During National Poison Prevention week, the Environment, Safety and Health Department (ESH) at Sanford Underground Research Facility (Sanford Lab) is highlighting the implementation of new technology that will bolster safe practices toward chemicals used on site.
All chemicals brought on site must be pre-approved by the EHS team and given thorough attention in workplanning and control documents. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are an essential component of the Global Harmonization Standard (GHS), intended to provide comprehensive information about hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. As a source of information about hazards, SDSs inform safety and health precautions and environmentally-responsible disposal actions.
“The ESH team is incorporating technology that will allow employees, researchers and contractors to access SDSs on their phones, tablets and laptops,” said Julie Ewing, health and safety superintendent. “Upcoming training will familiarize personnel with this technology.”
Currently, a physical copy of a chemical’s SDS must be readily available in the work area in which the chemical is being used. Once the new system is implemented, all SDSs will be accessible through the Hazmin™ app on a variety of electronic devices. The transition to technology-based access to the SDSs aligns with best practice, Ewing explained.
“This app will make a database of information accessible by all personnel, in-part replacing the paper requirements we previously had,” said John Scheetz, environmental manager at Sanford Lab. “The chemical database is simple to use with the ability to search by product, manufacturer name or work location.”
Training on this new system will be made available to employees through Bridge Training and Toolbox Talks when the implementation of the online database is complete.
“Access to SDSs is important, not only from a health and safety standpoint, but also when it comes to environmental impact,” said Sheetz. “Having thorough information about all chemicals used on site, allows us to both use and dispose of the chemical in a safe, responsible manner.”
For more information on National Poison Prevention Week and the safe use of chemical substances in your home, visit the Health Resources & Services Administration’s website.
The Environment, Safety and Health Department at Sanford Underground Research Facility promotes health and safety in the workplace, as well as healthy living and wellness for all employees. If you have questions about health and wellness, please contact our occupational health nurse, Laura Baatz, who is onsite daily. Contact Laura Baatz at lbaatz@sanfordlab.org.