Support Page Content
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
This page outlines the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics and applies to all research and instructional lab spaces.
Reproductive Toxins
There is a broad spectrum of chemicals that pose the potential to be Reproductive Toxins (e.g., mutagenicity, teratogenicity, etc.). Recognition of the hazards associated with the transportation, handling, storage, and disposal of these materials is essential.
Globally Harmonized System Hazard Codes
- H340
- H341
- H360
- H361
- H362
Acutely Toxic Liquids and Solids
There is a broad spectrum of Acutely Toxic solid and liquid materials. For these materials, a single short-term exposure at low concentrations can cause serious illness or death. Recognition of the hazards associated with the transportation, operation, storage, and disposal of these materials is essential.
Globally Harmonized System Hazard Codes
- H300
- H310
- H330
Carcinogens
Carcinogens are chemicals that are known to cause cancer in humans and/or animals, or are suspected of causing cancer. Some of the chemicals used in academic laboratory research, industrial processes, and daily activities are carcinogenic. Recognition of the hazards associated with the transportation, use, storage, and disposal of these materials is essential. Precautions must be taken to minimize any potential chemical exposure to Carcinogens.
Globally Harmonized System Hazard Codes
- H350
- H351
Corrosives
Corrosive substances cause immediate destruction of living tissue and other materials (e.g., metals) by chemical action at the site of contact and can be solids, liquids, or gases. Corrosives are most hazardous to the eyes, as direct exposure may cause blindness in a matter of seconds. Corrosive gases, dust from solids, or aerosolized/evaporated liquids can be inhaled and cause serious damage to mucous membranes and the airways.
Globally Harmonized System Hazard Codes
- H290
- H314
- H318
Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Flammable or combustible liquids are those which can ignite when exposed to an ignition source at or above the flash point of the liquid. For a fire to occur three elements are required: fuel, ignition source, and oxygen. Flammable and combustible liquids serve as fuel for a fire.
Globally Harmonized System Hazard Codes
- H224
- H225
- H226
- H227
Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Many commonly used chemicals can undergo auto-oxidation to form unstable and dangerous peroxide products. Under normal storage conditions, this reaction can be initiated by light, heat, introduction of a contaminant, oxygen, loss of an inhibitor, or concentration. Exposing these organic peroxides to heat, light, friction, or mechanical shock can result in violent explosions that may result in serious injury or death. For this reason, it is important to identify and control chemicals that form potentially explosive peroxides. Peroxide-forming chemicals may also have other hazardous properties, including toxicity. Refer to the SDS for the specific chemical to determine specific toxicity and other hazards.
Mercury Spill Control
Mercury is a silvery metallic liquid that vaporizes at temperatures as low as 10oF. Mercury vapor is colorless and odorless and may cause toxic effects when inhaled. Mercury vapor poisoning can be acute or chronic. Most health effects result from chronic exposure. Symptoms of chronic overexposure are inflammation of the gums and mouth, excessive salivation or metallic taste, and tremors, particularly of the hands. The symptoms of acute exposure are bronchitis, cough, chest pain, and irritability. Short-term exposures to low-level mercury vapors present little hazard, and respirators are usually not required.
Pyrophoric Materials
Pyrophoric materials are substances that can ignite spontaneously upon exposure to air or oxygen. They can also be water-reactive, where heat and a flammable gas are produced. For Pyrophoric materials, oxidation of the compound by oxygen or moisture in air proceeds so rapidly that ignition occurs.
Water Reactive Materials
Water-reactive materials can react violently with water or atmospheric moisture to produce gas and heat. The risks associated with a specific chemical depend on its reactivity and the nature of the gaseous product (flammable, toxic, etc.). Typical gases produced include the following: H2, HF, HCl, HBr, HI, CH4, CO, HCN,SOP – Water Reactive Materials v1.0 California State University, Sacramento Page 2 of 10 NH3, NOx, PH3, SiH4, H2S, and SOx. Prior to working with any water reactive chemicals, you must identify which gas may be formed in case of exposure to water and learn the risks associated with this gas (including their respective GHS Hazard Codes). For instance, the mutual production of gas and heat can lead to spontaneous ignition or over pressurization. Examples of water reactive materials include the following:
- Zinc metal dust (particle size ≤ 44 microns (μm)), produces H2 when exposed to water. It is also a flammable solid;
- Metal carbonyls are flammable when exposed to air (e.g.: Fe(CO)5);
- Mg2Si produces SiH4 when exposed to water, the hazards of which are described in the Pyrophoric Materials SOP; and
- Chlorosilanes produce HCl when exposed to water.
Water-sensitive materials react with water with some release of energy, but not violently and are not covered under this SOP.