Safety when using chemicals

Chemical Safety: Essential Guidelines for Safe Chemical Use

Chemicals are present in nearly every aspect of modern life—from industrial production and agriculture to healthcare and household cleaning. While chemicals bring significant benefits, they also pose risks to human health and the environment if handled improperly. Therefore, chemical safety is crucial for every individual and organization involved in chemical use.

This article provides practical, easy-to-understand guidelines to ensure safety when working with chemicals. It is suitable for websites, training materials, industrial facilities, and educational institutions.

1. Why Is Chemical Safety Important?

• Reduces health risks: prevents burns, eye irritation, acute poisoning, and long-term effects on the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.

• Protects the environment: chemical spills can contaminate soil, water, and air.

• Ensures legal compliance: businesses must follow chemical management regulations such as the Chemical Law, Decree 113/2017/NĐ-CP, and the GHS classification system.

• Reduces operational costs: minimizes accidents, protects assets, and improves work efficiency.

2. Understanding Labels and Hazard Symbols

Before using any chemical, it is essential to carefully review:

• Chemical name & formula

• Hazard classifications (corrosive, toxic, flammable, etc.)

• GHS hazard pictograms

• Hazard statements (H-statements) & precautionary statements (P-statements)

• Instructions for safe handling and storage

• Emergency measures

Understanding chemical labels helps prevent misuse, ensures proper application, and guides the selection of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

3. Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

To use chemicals safely, individuals must be properly equipped:

• Chemical-resistant gloves

• Protective goggles or face shield

• Chemical-resistant apron or clothing

• Respirator or mask for toxic fumes

• Safety shoes

Note: Each chemical requires specific PPE. For example, strong acids require nitrile or neoprene gloves—thin PVC gloves are not suitable.

4. Safety Principles When Handling Chemicals

✔ Use chemicals in well-ventilated areas

Ensure proper ventilation or use a fume hood to reduce exposure to harmful vapors.

✔ Do not mix chemicals without understanding their reactions

Common dangerous interactions include:

• Chlorine mixed with acids → releases toxic chlorine gas

• Hydrogen peroxide reacting with metals → risk of fire or explosion

✔ Follow correct dilution procedures

• Always add chemical to water, not water to chemical

• Use clean, dedicated tools

✔ No eating, drinking, or smoking while handling chemicals

This prevents accidental ingestion and contamination.

5. Proper Chemical Storage

• Store chemicals in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area

• Keep away from heat sources and sparks

• Separate chemicals by hazard group: acids, alkalis, oxidizers, flammable solvents, etc.

• Label containers clearly and include opening dates

• Never store chemicals in food or beverage containers

6. Responding to Chemical Incidents

• Chemical contact with skin:

→ Rinse immediately with clean water for 15–20 minutes and remove contaminated clothing.

• Chemical splash in eyes:

→ Flush the eyes under running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

• Chemical spill:

→ Use absorbent materials (sand, cloth, or spill pads). Do not flush chemicals into drains.

• Inhalation of toxic fumes:

→ Move the person to fresh air; call for medical assistance if breathing difficulties occur.

7. Regular Training and Safety Assessments

Organizations should implement:

• Annual chemical safety training

• Updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals

• Emergency drills for spills and fires

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) posted at work areas

Conclusion

Chemical safety is not only a legal obligation but also a shared responsibility. When we understand and follow proper safety practices, we protect not only ourselves but also the environment and the long-term sustainability of our workplaces.