Protect yourself from explosive chemicals

Minimize risks when working with chemicals.

Remember the chemical disaster in Bophal, India, in the 1980s or the 2008 Bayer CropScience explosion in the U.S.?
For industries and laboratories that handle toxic chemicals, there is a constant threat of dangerous developments and near-accidents.
The National Academies Press says that “prudent execution of experiments requires not only sound judgment and an accurate assessment of the risks involved in laboratory work, but also the selection of appropriate work practices to reduce risk and protect the health and safety of the laboratory workers as well as the public and the environment.”

Be extra careful when dealing with chemicals
They outline four fundamental principles that all laboratory workers dealing with chemicals should keep in mind:

• Plan ahead. Determine the potential hazards associated with an experiment before beginning it.
• Minimize exposure to chemicals. Do not allow laboratory chemicals to come in contact with skin. Use laboratory hoods and other ventilation devices to prevent exposure to airborne substances whenever possible.
• Do not underestimate risks. Assume that any mixture of chemicals will be more toxic than its most toxic component. Treat all new compounds and substances of unknown toxicity as toxic substances.
• Be prepared for accidents. Before beginning an experiment, know what specific action to take in the event of the accidental release of any hazardous substance. Know the location of all safety equipment and the nearest fire alarm and telephone, and know what telephone numbers to call and whom to notify in the event of an emergency. Be prepared to provide basic emergency treatment. Keep your co-workers informed of your activities so that they can respond appropriately.

I-6500 series

Electrocorp has developed a range of air purifiers for laboratory workers, including the RAP series, the RSU series, the I-6500 series and Fume Hoods. Where high concentrations of flammable vapors (according to the MSDS) pose a threat of ignition, the I-6500 Explosion Proof promises to keep things safe.  It removes the toxic chemicals from the air and comes with explosion proof motor and switch, an after-filter housing, special carbon blends and particle filtration. The unit must be hard-wired by a certified electrician.

Chemical accidents: A question of occupational health and safety

There are more and more reports of chemical accidents in the manufacturing industry: One recent incident at a manufacturing and plating company in Santa Ana raises fresh concerns.
A chemical reaction on Jan. 19, 2011 in the company’s filtration system triggered an explosion. The ensuing fire burnt a small hole into the roof of the building, according to the fire captain. Four staff members had to be taken to the hospital because they were exposed to fumes.

A workplace safety issue
This raises numerous questions with regards to the filtration system. Was it regularly maintained? Did it have the right filter media? A HEPA filter will get rid of the particle pollution, but it won't remove chemicals from the air. This is better done by an activated carbon filter.
When working with chemicals, health and safety precautions have to be taken seriously. Chemicals can be corrosive and toxic, and they may react suddenly and explosively. The most common concerns over chemical accidents and hazardous materials spills is acute, or short-term, toxicity as well as chronic, or long-term, effects.

Commercial air purifiers can boost industrial safety
For an industrial-strength air purification system that can add chemical and particle filtration power to the HVAC system, or for a powerful portable unit that has been designed for commercial and industrial settings, speak to a representative at Electrocorp.

Electrocorp’s air purification systems have been equipped with many pounds of activated, highly adsorbent carbon as well as other filtration technologies. Electrocorp air cleaning systems use only safe and proven technology and are designed for reliable, 24/7 operation.

Source of news article: The Orange County Register, Jan. 19, 2011