STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

#1 PROCESS Laboratory Use of Benzene

#2 HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS/CLASS OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

Cal/OSHA Regulated Carcinogen. Flammable Liquid, CNS Depressant

#3 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Gloves should be used when potential for skin contact exists. Disposable nitrlile gloves provide minimum protection for general laboratory use and should be changed frequently or whenever contamination is suspected. Viton gloves are required when hand immersion in benzene is expected. Safety goggles should be worn when a splash hazard exists, safety glasses with side shields are required at a minimum when benzene is used in a closed system. A laboratory coat should be worn when working with chemicals. A chemically resistant apron should be used if transferring or using large quantities of benzene in open containers.

#4 ENGINEERING/VENTILATION CONTROLS

Work with benzene in fume hood or with local exhaust ventilation.

#5 SPECIAL HANDLING PROCEDURES AND STORAGE REQUIREMENTS

Keep in a tightly closed container. Store in rated flammable liquid storage cabinet or flammable liquid storage room. Store with compatible materials (eg. away from oxidizers).

#6 SPILL AND ACCIDENT PROCEDURES

Small: Absorb with compatible material such as vermiculite or spill pads and transfer absorbed material to a closed container. Label and date as hazardous waste. Contact EH&S for pickup.

Large: Notify others in room of spill. Extinguish all ignition sources. Evacuate room/immediate area. Call EH&S for cleanup. Post room with warning notifying others of spill. Prevent unnecessary entry into area until arrival of EH&S response team. Provide assistance and information to spill responders.

#7 WASTE DISPOSAL

Collect and label as hazardous waste. Contact EH&S Materials Handling Facility for pickup.

#8 SPECIAL APPROVAL REQUIRED

P.I. approval required before initial use.

#9 DECONTAMINATION

#10 DESIGNATED AREA