STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR 30% - 50% AQUEOUS HYDROGEN PEROXIDE SOLUTIONS

#1 PROCESS Handling of hydrogen peroxide (30%- 50%) solutions

#2 HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS/CLASS OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

Oxidizer/corrosive. Not flammable but may start fire in contact with organic materials.

#3 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Avoid skin contact, serious burns may result. Gloves made of nitrile, neoprene, PVC, supported natural rubber, and Viton can provide effective skin protection. Wear safety glasses or chemical safety goggles with face shield when using large quantities or chemical safety goggles when using small quantities. Wear rubber, neoprene or PVC apron when using large quantities and splash potential exists.

#4 ENGINEERING/VENTILATION CONTROLS Fume hoods should be used when using large quantities and when potential for reaction releasing hazardous products exists.

An eyewash safety shower must be available and accessible to areas where hydrogen peroxide is used.

#5 SPECIAL HANDLING PROCEDURES AND STORAGE REQUIREMENTS

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizer. Store in a cool, dark, area away from

combustibles materials, organic materials, heat, strong bases, reducing agents, powdered metals, metallic salts and alkalies.

Minimize quantities stored and rotate stock. Inspect periodically for bulging containers. Contamination from any source (dust, metals) may cause rapid decomposition with generation of large quantities of oxygen and high pressures.

Hydrogen peroxide should not be stored directly on wooden shelves. Store in secondary containment such as plastic tub.

#6 SPILL AND ACCIDENT PROCEDURES Skin exposure: Rinse affected skin with plenty of water while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Rinse for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.

Eye exposure. Vapors are very corrosive and irritating to the eyes. Symptoms include: pain redness and blurred vision. Splashes may cause tissue destruction. Wash eyes for at least 15 minutes, lifting the upper and lower eyelids occasionally. Seek medical attention immediately.

Hydrogen peroxide may release oxygen and accelerate combustion. Hydrogen peroxide may react with organic materials and cause fire.

Small spills: Wear protective equipment indicated above. Flood area with excess water to dilute solution. Do not attempt cleanup if you feel unsure of your ability to do so or if you percieve the risk to be greater than normal laboratory operations.

Large Spills: Notify others in area of spill. Turn off ignition sources in area. Evacuate area and post doors to spill area. Call EH&S (or UCSD Police after hours) for spill response. Restrict persons from area of spill or leak unit clean-up is complete.

#7 WASTE DISPOSAL Dispose of waste through EH&S Material Handling Facility or call (x42753) for special disposal advice.

#8 SPECIAL APPROVAL REQUIRED None.

#9 DECONTAMINATION Dilute with water

#10 DESIGNATED AREA Use of 30% solution approved in fume hood.