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HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
Laboratory Safety Manual
General Laboratory Safety
Biological Safety
Chemical Safety
Radiation Safety
Electrical Safety
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
12 MILES TAI PO ROAD, SHATIN, N.T., H.K.
Jan 2010 (Revised)
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Foreword This Laboratory Safety Manual is to define the General Laboratory, Biological, Chemical, Radiation and Electrical Safety policies and procedures for the laboratories of the HKIB
building. These policies and procedures were designed to safeguard personnel and the
environment from the biological, chemical and hazardous materials and to comply with Hong
Kong and international safety regulations. All workers in HKIB must adhere to this manual in
the conduct of their bench works and the management of their laboratories.
The safety guidelines stated herein are complied with, but not limited to, the content of the
Laboratory Safety of the University Safety and Environment Office, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong.
All the procedures detailed in this manual shall apply to all workers in HKIB, supporting
personnel, and to any authorized visitors. It is essential that all personnel entering any
laboratory in HKIB read and comply with this manual.
Emergency events and the emergency numbers:
HKIB University Security Office
University Safety Office
Fire Facility Administrator (Office Hours)
2948 9262
Admin Coordinator 2948 9200
2609 7999
(24 Hours)
-- Electrical Failure -- Biological Spill 2609 7958
(Office Hours) Chemical Spill
Medical Emergency --
You are advised to bring along with your mobile communication device
especially when working alone in a lab or office. Please save these emergency
contacts in your device.
Severe Emergency:
Dial 999
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Table of Content Foreword Table of Content A. Guidelines and Regulations B. Roles and Responsibility C. General Laboratory Safety
I. Attitude
II. Clothing
III. Laboratory and Personal Hygiene
IV. Laboratory Regulations
V. Laboratory Equipment
VI. Laboratory Storage
VII. Liquid Nitrogen
VIII. Gas Cylinders
IX. Laboratory Glassware, Sharps and Needles
X. Confined Spaces Safety
XI. Access to Laboratories After Office Hours
D. Accidents, Fire Emergency and Electrical Failure E. Biological Safety
I. Biological Vs. Biohazard
II. Microorganisms - Risk Grouping
III. Biosafety Levels
IV. Physical Barrier Systems
V. Work with Blood and Products of Human Origin
VI. Animal Work (dissection, in vivo experiment, transgenic animal)
VII. Biological / Clinical Waste
VIII. Biological / Clinical Waste Treatments and Disposal
IX. Autoclave Operation
X. Biological Emergency and Spill Cleanup
1. Biological Safety Cabinet Malfunction
2. Biohazard Spill Outside a Biological Safety Cabinet
3. Biohazard Spill Inside a Biological Safety Cabinet
4. Biohazards from Microbial Aerosols
F. Chemical Safety I. Dangerous Goods
1. Definition
2. Classification
3. Dangerous Chemicals
1
2
5
7
10
11
11
11
12
12
13
14
15
17
17
17
18
21
22
22
22
26
26
27
28
30
33
35
35
35
36
37
41
42
42
42
43
44
44
45
45
46
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II. Management of Chemical Storage
1. Chemical Storage
2. Controlled Chemical Storage
3. Purchase of controlled chemicals
4. Housekeeping and Self-Audit
III. Chemical Hazard
1. MSDS
2. Labels
3. Classifying Hazardous Chemicals
IV. Safe Use of Carcinogenic, Teratogenic, and Highly Toxic Chemicals
V. Fume Cupboard
VI. Chemical Waste Disposal
1. Storage of Chemical Waste
2. Safety Equipment for Handling Chemical Waste
3. Management of Chemical Waste
4. General Disposal Guideline
5. Disposal Procedures
6. Procedures to Dispose Empty Chemical Bottles / Containers
G. Radiation Safety I. Radiation Classification
1. Ionizing radiation
2. Non-ionizing radiation
II. Licensure
III. Responsibility IV. Legislation / Codes of Practice
V. Safe-guards
H. Electrical Safety I. Electric Hazards
II. Simple Safety Hints
III. Working on potentially hazardous equipment IV. Equipment with current passing through Liquid
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Appendix APPENDIX A - SPECIFICATION FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONTAINERS FOR CLINICAL
WASTES
APPENDIX B - CHEMICAL WASTE CONTAINER TYPES AVAILABLE IN HKIB
APPENDIX C - SELF-AUDIT CHECKLIST FOR GENERAL LABORATORY SAFETY
APPENDIX D - CHECKLIST FOR FIRE SAFETY IN LABORATORY
APPENDIX E - CHECKLIST FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY
APPENDIX F – GUIDELINE FOR PURCHASING CHEMICALS
APPENDIX G - INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL GROUPS
APPENDIX H - INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL WASTE GROUPS
APPENDIX I - CHEMICAL WASTE LOG SHEET
APPENDIX J - TYPES OF SPILL KIT AVAILABLE IN HKIB (RM 209)
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GUIDELINES AND REGULATIONS
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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A. Guidelines and Regulations
All workers in HKIB and authorized visitors are assumed to comply with all guidelines within
this manual, as well as other applicable guidelines and regulations including:
1. Laboratory Safety. University Safety and Environment Office, The Chinese University of
Hong Kong. (http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/useo/safety)
2. “Code of Practice for the Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Electrical Apparatus for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmosphere”. Fire Services Department,
HKSAR.
3. Dangerous Goods Ordinance (Chapter 295) and Regulations, HKSAR.
4. Fire Services Ordinance (Chapter 95B) and Regulations, HKSAR.
5. Proposed Clinical Waste Control Scheme Consultation Document, “Draft Code of
Practice for the Management of Clinical Waste for Small Clinical Waste Producers”.
Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR.
6. Boilers and Pressure Vessels Ordinance (Chapter 56) and Regulations, HKSAR.
7. Waste Disposal Ordinance (Chapter 354) and Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste)
(General) Regulation, HKSAR.
8. “Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes”.
Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR.
9. Young J.A. (Ed.). 2003. “Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories". Vol. 1.
American Chemical Society.
10. Guideline for Purchasing Chemicals / Biological Materials / Radioactive
Substances. University Safety and Environment Office, The Chinese University of Hong
Kong. (http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/useo/safety/lsmanual/pur_guide.html)
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ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITY
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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B. Roles and Responsibilities
I. Incubator Manager Assigned by Managing Director of HKIB, Incubator Manager is the authority of
decision-making, which in turn would be executed by the Facility Administrator. S/He is
responsible for the administrative issues of the Incubation Center and works closely with
Facility Administrator in complying Laboratory Safety procedures and regulations inside
HKIB.
II. Facility Administrator
Reported to Incubator Manager, Facility Administrator is the Biosafety Officer of the
Incubator Facility. The Facility Administrator has to coordinate with, and assist the
workers in the Incubation Center in complying the regulations within this manual. The
Facility Administrator has the authority to determine if a worker is unable to work within
the facility, deactivate any malfunctioning containment equipment, and indemnify
compliance with government health and safety regulations. S/He has the responsibility to
provide technical guidance to personnel regarding laboratory safety, insure that all
workers follow procedures and practices related to laboratory operations, and initiates
and supervises emergency responses. The Facility Administrator should carry out regular
investigations, and report any significance violations within the facility, accompany
authorized visitors or maintenance workers in the Incubator Facility directly to the
Manager of Incubator Facility.
III. Principal Investigators (PI) Principal Investigators have the responsibility to insure the purpose of this manual and all
other applicable guidelines are fulfilled. The PI should also notify HKIB of new employees
who will be working in HKIB. S/He should verify that all staff members conducting
research within the HKIB are properly trained, and follow all the policies and procedures
in this Laboratory Safety Manual and other applicable guidelines. The PI must inform the
laboratory staff of any potential hazards including biological, chemical, and potential
hazard associated with their work. S/He is also responsible for investigating and
reporting, in writing, to the HKIB for any accidents or incidents involving his staff in the
HKIB.
IV. Individual Laboratory Worker (ILW) Individual laboratory workers are all personnel assigned to work in HKIB, and responsible
to operate any equipment inside the facility. ILW should read and comply with the
procedures and practices in this manual and meet with the Facility Administrator before
starting work. The ILW should be clearly instructed by their PI of the procedures they
must follow while conducting research in HKIB. They are responsible to work safely in the
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facility, properly labeling all biological, chemical, and hazardous materials within the
facility. The ILW are liable to immediate report any unsafe act, emergence incidence, or
malfunctioning equipment to the Facility Administrator and the PI. The ILW will be liable to any equipment damage or personal hazard related to misuse, abuse, or violating the operating procedures of the equipments.
V. Authorized User An authorized user in HKIB is a well-trained and experienced personnel able to work
safely in the facility. The authorized user should be selected by the Principal Investigator,
and be subjected to rescinded, especially if the act of personnel violates the regulations.
The PI is responsible to provide a list of all authorized users permitted in HKIB to the
HKIB Admin Unit in a regular basis.
VI. Authorized Visitor Authorized visitors are personnel, including maintenance workers, the EMO cleaning
team from CUHK, sanitary staffs employed by facility users (with list previously provided
to Facility Administrator), and other visitors that have been approved to enter HKIB by the
Principal Investigators or Facility Administrator. They should be instructed by the PI or
Facility Administrator, and comply with all regulations and procedures within this manual.
The authorized visitors should register in the Administration Office on the G/F of the HKIB
building before entering the facility, and the PI or Facility Administrator, whoever
applicable, are responsible to all the safety issues related to the authorized visitors. The
PI must immediately report to Facility Administrator any emergency incidents or hazards
that happen on the authorized personnel. No authorized visitor is allowed to stay in the
HKIB without attendant of any laboratory worker or out of normal office hours (Mon to Fri:
08:45 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.).
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General Laboratory Safety
Attitude
Clothing
Laboratory and Personal Hygiene
Laboratory Regulations
Laboratory Equipment
Laboratory Storage
Liquid Nitrogen
Gas Cylinders
Laboratory Glassware, Sharps and Needles
Confined Spaces Safety
Access to Laboratories After Office Hours
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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C. General Laboratory Safety I. Attitude
All workers in the laboratories of HKIB must be well instructed by their Principal
Investigators on the procedures they must follow when conducting research. Work in a
safe attitude.
1. Stay alert and be cautious on every move when conducting experiments and
operating equipments.
2. Workers must wear appropriate protective clothing and protective glasses, which
should be provided by their PI, when working in the laboratories, and prevent
contamination from work to work, and from laboratory to laboratory, by taking all
preventive and control procedures.
3. Workers should be familiar with the properties and the potential hazardous to the
substance they use, and consider the limitation of the equipment that they will use.
4. Plan your work well before getting start. Reserve working space and equipment
before starting work, and sign all logbooks when using any single equipment.
5. Any emergency incidents should be immediately reported to their PI and Facility
Administrator, and follow-up all the decontamination work, if applicable, after an
incidence has been reported.
6. Avoid working alone in the laboratory.
II. Clothing Appropriate and protective clothing is required to safeguard of your personal safety from
biological, chemical and radiation hazards.
1. Wear goggles/spectacles at all times when performing experiments.
2. Wear a full-length, fastened laboratory coat when working in the laboratory. The
laboratory coat must be disposed if it becomes torn, badly stained, or damaged.
3. Wear full-length slacks, trousers, or jeans. Shoes with closed toes and heels must
be worn, especially when performing experiments with the use of hazardous
substances, acids, and alkaline.
4. Laboratory coat should not be worn in HKIB common area to avoid spread out of
hazardous materials..
III. Laboratory and Personal Hygiene
1. Always keep doorways and corridors clear. Keep the doors of emergency exits
closed all the time.
2. Keep the laboratory, both common-use and private areas clean and tidy. Upon
completion of work, or after each day of operation, clean up the work areas and all
equipment properly and thoroughly and restore them in standby status.
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3. Keep a clean and tidy attire. Long hair and loose-fitting clothing should be confined
close to the body and avoid being caught in moving machines and equipment parts.
4. Eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics, and handling contact lens are
prohibited in all laboratories.
5. Do not store food in the laboratory as well as in refrigerators designated for storing
samples and reagents.
6. Except for an emergency, it is not allowed to use laboratory tap water (including DI
water from the reverse osmosis system) for any drinking or ingestion purposes.
7. Do not pipet by mouth.
8. Wash hands before leaving the laboratory.
IV. Laboratory Regulations All safety and operating procedures applied within each laboratory must be in agreement
with the general defined policies of this manual, and must fall under the direct
responsibility of the laboratory workers.
1. Proper recording and control of equipment and safety operations of laboratory
facilities. 2. Store flammable liquids and corrosive liquids in appropriate
cabinets.
3. Work involving fumes or the generation of aerosols must be carried
out in an appropriate fume cupboard or biosafety cabinet.
V. Laboratory Equipment Equipment to be utilized in the facility must meet the electrical safety standards of the
building, which corresponds to local and national codes. Equipment utilized in the facility
must be ensured not to contain, contribute to spread of biohazards, and present a hazard
to personnel or facility during operation.
It is essential that all equipment be properly maintained. If equipment malfunctions,
cease using it and inform the Facility Administrator. Whenever the equipment is
contaminated, decontaminate it immediately with appropriate means. Responsibility for
cost, decontamination, or repair of equipment in individual laboratories falls to the
Principal Investigators, while those in common laboratories would be subjected to
respective user(s) / laboratory if improper use or abuse of the equipment by the users
has been investigated. Logbook must be properly signed each time when using the
equipment.
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VI. Laboratory Storage Limited amount of material needed may allow to be introduced into the facility. Cartons
are not recommended to be stored on the floor inside designated laboratories, while no
cartons are permitted to be stored in communal area, and up the top of the storage
cupboard in common laboratories.
All infectious materials (e.g. microbes) must be stored in closed, sealed containers, and
properly stored in deep freezer or liquid nitrogen tank. Their contents and location must
be identified appropriately by biohazard sign and the name of the researcher, department,
room, and extension.
1. Cold Room
Space has been assigned by the Facility Administrator to the Incubator users,
based on the proportion of each individual laboratory area in respect to the whole
facility area. It is expected that each investigator will remove materials and
decontaminate the area promptly upon the completion of the project within the
facility. Keep inventory stocks and no unidentified storage are allowed. Remove all
samples, reagents (expired or not expired), agar plates once the experiment or
project is finished. Be courtesy and keep the Cold Room Area clean.
2. Freezer and Refrigerator Space
Space has been assigned by the Facility Administrator. Prompt removal and proper
disposal of materials is expected upon completion of experimental protocols and
projects. Careful storage of biological materials is essential. An inventory stock is
recommended and storage of minimum amounts of materials is expected.
Flammable substances are not permitted to be stored in non-explosion proof refrigerators or freezers. Do not leave the freezer door open without attendant
and whenever it is possible, keep the time of the freezer door opened to the
minimum.
3. Chemical Storage (see also Chemical Safety for details)
No more than five gallons of flammable liquids per laboratory is allowed. Acids
must be stored separately from solvents. Store large bottles as close to the floor as
possible, but NO chemicals can be stored on the floors or in the aisles. Storage is
not permitted in corridors.
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VII. Liquid Nitrogen Liquid nitrogen is a cryogenic fluid used to obtain extremely cold temperatures, which
produce large amount of gas by very small volume. Rapid evaporation can lower
available oxygen in the immediate area, thereby creating oxygen-deficient atmospheres.
It can cause burns, frostbites, and eye damaged even by brief exposure (Extracted from
USEO-Liquid Nitrogen).
Liquid nitrogen is classified as Category 2 Dangerous Goods under the DANGEROUS
GOODS ORDINANCE. Conveyance of Category 2 Dangerous Goods by vehicles is
subjected to licensing control.
Liquid nitrogen can be requested on a charged-based. Please contact Facility
Administrator for details on liquid nitrogen request.
Safety issues when using/handling liquid nitrogen:
1. Use thermally-insulate vessels to contain liquid nitrogen from sources of heat.
2. Secure containers used for transporting or storing liquid nitrogen to an immobile
support.
3. Warning label (FIG. 1) should be attached on the Dewar Flasks containing Liquid
Nitrogen. Operation personnel should read and understand the MSDS before
handling liquid nitrogen.
4. Wear insulated gloves when handling anything that may have been in contact with
liquid nitrogen. Fit gloves loosely so that they can be thrown off quickly if liquid spills
or splashes into them.
5. Wear a knee-length laboratory coat when handling liquid nitrogen or anything that
may have been contact with liquid nitrogen. Make sure coats do not have pockets or
cuffs.
FIG. 1 Warning label for Liquid Nitrogen Tank
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6. Wear shoes with closed toes and heels, and full-face protection including safety
glasses and spectacles. Do not wear watches, rings, bracelets, or other jewelry.
