Toxic Compounds Summary

Hazards of Chemicals and Gases DOE-HDBK-1015/2-93 TOXIC COMPOUNDS Rev. 0 CH-05 Page 15 Toxic Compounds Summary The general safety precautions regarding toxic compounds: Proper ventilation Appropriate hygienic practices Housekeeping Protective clothing Training The criteria used to determine if a compound is a health hazard: Toxicity of the materials used The physical properties The absorption probabilities of these materials by individuals The extent and intensity of exposure to these materials The control measures used The methods by which toxic compounds may enter the body: Ingestion Inhalation Absorption The purpose and general contents of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) is to ensure the individuals working with and in the vicinity of chemicals have specific information of these chemicals. This form identifies the chemical, by technical and common name, lists the physical/chemical characteristics, any fire or explosion hazard as well as reactivity hazards. The second page will specify health hazards and recommend first aid procedures. The safe handling and control measures are also supplied. The purpose and general contents of the Toxic Substance List is to identify "all known toxic substances" in accordance with definitions that may be used by all sections of our society to describe toxicity. This form identifies known toxic chemicals which have been proven in lab tests or have definite human data. It lists the chemical name, level of concentration at which it is hazardous, concentration limits for set time exposures both weighted averages and ceiling limits. Summary The important information in this chapter is summarized below.