Safety, Risk and Sustainability

Chemical and Lab Safety

H&S works with the Academic Environmental Health and Safety Specialist (AEHSS) to promote the safe and compliant use of chemicals on campus.

 

Fire Safety

Policies and procedures

IN CASE OF FIRE:

• Call 911
• Evacuate immediately using the nearest safe exit
• Keep important items with you
• Close doors (room, office) behind you.
• DO NOT use elevators.
• If you encounter fire or smoke while exiting, try another exit.
• If you cannot avoid smoke, stay close to the floor.
• Proceed to designated evacuation assembly area.
• DO NOT reenter unless authorized by emergency personnel.

ALWAYS EVACUATE FOR FIRE ALARMS

Fire extinguishers

The use of fire extinguishers is addressed by California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 8, Section 6151.

• Portable fire extinguishers compatible to the conditions and hazards shall be provided and maintained.
• Portable fire extinguishers shall be located and mounted in a conspicuous area where they are readily accessible.
• Portable fire extinguishers shall be maintained and tested yearly, and written records retained.
• CSUMB Employees are not required to attempt to fight fires. Fire extinguishers are available in call CSUMB buildings for use by employees whom have been trained.

Fire prevention

• Proper housekeeping is the #1 way to prevent fires. This includes the prompt removal of wastes and keeping the workspace free of unnecessary combustible materials. This will help prevent or reduce the severity of fires.
• Storage of cardboard boxes,etc. should be kept to a minimum.
• Automatic sprinklers need at least 18 inches (45.72 cm) of clearance to be effective, NEVER block sprinkler heads, pile items too close, or hang anything from sprinkler heads of pipes.
• Fire doors prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
• Fire doors should kept closed at all times unless held open by the doors magnetic device, which will release automatically when a fire alarm sounds. NEVER block or tamper with the operation of fire doors.
• Extension cords should never be used in place of permanent wiring. Power strips should never be "daisy-chained" together (power strip plugged into another power strip).
• Rooms and doorways must remain free of obstructions and debris which can hinder a safe evacuation should a fire occur.
• Store large amounts of flammable liquids in a flammable storage cabinet. Limited quantities of flammable liquids may be stored on the laboratory bench-top and shop space without additional storage requirements. Please contact AEHS for guidance.

When working with hazardous materials, know the location and how to use the nearest eye wash and safety shower.

Know the location of your eyewash and safety shower

Use only approved safety equipment

• Never rely on sink faucets to replace an eye wash or safety shower

Eye Wash Operation

Seconds count after a chemical exposure. Delaying treatment, even for a few seconds, may result in irreparable eye damage. Do not hesitate to use them immediately when needed.

• Immediately flush eyes for at least 15 minutes
• Keep eyes open (hold eyelid open) and rotate the eyeballs in all directions to remove contamination from around the eyes.
• Call 911, seek medical attention immediately.
• Bring the Safety Data Sheet for the chemical to the doctor when seeking medical attention
• Report the injury or exposure. Report to Health and Safety and Human Resources. For reporting to Human Resources see Workplace Injuries and Workers' Compensation*

Emergency Shower Operation

Use an emergency shower immediately if your skin is exposed to a hazardous chemical.

The first few seconds after exposure to a hazardous chemical (especially a corrosive chemical) are critical. Delaying treatment, even for a few seconds, may result in irreparable tissue damage. Don't hesitate!

• Immediately flush the affected area with copious quantities of water for at least 15 minutes. Protect the eyes from inadvertent contamination.
• Remove contaminated clothing, jewelry, and shoes. Don't let modesty slow you down. Every second counts.
• Call 911, seek medical attention immediately
• Bring the Safety Data Sheet for the chemical to the doctor when seeking medical attention
• Report the injury or exposure. Report to Health and Safety and Human Resources. For reporting to Human Resources see Workplace Injuries and Workers' Compensation*