7. Control access and post warning signs where liquid nitrogen is stored or used, and
ensure proper ventilation in areas where liquid nitrogen is stored or used. Do not
store containers containing liquid nitrogen in unventilated Cold Room.
8. Use a filling device, a face shield, and insulated gloves when pouring liquid nitrogen.
Fill containers with only the liquids they were designed for and in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions. Label contents of each container. Do not fill
containers higher than the indicated level.
9. Stand clear of boiling or splashing liquid nitrogen. Be sure to perform operations
slowly to minimize boiling and splashing when charging a warm condenser or when
inserting objects into liquid nitrogen.
10. Do not weld or heat containers containing liquid nitrogen.
11. Move dewars only with proper trolleys or carts.
VIII. Gas Cylinders Storage of gas cylinders is in accordance of the DANGEROUS GOODS ORDINANCE,
Chapter 295. Under the Dangerous Goods Regulations, compressed gases are
classified as Category 2 Dangerous Goods (Cat. 2DG), which includes Permanent
Gases (Class 1), Liquefied Gases (Class 2), and Dissolved Gases (Class 3). Storage of
gas cylinders does not require a license issued by the Fire Services Department if the
quantity is below the exempted quantity. A maximum of 5 cylinders (in use cylinders only,
no extra unused cylinder) or 25 L of gases can only be stored in a premise (Fire
Protection Notice No. 4 – Dangerous Goods General).
Hazardous area is defined as any area where a flammable solid, liquid or gas is likely to
create a flammable or explosive atmosphere during operations, such as manufacturing,
handling, loading, unloading, using and storing.
Gas Cylinders Storage
1. Gas cylinders necessary for particular equipment (CO2 incubator, deep freezer) are
provided in the incubator facility. Extra storage of gas cylinders by individual
laboratories, either inside the designated laboratory area or in the common
laboratory, must get approval from the Incubator Manager prior to storage and
installation. Label must be present to clearly identify the owner of the gas cylinder.
2. Caution signs including NO SMOKING and the names of the dangerous goods
should be painted on the door, in 120mm with English and Chinese characters, the
room designated for storage of gas cylinders.
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3. A Gas Cylinder or Flammable Dangerous Goods plates must be fixed at a
conspicuous position above the main entrance of the storage location. Such plates
can be purchased from the Licensing & Certification Command Headquarters.
4. The gas cylinder should be well fastened (immovable). One water type fire
extinguisher should be allocated near the doorway outside the room and where the
gas cylinder stored.
5. No rubbish or cartoon is allowed in the interior or around the gas cylinders. Always
maintain a tidy and clear condition within the designated area. Empty cylinders
must be placed in an approved Dangerous Goods store.
Hazardous area (Electrical installation)
1. Sources of ignition, electrical sparks or hot surfaces must be excluded from
hazardous area. Uncontrolled release of flammable or explosive vapors must be
minimized.
2. Any electrical installation or apparatus used in a hazardous area must be
constructed or protected in accordance with BS5345 “Code of Practice for the
Selection, Installation and Maintenance of Electrical Apparatus for Use in
Potentially Explosive Atmosphere”, or equivalent. Any equipment installed in the
hazardous area shall be provided and subjected to the satisfaction of the Director of
the Fire Services.
3. Electrical apparatus for use in hazardous areas must be certified to relevant
standards by authorities recognized by the Director of Fire Services, such as the
British Approvals Service for Electrical Equipment in Flammable Atmospheres
(BASEEFA), or equivalent.
4. Using of fire, spark-producing tools or mechanical handling equipment is prohibited.
Vehicles fitted with spark-ignition engines shall be prohibited from entering any
hazardous areas. Smoking is not allowed in the hazardous area.
5. Good ventilation must be ensured to prevent any accumulation of flammable or
explosive vapors within a hazardous area.
6. Any fixed electrical installation after completion, must be inspected, tested and
certified by an electrical worker/contractor registered by the Director of Electrical
and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD). A copy of the “Work Completion
Certificate” should be forwarded to the Director of Fire Services as proof of
compliance. The installation should be inspected once in 12 months thereafter with
a “Periodic Test Certificate” be submitted to EMSD for reference.
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IX. Laboratory Glassware, Sharps and Needles Glass and sharp materials should be stored properly. Cuts and scratched skin by broken
glasses are vulnerable to infectious agents and chemical burnt.
1. Store glassware properly in the glassware cupboard or shelves. Carefully remove
or place the glassware to prevent them from breaking easily.
2. Prevent glass rods or tubing from protruding out.
3. Never use broken or cracked glassware. Wear gloves when handling wrecked
glassware and use mechanical means when broken glassware has to be picked up.
4. Dispose broken glass in appropriate container. Paper box with sealed, leak-proof
based, or plastic containers are good for collecting broken glassware or sharps. Do
not reopen the box once it has been sealed.
5. Use plastic containers for collecting used pasture pipettes.
6. DO NOT recap used needles. Used needles with syringe should not be
disconnected and must be disposed in a labeled plastic container.
7. For Bio-contaminated sharp disposals, please refer to Biological Safety for details.
X. Confined Spaces Safety
There are various cold room and warm room that located at the G/F, M/F and 2/F of HKIB
which are confined spaces. It is advised that any person not to stay inside the confined
spaces for more that two minutes. There are also emergency contact no. inside the room.
It is advised to inform the supervisor if a pro-longed stay inside the confined spaces is
required.
XI. Access to Laboratories After Office Hours
It is not advised to work alone in the laboratories. Outside normal office hours (08:45 –
17:30) Monday to Friday, including all public holidays., no body should work alone in a
laboratory with heavy machinery, dangerous chemicals (including isotopes) or in any
other potentially dangerous situation. If working alone in the laboratory is a must, it is
advised to notify your colleague(s) before work.
As an issue of safety, individual laboratories should perform self-audit at least annually for the General Safety in their laboratories. A sample checklist for General Safety can be found in Appendix C.
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ACCIDENTS, FIRE EMERGENCY AND ELECTRICAL FAILURE
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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D. Accidents, Fire Emergency and Electrical Failure
Emergencies include, but are not limited to, fire, total power failure, a biohazardous or
hazardous chemical spill. The objective in an emergency is to preserve personal safety and
health, as well as protecting the facility and the experiment. Laboratory accidents and injuries
must be reported immediately to the PI and the Facility Administrator. Stay calm and remove
the injured or contaminated person from the area of exposure. If there is a hazardous spill in
your work area and you are not wearing a respirator, hold your breath, evacuate, and close the
door of the affected area. Call appropriate numbers for emergency response.
Equipments or reactions that are left unattended overnight are always prime cause of fire,
spills and explosions. Overnight running of equipment such as stirrers, HOT PLATES, water
condensers and water bath are not recommended. Running chemical reactions must be
checked periodically. Remember to leave a note indicating the name and contact number of
the responsible person to the running reactions or experiments. Whenever there is an
emergency event, inform the PI and Facility Administrator immediately.
Emergency events and the emergency numbers:
HKIB University Security Office
University Safety Office
Fire Facility Administrator (Office Hours)
2948 9262
Admin Coordinator 2948 9200
2609 7999
(24 Hours)
-- Electrical Failure -- Biological Spill 2609 7958
(Office Hours) Chemical Spill
Medical Emergency --
1. Fire
Certified Fire extinguishers and Fire blankets are subjected to annual inspection
and certification by Fire Services Department certified contractor under the FIRE
SERVICES ORDINANCE, Chapter 95B.
Certified Fire extinguishers and Fire blankets are also installed in individual
laboratories and subjected to annual inspection. Different types and functions of
different fire extinguishers can be found in the Fire Services Department homepage.
When there are incidents of fire, stay calm, alert people in laboratory to evacuate by
Severe Emergency:
Dial 999
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the most direct route and activate the nearest alarm. An evacuate route is posted at
the Main Entrance (near the lift) of each floor. Turn off all gas burners and
laboratory-type equipment.
Small Fire – Use correct fire extinguisher, remove pin, aim extinguisher at base of
the fire and squeeze handle. Alternately, cover the fire source with a fire blanket.
Always maintain accessible exit and avoid inhaling smoke of fumes.
Major Fire – Close door to confine the fire. DO NOT USE ELEVATOR. Call Fire
Emergency Response number or dial 999.
2. Electrical Failure
In the event of power failure in the Incubator Facility, all electrical power will be lost
for 10 to 15 seconds until the emergency generator is activated. At this time, only
those lights and receptacles on the emergency electrical power supply, and the
Biological Safety Cabinets will be reactivated. Power of all pieces of equipment not
connected to the emergency supply will be lost. When the incidence of power
failure occurs, individuals should stop working, secure the area including
decontaminate surfaces, bag or containerize contaminated items, and store
cultures safely and leave. Switch off all power supply of all in-used and un-used
equipment. Close all doors when exiting.
3. Biological and Chemical Spills
Please refer to sections on Biological Safety and Chemical Safety for details. In
general, stay calm, do not directly breathe in the air, evacuate from the area and
close the door. Immediately inform the Facility Administrator, carefully
decontaminate the affected area with appropriate agents or spill kits. Wash hands
thoroughly after cleaning.
4. Medical Emergency (Injuries and illnesses)
Minor Injuries - Report all incidents to the PI and Facility Administrator. A first-aid kit
should be kept by each organization and emergency shower stations are available
in the G/F Pilot Plant, M/F and 2/F common corridors. The use of the first aid kit
does not preclude a visit to Occupational Health.
Serious Injury or Sudden Illness – Immediately inform the PI and Facility
Administrator. Dial the emergency number when special first aid, resuscitation,
transport, or rescue service is required. Describe clearly the situation and your
location. Clear the route so that medical help can enter the facility.
For details of first aid, see also Hints on First Aid by Labour Department, HKSAR.
As an issue of safety, individual laboratories should perform self-audit at least annually for the Fire Safety in their laboratories. A sample checklist for Fire Safety can be found in Appendix D.
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BIOLOGICAL SAFETY
Biological Vs. Biohazard
Microorganisms - Risk Grouping
Biosafety Levels
Physical Barrier Systems
Work with Blood and Products of Human Origin
Animal Work
Biological / Clinical Waste
Biological / Clinical Waste Treatments and Disposal
Autoclave Operations
Biological Emergency and Spill Cleanup
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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E. Biological Safety I. Biological Vs. Biohazards
Biological are biologic substances that used in, or produced by, applied biology. They
are substances of, or relating to biology or to life or living processes.
Biohazards are biological agents or conditions (as an infectious organism or insecure
laboratory procedures) that constitutes a hazard to humans or the environment. They are
also refer to a hazard posed by such an agent or condition.
II. Microorganisms – Risk-Grouping Microorganisms are categorized based on their type and the risk group they belong.
Those commonly used in general laboratories are in Risk Group 2 as listed below. A
detail lists of Risk-Grouping of microorganisms can be found in the USEO homepage,
CUHK .
1. Bacteria, Chlamydiae, Rickettsiae and Mycoplasmas
Risk Group 2, pathogenic microorganism.
2. Parasites
Risk Group 2, non-infectious (or free of infectious stages), associated containment
level may not required.
3. Fungi
This is restricted to fungal species that may pose a hazard to healthy individuals,
excluding those that infect following injury, as well as saprophytic species that
cause infections in the compromised host. All clinical fungi specimens must be
handled in containment Level 2 laboratory.
4. Viruses
Risk Group 2, including those found in humans but not on the lists.
III. Biosafety Levels ONLY Level 1 and 2 can be achieved in the existing facility. No work related to Level 3 is
allowed. (Source from USEO-Biosafety Levels, BS Section 3.2)
1. Biosafety Level 1 All laboratories (of designated Incubator Companies) in Incubator Facility are in this
level, appropriate only for non-pathogenic organisms to healthy adults. Cultures
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may include unintended organisms, while safe disposal is always required (and at
all levels). Standard micro-biological practices is adequate, and no special safety
equipment is necessary. Hand washing should be facilitated at or adjacent to the
bench.
Working in Biosafety Level 1 laboratory:
a. Laboratory segregation not necessary
b. Open bench work using standard microbiological practices
c. Laboratory personnel are trained and adequately supervised
The following area should be justified:
a. Standard Microbiological Practices
ii. Access may be limited at discretion of Laboratory Supervisor.
iii. Wash hands, (also after removing gloves) and before leaving the
laboratory.
iv. No eating, drinking, smoking, applying cosmetics or handling contact
lenses where there is any likelihood of infection.
v. No mouth pipeting.
vi. Work surfaces decontaminated at least daily and after any spill of
viable material.
vii. Minimize splashes and aerosols.
viii. Ensure proper decontamination of waste.
ix. Have an active insect and rodent control program.
b. Special equipment – Not required.
c. Safety equipment
i. Biosafety cabinet generally not required.
ii. Always wears laboratory coat.
iii. Wear gloves when working, especially when skin is broken or has rash.
iv. Wear safety goggles.
d. Laboratory Facilities
i. Hand-washing sink must be present in laboratory.
ii. Laboratory surfaces should be easily cleaned.
iii. Bench tops must resistant to water, chemicals and heat.
iv. Strapping furniture with adequate spaces between furniture for cleaning.
v. Insects screen must be fitted in the windows if they can be opened.
2. Biosafety Level 2 This level is similar to Biosafety Level 1 and is appropriate for agents of human
disease acquired by auto-inoculation, ingestion, mucous membrane exposure (i.e.
moderate potential hazard to human). Biohazard warnings is required, together with
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limited access, "sharps" precautions, class I or class II biological safety cabinet for
any procedures likely to generate aerosols or splashes. Wear laboratory coats and
gloves are must and eye shields are recommended for individuals wear contact
lens. Thorough decontamination of all waste and of re-usable equipment is
necessary after each round of work.
Work in Biosafety Level 2 laboratory:
a. Laboratory personnel should be trained to handle pathogenic agents, and
directed by experienced Scientist. b. Access to the laboratory is restricted while work is proceeding.
c. Extreme precautions should be taken with sharps, aerosols or splashes and
work takes place in biosafety cabinets or the like.
The following area should be justified:
a. Standard Microbiological Practices – Refer to Biosafety Level 1.
b. Special practices
i. Access is limited at discretion of Laboratory Supervisor when work is
taking place with infectious agents. In general any person who is likely to
be at increased risk of acquiring infection or from infection should not be
allowed to enter the laboratory.
ii. (1) There may be special entry requirements e.g. advising of risk, testing, or
immunization.
(2) When special entry requirements exists, a universal biohazard sign shall
be put on the door along with following information:
- The nature of the infectious agent
- Name and phone number of Laboratory Supervisor
- Special entry requirements
iii. Consideration should be given to the storage and testing of initial and
possibly on going personnel serum samples. This depends on the
biological agent involved.
iv. Laboratory personnel must receive relevant training on the potential
hazards with appropriate update information.
v. Sharps
The use of needles must be minimized.
(1) Use only needle locking syringes or one-piece syringes.
(2) Do NOT resheath or otherwise manipulate needles except with the use
of proper resheathing equipment.
(3) Use puncture resistant (e.g. plastic) sharps disposal containers.
(4) Use mechanical means (Never use HANDS) to pick up broken glass.
vi. Biological specimens or cultures etc. must be transported in leak-proof,
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break-proof containers.
vii. Routine disinfection, disinfection after finishing a task and disinfection
after possible contamination is mandatory.
viii. Spills and accidents, which result in overt exposures to infectious
materials, must be reported immediately to the Laboratory Supervisor. A
Medical consultation may be required.
ix. No animal is allowed (except from those related to the actual work) in the
laboratory.
c. Safety equipment (Primary barrier)
i. Properly maintained Biosafety Cabinets or other appropriate physical
containment to be used whenever there is a chance to create an
infectious aerosol or splashing could occur:
Centrifuging, grinding, homogenizing, blending, vigorous shaking or
mixing of experimental materials, opening containers with a pressure
difference from the room pressure, intra-nasally inoculating animals,
harvesting infected tissues from animals or eggs, or when high
concentrations or larger volumes of infectious agents are used.
(a) Always use sealed rotor heads or centrifuge safety caps; AND
(b) Open such kind of samples ONLY in a biosafety cabinet
ii. Use eye AND face protection if there is a chance of splashes/sprays
when the microorganisms MUST be manipulated outside the Biosafety
cabinet. Be sure that the cabinet shielding is adequate.
iii. Use protective gowns or wear laboratory coat – DO NOT wear them to
non-laboratory areas. No home laundry of these clothing is allowed.
iv. Use gloves when handling anything infectious including animals or
equipment. Consider using two pairs of gloves for easier
decontamination in case of a spill. DO NOT
(a) Reuse disposable gloves.
(b) Wear these gloves outside the laboratory.
