Emergency
Numbers
9-911
Security: 446-5199 |
Emergency Procedures
General Procedures
In the event of a spill or loss of control of biological,
chemical, or radioactive material, immediately contain as much of the material as
possible. If there is fire or injury, dial 9-911 or call Security
at 446-5199 and inform them of the situation.
Once immediate steps have been taken, warn others in the
area and take initial action as described below. Assistance is a available from
Environmental Health & Safety staff and Security.
Biological
Spill
In event of a spill containing biological organisms,
follow these basic steps:
- Contain the spill with an absorbent
- Spray or moisten the area with a bleach solution (1 part
bleach to 10 parts water) and leave in contact for at least 30 minutes
- If an aerosol is suspected, leave the room for at least 15
minutes
- Decontaminate adjacent areas with the bleach solution
- Thoroughly wash your hands and other skin areas that may
have been splashed
- Place all waste in a biohazard bag for disposal by
commercial vendor or steam sterilization
Chemical Spill
In event of a spill containing a chemical, follow these
basic steps:
- Warn others in the area, identifying the chemical if known
- Contain the liquid or solid with absorbent pads or sheets
- Extinguish flame/ignition sources if flammable liquid,
solid or gas is released
- In the event of a fire, assess the situation before using
a fire extinguisher. Dry chemicals from the extinguisher may cause more damage to computer
and electronic equipment than a small alcohol or solvent fire
- If the chemical has come in contact with your lab
coat or clothing, remove these items immediately
- If it came in contact with skin or eyes,
flush the affected area for at least 15 minutes with running water. Use the eyewash and
safety shower.
- If the chemical is ingested, rinse
out the oral cavity and seek medical attention
Radioactive Material Spill
In event of a spill containing radioactive material,
follow these basic steps:
- Notify others in the area at once
- Confine or contain the spill immediately
- If the spill contacts the skin,
flush thoroughly with water. If the spill is on clothing, discard
outer clothing at once.
- Notify Security at 446-5199, describe the situation
including what radionuclide and how much activity
- Permit no one to resume work in the area until it is
decontaminated
- Place contaminated items and materials used for
decontamination in waste containers
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