From manufacturing to agriculture to healthcare, handling chemicals is a routine part of operations in many industries. However, it comes with its own set of challenges and hazards. For instance, think about a pharmaceutical lab dealing with volatile compounds; such environments need stringent safety measures. Therefore, it’s essential for companies to establish a comprehensive chemical management program to safeguard employee health and safety, maintain regulatory compliance and protect their brand reputation.
So, how does chemical exposure happen, and what can organizations do to manage it effectively? Here are our top recommendations for best practices in chemical management.
Chemicals can cause injury or illness by entering an employee’s body through four primary routes: inhalation, skin or eye contact, ingestion or injection.
Inhalation: Breathing in chemical gases, mists, fumes or dust is the most common way employees are exposed. This is particularly dangerous in environments with poor ventilation. For example, contractors working for a utilities service might inhale harmful fumes if there are no fume hoods or ventilation systems in place.
Skin or eye contact: Spills, splashes or chemical reactions can cause chemicals to come into contact with the skin or eyes. This is particularly risky if PPE like goggles, gloves or aprons aren’t used correctly or aren’t sourced properly. For instance, exposure to corrosive cleaning agents can lead to severe skin burns or eye damage.
Ingestion: Employees have opportunities for ingestion when hazardous chemicals are airborne and settle on hands or contaminate food, drinks or facial hair. This can occur if workers don’t use proper PPE or fail to wash their hands after handling chemicals. An example is pesticide exposure in agricultural settings, where residue might end up on a worker’s lunch.
Injection: Although rare, chemical injection can happen. This typically involves accidental punctures with a syringe or other sharp object containing chemicals, more likely in lab environments. Once injected, chemicals can enter the bloodstream, posing serious health risks.
Despite its importance, creating an effective chemical management program can be challenging due to its complexity. Companies need to have a detailed understanding of which substances are on-site and where they will be stored, maintain emergency preparedness (often across what could be dozens or even hundreds of locations) and ensure proper handling and disposal. Staying compliant with ever-evolving regulations adds another layer of difficulty.
Here are some key safety precautions companies can adopt to improve chemical safety in the workplace:
1. Chemical Review: The first step to effective chemical management is to evaluate the hazards associated with chemicals produced, imported or used. By completing a risk assessment, employers can understand the controls needed to prevent injuries, illnesses or environmental damage. In the oil and gas industry, companies are expected to conduct hazard reviews before bringing new solvents into the process. This ensures they understand any fire or respiratory risks and can implement proper controls, such as ventilation systems or fire safety protocols.
2. The Hierarchy of Controls: Managing workplace hazards, including those from chemicals, requires following the Hierarchy of Controls. This framework prioritizes hazard reduction methods:
Elimination: Physically removing the hazard (most effective)
Substitution: Replacing the hazard with a safer alternative
Engineering Controls: Isolating people from the hazard
Administrative Controls: Changing how people work
PPE: Protecting the worker with equipment (least effective)
In some industries, companies might eliminate a toxic solvent by substituting it with a less hazardous alternative, reducing the need for extensive PPE and engineering controls.
3. Labeling, Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Training: Proper labeling and availability of SDSs is essential. Employees must be trained to understand the hazards, safe usage and protective measures for each chemical they handle. For example, a cleaning company would ensure that all chemicals are clearly labeled and that staff are trained on how to handle corrosive agents safely. All employees should know where to access SDSs and whom to consult if they have safety concerns.
4. Chemical Safety Program: Employers should implement a written chemical safety program that is communicated to all employees. This program should detail the types of chemicals in use, associated hazards, established controls, labeling protocols and emergency procedures.
Access to accurate chemical data is more vital than ever. Companies can benefit from a centralized chemical management system that tracks chemical locations, hazards and safety data, allowing for better reporting and quick action during emergencies.
For example, an organization could use an integrated software solution to manage chemical data across all facilities. This would ensure compliance with local regulations and allow the company to make quick, informed decisions on chemical handling and safety protocols, wherever they operate.
Understanding the importance of chemical safety is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive workplace. By following best practices like those outlined above and using tools such as the Hierarchy of Controls and chemical management software, companies can minimize the risks associated with chemical exposure to result in fewer injuries, higher productivity and cost savings.
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