(c) Spread infectious agents around laboratory surfaces with "dirty" gloves.
d. Laboratory Facilities (Secondary barrier)
Similar facilities as in Biosafety Level 1 is required, together with:
i. Approved decontamination methods for infectious waste.
ii. Eyewash facility.
3. Biosafety Level 3 (Experiment in this Biosafety Level is not allowed in HKIB) This level is appropriate for agents of human disease with potential for aerosol
transmission, agents causing severe or lethal disease. Access is strictly controlled.
Use of class I or class II cabinet is required for all procedures. Decontamination of
all waste, laboratory clothing and re-usable equipment is a must.
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Summary of recommended Biosafety Levels for infectious materials
Biosafety Level Agents Practices Safety Equipment
(Primary Barriers) Facilities
(Secondary Barriers)
1 Not known to cause disease in healthy adults
Standard Microbiological Practices None required Open bench top sink
required
2
Associated with human disease, hazard = auto-inoculation, ingestion, mucous membrane exposure
BSL-1 practice plus: - Limited access - Biohazard warning signs - "Sharps" precautions - Biosafety manual defining any needed waste decontamination or medical surveillance policies
Primary barriers = Class I or II BSCs or other physical containment devices used for all manipulations of agents that cause splashes or aerosols of infectious materials: PPEs: laboratory coats; gloves; face protection as needed
BSL-1 plus: Autoclave available
3
Indigenous or exotic agents with potential for aerosol transmission; disease may have serious or lethal consequences
BSL-2 practice plus: - Controlled access - Decontamination of all waste - Decontamination of lab clothing before laundering - Baseline serum
Primary barriers = Class I or II BCSs or other physical containment devices used for all manipulations of agents; PPEs: protective lab clothing; gloves; respiratory protection as needed
BSL-2 plus: - Physical separation from access corridors - Self-closing, double door access - Exhausted air not recirculated - Negative airflow into laboratory
(Source: UESO Homepage, BS Section 3.2)
IV. Physical Barrier Systems The Incubator Facility is equipped with Class II Biological Safety Cabinets designed to
provide protection for personnel and also materials with the cabinets.
1. Work with biohazard materials should be conducted inside the Biological Safety
Cabinets with appropriate cleaning and working procedures.
2. Contamination must be cleaned up immediately after any contamination incidence
occurs.
3. ALL WORKING MATERIALS MUST BE REMOVED from the cabinet each time
finished using it. Reserve the cabinet before work and clean up the cabinet after
use.
4. No blocking of the airflow is allowed inside the Biological Safety Cabinet.
5. Report to Facility Administrator for any incidence of contamination, unusual airflow
or UV light burnt out.
V. Work with Blood and Products of Human Origin Infection is the factor that has been seriously concerned when handling blood and
products of human origin as HIV and Hepatitis B are examples of the infectious materials
from such samples. Other agents such as fungi, bacteria, or viral agents may also
present causing infections. Representative infections include tuberculosis and brucellosis.
As such, all blood, blood products, body fluids, as well as other blood-related materials
should be treated as if they bear the blood-related pathogens. Biosafety Level 2
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containments should be reached, and universal precautions should be taken to prevent
any contaminations or spread of disease.
Disinfectant solutions, decontamination of laboratory work surfaces or equipments:
1. Ethanol
Ethanol is a good disinfectant and is effective for a wide range of pathogens (except
for some highly infectious agents such as Hepatitis C).
a. For corrodible laboratory surfaces, use 70% (v/v in water) ethanol for regular
disinfection, or the material to be disinfected should be in contact with 70%
ethanol for at least 20 minutes.
b. For porous surface, it is a good disinfectant owing to its volatility, but repeat
application may be required.
c. Ethanol is flammable and exceptional cautious should be taken when using
ethanol near electrical appliances.
d. No ethanol can be stored in non-explosive proved refrigerator.
2. Formalin
Formalin can be prepared by dissolving formaldehyde in water or methanol (37%,
w/v). It is a power disinfectant and can be used for inactivating HIV inside tissues by
using as a 0.5% solution for 10 minutes.
3. Glutaraldegyde
It can be used as a 2% (w/v with water) solution, and the action of the freshly
prepared stock is valid within 24 hours. Use such solution to disinfect the
contaminated area for at least 20 minutes with good ventilation. It is highly toxic and
cannot be used as a regular surface disinfectant.
4. Hypochlorite solution
a. Use 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution (or household bleach, e.g. “Clorox” in
10% final concentration) for spills, or soaking swabs for cleaning.
b. For routine cleaning, use 0.05% sodium hypochlorite solution.
c. For liquid wastes containing viruses, viral-infected or transformed cells (yeast
or E. coli), or pipet decontamination, use 10% Chlorox solution.
5. Iodine
For disinfection, use 0.5% iodine (v/v in 70% ethanol) in contact with the surface to
be disinfected for at least 20 minutes.
VI. Animal Work (dissection, in vivo experiment, transgenic animal) All animal work in HKIB must obtain approval from HKIB. For CUHK departmental users,
animal work must obtain pre-approval form the Animal Experimentation Ethics
Committee (AEEC), Clinical Sciences Administration of the Faculty of Medicine, CUHK.
Other parties must obtain licensure from the Department of Health and individual workers
must register themselves in the DH for performing experiments related to animal work.
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When conducting animal experiments, the following precautions must be taken:
1. Be cautious when handling animals. Do not treat the animals as pets, and any
animal bite must be carefully monitored with appropriate first-aid procedures.
2. Wash hands before and after handling the animals.
3. Respect the animals. Ensure the animal has been sufficiently anesthetized or dead
before carrying out dissection.
4. Kill the animal with appropriate method. CO2 asphyxiation, cervical dislocation, or
induction of anesthesia by overdose barbiturate such as 20% pentobarbital is
recommended.
5. It is recommended to disinfect the animal using 70% ethanol before dissection. All
dissection equipment should be soaked in 70% ethanol before and after used.
6. The animal carcasses must be well wrapped and keep frozen in deep freezer
before collection by animal waste contractor.
7. All waste related to animal work are bio-contaminated waste and waste disposal
procedures for such category MUST BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED.
8. All animals are not allowed to be left outside the cage. Any escape or lost of animals
(if the animal get away from the cage) must be immediately reported to the Facility
Administrator.
9. Housing animal is STRICTLY PROHIBITED in HKIB.
VII. Biological / Clinical Waste (Source: Proposed Clinical Waste Control Scheme Consultation Document, “Draft Code of Practice for the Management of Clinical Waste for Small Clinical Waste Producers”. Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR.)
1. Definition
Clinical waste is defined as any waste arising from:
a. Any dental, medical, nursing or veterinary practice, or any other practice or
establishment providing medical care and services for the sick, injured, infirm
or those who require medical treatment;
b. Any dental, medical, nursing, veterinary, pathological or pharmaceutical
research; or
c. Any dental, medical, veterinary or pathological laboratory practice
2. Classification
According to the guideline from Environmental Protection Department (EPD), laboratory biological / clinical wastes are categorized as follows:
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a. Group 1 – Used contaminated sharps
Syringes, needles, cartridges, ampoules and other sharp instruments which
have been used or which have become contaminated with any other group of
clinical waste.
b. Group 2 – Laboratory wastes (also bio-contaminated chemical wastes)
Laboratory wastes include unsterilized laboratory stocks, cultures of infectious
agents and potentially infectious waste with significant health risk from dental,
medical, veterinary or pathology laboratories. Bio-contaminated chemical
wastes include organic solvents used with animal tissues and infectious
materials. Chemical wastes not in the listing of the contracted service by
Enviropace are EXCLUDED (see Appendix B for types of liquid chemical
container), and user / waste producer must inform EPD for further
arrangement.
c. Group 3 – Human and animal tissues (also animal carcasses)
All human tissues, organs and body parts as well as dead animals, but
excluding dead animals, animal tissues, organs and body parts arising from
veterinary sources or practices. Human and animal tissues that cannot be
completely segregated from items such as dressings are not covered in this
category.
d. Group 4 – Infectious materials
Include infectious materials from patients with list of pathogens as specified in
the EPD guideline. Materials contaminated by this group of waste are also
classified as Group 4 waste. The list of pathogen will be updated or amended
via notice published in the Gazette by the Director of Environmental
Protection.
e. Group 5 – Soiled dressings
Surgical dressings, swabs and all other waste dribbling with blood, caked with
blood or containing free-flowing blood.
f. Group 6 – Other wastes
Other waste which are likely to be contaminated with:
Infectious materials (other than infectious materials referred to in Group
4); or
Any clinical waste being substance, matter or thing belonging to Group
1,2,3, or 5,
which may pose a significant health risk.
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Only wastes from Group 1, 2, 3 and 6 are applicable for the laboratories in HKIB
The following are not classified as clinical waste:
Clinical-type waste arising from domestic premises.
Radioactive waste, whether arising from medical sources or not, as defined
under the Radiation (Control of Radioactive Substances) Regulations
(Chapter 303 – sub. Leg.).
Chemical waste as defined under the Waste Disposal Ordinance (Chapter
354) including cytotoxic drugs.
Dead animals, animal tissues, organs and body parts arising from veterinary
sources / practices, abattoirs, pet shops, farms, wholesale and retail markets,
or domestic sources.
Dead human bodies.
VIII. Biological / Clinical Waste Treatments and Disposal
Basic principal:
1. Segregation
Biological and clinical waste should be segregated from the normal laboratory
waste, as well as other waste types and be packaged properly for on-site temporary
storage prior for transportation to final disposal. Biological waste should also be
separated from clinical waste.
2. Packaging
The principal of waste packaging is leak resistant to protect all handling personnel
from exposure to the wastes. The following are the waste packaging method for
waste group 1, 2 and 3 in the laboratories. (All solid clinical waste are required to be
incinerated and cannot be disposed of by other methods.)
a. Group 1 – Sharps
Sharps items include blades, pipettes, broken glass and sampling probes. All
sharps must be placed in sharps boxes or containers. Containers should be
rigid, non-fragile, puncture resistant, waterproof and leak proof. All containers
should not be filled over 75% of their capacity. They should be sealed off
during transportation, and to prevent spillage of the contents during handling
and transportation. The filled containers should be autoclaved prior to be
collect by contractor. Sharp containers are commercially available with various
sizes. (See Appendix A for specifications of different types of containers for
clinical waste.)
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b. Group 2 – Laboratory wastes and bio-contaminated chemical waste
All bio-contaminated solid wastes (including microbial contaminated wastes)
must be double-bagged and subjected to sterilization, after that the waste can
then be disposed of as normal waste. Bio-contaminated chemical wastes
should be collected in the assigned chemical waste containers (provided by
HKIB upon request) according to the nature and types of the chemical waste
(Appendix B), similar to the way as treating normal chemical wastes, but in
separate container even the waste is of the same type. For example, if
bio-contaminated phenol reagent (non-halogenated solvent) has to be
disposed, container for non-halogenated solvent should be used, but in
separate container from that of the normal non-halogenated waste.
Containers should not be filled over 70% of their capacity. The lid of the
container must be closed tightly before be collected by contractor to prevent
spilling to the responsible personnel.
List of container required for each laboratory has to be submitted to Incubator
Manager for approval. Subsequent request of containers can be provided
upon request. Users can contact Facility Administrator for arrangement of
bio-contaminated chemical waste disposal. User are required to countersign a
waste disposal log-sheet for recording the volume and chemical type that has
been collected for disposal. Chemical waste, no matter bio-contaminated or
not bio-contaminated, is collected on a charge based, depending on the
volume to be disposed, for covering the waste collection cost from service
provider. The list of chemical waste containers available in HKIB can be found
in Appendix B.
c. Group 3 – Animal tissue and carcasses
Animal carcasses or tissues should be disposed in polyethylene or
polypropylene bag, sealed well, and kept in deep freezer before collected by
clinical waste contactor. In HKIB, Bag labeled with “Biohazard” sign will be
provided during each visit of the contracted waste collector. All waste must
then be wrapped by such kind of bag before handling over to contractor for
disposal. (See Appendix A for specifications for different types of containers
for clinical waste.)
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3. Solid and Liquid Biological Waste
Liquid biological waste should be autoclaved or decontaminated by chemical
disinfectant (e.g. 10% household bleach), after that the waste can be poured
through the drain connected to the sanitary sewage system. Never autoclave
household bleach or other chemicals, or autoclave liquids in non-autoclave
containers. Solid biological waste (e.g. contaminated with microbial cell or cell
culture materials) should be collected in bag labeled with “Biohazard” sign, and
autoclave prior to be disposed of as normal waste.
4. Others
Agar plates, bacterial cultures or used/expired cell culture media should be
sterilized by autoclaving or chemical disinfection before disposal. Tissue culture, or
cell line with etiologic agent or oncogenic virus should be double bagged and
autoclaved inside an unbreakable, leak-proof container. If necessary, use absorbent
to soak the liquid waste. No clinical waste should adhere to the external surface of
the containers. The autoclaved waste and the used absorbent should be altogether
disposed by contracted waste collector.
Animal blood, human blood, blood product, or body fluid should either be
disinfected with 10% bleach for 30-60 minutes, or contained in a 1 to 2 Liter
unbreakable container for sterilization. The autoclaved waste should then be stored
at 4°C before being disposed by the contracted waste service.
Prolonged storage of clinical waste in a premise is not recommended and storage
should be no longer than 3 months. The storage area should be maintained in
proper sanitary conditions and free of pests and vermin. A schedule for clinical
waste collection has been distributed to each laboratory, and any changes in
schedule will be regularly updated. HKIB will coordinate the collection process, and
please be sure that appropriate waste treatment has been performed before
handling over to Facility Administrator for collection.
FIG. 2 Label of clinical waste with“Biohazard” sign. (Source from“Draft Code of Practice for theManagement of Clinical Waste forSmall Clinical Waste Producers”,EPD, HKSAR.)
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IX. Autoclave Operation Except from HKIB’s licensed staff, no personnel are allowed to manipulate the power switch and valve operations of the autoclave machine as operation of the autoclave is under “Boilers and Pressure Vessels Ordinance”. Only normal
decontamination procedure is allowed under supervision of a competent person. The
procedure is posted on the loading side of the autoclave machine.
The pressure within an autoclave is phenomenal. For instance if the temperature in the
autoclave is 121°C and the diameter of the door is 2 m, the force behind that door is 185
tones, which is equivalent to 70 cars. Do not stand close to the door when autoclaving. If
the autoclave exceeds the normal pressure when operating or any abnormalities is
observed, report to the Facility Administrator immediately.
The following precautions must be remunerated:
1. Only autoclavable material is allowed to put inside the autoclave machine. Check all
components of the materials to be autoclaved (e.g. containers, lid of containers,
plastic ware, etc.) as some of the materials cannot withstand the high temperature
of the decontamination procedures.
2. All materials, before leaving the laboratory and entering the autoclave machine,
must be sealed, covered, and possibly, with the present of autoclave tape stick on
each piece of material. Only aluminum foil and autoclave bags are allowed be used
for wrapped cycle.
3. Liquid and wrapped materials (e.g. glassware, solid) must be autoclaved in their
respective liquid, wrapped, or unwrapped cycle. Liquid should not be autoclaved in
wrapped cycle as this may cause serious spills during the exhaustion step.
4. All biohazard waste materials, before entering the autoclaved, MUST be wrapped in
an autoclavable bag and well labeled. Contaminated culture medium and solid
wastes should be treated separately in different decontamination cycles.
5. Never autoclave radioactive waste.
6. All personnel MUST complete a sign-up logbook providing the name, laboratory,
extension and cycle details before operating the autoclave.
7. After autoclave, wear gloves before removing materials from the autoclave. Be
careful to be hurt by the steam if standing too close to the door.
8. Attention should be drawn when opening the door after autoclaving as the steam
comes from the autoclave has a high latent heat and may cause burnt to your eyes
or skin.
9. It is the responsibility of all users to load his/her own material, and remove all items
upon completion. Autoclaved wastes must be placed in appropriate waste
containers for removal by custodial staff.
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10. Any malfunction of autoclave or error codes appear should be immediately reported
to the Facility Administrator for further arrangements.
Operation procedures:
1. Wear protective gloves when putting or removing articles from the autoclave.
2. All materials must be placed directly into, but not outside the autoclave.
3. Stainless steel autoclave trays are available for containers of liquid materials,
reusable, or small items. Use separate tray for different items is recommended.
4. Loosen or uncover all tightly closed containers before autoclave.
5. Waste material should be packed in double-autoclave biohazard waste bags, and
securely closed before leaving the laboratory to be autoclaved.
6. Sharp containers must be covered and placed in double autoclave biohazard bags,
and autoclave as solid waste.
7. Open the autoclave only when the chamber pressure gauge read zero and the
internal contents have cooled to below 80°C.
