April Safety Issue

                                                                                                                         (04/06/2015)


To All:

Chemical Inventory:

The annual updating of the lab chemical inventory is an important part of our safety program. Samantha Kowalski is currently working on maintaining an inventory of all chemicals stored in the lab. Once completed, we will print a copy to put in every lab, and keep one in Carla’s office.

-          When you order new chemicals, please check this chemical inventory first to make sure we avoid purchasing duplicated.

-          When ordering chemicals, try to order smaller packages of the amount you need.

-          After you use a chemical, please return it to the proper storage place so it is convenient for everyone to find.

-          Make sure you aren’t leaving any strong acids, alkalis, toxins, etc anywhere in the lab- they must always return to storage.

 

Mercury Thermometers:

A few days ago, we found a broken mercury thermometer in a glass box. This is very dangerous and violates safety protocol ( Fig.1). If the mercury spilled, droplets can evaporate into the air and these vapors are toxic to a person’s health. Our lab doesn’t use mercury thermometers anymore and has replacement non-mercury thermometers. If you find any additional mercury thermometers, please send it to lab #333. We will carefully label it and submit a Hazardous Materials Pickup Request to REM.

(Fig.1)




Lastly, the LORRE Safety Committee was honored to receive the 2015 Presidential Safety Award from Purdue. We appreciate everyone’s effort and support and we will continue to work hard to keep the LORRE labs safe.



Thanks,

The LORRE Safety Committee