Water Reactive Chemicals Standard Operating Procedure (Page 2 of 3) in pdf

• Minimize the quantities of water sensitive chemicals stored in the laboratory.

• Date all containers upon receipt.

• Potassium will form peroxides and superoxides when stored under oil at room

temperature.

• Examine storage containers frequently.

• Dispose of any container that exhibits salt build up on its exterior.

• Dispose of all water sensitive chemicals whenever they are no longer required for current

research.

• Never return excess chemicals to the original container. Small amounts of impurities may

be introduced into the container which may cause a fire or explosion.

SPILL AND ACCIDENT PROCEDURES

• Before beginning work with water reactive chemicals, develop emergency procedures

which address response actions to accidental exposure from fires, explosions, or spills.

The procedures should address as a minimum the following:

 Who to contact: (University police, and the Department of Occupational Health and

Safety,

 Principal investigator of the laboratory including evening phone number)

 The location of all water reactive chemicals in the laboratory.

 The method used to alert personnel in nearby areas of potential hazards

 Special first aid treatment required by the type of water reactive chemical(s) handled

in the laboratory

• Anticipate spills by having clean up equipment on hand. The appropriate clean up

supplies can be determined by consulting the material safety data sheet. This should

occur prior to the use of any water reactive chemicals.

• A class D fire extinguisher should be available for small fires.

• Do not put water on the spill.

• Spill control materials for water sensitive chemicals are designed to be inert and will not

react with the reagent.

• In the event of a spill, all personnel in the area should be alerted.

• Do not attempt to handle a large spill of water reactive chemicals. Turn off all ignition

sources and vacate the laboratory immediately and call for assistance (Department of

Occupational Health & Safety 934-2487 or UAB Police 911).

• Remain on the scene, but at a safe distance, to receive and direct safety personnel when

they arrive.

WASTE DISPOSAL

• All materials contaminated with water sensitive chemicals should be disposed of as

hazardous waste.

• Alert Occupational Health and Safety if you generate wastes contaminated by water

sensitive chemicals.

• These wastes should not remain in the laboratory overnight as they may pose a

flammability risk.

SPECIAL APPROVAL REQUIRED

Water Reactive Chemicals Standard Operating Procedure Page 2