8. Containers of liquids should be left undisturbed for the period specified in the
autoclave instructions so that they have cooled down before the door is opened.
This can avoid cracking of the bottles and subsequently explosion under the
internal pressure.
9. After an autoclave procedure, if leaving the material in the stainless steel tray for
cooling is a must, the stainless steel tray MUST BE REMOVED from the autoclave,
placed on the bench, and a “HOT” or “CAUTION” sign must be placed on the
stainless steel tray, which are available in Room 228.
Monitoring Sterilization Methods: Three types of indicators can be used for monitoring sterilization cycles.
I. Color Change Tape
Tapes are available for dry heat and moist heat / liquid cycles. The main
disadvantage of these tapes is that they are qualitative but not quantitative, which
only indicate exposure of the autoclave articles to a cycle, but do not prove that if
the articles are in fact sterile.
II. Physical Indicators
Browne’s tubes and Thermalog indicators are claimed to provide evidence of
time-temperature parameters for moist heat / liquid cycles. Yet, they should not be
regarded as absolute indicators of sterility.
III. Biological Indicators
These are strips with microorganisms to indicate the inactivation of the microbes by
the respective autoclave cycles. Those can be used in our autoclave include
a. B. stearothermophilus (usually 105 colonies per strip) for indicating a
temperature of at least 116°C has been achieved for sufficient time to
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inactivate the microorganisms in moist heat cycles.
b. B. subtilis var. niger (usually 105 colonies per strip) for dry heat cycles.
The main disadvantage of the biological indicators is that variations of their
performance have been observed. As such they should not be regarded as
providing evidence that sterility of the exposed articles has been achieved.
X. Biological Emergency and Spill Cleanup 1. Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC) Malfunction
Malfunction of Biological Safety Cabinet is associated with the insufficient flow of
the exhaust system. Alarm will sound together with an indication of a red warning
light at the front panel of the system. Whenever malfunction of BSC is encountered:
a. Immediately terminate all work. Close all materials and vessels containing the
infectious agents.
b. Turn off the gas and vacuum if they have been used.
c. Close the cabinet.
d. Notify all users within the room and evacuate.
e. Notify other users by posting sign on the BSC.
f. Report to Facility Administrator for the incidence.
2. Biohazard Spill Outside a Biological Safety Cabinet
When there is an accidental spill event of biohazardous material (e.g. infectious
agents), immediate spill control and decontamination should be taken.
Immediate spill control: a. Avoid inhaling any airborne infectious material to prevent the infectious agent
getting into the body and contaminating the clothing.
b. Evacuate the spillage area immediately and close the door.
c. Remove contaminated clothing carefully, the contaminated area folded inward.
Place clothing in a bag or directly into the autoclave.
d. Wash all the exposed area of the body thoroughly, or use the shower if
necessary.
e. Report to Facility Administrator and PI immediate about the spillage incidence.
f. If the affected area is confined, decontaminate the area with a freshly
prepared solution of a disinfectant, e.g. 10% household bleach.
g. Entry to the area must be subjected against warning. A sign must be posted to
prohibit any entry to the contaminated area. No one should enter the room for
at least one hour (so as to allow aerosols to be carried away and heavier
particles to settle).
h. For serious contamination, time should be taken to formulate a plan to
decontaminate. Once all personnel have been removed from the area, there is
no need to rush into the contaminated area.
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i. Assist the Facility Administrator as necessary. Decontamination will involve
treatment of gross contamination by local application of disinfectant and
possible gaseous decontamination of the entire working space.
Decontamination of a spill: a. Re-entry into the facility must be delayed for a period of at least one hour to
allow reduction of the potential aerosol generated by the spill.
b. Dress in protective clothing, including a Tyvek® suit and double gloves.
Respiratory protection by mask is strongly recommended. Care should also
be taken during decontamination not to disperse droplets.
c. Place paper towels along the outside of the spill, working from the edges in.
Pour the germicidal solution such as 10% solution of sodium hypochlorite
(household bleach) around the spill and allow it to flow into the spill.
d. Avoid pouring the germicidal solution directly onto the spill to prevent aerosols.
Try covering the spill with an absorbent pad and apply the decontaminant to
the absorbent pad.
e. Allow to stand for 30 minutes, this will provide enough contact time for
adequate disinfection.
f. Carefully remove the soaked pads, placing them into an autoclave bag.
Working toward the center of the spill, use paper towels to wipe up the spill.
Discard paper towels after used into an autoclave bag.
g. Using paper towels soaked in disinfectant, wipe beyond the area of visible or
suspected splashing, including the floor and vertical surfaces. Discard paper
towels in the autoclave bag.
h. Decontamination is complete when the whole area of suspected liquid
contamination has been washed with a disinfectant and all excess
decontaminate has been mopped up.
i. Place all contaminated materials including gloves, shoe covers, and other
protective clothing into an autoclavable bag. Sterilize and dispose of this
waste in the red bag system as biohazard waste.
After all these have been done, the laboratory area is considered to be
decontaminated. The Facility Administrator will decide re-opening of the area, or if
further gaseous decontamination of the entire laboratory area is required.
3. Biohazard Spill Inside a Biological Safety Cabinet
A spill that is confined to the interior of the BSC should present minimal or no risk to
personnel in the area. However, chemical disinfectant procedures should be
initiated at once while the cabinet ventilation system continues to operate to prevent
escape of contaminant from the cabinet.
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a. Spray or wipe, wall, work surfaces and equipment with a disinfectant. A 10%
solution of sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) is recommended. The
operator must be properly gloved and gowned during this procedure.
Household bleach can penetrate latex gloves and can be corrosive to metal so
consider having an alternative available such as nitrile gloves.
b. Flood the work surface of the BSC with sufficient disinfectant solution to
ensure that the drain pans and catch basins below the work surface contain
the disinfectant. Allow the disinfectant to work for 30 minutes before it is
cleaned up.
c. Make sure to wipe all surfaces including the front intake grill. Drain the
disinfectant into a container.
d. Repeat above process with distilled water or mild soap and water.
e. The disinfectant, gloves, wiping towels and sponges should be discarded into
an autoclave bag. The materials should be autoclaved and discarded in the
red bag system as biohazard waste.
This process will not disinfect the filters, blower, air ducts, or other interior parts of
the cabinet. The Facility Administrator should be consulted to determine if gaseous
decontamination of these items is necessary.
4. Biohazards from Microbial Aerosols
Aerosols can be produced by:
Blenders
Blow-out pipettes including semi-automatic micro-pipettes
Centrifuges
Falling drops of liquids onto hard surfaces
Removing a needle (and syringe) from "rubber" stoppered bottle
Sonicators (avoid up and down movement)
A flamed culture loop
As such, good practice can help to reducing risk generated by aerosols:
Avoid blowing out pipettes Seal tubes and rotors when centrifuging Use a mixer to mix cultures Use a disinfectant soaked pledget of cotton when withdrawing through a
stoppered bottle Work on disinfectant soaked porous material
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“High-risk” equipment includes those that can generate aerosols easily doing
sample processing. Monitoring practices when using “high-risk” equipments
include:
a. Use stainless steel units in preference to glass.
b. Lids with O-ring gaskets should be checked for integrity, as should drive
bearings.
High-risk equipments:
a. Blending and homogenizing equipment (homogenizer, sonicator)
Keeping the tip of the probe immersed into the liquid or sample when
homogenizing or sonicating.
Preferably the whole unit should be used inside a biological safety
cabinet. If this is not possible, the container should be unloaded in a
cabinet.
Use containers in which the probe is allowed to pass through and seals
the vessel.
b. Pipette aids
Use an “autoclave-designed” pipette aid when perform experiments deal
with biological hazardous materials.
Work with biohazardous material by alternate suction and discharge, by
forcible discharge, or by bubbling air should be minimized. A vortex
mixer minimizes aerosol production.
A container or pan for contaminated pipettes should be placed inside the
biological safety cabinet, with size to allow the pipettes to be placed
horizontally. The container should be autoclaved when filled. The
disinfectant used should be compatible with autoclaving (note:
hypochlorite solution CANNOT be autoclaved).
c. Syringes and Needles
Use disposable syringes with needles permanently attached, or Luerlok
type syringe and an appropriate gauge needle, so as to prevent needles
from accidentally detached from the syringe when pressure is applied.
Keep hands behind the needle to prevent self-inoculation.
Discard used syringes and needles into an appropriate "sharps"
container (See Appendix A for specifications for different types of
containers for clinical waste) without separating the needle or capping
for incineration.
d. Inoculation loops
During heat sterilization of loops, infectious particles may be shed unless
the heating device is shielded. Disposable loops are available for use to
avoid this problem.
- 39 -
Extra caution should be taken when flaming the loop as the disposal
loops are less rigid than wire loops, which can shed particles from
vibration, i.e. the flames can cause spatter off the loop and occasionally
onto your gown or right out of the cabinet.
Shielded electric loop sterilizers are recommended in place of disposal
plastic loops.
e. Others (Hand protection)
Cuts from post mortem knives and broken glass are another common cause
of laboratory injury and exposure to infection. Protective gloves with
reinforcing wire will reduce this risk.
(Source from: AIOH - Biological 1994)
Decontamination of aerosols: Decontamination vapor may harm the experimental material or animals. The
Facility Administrator will advise practical and permissible precautions against
vapors. Gross spills cannot be reliably decontaminated in this way.
Complete decontamination of exposed surfaces in an open laboratory or cabinet
interior can be accomplished with paraformaldehyde. Gaseous decontamination
can be achieved provided that:
a. The only possible contamination was by small droplets or aerosol particles.
b. Surfaces were clean before any possible contamination and remain clean
thereafter so that there is maximum contact of the contaminated surfaces with
the paraformaldehyde gas.
For large-scale contamination inside the biological safety cabinet, decontamination
can only be done by trained personnel only, and Facility Administrator will decide if
relevant decontamination action should be taken. If incidence regarding the
biological safety cabinet is concerned, it is recommended to report to Facility
Administrator immediately and seek for service call from cleaning contractor of the
BSC.
- 40 -
The following table also summarized some recommended applications for chemical
disinfectants in microbiological laboratories. (Source: CUHK-USEO homepage)
Site or equipment Routine or preferred method or usage Acceptable alternative Benches and surfaces (not obviously contaminated)
Alcohols e.g. 70% w/w (= 80% v/v) ethyl or 60-70% v/v isopropyl - swabbed Synthetic phenolics*
Biological safety cabinet (BSC) work surfaces
Synthetic phenolics* after bacteriological work or Iodophor* or other disinfectant according to the pathogen being handled
For BSC with capture hoods, glutaraldehyde† (with cabinet fan operating) -swabbed (see AS/NZS 2647)
BSC before servicing or testing Formaldehyde vapour (see Paragraph E6.3) --
Centrifuge rotor or sealable bucket after leakage or breakage
Disinfection not the preferred method. Pressure steam sterilizing at 121C for 15 min recommended
Glutaraldehyde+† for 10 min or synthetic phenolics* for bacterial spills for 10 min
Centrifuge bowl after leakage or breakage
Glutaraldehyde+ for 10 min (swabbed twice within the 10 min period then wiped with water)
Synthetic phenolics* for bacterial spills for 10 min
Discard containers (pipette jars)
Chlorine disinfectant at 2 000 - 2 500 ppm (0.2-0.25%), freshly prepared and changed daily
Synthetic phenolics* for bacteriological work (changed weekly) or detergent with pressure steam sterilizing for virus work
Equipment surfaces before services or testing
Surfaces disinfected according to manufacturers' instructions
Alcohol (80% v/v ethyl or 60-70% v/v isopropyl) except when its flammability poses a hazard or glutaraldehyde+† then water
Gnotobiotic animal isolators Peracetic acid at 2% v/v conc. - swabbed --
Hand disinfection Chlorhexidine (0.5-4% w/v) in alcoholic formulations for 2 min
Isopropyl (60-70% v/v) or ethyl alcohol (80% v/v) with emollients or Povidone-iodine (0.75-1% avI) for 2 min
Hygienic hand-wash Chlorhexidine (4% w/v) in detergent formulation (or alcoholic formulations) for 15s
Detergent cleansers or soap for 15 s
Spills of blood/serum (or viral cultures)
High concentration chlorine at 5000–10 000 ppm (0.5-1%) for 10 min (active against hepatitis viruses and HIV)
Glutaraldehyde+ for 10 min
Spills of bacterial cultures
Synthetic phenolics* (unaffected by organic load) for 10 min
High concentration chlorine disinfectant or Iodophor* for 10 min
* Dilute according to manufacturer's instructions. + Glutaraldehyde as 2% w/v activated aqueous or 2% w/v glycol-complexed formulations.
- 41 -
CHEMICAL SAFETY
Dangerous Goods
Management of Chemical Storage
Chemical Hazard
Safe use of Carcinogenic, Teratogenic, and Highly
Toxic Chemicals
Fume Cupboard
Chemical Waste Disposal
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
- 42 -
F. Chemical Safety I. Dangerous Goods
Researches carried out in laboratory are always associated with the use of chemicals,
which is a type of dangerous goods according to the Dangerous Goods Ordinance,
HKSAR.
1. Definition
According to the “Dangerous Good Ordinance, 1983”, dangerous goods refer to
“All explosives, compressed gases, petroleum and other substances given off inflammable vapors, substances giving off poisonous gas or vapor, corrosive substances, substances which become dangerous by interaction with water or air, substances liable to spontaneous combustion or of a readily combustible nature”.
2. Classification
In the Dangerous Goods (Classification) Regulations dangerous goods are listed
into the following categories (Source: Fire Protection Notice No. 4 “Dangerous Goods General”, Fire Services Department, HKSAR):
Category 1 Explosives
(The Authority is the Commissioner of Mines.)
Category 2* Compressed Gases
C1.1 Permanent Gases
C1.2 Liquefied Gases
C1.3 Dissolved Gases
Category 3 Corrosive Substances
Category 4 Poisonous Substances
C1.1 Substances giving off poisonous gas or vapor C1.2 Certain other poisonous substances
Category 5*
Substances giving off inflammable vapors
C1.1 Flash point below 23°C C1.2 Flash point of or exceeding 23°C but not
exceeding 66°C C1.3 Flash point of or exceeding 66°C (applicable to
diesel oils, furnace oils and other fuel oils only)
Div. 1 Immiscible with water (applicable to Class 1 & 2 only)
Div. 2 Miscible with water (applicable to Class 1 & 2 only)
Category 6 Substances which become dangerous by interaction with water
- 43 -
Category 7 Strong supporters of combustion
Category 8 Readily combustible substances
Category 9 Substances liable to spontaneous combustion
Category 9A Combustible goods exempted from Section 6 to 11 of the Ordinance
Category 10 Other dangerous substances
* Rider clauses are provided in category 2 and category 5 dangerous goods to include any other
substance having similar properties but not yet specified in the list.
As such, apart from regularly used chemicals for experiments, compressed gas and
liquid nitrogen are also classified as Dangerous Goods (DG).
3. Dangerous Chemicals (Source: CUHK-USEO homepage)
a. Flammable liquids (Category 5)
Maximum storage of Class 1 (e.g. methanol) and Class 2 (e.g.
tert-Butanol) flammable liquids are 120 liters for the whole building. The hazard for flammable liquids is fire as they usually have a low flash
point (can be ignited easily at a low ambient temperature) and spilled
solvent can be ignited by the hot plates, or react explosively with
chemical oxidizers present.
Keep the storage area cool any dry, and avoid storage with incompatible
chemicals (e.g. Nitric Acid with acetonitrile will result with high explosive
reaction). Old and unwanted liquid should be disposed.
Use a flammable cabinet (which can protect contents against fire for 1
hour) for storage of >10L, compatible flammable liquids (see section 2
below for compatibility test).
Flammable chemicals are not allowed to store in refrigerator. Use of
explosion-proof refrigerator need pre-approval and inspection by the
Incubator Manager. No heating device is allowed to place near such
refrigerator.
Gaseous Liquid Solid
Oxygen Fluorine Chlorine Ozone
Nitrous Oxide
Hydrogen Peroxide Nitric Acid
Perchloric AcidBromine
Sulfuric Acid
Ammonium Nitrate Ammonium Nitrite
Perchlorates Peroxides Chromates
Examples of common chemical oxidizers
- 44 -
b. Unstable chemicals
Unstable chemicals are those that can possibly explode under a right
condition (e.g. humidity, temperature, etc.). The list in the following table is
some examples of unstable chemical groups that can be founding laboratory.
