Page 75 - 2020 ARE eGuide for Clinical at Nonhospital Sites

2020 Annual Required Education

Chemical Hazards: Safeguards

Certain safety measures are used for all hazardous chemicals.
These include:
• Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent contact with the chemical. For
example: understand that some gloves will melt when exposed to harsh chemicals/solvents.
• Wash your skin immediately if contact occurs, but do not wash until your skin is abraded.
• Do not touch your eyes/face etc. or common equipment (such as keyboards) with
contaminated hands/gloves.
• If your clothing becomes contaminated, you must remove it. Do not wear the clothing until
after it has been decontaminated.
• After working with a hazardous chemical, wash your hands before eating, smoking, or using
the bathroom.
• Know the symptoms of exposure. If you notice these symptoms, stop using the chemical and
get help.
• You should always refer to the SDS for information on first aid, spills, and fire hazards.

A good general practice, with all harsh cleaners,
disinfectants, and other chemicals commonly
encountered in the hospital setting, is to use
gloves, eye protection, and a protective garment,
such as a lab coat or gown.