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Hazardous materials management and control program at Oak Ridge National Laboratory--health protection
Summary
Oak Ridge National Laboratory uses specialized Hazardous Material Coordinators to manage hazardous substances from purchase to disposal. This system ensures proper evaluation and control of materials, enhancing laboratory safety and environmental protection.
Area of Science:
- Laboratory Safety
- Environmental Management
- Industrial Hygiene
Background:
- Managing hazardous materials in large research settings presents significant challenges.
- Effective control systems are crucial for safety and regulatory compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the hazardous material control system at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
- To outline the roles of Hazardous Material Coordinators in managing chemical safety.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of two distinct Hazardous Material Coordinator roles: Health Protection (HMC-Hlth) and Environmental Protection (HMC-Env).
- A mandatory hazard evaluation process before material acquisition.
- Utilization of a Hazardous Material Control Card (HMCC) for tracking and evaluation.
Main Results:
- The HMC-Hlth, within the Industrial Hygiene Department, oversees material purchase and use.
- Users must obtain approval and provide detailed usage information via the HMCC.
- The system facilitates hazard assessment and environmental monitoring, including air sampling.
Conclusions:
- A structured approach involving dedicated coordinators and control cards effectively manages hazardous materials.
- This system enhances the Industrial Hygiene Department's ability to evaluate risks and ensure safe laboratory practices.