Examples of typical unstable chemical groups Acetylene and acetylides Hypohalitenitrate Amine oxide Nitrite Azide Nitro Diazo Ozonide Diasonium Per-acid Fulminate Nitrogen halides
Halates Perhalites N-Halomine Peroxides Hydroperoxide
c. Incompatible chemicals
Natures of chemicals are different. Mixing of incompatible chemicals may
result in fire or explosion. If one is unsure about the consequence of mixing
the chemical, s/he should 1. Read the material safety date sheet (MSDS) and 2. Perform the compatibility test. Some examples of incompatible
chemicals and the consequences of reactions are listed in Appendix G.
Please be noted that there is never a list that is comprehensive, and the list is
for reference only.
d. Liquid nitrogen
Liquid nitrogen is a type of dangerous due to its cryogenic in nature. Detains in
handling and storage of liquid nitrogen can be found in the GENERAL LABORATORY SAFETY section.
II. Management of Chemical Storage
1. Chemical Storage
An annual inventory (or more) must be done by laboratory owners. The
inventory can either be in electronic or mandatory format. Chemical inventory is
important in general good laboratory management and research projects. It is also
a legal requirement to show you have a quality management system.
Chemical storage: a. The storage area must be clear of escape routes.
b. Mark date of purchase on label.
c. The quantity of flammable liquid waste must be kept minimum and be stored
in a cool place. Any amount of flammable liquids greater than 10 Liters (total)
should be stored in a flammable goods cabinet.
- 45 -
d. Corrosives should be stored low down, using capture trays or in acid
cabinets.
e. Volatile and toxic materials may require special storage.
f. Incompatible or unstable chemicals should be stored separately, rather than
alphabetically. A list of incompatible chemical groups can be found in
Appendix G.
g. Chemicals should not be stored above shoulder height.
h. Containers e.g. Winchesters of corrosive liquids to be stored as low as
possible.
i. Audit regularly: old and unwanted stocks should be disposed.
It is recommended to inspect chemicals every three months!!!
2. Controlled Chemical Storage
According to the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Chapter 145), a license is
required to input, possess or use any of the Schedule 1 and 2 chemicals.
CONTROLLED CHEMICALS
Schedule 1 Acetic anhydride Acetyl bromide Acetyl chloride
Schedule 2
N-acetylanthranilic acid Anthranilic acid Ephedrine Ergotamine Ergometrine Isosafrole Lysergic acid
3,4-methylenedioxy-phenyl-2-propanone Phenylacetic acid 1-phenyl-2-propanone Piperonal Piperidine Potassium Permanganate Pseudoephedrine Safrole
No unlicensed party is allowed to possess any of the above items. Any people who
wish to use the controlled chemicals must apply their own licenses for the controlled
chemicals through the Customs and Excise Department and obtain pre-approval by
HKIB. The license holder is responsible for the keeping of such chemicals. If no
license holder is forthcoming, appointed, or the chemicals are expired, the
chemicals must then be destroyed in accordance with the suggestion by EPD.
3. Purchase of controlled chemical
You should ensure that your laboratory has the corresponding license before
ordering the chemicals. You are highly recommended to order these chemicals
through a local agent which has the license to import the chemicals. The local
licensed agent will be able to go through all legal requirements in the shipment,
import and delivery of the goods. Unless you have a license to import, you should
not order these chemicals directly from oversea supplier. You are recommended to
- 46 -
check updated information from the Customs & Excise Department, Department of
Health, and the Trade & Industry Department. (www.customs.gov.hk,
www.info.gov.hk/dh and www.tid.gov.hk).
For staff and students of CUHK, the guideline for purchasing chemicals can be
found in Appendix F.
4. Housekeeping and Self-Audit
As a part of laboratory safety, a responsible person is recommended for annual
inventory of the stored chemical in each laboratory. Besides, it is also required to
check items related to chemical safety. A sample checklist for Chemical Safety can
be found in Appendix E.
III. Chemical Hazard 1. MSDS
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) must be available immediately in either hard
or electronic copies for each laboratory. Apart from PI, all relevant project
members and workers in the laboratory must also read and understand the content
of the MSDS.
The MSDS provide the useful information on the nature of the chemicals, including:
Name of the hazardous chemical.
Physical and chemical properties of the chemical (e.g. boiling point, density,
etc.).
The physical hazards of the chemical.
The health hazards of the chemical (e.g. toxic, carcinogenic, etc.).
Whether or not the chemical can cause cancer as determined by certain
authorities (e.g. the National Toxicology Program).
The precautions to be taken when using the chemical.
The control measures, wok practices, and personal protective equipment one
should use.
Emergency and first aid procedures.
The date of preparation or the date of revision (if revised).
The manufacturer’s name and address.
MSDS may come with the chemicals upon delivery. Some of them are also
available in the manufacturer’s homepage. The following are some good links that
allow the access to the electronic copy of the MSDS.
a. For CUHK homepage: http://dgs.mdl.cuhk.edu.hk/chem
- 47 -
b. MSDS link for CHEMWATCH http://full.chemwatch.net/chemgoldjune6/
CHEMWATCH is developed in Australia, as such the telephone numbers and
the classification for the Danger Goods are not the same as those in Hong
Kong. (The function for blocking the “popup” window has to be disabled when
using CHEMWATCH.)
2. Labels
The labels on the bottles of the chemicals also provide information on the nature of
the chemicals such as:
The name of the chemical that is in the labeled container.
Hazard and its relative severity.
Precautionary measure that will protect users from harmful effects of the
hazards.
First aid instructions of the measures that could mitigate or prevent further
serious injury before professional medical assistance is available.
Instruction in case of fire, if applicable.
Method to handle spills or leaks, if applicable.
Instructions if unusual handling and storage procedures of the chemical are
required.
The name, address and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier.
3. Classifying Hazardous Chemicals
All chemicals bear their own hazardous characteristics, and measures have to be
taken to prevent any event of such hazards. Classification of the hazardous
characteristics of chemicals is available, and the important classes to consider in
accident prevention are listed below. The hazardous events that will occur when
mixing of the incompatible pairs of chemical groups can also be found in Appendix G.
CLASS EXAMPLES Corrosive Chemicals Strong and some weak acids and bases, halogens
Air-Reactive Chemicals Alkaline metals Water-Reactive Chemicals Alkaline metals, some hydrides, phosphides, carbides
Oxidizing Agents Nitrates, permanganates, chromates Reducing Agents Hydrogen, carbon, hydrocarbons, organic acids
Highly Toxic Chemicals Carcinogens, cyanides, phenol Less Toxic Chemicals Ethanol, n-hexane, acetic acid
Self-Reactive Chemicals Picric acid, TNT, diazo compounds Incompatible Pairs Acid vs. base, oxidizing agent vs. reducing agent
- 48 -
IV. Safe Use of Carcinogenic, Teratogenic, and Highly Toxic Chemicals (Source: CUHK-USEO Homepage) The use of carcinogenic (categories A1 & A2), teratogenic, and highly toxic chemicals
should be avoided since these chemicals have been implicated as causing cancer in
humans. Any user to these substances should read and understood the Material Safety
Data Sheets of these substances before starting any experiments or work.
1. Management of carcinogenic, teratogenic, and highly toxic chemicals
a. Storage, labeling, transportation (within limited distance), and inventory
All carcinogenic or highly toxic chemicals should be stored in labeled,
closed screw-cap containers at the correct temperature. The labels
should bear printed warning "carcinogen", "suspected carcinogen", or
"highly toxic" immediately upon acquisition.
The carcinogenic chemicals should be stored in secure area segregated
from the general chemical store, but as close as practical to the place of
work.
For transport within the laboratory and to other laboratories, a second
unbreakable container should be used for containing the sealed
container in order to limit any accidental breakage or spill.
An inventory of chemical carcinogens is required. The inventory should
record the amount of carcinogen(s) and the date it was acquired. (For
using radiolabeled carcinogenic compounds, one is required to comply
with safety procedures both for the toxic and the radioactive potential
hazards.)
b. Laboratory practice
The use of carcinogenic chemicals should be in designated areas of the
laboratory with access limited to persons involved in the experiment.
Facilities for dispensing carcinogens or highly toxic chemicals should be
available in the same area in which such chemicals are stored. The
amount of carcinogen taken (being dispensed) should be of minimum for
immediately required, and the aliquots should be clearly labeled.
Work surface should be covered with an absorbent material backed with
plastic, which should be replaced regularly or immediately if a spill has
occurred.
Use the fume cupboard, or a cytotoxic cabinet to carry out all procedures
involving dust, vapor or aerosols to prevent personal exposure.
Work with carcinogens (or highly toxic chemicals) must not be carried
out in a biological safety cabinet due to the potential hazards to
personnel responsible for maintenance or repair of these cabinets.
- 49 -
2. Personal protection
Wear mask to prevent absorption through the respiratory system by inhaling
the vapor or dust.
Wear buttoned or wrap-around laboratory cloths and gloves (rubber, PVC or
polythene gloves, preferably disposable, which should be changed often so as
to avoid impregnation) to prevent absorption through the skin from spillage.
Safety glasses, goggles or a full-face shield should be worn. Alternatively, an
approved respirator with a suitable particulate / vapor cartridge or an approved
disposable facemask should be used.
After work wash hand with cold water and then thoroughly with soap and
warm water to prevent ingestion from contaminated hands or food.
Protective equipment should be stored and remain near to the work area.
Laboratory coats should be removed when leaving the laboratory.
The PI should provide aware of the laboratory designed to eliminate or
minimize actual or potential exposure
Read the MSDS carefully before starting work.
- 50 -
Category A1 Substances for which there is sufficient evidence for a causal relationship with cancer in humans
Agents and groups of agents Aflatoxins [1402-68-2] 4-Aminobiphenyl [92-67-1] Arsenic [7440-38-2] and arsenic compounds Asbestos [1332-21-4] Azathioprine [446-86-6] Benzene [71-43-2] Benzidine [92-87-5] Beryllium [7440-41-7] and beryllium compounds (NB: Evaluated as a group) N,N-Bis(2-chloroethyl)-2-naphthylamine (Chlornaphazine) [494-03-1] Bis(chloromethyl)ether [542-88-1] chloromethyl methyl ether [107-30-2] (technical-grade) 1,4-Butanediol dimethanesulfonate (Busulphan; Myleran) [55-98-1] Cadmium [7440-43-9] and cadmium compounds (NB: Evaluated as a group) Chlorambucil [305-03-3] 1-(2-Chloroethyl)-3-(4-methylcyclohexyl)-1-nitrosourea (Methyl-CCNU; Semustine) [13909-09-6] Chromium[VI] compounds (NB: Evaluated as a group) Ciclosporin [79217-60-0] Cyclophosphamide [50-18-0] [6055-19-2] Diethylstilboestrol [56-53-1] Epstein-Barr virus Erionite [66733-21-9] Ethylene oxide [75-21-8] Helicobacter pylori (infection with) Hepatitis B virus (chronic infection with) Hepatitis C virus (chronic infection with) Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (infection with) Human papillomavirus type 16 Human papillomavirus type 18 Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I Melphalan [148-82-3] 8-Methoxypsoralen (Methoxsalen) [298-81-7] plus ultraviolet A radiation Mustard gas (Sulfur mustard) [505-60-2] 2-Naphthylamine [91-59-8] Nickel compounds Oestrogens, nonsteroidal (NB: This evaluation applies to the group of compounds as a whole and not necessarily to all individual compounds within the group) Oestrogens, steroidal (NB: This evaluation applies to the group of compounds as a whole and not necessarily to all individual compounds within the group) Opisthorchis viverrini (infection with) Radon [10043-92-2] and its decay products Schistosoma haematobium (infection with) Silica [14808-60-7], crystalline (inhaled in the form of quartz or cristobalite from occupational sources) Talc containing asbestiform fibres Tamoxifen [10540-29-1] (NB: There is also conclusive evidence that this agent (tamoxifen) reduces the risk of contralateral breast cancer) 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin [1746-01-6] Thiotepa [52-24-4] Treosulfan [299-75-2] Vinyl chloride [75-01-4] Mixtures Coal-tar pitches [65996-93-2] Coal-tars [8007-45-2] Mineral oils, untreated and mildly treated Shale-oils [68308-34-9] Number in [bracket] indicates the chemical abstract numbers for that particular chemical.
- 51 -
Category A2 Substances for which there is a lesser degree of evidence in humans but sufficient evidence in animal studies, or degree of evidence considered appropriate to this category (probable human carcinogen)
Agents and groups of agents Acrylamide [79-06-1] Adriamycin [23214-92-8] Androgenic (anabolic) steroids Azacitidine [320-67-2] Benz[a]anthracene [56-55-3] Benzidine-based dyes Benzo[a]pyrene [50-32-8] Bischloroethyl nitrosourea (BCNU) [154-93-8] 1,3-Butadiene [106-99-0] Captafol [2425-06-1] Chloramphenicol [56-75-7] a-Chlorinated toluenes (benzal chloride [98-87-3], benzotrichloride [98-07-7], benzyl chloride [100-44-7]) and benzoyl chloride [98-88-4] (combined exposures) 1-(2-Chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea (CCNU) [13010-47-4] para-Chloro-ortho-toluidine [95-69-2] and its strongacid salts (NB: Evaluated as a group) Chlorozotocin [54749-90-5] Cisplatin [15663-27-1] Clonorchis sinensis (infection with) Dibenz[a,h]anthracene [53-70-3] Diethyl sulfate [64-67-5] Dimethylcarbamoyl chloride [79-44-7] 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine [540-73-8] Dimethyl sulfate [77-78-1] Epichlorohydrin [106-89-8] Ethylene dibromide [106-93-4] N-Ethyl-N-nitrosourea [759-73-9] Formaldehyde [50-00-0] Human papillomavirus type 31 Human papillomavirus type 33 IQ (2-Amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoline) [76180-96-6] Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus/human herpesvirus 5-Methoxypsoralen [484-20-8] 4,4´-Methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) (MOCA) [101-14-4] Methyl methanesulfonate [66-27-3] N-Methyl-N´-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine(MNNG) [70-25-7] N-Methyl-N-nitrosourea [684-93-5] Nitrogen mustard [51-75-2] N-Nitrosodiethylamine [55-18-5] N-Nitrosodimethylamine [62-75-9] Phenacetin [62-44-2] Procarbazine hydrochloride [366-70-1] Styrene-7,8-oxide [96-09-3] Tetrachloroethylene [127-18-4] Trichloroethylene [79-01-6] 1,2,3-Trichloropropane [96-18-4] Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate [126-72-7] Ultraviolet radiation A Ultraviolet radiation B Ultraviolet radiation C Vinyl bromide [593-60-2] Vinyl fluoride [75-02-5] Mixtures Creosotes [8001-58-9] Non-arsenical insecticides (occupational exposures in spraying and application of) Polychlorinated biphenyls
- 52 -
3. Contamination and maintenance of equipment in which carcinogenic substance has
been used
Treat contaminated laboratory glassware or equipment chemically or wash
separately with solvents appropriate to the substance that has been used.
Rinse glassware or equipment in cold running water; wash and brush in hot
water and detergent before assigning it to any routine washing procedure.
Regularly wipe work surfaces where a carcinogenic or highly toxic substance
has been used with cold water followed by warm water with detergent. No
contamination should be present, as the use of absorbent material on the
bench will protect it.
If maintenance or repair work has to be carried out in any area, or upon any
piece of equipment where a carcinogen or highly toxic substance has been
used, all work should cease and the area and equipment be thoroughly
decontaminated. Particular care should be taken to avoid contamination of
drains and ventilation ducts.
Laboratory Supervisor should take physical monitoring of the area in which
carcinogens are used regularly. Detection of any contamination of the air,
benches, equipment or personal protective equipment should be regularly
taken.
Biological monitoring or medical examination of the workers should be taken
to detect any significant biological changes or effects on health.
4. Emergency procedures
Report – Immediately report to the laboratory supervisor whenever there is
personal exposure or spills.
Investigation – Fully investigate the incident and review the laboratory safety
guidelines.
First aid – If there is any accidental skin contact with carcinogenic chemicals,
rinse the affected parts in cold running water without delay for at least five
minutes, then follow by thorough washing with warm water and soap. Where
necessary, take a shower and change clothes and shoes. In the case of an
eye splash, irrigate the eye immediately with running water for 15 minutes.
Seek medical advice immediately.
Evacuation – If there is a significant spill of a carcinogen (particularly of
volatile material), or if a fire or explosion occurs in the laboratory, evacuate all
persons immediately.
Clean up – Assign only properly equipped and adequately trained persons to
clean up any spills. They should wear suitable protective clothing.
Self-contained breathing apparatus may be required and should only be worn
by persons trained in its use.
- 53 -
5. Animal work associating with the use of carcinogens
For CUHK laboratories in the Incubator Facility, all experiments involving animals
must have the written approval of the Animal Research Ethics Committee, with a
written notification to the Incubator Manager. Other parties must obtain licensure
from the Department of Health and individual workers must register themselves in
the DH for performing experiments related to animal work, PLUS pre-approval by
the Incubator Manager on animal experiments with the use of carcinogens.
