Safe Handling
editSafe handling procedures for carcinogens aim to prevent occupational exposure. Elimination, substitution, engineered controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) form the hierarchy of control,[1] which is the most effective way to manage hazards.
Engineering
editEngineered isolation is the most effective method for carcinogens. Increasing the distance from the carcinogen is achieved by the use of a remote control devices such robots, tongs, or tweezers.[2] These are operated in standard containment devices such as fume hoods, glove boxes, and ventilated containment areas. American industries follow the U.S. Department of Energy’s standard[3] of using high efficiency particular air (HEPA) filters to prevent the spread of airborne contaminants. All surfaces which come into contact with carcinogens must be impervious to prevent contamination. Suitable surfaces include stainless steel, plastic trays or absorbent plastic backed paper to protect from contamination.
Administrative
editAdministrative control measures are those which rely on adherence to predetermined rules. These measures are less effective than engineered controls, as they can only reduce exposure rather than eliminating it. Administrative control covers the controlling of exposure, signage, labelling, storage and instruction on accident procedures.
Exposure is controlled by toxicity limits to reduce the exposure to the carcinogen. These values include:
| Name | Abbreviation | Definition |
|---|---|---|
| Threshold Limit Value | TLV | Time-weighted average concentration over a normal eight hour working day and a 40 hour working week to which nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed without adverse effect |
| Short Term Exposure Limits | STEL | Maximum concentration to which workers can be exposed for periods of up to ten minutes (4 x one hour apart), even though the eight-hour average is within exposure standards |
| Ceiling Value | CV | The maximum concentration that should not be exceeded at any time |
Signs must be placed at the entrance of carcinogen work areas, stating 'No eating, drinking or smoking' and 'Danger carcinogen in use. Authorised personnel only'.[4] Containers should have their contents listed and exhibit the carcinogenic chemical hazard symbol.[4]
Carcinogens are to be stored in a designated cabinet or area with limited access, display appropriate hazard signs. Storage areas should be separate from flammable solids and corrosive liquids to avoid any damage to containers and possible leaking of carcinogenic compounds.[4]
MSDS’s must be referred to before using a carcinogenic substance, and spill kits and emergency plans prepared prior to use. Quick responses to accidents or spills greatly reduce the exposure to a carcinogenic substance. Contaminated materials need to be disposed of in a hazardous waste bin, including stained clothing. Contact emergency health services if human contact occurs, and use a safety shower or an eye wash station to clean the site of exposure. A spill kit should be used on the spill, and in the case of a liquid spill, ensure that the spill is cleaned as soon as possible to prevent the formation of aerosols. Employees ought to be tested for exposure to carcinogens after a spillage. In the case of a large spill vacate the area and call for assistance.[5] [6]
PPE
editPPE is the least preferred method of preventing risk.[7] Appropriate PPE must be worn when handling carcinogens. Safety goggles, gloves, respirator and/or face shield, impermeable apron, closed-in shoes, and a long sleeved lab coat must be worn to prevent contact. Disposable aprons and lab coats are preferable to reduce risks of repeated exposure.[5]
- ^ "Safe Work Australia: Workplace Health and Safety Training Resource Kit". 2002. Retrieved 2011-05-05.
- ^ Luxon S.G. (1992). Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory. Royal Chemistry Society: Cambridge. ISBN 0-85186-229-2. 5th edition.
- ^ U.S. Department of Energy (1997). "DOE Standard: Specification for HEPA filters used by DOE contractors" (PDF). Retrieved 2011-05-05.
- ^ a b c Radford University. "Hazard Communication Manual: Ch5 Carcinogens, Mutagens, Embryotoxins". Retrieved 2011-04-26.
- ^ a b Stanford University. "Laboratory Chemical Safety Toolkit: General Use SOP for Carcinogens". Retrieved 2011-04-26.
- ^ Ohio State University College of Pharmacy (2011). "Carcinogens: Standard Operating Procedure" (PDF). Retrieved 2011-04-26.
- ^ Safe Work Australia (2010). "Options to Prevent Chemicals from Harming Health". Retrieved 2011-05-05.