a chemical spill on the skin be handled according to the video?

For a chemical spill on the skin, one should immediately flush the area with water, possibly using a safety shower, and remove contaminated clothing.

What is the procedure to follow if a chemical gets into the eyes?

If a chemical gets into the eyes, one should use the eye wash station to flush it out for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention with the help of an instructor.

Who is responsible for cleaning up a liquid spill on a lab bench or floor?

The instructor is responsible for cleaning up liquid spills using a spill kit, while students should inform others and their instructor.

What is the fire triangle and why is it important in understanding fires in a lab?

The fire triangle consists of a substance that can burn, an oxidizing agent, and an ignition source. Understanding this helps in preventing and responding to fires.

What is the PASS technique for using a fire extinguisher, as mentioned in the video?

The PASS technique for using a fire extinguisher is: pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle, and sweep along the base of the fire.

What should one do in case of a lab evacuation?

In case of a lab evacuation, one should turn off electrical equipment and gas burners, close the sash if in a hood, and exit the lab safely.