Precautions measures:
Animals treated with carcinogens or other highly toxic chemicals should be
kept separate form other stock. The work must be declared for the safety of
animal handling and cage cleaning.
Cages should be suitably and clearly labeled.
Special consideration should be given to the route of administration of a
carcinogen. Volatile chemicals represent the greatest risk of exposure and the
safest method of administering them is by injection of a solution.
Administration by topical application, gavages or intra-tracheal instillation
should be performed in a fume cupboard. If the chemical is known, or likely, to
be exhaled, animals should be kept under the fume cupboard during this
period. Inhalation exposure experiments require the use of purpose-built
exposure chambers having known specifications and tolerance limits.
Administration of volatile chemicals to animals in food and water usually
results in contamination of cages and other equipment. Therefore, unless
specifically required, routes of administration other than in diet should be used.
Mixing of carcinogens in animal food should be carried out in sealed mixers in
a fume cupboard. When mixing food, protective clothing and, possibly,
respirators may be required.
The risk from diet or excreta-contaminated animal bedding should be reduced
by either: 1) the use of heavy absorbent paper rather than sawdust; or 2)
housing the animals in enclosed cages with metal roof grilles.
V. Fume Cupboard Use of Fume Cupboard / Fume Hood
1. Conduct all operations that may generate hazardous vapors INSIDE a fume hood.
Employ minimum quantities of chemicals or reactions rates to reduce the
production of fumes.
2. Hazardous chemicals should only be stored in an approved safety cabinet, NOT in
the fume hood. Do not perform work with microorganisms inside the fume hood.
Use the biological safety cabinet instead.
- 54 -
3. Keep all apparatus at least 12 cm behind the face of the hood. Placing equipment at
the back of the fume hood can reduce disturbance of airflow. Extra equipment and
bottles create obstructions to the smooth flow of air.
4. Do not perform operations too close to the face of the hood as this allows vapors to
escape out of the hood. Keep your head outside the hood when hazardous vapors
are being generated. Hoods do not protect the user from splashes.
5. Always wear the proper personal protective equipment even though a fume hood
has been used.
6. Ensure the fume hood is working properly, e.g. airflow and use a flow indicator to
verify airflow before using the unit. Modern airflow indicators have an audible alarm
feature that sounds an alert when the airflow drops below minimum settings.
7. It is very important to maintain the air velocity between 75-120 ft/min. Regular
checking and cleaning of fume hood is highly recommended.
8. Keep baffle slots free of obstructions. Baffles are at the top and bottom and
sometimes there is a third baffle in the middle of the back of the hood.
9. Minimize foot traffic in front of the hood. Other air currents outside the hood may
draw contaminated air outside the face.
10. When using a fume hood
a. Keep the fume hood fully opened for access to set up equipment or reagents.
b. Open the fume hood to a certified height when handling hazardous
substances.
c. Lower the fume hood sash as far as practicable when process is in operation.
d. Lower the fume hood sash after use.
11. Electrical receptacles or other ignition sources could start a fire when flammable
vapors are present.
12. Use an appropriate barricade if there is a chance of an explosion or eruption.
13. Keep all trash out of the fume hood (including RADIATION HOOD) as trash could
be sucked into the exhaust creating an effective plug. Nothing should be left after
using the fume hood and the area should be cleaned up. Hazardous waste should
be disposed in accordance with legislative requirement.
14. In following international laboratory safety guidelines and practices, both the Safety
Advisory Committee-Chemicals and Carcinogens and the Committee on Safety
have endorsed requirements that all chemical fume hoods must be maintained
periodically and certified annually to ensure satisfactory performance.
Use of re-circulating fume cabinets
1. Re-circulating fume cabinets may only be used for specific non-routine situations
only.
2. Chemicals used inside the re-circulating fume cabinets must be compatible. Do not
contain all chemicals inside the cabinet.
- 55 -
3. A re-circulating fume cabinet should not be used if process includes
a. Solvents with boiling point less than 75°C.
b. Generation of solvent / acid vapor more than 50 ml/day.
c. With perchloric acid, microorganisms and / or isotopes.
d. Relative humidity exceeds 90%.
VI. Chemical Waste Disposal 1. Storage of chemical waste
a. Laboratory should have a designated area for chemical waste storage.
Chemical "stores" are to be secure with access controlled. A chemical storage
cabinet with the warning notice “CHEMICAL WASTE” or “化學廢物 ” is
required.
b. The waste container should be placed in a secondary container or a tray prior
to collection and disposal. For example, stainless steel trays for organic
chemical waste containers, and heavy-duty plastic trays for inorganic waste.
c. The total amount chemical waste NOT in a cupboard allowed by the EPD in
each laboratory is 50 liters. If this amount is to be exceeded then the extra
waste containers must be kept in an appropriate chemical storage cabinet
(FIG. 3).
2. Safety Equipment for Handling Chemical Waste
a. Personal safety and protective equipment
Appropriate respirators, gas masks
Chemical-resistant gloves or gauntlets
Eye-wash bottle or device
Face visor with hood
First aid kits
FIG. 3 Features of a chemical waste storage cupboard. (Source from “Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labeling, and Storage of Chemical Wastes”, Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR).
Storage of incompatible waste in separate areas
Impermeable sill to contain leakage or spillage
Vent Holes
Drip tray to contain leakage
- 56 -
Protective clothing or overalls
Safety glasses or goggles
Safety helmets
Steel-toed rubber or plastic boots
b. Equipment for Handling Emergencies and Spillages
Absorbent e.g. vermiculite, sawdust, etc.
Dustpan and brush
Dry soft sand
Fire extinguishers
Hand-operated pumps
Mop and bucket
Paper tissue and toweling
Plastic bags, empty containers or drums
Scoop
Suitable sampling device
Tweezers or forceps
(Source from “Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labeling, and Storage of Chemical Wastes”
Environmental Protection Department, HKSAR)
3. Management of Chemical Waste
Before coordinating waste collection with the Facility Administrator, users should
always bear good laboratory practice in managing chemical wastes inside the
laboratories. Waste of different nature should be disposed in separate containers
labeled with the name and type of the chemical waste in prominent area. A
Chemical Waste Logsheet (Appendix I) should be available for keeping record of
the amount and nature of the waste being disposed in the container.
Reasons for keeping the Chemical Waste Logsheet: To provide information for Enviropace on the treatment of waste, and to
comply with the chemical waste handling procedures (procedure 4.3) issued
by Enviropace, staying that "Every waste entering into a chemical waste
container must be properly logged. The filled log sheet must accompany the
container at the time of collection by Enviropace. Enviropace will refuse
collection of containers that do not carry a legible log sheet. "
To comply with the "Code of Practice on the packing, labeling and storage of
chemical wastes" issued by the EPD.
To provide information for the compatibility of chemical wastes in the
container.
A sample of the Chemical Waste Logsheet is available in Appendix I.
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Other chemical wastes, such as “Labpack” chemical, can also be collected by the
chemical waste contractor Enviropace. Labpack wastes include:
a. Highly reactive chemicals
b. Water reactive chemicals
c. Waste that cannot pass the compatibility test (refer to Item 7.6 of Section A
"Procedures for disposal of general chemical waste")
d. Unwanted raw chemicals
e. Expired chemicals in liquid, solid, and sludge forms. For disposal of such chemical waste, please
consult the Facility Administrator for arrangement of disposal. A "Labpack
(unwanted / expired chemical) form" for the disposal of labpack chemicals is
required for disposal and the form will be sent to Enviropace. Since the disposal
cost for Labpack waste is very much higher than the liquid waste collected by the 20
L chemical waste containers, each disposal request will be assessed by EPD on
individual basis. After the request is approved by EPD, Enviropace will collect the
waste for disposal.
Since individual laboratory may store a certain amount of chemical waste,
monitoring of the chemical waste as well as the condition of the laboratory is always
required. The following is a sample checklist for management of laboratory and
liquid chemical waste items.
Management of Laboratory and Chemical Waste Items Yes / No / N.A.General Management:
1. A standard liquid chemical waste container (a, see also Appendix A) is used.
2. The labels on the containers are clear, intact and adhere firmly to the container.
3. The waste container is in good condition and the caps are kept tightly closed.
4. The Chemical Waste Log Sheet (see Appendix I) is filled out properly.
5. The chemical waste containers do not obstruct the fire exit route.
6. The storage area is dry and clean.
7. The total volume of waste stored is less than 300 L.
Curative action is required if the answ
er to any of the one item is N
o
For chemical wastes stored at a workplace with volume <50 L:
1. The location for waste storage or the spill tray bears a prominently displayed
standard chemical waste warning sign.
2. The standard liquid chemical waste container is put inside a spill tray or a spill
retention structure is available.
3. The spill tray or cabinet is free of other substances except the waste container(s).
4. Incompatible wastes are prevented from mixing in case of a spill.
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For chemical wastes stored at a workplace with volume >50 L but <300 L:
1. The waste containers are enclosed by at least a 3-sided structure (FIG. 3).
2. The storage structure is only for the storage of chemical wastes.
3. A standard chemical waste warning sign is displayed prominently at the storage
structure.
4. The storage structure of liquid chemical wastes (d) has a retention capacity for
20% of the total wastes stored or the volume of the biggest container, whichever is
the greater.
5. The enclosed storage structure has vent holes or ventilation facility.
6. Incompatible chemical wastes are separated by barriers to prevent mixing in case
of a spill.
7. The storage structure has no connection to the sewer or surface water drain.
a. For small volume waste generators, the container for temporary storage of chemical waste should be labeled with waste type and content. The location of the standard chemical waste container where the chemical waste will be finally disposed of must be marked on the bottle.
b. Storage of liquid waste more than 300 L must obtain pre-approval by Incubator Manager.
4. General Disposal Guideline
a. Standards and specifications of the containers
Chemical waste should be packed and held in containers of suitable design
and construction to prevent leakage, spillage or escape of the contents under
normal conditions of handling, storage and transport. Only waste containers
issued by the Enviropace Ltd. are acceptable and such containers are
available in HKIB upon request and the list of containers can be found in
Appendix B. If smaller containers are used for temporary storage, the nature
of the bottle must be insured and a label specifying the name and nature of
the chemical waste must be adhered on the prominent area of the bottle.
Nature of the containers:
All parts of the container, including the closures that are in direct contact
with the chemical, must be resistant to the contents. A spill tray is also
recommended for the containers.
Both the inside and outside of the container should be in good condition,
free of corrosion, contamination, and other defects or damage that may
impair the performance of the container.
No mixing of incompatible waste is allowed. Different types of containers
should be used for packing different type of waste.
The container should be securely closed, correctly placed, and kept
clean.
Sufficient ullage (air space) should be allowed to ensure that neither
leakage nor permanent distortion of the container occurs due to the
expansion of the liquid caused by changes in temperature or other
physical conditions. Usually 100 mm air space should be allowed
between the top of the container and the level of the liquid contents.
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Specifications of the containers:
In general, the design, material, and construction of containers should follow
the specifications of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of
Dangerous Goods, UN Document ST/SG/AC.10/1/Rev.6 (the “UN Orange
Book”). All the containers should follow the requirements of the design and
construction criteria as set out in section 9.6 of the specifications, as well as
passing the performance test requirements as set out in section 9.7 of the
specification, which include drop test, leakproofness test, internal pressure
(hydraulic) test, as well as stacking test.
As such, users are not recommended to use un-approved containers other
than those provided by HKIB. HKIB will not responsible to any hazardous
consequences due to misuse of containers or use of unapproved containers.
b. Waste handling and collection
Chemical waste classification i. Liquid chemical waste
Spent non-halogenated organic solvents (e.g. acetone,
hexane, xylene)
Spent organic acids (e.g. acetic acid, benzoic acid, phenol)
Spent halogenated organic solvents (e.g. chloroform,
dichloromethane)
Spent lube oil (pump oil, lubricating oil, etc.)
Spent oxidizing solution (e.g. chlorates/bleach solution,
hydrogen peroxide, permanganates, nitrates)
Spent photographic fixer and developer
Spent alkali (aqueous solution with pH greater than 8)
Spent cyanide in alkaline solution
Spent acids containing heavy metals (except Hg ions)
Spent nitric acid
Spent acids (inorganic acids, except nitric acid)
Ethidium Bromide containing solution
Pharmaceutical liquid waste
ii. Solid chemical waste
Acidic Organic Solid Cyanide Salt Solid Inorganic Acidic Solid Inorganic Alkaline Solid Labpack Waste Organic Solid
- 60 -
Pharmaceutical waste Spent organic gel
iii. Ethidium bromide
Not more than 3 Liters of the agarose gel waste with ethidium
bromide (EtBr) should be put into the container (organic gel)
which half filled with sawdust. The ethidium bromide containing solution should go into the
halogenated waste container. The Enviropace Ltd.
recommend to keep the final aqueous content below 50%
inside the Halogenated waste container. iv. Controlled chemicals
According to the Control of Chemicals Ordinance (Chapter 145), a license is required to input, possess or use any of the Schedule 1
and 2 chemicals (see the “Controlled Chemical Section” above).
The license holder is responsible for the keeping of such chemicals.
If no license holder is forthcoming, appointed, or the chemicals are
expired, the chemicals must then be destroyed. Any disposal of
Schedule 1 or 2 chemicals should register to the Controlled
Chemicals Group, Customs & Excise Department within 24 hours.
Compatibility test The aim of the compatibility test is to ensure the mixing of chemical
waste would not generate any hazard or chemical reactions that may
harmful to the environment and people. Examples of some incompatible
chemical waste groups can be found in Appendix H.
Compatibility Test Procedures (Applicable to chemicals and chemical wastes): This test should be performed by a trained personnel inside a fume cupboard, and make sure that the air-flow of the fume cupboard is "safe" and the sash is lowered to at least shoulder level. Materials:
1. Conical Flask 2. Thermometer 3. Pipet aid and pipets
Procedures: 1. Draw 4-5 ml of chemical / chemical waste (designated as A) from the container / waste container
into the conical flask with a thermometer. Record the temperature. 2. Draw 4-5 ml of the new chemical / chemical waste (designated as B) into the conical flask, gently
shake the flask to mix the chemicals / waste chemicals. 3. Wait for about 2 minutes (or until the temperature has remain constant). Record the temperature
of the thermometer. 4. If the temperature rise more than 2oC, or bubbling or fuming observed after the chemicals /
wastes have been mixed, then A and B are not compatible. If A & B are wastes, they have to be poured in SEPARATE containers with appropriate label and a separate logsheet.
5. If the temperature remains constant, then it is assumed that the A and B are compatible. If A and B are wastes, they can then be mixed together and poured into the same container.
6. For any new waste component, repeat step 2 to 5 for compatibility checking.
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5. Disposal Procedures
a. General Procedures
Only waste containers issued by the Enviropace Ltd. are acceptable and
such containers are available in HKIB upon request. The list of containers can
be found in Appendix B. Each container has 20 Liters in capacity. Request
the appropriate waste containers and the chemical waste disposal log sheet
from the Facility Administrator. Check whether the received container had
been properly labeled and in good condition. Waste in different categories or
chemical groups should be disposed in the appropriate container.
Make sure the waste goes into the correct container. Compatibility test is
required for mixing different waste. A list of incompatible chemical waste
group is available in Appendix H. Record in the log sheet every time a
new waste is disposed into the container. It is a essential document and
should be placed next to the corresponding waste container.
Never fully fill the container. Only fill 70% (about 14 Liters) of the
container.
Dilute the concentrated acid or alkali for 4-5 times with water before
disposal.
Notify the Facility Administrator for chemical waste collection service.
Alternatively, the Facility Administrator will arrange chemical waste
collection periodically.
The Facility Administrator will arrange the Enviropace Ltd. to collect the
chemical waste.
Some further points about waste disposal:
Waste containing cyanide should always go to the cyanide waste container.
If metal solutions or precipitates are generated, depending on the pH,
they can be put into inorganic acid or alkali containers. If the pH of the
waste is neutral, it should go to "spent alkalis".
If the total generation rate of spent fixer and developer is less than 5 Liter
/ week, the spent fixer & developer can both be disposed of to a "spent developers" container.
Mixtures that contain halogenated chemicals should always be put into
the "halogenated solvents" container, no matter if the halogenated part is
the minority component in the chemical mixture.
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b. Liquid waste
Methods of pretreatment and disposal of liquid waste groups are listed below:
TYPE OF CHEMICALS DISPOSAL METHODS
Inorganic Acid / AlkalineDilution and pH adjustment prior to fill into container for disposal. Compatibility test is required if mixing with different items.
Organic Acids Mix and pour into the collection containers, compatibility test is required.
