Chemical Safety Officer Responsibilities

As a Liaison to the Safety and Rick Services Department, the Chemical Safety Officer will:

  • Successfully complete the  SRS Chemical Safety Officer training course
  • Make sure that laboratory documents are in order: chemical inventory, material safety data sheets(MSDS), chemical hygiene plan, standard operating procedures, annual self-audits, and all training (spill cleanup, HazCom, etc.) records, in preparation for a program review by SRS and an OSHA, EPA or New Mexico Environmental Department inspection
  • Ensure that the Chemical Inventory is updated monthly on the SRS Web Site by the Principal Investigator or other responsible owner/possessor
  • Obtain a MSDS for each item/entry on the Chemical Inventory, and ensure that copies of MSDS’s for all chemicals are readily accessible to employees
  • Utilize SRS Chemical Labeling Guidelines to ensure that all chemicals transferred out of their original container are properly labeled and that all missing labels be replaced as soon as possible
  • Coordinate OSHA HazCom training for the employees in your area
  • Use the SRS Chemical Hygiene Plan template and coordinate implementation of the laboratory-specific Chemical Hygiene Plan (SRS Manual Section 4.09)
  • Ensure that chemical storage practices are prudent and comply with the SRS Chemical Storage Program (SRS Manual Section 4.03) by making sure that incompatible chemicals are not stored together
  • Ensure that all eye wash and safety shower devices receive monthly testing
  • Train all personnel in the proper response to chemical spills as outlined in the UNM Chemical Spill Response Program (SRS Manual Section 4.02)
  • Annually assure that a properly stocked chemical spill clean-up kit is readily available, and assure that the kit is properly maintained and stocked
  • Train all personnel in the proper handling of chemical wastes as outlined in the SRS Hazardous Chemical Waste Program (SRS Manual Section 4.07)
  • Ensure that all waste containers have the proper waste label, if not in the original container, and are not stored with incompatible wastes
  • Make sure there is never more than 1 quart of acutely hazardous waste stored in your area at any one time, nor more than 55 gallons of other waste
  • Train all personnel in the use of the SRS Hazardous Material Disposal Request Form, and how to assist the SRS disposal team
  • At least annually, utilize a “Self Audit for Labs” form and conduct a complete safety and health inspection of your assigned laboratory/area