It is common for different chemicals, such as solvents, acids, bases, and gases, to be present in work areas. These products are used in various facets of work, such as cleaning, manufacturing, clothing, maintenance, etc.

For example, bases, including sodium hydroxide, are used in cleaning products but can cause chemical burns. Gases such as ammonia and chlorine are used in refrigeration and disinfection but are toxic if inhaled.

Because of this, proper safety, storage, and handling protocols are crucial to mitigate the hazards above and protect worker health.

Proper handling and storage of chemicals

Safe handling and storage of chemicals involves several recommended practices, including:

• Safe handling and storage of chemicals involves several recommended practices, including:
• Identify all containers containing chemicals. The hazards involved and handling instructions must also be indicated.
• Use appropriate containers that prevent any type of reaction or leakage of the product.
• Store chemical products in cool areas with good ventilation, humidity-free, and away from any heat source.
• For substances that are incompatible with others, isolated storage must be guaranteed.
• Workers must make correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever necessary.
• Carry out periodic inspections in storage areas to validate that everything is in order.
• Keep safety data sheets (SDS) visible at all times.
• Train employees on emergency procedures and proper techniques for handling chemicals.

Importance of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting employees from exposure to chemicals.

Basic PPE includes safety gloves, glasses, face shields or shields, masks or respirators, and protective clothing. All these elements must meet the necessary characteristics to protect people, according to the chemical products they handle.

Correct use of PPE involves proper adjustment of PPE during use, constant inspection for damage, and compliance with the manufacturer's instructions. Maintenance includes cleaning reusable PPE after each use and replacing items as necessary.

Training workers on the correct use, limitations, and maintenance of PPE is essential for adequate protection and overall safety in the workplace.

Procedures for chemical spills

In the event of a chemical spill:

• Immediately alert all personnel and evacuate the area if necessary, especially in the case of large or hazardous spills.
• People exposed to the chemical should immediately use emergency showers or eyewash stations.
• The spill must be contained using appropriate absorbent materials, and the substance must not be allowed to reach other areas.
• Use the correct PPE during cleaning work.
• The area must be secured and ventilated.
• In compliance with safety guidelines, discard contaminated materials.
• If necessary, request medical attention.
• Document the event and inform the security personnel in charge.

Training and education for employees

One fundamental base for safety is training. Workers must receive ongoing chemical safety education to maintain a safe work environment.

Training should cover aspects such as the proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals. It should also cover understanding safety data sheets (SDS), using personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency response procedures, and spill control and containment.

Regular training sessions allow workers to learn about new safety mechanisms, new tools and equipment developed for spill control, and regulatory changes that occur.

Continuous learning ensures that workers stay up-to-date on chemical safety and helps create a safe work environment for themselves, the company, and the environment.

Legal responsibilities and regulations

Employers and employees have critical legal responsibilities to ensure chemical safety in the workplace.

Employers must comply with regulations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards in the United States, which require proper labeling, storage, and handling of hazardous chemicals. Employers and employees have critical legal responsibilities to ensure chemical safety in the workplace.

For their part, employers must comply with regulations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards in the United States, which require proper labeling, storage, and handling of hazardous chemicals. In addition, they must provide safety data sheets (SDS) for each of the chemicals found in the work area, implement safety-training programs, and ensure the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable for all workers.

On the other hand, employees must comply with the safety procedures defined and disclosed by the company, correctly use PPE, and report any unsafe condition or unwanted event.

Both parties must collaborate to maintain a safe work environment.

On the other hand, it is essential to highlight the critical regulations in this regard:

• OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) ensures that workers are informed of hazards associated with chemicals.
• The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) standardizes chemical classification and labeling internationally.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant penalties and fines for companies.

Among the dangers associated with exposure to chemical substances, we can mention:

• Burns,
• Respiratory problems,
• Poisoning,
• Long-term effects such as cancer and organ damage.

Knowing and understanding these risks is extremely important for employers and workers to take appropriate preventive measures.

In addition to all these aspects, the responsibility of the product manufacturers and suppliers must also be taken into account. Both must ensure that their chemicals are safe and adequately identified. In addition, the employer must use the products according to the safety regulations. If someone fails to fulfill their responsibilities, they may be sued by employees who suffer an exposure injury because of negligence.

These legal actions can generate considerable financial losses and damage the company's image. For more information, check this article.

In short, compliance with chemical safety standards, a continuing education program, and promoting a safety culture are fundamental pillars of minimizing risks, preventing legal problems, and ensuring a healthy work environment.

Conclusion

In workspaces, it is essential to create and maintain a culture of chemical safety, which guarantees an appropriate environment for workers. Likewise, compliance with OSHA standards and the correct use of PPE must be ensured.

Companies are responsible for training their employees in all aspects of protection against chemical substances, from storage to handling and what to do in emergencies.

On the other hand, workers are responsible for complying with safety guidelines and reporting any dangers they may identify. They must also understand all the risks associated with their work and be prepared to act in the event of an unwanted event.

To protect the health and physical integrity of employees and the legal interests of all, an ongoing training plan in the area of chemical safety must be designed.