Unknown chemical formulaTest for organic or inorganic and pH, mix with sawdust individually and place into a plastic bag or dissolving with appropriate media before dispose.
Organic Solvents Compatibility test is required for mixing into a collection container
c. Solid waste
Methods of pretreatment and disposal of solid waste groups are listed below:
TYPE OF CHEMICALS DISPOSAL METHODS
Cyanide and its compoundsUnpack its original bottles and pack into a plastic bag individually. Put into the waste container and fill with sawdust.
Inorganic Acid/Alkaline Dissolution and or repackaging into a plastic bag prior to put into container for disposal. Compatibility test is required if mixing with different items.
Organic Acids Mix individually with sawdust and pack into a plastic bag prior to put into the collection container.
Organic Salts Mix individually with sawdust and pack into a plastic bag prior to place into the collection container.
Metal powder Dissolving with appropriate acids. Care should be taken to control the rate of reaction.
Unknown chemical formulaTest for organic or inorganic and pH, mix with sawdust individually and place into a plastic bag or dissolving with appropriate media.
d. Pharmaceutical waste The following category of unwanted pharmaceutical wastes are covered:
Antibiotics (as defined in Antibiotics Ordinance, Cap. 137)
Dangerous Drugs (as defined in Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, Cap. 134)
Poisons (as defined in Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, Cap.138)
Other pharmaceutical products and medicines, other than specified at a,
b or c
Pharmaceutical products or toxic drugs (including cytotoxic drugs) in bulk or
significant residual volume (more than 3% volume of the container holding the
drugs) in container (e.g. unused or partially used drugs in ampoules or
syringes) are regarded as chemical waste and should be disposed according
the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation (see also the
above sections for chemical waste disposal).
- 63 -
Ampoules or syringes holding less than 3% volume of drugs in containers can
be placed in sharps boxes and disposed as Group 1 clinical waste (see the
BIOLOGICAL SAFETY - Biological / Clinical Waste Treatment and Disposal section for details. Sharps boxes containing such wastes (i.e. with sharps
contaminated with residual amount of drugs) must be incinerated and must
not be disposed of by other methods.
Waste Disposal On disposal of wastes categorized under item a. to c. above, laboratories are
required to notify the Facility Administrator for applying the disposal license
from EPD. After the license arrived, Facility Administrator will issue the waste
producer appropriate containers for the waste. Only the license stated waste
to be disposed into the waste container.
Liquid waste: When disposing liquid pharmaceutical waste, the content from the original
container should be decanted into the waste container. Wastes should be
filled to occupy maximum 14 Liters (70%) of the volume of the container.
Whenever there are reactions during decanting, stop the process and report
to the Facility Administrator for the event. Emptied containers properly rinsed
with water are not considered as chemical wastes and can be discarded as
ordinary refuse.
Solid waste: Tablets, capsules with and without packing, as well as vials and ampoules
containing liquids or slurries not exceeding 50 ml each can be disposed of as
solid pharmaceutical waste. Liquid content in each container should not exceed 500 ml in total.
e. Thermometer (Mercury)
Drain out from any broken devices, carefully pack into bottle and seal by tape.
Wrap each bottle with newspaper and then plastic bag, contact USEO staff to
put into collection container.
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Spillage of chemicals: Whenever there are spillages of chemicals, stay calm and classify the nature of the
chemical that has been spilled. Spill kits should be kept by each organization and the list
of spill kits that are available can be found in Appendix J. Please contact Facility
Administrator for borrowing the spill kits whenever necessary.
For small amount of chemical spill, the materials used for wiping the chemicals (e.g.
paper towel) can be disposed of as normal waste. However, those used for absorbing
large quantity of chemicals should be disposed as chemical wastes.
6. Procedures to Dispose Empty Chemical Bottles / Containers
a. Users should ensure that all chemicals were removed from the bottles /
containers.
b. Bottles / Containers should be properly washed before disposal.
c. The cap of the bottles / containers should be removed
- 65 -
RADIATION SAFETY
Radiation Classification
Licensure
Responsibility
Legislation / Codes of Practice
Potential Hazardous Source
Safe-guards
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
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G. Radiation Safety
I. Radiation Classification 1. Ionizing radiation
Ionizing radiation refers to X-rays, gamma radiation, beta particles, alpha particles,
neutrons, and other high-energy particles, emitted by radioactive substances or
generated by irradiating apparatus. 2. Non-ionizing radiation
a. Electromagnetic wave
Microwave, radio-frequency (RF) wave, ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light,
infra-red (IR) light
b. Sound (20 Hz - 20 kHz) and ultrasound (16 kHz - 50 MHz)
II. Licensure According to the Radiation Ordinance (Chapter 303A, Regulation 3 and 4), a license is
required for import, convey, possess, use and storage of radioactive substances.
HKIB is not the holder of Radioactive Substances License. No radiation work can be
done inside HKIB. So in this safety manual, only non-ionizing radiation and the related
safety issues will be discussed.
III. Responsibility
• Supervisors of laboratories using non-ionizing radiation carry the general responsibility to evaluate the potential hazards of the radiation involved, and to ensure that:
o their staff / students comply with all relevant regulations and guidelines, and o their staff / students are given adequate supervision and safety training.
• Individual staff / students have a personal responsibility.
Before starting work with non-ionizing radiation they should be familiar with the regulations and guidelines, and the relevant properties of all non-ionizing radiation they propose to use.
- 67 -
IV. Legislation / Codes of Practice Please refer to The Laser Safety Code of Practice, Hong Kong Government. V. Potentially Hazardous Source
1. High power lasers Pulsed lasers: Excimer lasers, Nd:YAG lasers Continuous wave lasers: Argon ion lasers, CO2 lasers
2. Microwave ovens 3. RF wave: induction heaters, RF sputter guns, RF ion guns 4. UV light: xenon lamps, UV lamps in photolithography, discharge lamps 5. Visible light: welding arcs, metal brazing, glass blowing 6. IR light: high temperature furnaces/ovens, metal brazing, glass blowing
V. Safe-guards
When using potentially hazardous non-ionizing radiation,
1. design the experimental setup to reduce exposure to as little as is practically achievable;
2. provide personnel with appropriate protective equipment (e.g. laser goggles); 3. post warning signs (available from USEO) at the entry point of the laboratory (the type
of radiation should be identified on the warning sign); and 4. restrict the access of unauthorized persons.
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ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electrical Hazards
Simple Safety Hints
Working on potentially hazardous equipment
Equipment with current passing through Liquid
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
- 69 -
I. Electrical Hazards
1. Electric shock may result in injury or even death. 2. Overheating may cause damage to equipment, short circuits or burns . 3. Short circuits may cause electrical explosions and fires. 4. Unexpected start or action of machinery may cause injury. 5. Electrical system failure may cause hazardous situation. 6. Others such as X-rays generated due to high tension circuits.
II. Simple Safety Hints
(For using electricity under normal condition)
1. Do not touch an electrical appliance when you are wet or when you are standing on a wet floor.
2. Follow the colour coding when connecting conductors in cords between plugs and electrical appliances. The colour coding of conductor insulation in 3-core flexible cords is as follows:
Conductor type International coding Previous coding Live Brown Red
Neutral Blue Black
Earth Green/Yellow Green
4. Study operation/laboratory manual; follow instructions and use equipment as it is designed to. 5. Do not overload sockets; do not operate too many appliances from the same socket using adapters. 6. Keep cords away from heat, water, oily or corrosive liquid. 7. Keep appliance clean, dry and in good working order; always disconnect appliance before cleaning. 8. Inspect cords, wires and plugs regularly and replace any that is worn or frayed. 9. Do not attempt to install or repair power points, plugs, tools unless you are authorized and competent. 10. Alert your supervisor if you spot any substandard electrical equipment or wiring. 11. Consult experts or your supervisor if you are not certain.
- 70 -
III. Working on potentially hazardous equipment
Experimental Equipment
When designing an equipment for experiments, the following should be observed:
1. Ensure that, as far as is practicable, the equipment is safe to use. Do not overlook
safety in the search for functional improvements. 2. Enclose live parts or otherwise protected against inadvertent contact. Where
repeated access to those parts is required, warning signs shall be displayed. 3. Check all features of the experimental apparatus. Do not overlook safety in the
search for functional improvements. 4. Ensure that all wiring and components are adequately rated for expected current,
voltage, temperature and humidity, etc. 5. Connect all exposed metal enclosure to a marked earth terminal. 6. Energize the equipment through a control switch operating in all live conductors to
minimize the effect of unconventionally wired plug sockets. 7. Incorporate a pilot lamp to show when equipment is energized. 8. Provide protection by using fuse/circuit breaker, or RCD. Use a suitable fuse for
each piece of equipment. 9. Mark equipment with its rated voltage and power. 10. Always have an up-to-date circuit diagram of the equipment. 11. Be aware that the potential will be raised to 380 V if equipment is connected to 3
phase power supplies.
Unattended Equipment (Experimental equipment is to be left running unattended for long periods) 1. Display a notice marked `PLEASE LEAVE ON' that also gives details of any
immediate emergency action and includes at least two emergency telephone numbers and the names of the persons responsible for the experiment.
2. Provide for the isolation of all power to the equipment with one clearly marked
emergency switch.
3. Monitor critical parameters such as voltage, pressure, liquid level, temperature. Install an interlock circuit to disconnect the supply automatically if any one of these goes beyond predetermined limits.
4. Be aware that the equipment may be in area not covered by the fire-protection
system, e.g. the interiors of fume cupboards.
- 71 -
Working on live equipment 1. Whenever possible, do NOT work on live equipment.
Whenever practicable, take the following precautions: 2. Never work alone.
3. Do not wear metal objects such as rings, watches etc.
4. Wear appropriate clothing without loose or dangling parts.
5. Use personal protective equipment (e.g. approved rubber gloves, rubber soled
shoes, insulating mat, etc.).
6. Work one-handed by keeping the other hand in a pocket.
7. Use suitable tools and measuring instruments.
8. Use warning signs and barriers if equipment with exposed live terminals is energized.
9. Be aware of high voltage capacitors, especially those used in pulsed capacitor
banks. Their terminals may still be at high tension even when the equipment is switched off for a period of time.
IV. Equipment with current passing through Liquid
Electrophoresis Apparatus Potential Hazard
1. High voltages of up to 5000 V at lethal current levels. 2. Electrolysis effect may generate an explosive atmosphere or toxic aerosols
Power supply units for electrophoresis apparatus should provide:
1. Earth-leakage protection and overload protection,
2. Safety interlocks to shut off power if
3. The electrophoresis cell is opened;
4. Apparatus plugs are removed; or
5. The cell cooling system fails.
- 72 -
When using the power supply unit ensure that:
1. Power points are earthed.
2. Cooling air inlets and outlets are not obstructed.
3. Dust filters are cleaned or replaced regularly.
4. Manufacturer's specifications of temperature and humidity are met.
5. Cables, connectors and fittings connecting the power supply unit to the electrophoresis cell are in good order and they can withstand the maximum voltage provided by the power supply unit.
Electrophoresis cell
1. Attach a warning label denoting `DANGER HIGH VOLTAGE' 2. Do not use damaged cells or cell covers.
Electrochemical Analytical Apparatus and Electrodeposition apparatus (e.g. as used for coulometry, cycle voltammetry, polarography and controlled cathode potential electrolysis)
1. Be aware of spillage of reagent solutions in the vicinity of the power supply. 2. Ensure that cables, connectors and fittings connecting the power supply unit
to the electrolysis cell are in good order and they can withstand the maximum current provided by the power supply unit.
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A - SPECIFICATION FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONTAINERS FOR
CLINICAL WASTES
APPENDIX B - CHEMICAL WASTE CONTAINER TYPES AVAILABLE IN HKIB
APPENDIX C - SELF-AUDIT CHECKLIST FOR GENERAL LABORATORY SAFETY
APPENDIX D - CHECKLIST FOR FIRE SAFETY IN LABORATORY
APPENDIX E - CHECKLIST FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY
APPENDIX F – GUIDELINE FOR PURCHASING CHEMICALS
APPENDIX G - INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL GROUPS
APPENDIX H - INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL WASTE GROUPS
APPENDIX I - CHEMICAL WASTE LOG SHEET
APPENDIX J - TYPES OF SPILL KIT AVAILABLE IN HKIB (RM 209)
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
- 74 -
APPENDIX A
SPECIFICATIONS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONTAINERS FOR CLINICAL WASTES
1. Sharps box Conforms with British Standard BS 7320 (1990) or similar specification for sharps
containers intended to hold potentially infectious clinical waste
Capable of being sealed
Provided with a handle that is not part of the closure device
Proof against spillage of its contents
Proof against puncture by clinical waste materials, such as broken glass or syringes
Capable of withstanding one-meter vertical drop to a concrete floor
Without fracture, puncture or loss of contents
Legibly marked with a horizontal line to indicate when the sharps box is filled to
between 70% to 80% of its maximum volume
Colored in yellow or combination of white and yellow
Capable of being marked by indelible ink and securely attached by labels 2. Plastic bag (Red Bags and Yellow Bags)
With a maximum nominal capacity of 0.1 m3
Of minimum gauge of 150 µm if low density polyethylene, or 75 µm if high density
polyethylene or polypropylene
Of suitable size and shape to fit the carrier which will support the bag in use
Colored in red (clinical waste other than Group 3) or yellow (for Group 3 waste)
Capable of being marked by indelible ink and securely attached by labels
- 75 -
APPEXDIX B
CHEMICAL WASTE CONTAINER TYPES AVAILABLE IN HKIB
WASTE TYPE WASTE CONTAINER ID CONTAINER TYPE
Unwanted Pharmaceutical 10109278 20 L Plastic
Spent Acids 10094331 20 L Plastic
Spent Alkali 10094332 20 L Plastic
Spent Alkali, Fixer & Developer 10094334 20 L Plastic
Spent Cyanide Solution 10400312 20 L Plastic
Halo Solvent, Acidic (pH<7) 100094333 20 L Lined Blue Carbon Steel
Lube Oil 10094910 20 L Green Carbon Steel
Organic Gel (Ethidium Bromide Gel) 10044335 20 L White Plastic Open Top
- 76 -
APPENDIX C
SELF-AUDIT CHECKLIST FOR GENERAL LABORATORY SAFETY
GENERAL SAFETY ITEMS COMMENTS
1 Ensure there is no storage of food and drink permitted
2 A strictly no pipeting by mouth awareness. Pipeting aids available?
3 No smoking: It also applies to visitors and contractors
4 Procedures in place to handle and dispose of sharps (needles, syringes etc.)
5 Incompatible chemicals stored apart (Please refer to GCS Section 11b.)
6 (a) Materials Safety Data Sheets Available
6 (b) People know how and where to obtain these (Please refer GCS Appendix II)
7 Adequate Lighting in Laboratory (Min 400 Lux)
8 Is the ventilation working (put a paper streamer on air inlet)?
9 Is suitable protective equipment available near-by?
10 Is there a qualified First Aider near-by?
11 Is there an up to date first aid kit available?
12 Are emergency telephone numbers displayed?
13 Is a diagram show floor plan and outside emergency assembly areas displayed?
14 Are pressure vessels regularly inspected and if so is an appropriate certificate displayed e.g. Autoclaves?
15 Accumulation of old equipment, stores, rubbish etc
16 Waste disposal procedures known (refer to Biological / Chemical / Radiation waste)
17 Safety Procedures reviewed with Supervisors
18 Taps labeled, e.g. gas, vacuum
19 Appropriate safety and warning placard clearly visible
20 Floors clean, dry, no slip/trip hazards
21 Shelving stable, not cluttered, not too high
22 Check for any contamination inside the centrifuge bowls and buckets
23 Any contamination inside the cuvette holders in spectrometer
24 Safety Shower, eye-wash testing program
25 Heating equipment e.g. ovens, check for corrosion or evidence of asbestos
26 Hand-washing facilities available
27 Chairs suitable and made of impervious material
MANUAL HANDLING COMMENTS
28 Risk assessment done for manual handling operation
29 Lifting and handling devices (trolleys, mechanical lifting devices, etc) readily available for tasks to be performed in laboratories
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(Cont’)
MACHINERY (EQUIPMENT WITH MOVING PARTS) COMMENTS
30 Safety signs in place and easily seen
31 Machine adequately guarded (a) no places to pull in hands, clothing, etc. (b) no places for nipping or crushing fingers etc.
32 Safety glasses available where appropriate AND used
33 No clutter around machines
34 Adequate room to move around machines
35 Electrical connections in good order
36 Oil drip trays in place
37 Red emergency stop switch readily accessible, labeled
COMPRESSED GASES COMMENTS
38 Minimum gas cylinders in lab. Maximum of 5 cylinders being used! (None stored)
39 Fuel cylinders kept apart from oxidizing gas cylinders
40 Empty cylinders clearly marked and away from full ones
41 Cylinders 3 meters away from any potential ignition source
42 The gas name label on the shoulder of cylinder is clearly legible
43 Cylinders are secured to the wall or trolley by bracket or chain
44 Cylinder valve closed when cylinder not in use
45 Users aware of gas leak testing procedures
46 Adequate ventilation in laboratory
47 Adequate personal protective equipments for handling Liquid Nitrogen.
Modified from: CCH Laboratory Safety Manual of CCH Australia Ltd.
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APPENDIX D
CHECKLIST FOR FIRE SAFETY IN LABORATORY
FIRE SAFETY ITEMS COMMENTS
1 Suitable fire extinguishers easy to reach and mounted
2 Maintenance of extinguishers and hose reels up to date (check tag)
3 Overhead fire sprinklers / thermal detector heads clear of obstructions, stores, equipment (minimum 50 cm apart), and are undamaged
4 Fire doors not held open, damaged or obstructed
5 Occupants of laboratory know how to use fire fighting equipment
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES COMMENTS
6 Standard emergency procedures on Lab doors
7 Emergency plans "you are here" indicating safe egress from the floor and building
8 Enough (weight to volume) spill kits
ELECTRICAL ITEMS COMMENTS
9 Enough power points available
10 Switches and power points in good order
11 Breaker switches and disconnect switches labeled (check with EMO)
12 No excessive use of piggy backing of adapters
13 No long-term use extension leads
14 Powder, CO2 or BCF fire extinguisher within 5 meters of switch board
15 Residual current (earth leakage) devices used with portable equipment, particularly in "wet" areas
ENVIRONMENTAL ITEMS COMMENTS
16 Waste management procedures in place
17 Designated area for chemical waste storage with warning notice displayed
18 Waste types segregated and stored in the correct manner (if amount exceed 50 liters, the extra containers must be in chemical storage cabinets)
19 All waste packaging appropriately labeled and inventoried
20 Suitable sharps/broken glass containers in use
21 Approved liquid waste containers
22 Appropriate containers and shielding for radioactive waste
23 Adequate ventilation in laboratory
24 Is the smell acceptable?
25 Appropriate floor drains plugged, maintained screw-tops
Modified from: CCH Laboratory Safety Manual of CCH Australia Ltd.
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APPENDIX E
CHECKLIST FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY
FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS AND CHEMICAL SAFETY ITEMS COMMENTS
Up-to-date inventory of all chemicals stored
Containers properly and clearly labeled
No excessive quantities of solvents stored or used
Is flammable liquid cabinet available and being used
Do flammable liquid cabinets / waste cabinets have clear warning labels
No flammable liquids stored in domestic refrigerators
Chemicals stored in suitable containers
Chemical storage suitable for that area (e.g. adequate ventilation provided /open flame used, etc.)
Procedures in place for the handling of specialty chemicals (e.g. EthidiumBromide, cytotoxic chemicals)
No leakage of chemicals on to storage shelving
Minimum of chemicals in fume cupboards
Occupants of laboratory aware of what to do in the event of an emergency involving a chemical spill
Material safety data sheets (MSDS) available for all solvents stored or being used in the laboratory
Solvents separated from corrosives
Peroxide formers (e.g. ether, tetrahydrofuran) be dated upon the container wasopened
Spill kits / absorbents for acid / alkalis / solvents
FUME CUPBOARDS COMMENTS
Are electrical services located inside the chamber? If so consult with Facility Administrator.
Are emergency isolation switches available and clearly labeled for: (a) Electrical power (b) Flammable gas supply
CO2 or BCF fire extinguisher within 5 meters
Certification of cupboard shown nearby
Fume scrubbers installed where applicable, e.g. Perchloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, hydrocyanic acid, and some poisons as required by material safety data sheets and environmental guidelines. Do they work?
Face velocity a minimum of 0.5 meters per second
Use a tissue paper to test the airflow
Modified from: CCH Laboratory Safety Manual of CCH Australia Ltd.
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APPENDIX F
GUIDELINE FOR PURCHASING CHEMICALS
Guideline for Purchasing Chemicals / Biological Materials / Radioactive Substances
Staff and students are reminded that many chemicals/materials and equipments are controlled by licensing requirements under the Laws of Hong Kong. Importing, processing, using, disposal, selling and relocation of the storage of these chemicals/equipments may be liable to 10 years of imprisonment and up to HK$ 1 million fine. This guideline is to let you aware of the arrangements in the Chinese University before you place an order for the chemicals and/or equipment. It will be your legal responsibility if you are not following these guidelines.
You should ensure that your laboratory has the corresponding license before ordering the chemicals/equipment. You are highly recommended to order these chemicals/equipments through a local agent which has the license to import the chemicals/equipment. The local licensed agent will be able to go through all legal requirements in the shipment, import and delivery of the goods. Unless you have a license to import, you should not order these chemicals/equipment directly from oversea supplier (e.g. through internet).
The following list is prepared for your reference and may not be comprehensive. Readers are recommended to check the updated information from corresponding departments such as the Customs & Excise Department, Department of Health, and the Trade & Industry Department. (www.customs.gov.hk , http://www.info.gov.hk/dh and www.tid.gov.hk)
A. Controlled Chemicals (List of Controlled Chemicals) (such as acetic anhydride even just a few ml in a testing kit)
1. Make sure that your laboratory is licensed to use and to store the controlled chemicals. (see policy on control chemicals).
2. Individual should contact Mr. M.C. Wong (26096105) for arrangement purchasing. (Note: Never import the controlled chemicals by your own-self without notify Mr. M.C. Wong or before you receive the storage licence.)
3. The licence holder is responsible to keep such chemicals secure and to ensure that all the requirements are followed. <>If no licence holder is forthcoming, or one is not appointed, then the stock need to be destroyed under the USEO arrangement.
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University Policy on Controlled Chemicals:
The University has a license to order control chemicals. Under this license, Mr. M.C. Wong, the Laboratory Technologist of the Chemical Store, is the only person authorized to order such chemicals.
Individual departments, on their request, may have a license to use and to store the chemicals. To apply a license, you should contact Mr. ST Yip (26097865) of USEO for the arrangement. Individuals or departments are not authorized to order any controlled chemicals.
For further information, please write or telephone to: Controlled Chemicals Group Customs & Excise Department 6/F., North Point Government Offices 333 Java Road North Point
Tel. : 2541 4383 Fax.: 2541 1016
Related government website:
Control Measures and Licensing Requirements Licence Issued under the Control of Chemical Ordinance B. Purchasing of Chemicals related to The Chemical Weapons (Convention) Ordinance
1. A brief of the ordianance can be found at (Chemicals and biological agents related to the manufacturing of Chemical & Biological Weapons)
2. Please report to USEO (email to : [email protected] Tel: 26097866) for record purpose if your department purchase, keeping sechdule 1, 2, and 3 materials.
C. Purchasing of Dangerous Goods (e.g. solvents, acids or gases, Dangerous Goods list)
1. Without a dangerous goods license, you are not allowed to store dangerous goods more than the exempted quantity.
2. In CUHK, all DGs are central supply by the Dangerous Goods Unit. Please order the DGs from the DGSU website (http://dgsu.useo.cuhk.edu.hk/)
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D. Purchasing of human remains, bacterial culture or microorganisms
According to The Quarantine & Prevention of Disease Ordinance (Cap. 141), Chater 19 Import of human remains, noxious insects and pests, import any human corpse, human remains, living noxious insect, living pest, any living germ or microbe of disease or any bacterial culture should apply import permit from the Department of Health. The Port Health Office (enquiry tel: 2961 8852), Department of Health, enforces relevant provisions of the Quarantine & Prevention of Disease Ordinance (Cap. 141), responsible the issue of the import permits for human remains, bacterial culture or microorganisms.
E. Strategic Commodities: includes a lot of materials, facilities, equipments, chemicals, microorganisms, toxins, computers etc.
Check if what will be ordered is in the list of Strategic Commodities in the Trade & Industry Department at (http://www.stc.tid.gov.hk/english/checkprod/sc_control.html). If yes, you should apply the import license before placing the purchase order.
F. Purchasing of Radioactive Materials (such as H-3 or U natural or U depleted.)
1. Before placing a purchase order, make sure that you have the Radiation Permit to use the radioisotope from the University Radiation Protection Officer. Please refer to Lab Safety manual, ionizing radiation safety (Purchasing radioactive materials or irradiating apparatus)
2. All purchase order must send to University Radiation Protection Officer, Mr. S. T. Yip (email to : [email protected]) ,or your departmental radiation safety coordinator, for approval. .
G. Irradiating Apparatus (such as X-ray machines, accelerators etc.)
You have to obtain a license to process the equipment before the start of the purchasing procedure. The Radiation Health Unit of the Department of Health is the licensing authority. To apply the license, you may be required to submit all the details of the equipment and a risk assessment report. You are recommended to contact the Radiation Protection Officer for assistance.
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H. Hazardous Chemicals
Under the Hazardous Chemicals Bill, the chemicals to be controlled are
• Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) (CAS#118-74-1) • Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) (CAS#1336-36-3) • Five commercial types of asbestos materials (except chrysotile) • Polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) family (hexa-, octa- deca-) • Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCT) (CAS#61788-33-8) • Tetraethyl lead (78-00-2) • Tetramethyl lead (75-74-1) • Tris (2,3-dibromopropyl phosphate) (CAS#126-72-7)
1. If you use the above chemicals, be aware that you will need a license from the EPD when the Hazardous Chemicals Bill becomes law soon (maybe by 2007).
2. If the above Bill is affecting the operations in your department in any way, you may put your submission in writing to the Director of EPD or alternatively, you can send in your submission to the USEO for forwarding to the authority as soon as possible.
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APPENDIX G
INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL GROUPS
The following are some examples of chemical groups that will give rise to dangerous events as
a consequence of mixing. (Source: Young J.A. (Ed.). 2003. “Safety in Academic Chemistry
Laboratories". Vol. 1. American Chemical Society.)
CHEMICAL INCOMPATIBLE WITH
Acetic acid Chromic acid, nitric acid, hydroxyl compounds, ethylene glycol, perchloric acid, peroxides, permanganates
Acetylene Chlorine, bromine, copper, fluorine, silver, mercury
Acetone Concentrated nitric and sulfuric acid
Alkali and alkaline earth metals (such as powdered aluminum or magnesium calcium, lithium, sodium, potassium)
Water, carbon tetrachloride or other chlorinated hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, halogens
Ammonia (anhydrous) Mercury (e.g. in manometers), chlorine, calcium hypochlorite, iodine, bromine, hydrofluoric acid (anhydrous)
Ammonium nitrate Acids, powdered metals, flammable liquids, chlorates, nitrites, sulfur, finely divided organic combustible materials
Aniline Nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide
Arsenical materials Any reducing agent
Azides Acids
Bromine See chlorine
Calcium oxide Water
Carbon (activated) Calcium hypochlorite, all oxidizing agents
Chlorates Ammonium salts, acids, powdered metals, sulfur, finely divided organic or combustible materials
Chromic acid and chromium trioxide Acetic acid, naphthalene, camphor, glycerol, alcohol, flammable liquids in general
Chlorine Ammonia, acetylene, butadiene, butane, methane, propane (or other petroleum gases), hydrogen, sodium carbide, benzene, finely divided metals, turpentine
Chlorine dioxide Ammonia, methane, phosphine, hydrogen sulfide
Copper Acetylene, hydrogen peroxide
Cumene hydroperoxide Ammonia, methane, phosphine, hydrogen sulfide
Cyanides Acids
Flammable liquids Ammonium nitrate, chromic acid, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, sodium peroxide, halogens
Fluorine All other chemicals
Hydrocarbons (such as butane, propane, benzene) Fluorine, chlorine, bromine, chromic acid, sodium peroxide
Hydro cyanic acid Nitric acid, alkali
Hydrofluoric acid (anhydrous) Ammonia (aqueous or anhydrous)
Hydrogen sulfide Fuming nitric acid, oxidizing gases
Hypochlorites Acids, activated carbon
Iodine Acetylene, ammonia (aqueous or anhydrous ), hydrogen
Mercury Acetylene, fulminic acid, ammonia
Nitrate Acids
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(cont’)
CHEMICAL INCOMPATIBLE WITH
Nitric acid (concentrated) Acetic acid, aniline, chromic acid, hydrocyanic acid, hydrogen sulfide, flammable liquids and gases, copper, brass, any heavy metals
Nitrites Acids
Nitroparaffins Inorganic bases, amines
Oxalic acid Silver, mercury
Oxygen Oils, grease, hydrogen; flammable liquids, solids, and gases
Perchloric acid Acetic anhydride, bismuth and its alloys, alcohol, paper, wood, grease, oils
Peroxides, organic Acids (organic or mineral), avoid friction, store cold
Phosphorous (white) Air, oxygen, alkalies, reducing agents
Potassium Carbon tetrachloride, carbon dioxide, water
Potassium chlorate Sulfuric and other acids
Potassium perchlorate (see also chlorates) Sulfuric and other acids
Potassium permanganate Glycerol, ethylene glycol, benzaldehyde, sulfuric acid
Selenides Reducing agents
Silver Acetylene, oxalic acid, tartaric acid, ammonium compounds, fulminic acid
Sodium Carbon tetrachloride, carbon dioxide, water
Sodium nitrite Ammonium nitrate and other ammonium salts
Sodium peroxide Ethyl or methyl alcohol, glacial acetic acid, acetic anhydride, benzaldehyde, carbon disulfide, glycerin, ethylene glycol, ethylacetate, methyl acetate, furfural
Sulfides Acids
Sulfuric acid Potassium chlorate, potassium perchlorate, potassium permanganate(similar compounds of light metals, such as sodium, lithium)
Tellurides Reducing agents
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APPENDIX H
INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICAL WASTE GROUPS
The following are some examples of waste groups that will give rise to dangerous events as a
consequence of mixing. (Source: New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation.)
1. Heat generation and violent reaction
2. Fire or explosion, and generation of flammable hydrogen gas
3. Fire, explosion or heat generation, and generation of flammable or toxic gases
Group 1-A Group 1-B Acetylene sludge Acid sludge
Alkaline caustic liquids Acid and water Alkaline cleaner Battery acid
Alkaline corrosive liquids Chemical cleaners Alkaline corrosive battery fluid Electrolyte acid
Caustic wastewater Etching acid liquid or solvent Lime sludge and other corrosive Pickling liquor and other alkalis corrosive acids
Lime wastewater Spent acid Lime and water Spent mixed acid
Spent caustic Spent sulfuric acid
Group 2-A Group 2-B Aluminum
Any waste in Group 1-A or 1-B
Beryllium Calcium Lithium
Magnesium Potassium
Sodium Zinc powder
Other reactive metals and metal hydrides
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4. Fire, explosion, or violent reaction
5. Generation of toxic hydrogen cyanide or hydrogen sulfide gas
6. Fire, explosion, or violent reaction
Group 3-A Group 3-B Alcohols Any concentrated waste in Groups 1-A or 1-B
Water
Calcium Lithium
Metal hydrides Potassium
SO2Cl2, SOCl2, PCl3, CH3SiCl3
Other water reactive waste
Group 4-A Group 4-B Alcohols
Concentrated Group 1-A or 1-B wastes Aldehydes
Halogenated hydrocarbons
Group 2-A wastes Nitrated hydrocarbons
Unsaturated hydrocarbons Other reactive organic components and
solvents
Group 5-A Group 5-B Spent cyanide and sulfide solutions Group 1-B wastes
Group 6-A Group 6-B Chlorates
Acetic acid and other organic acids Chlorine Chlorites
Concentrated mineral acids Chromic acid
Hydrochlorites Group 2-A wastes Nitrates Group 4-A wastes
Nitric acid, fuming
Other flammable and combustible wastes Perchlorates
Permanganates
Peroxides Other strong oxidizers
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APPENDIX I
HONG KONG INSTITUTE OF BIOTECHNOLOGY LTD.
CHEMICAL WASTE LOG SHEET
Company / Laboratory: Room No.:
Waste Type: CWTF-ID:
Contact Person: Telephone:
Date (YY/MM/DD)
Name of Product / Waste (Full Name in Block Letter)
Quantity (L or g) Producer's Name
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APPENDIX J
TYPES OF SPILL KIT AVAILABLE IN HKIB (Rm 209)
TYPES OF SPILL KIT PACKAGE
1 Acid Neutralizer 7 lb each
2 Caustic Neutralizer 1.2 Kg each
3 Formaldehyde Neutralizer 1 lb each
4 Hg Absorption Jar 3 Jars
5 Solvent Absorbent 1.1 Kg each