“Tips for chemical safety in the workplace” are crucial when dealing with hazardous chemicals, and you must practise chemical safety to do it well. Originally published on https://garmentprinting.com.au/blog/chemical-safety-in-the-workplace/

1. 1300 986 000 sales@garmentprinting.com.au
Chemical Safety 101: Tips for
Every Workplace
www.garmentprinting.com.au

2. “Tips for chemical safety in the workplace” are crucial when dealing with hazardous chemicals, and you
must practise chemical safety to do it well.
When chemicals are not handled properly, they can cause injury, mortality, and extensive environmental
damage. It is essential to use safety data sheets (SDS) and other measures to ensure everyone’s
protection.
Continue reading to learn the safety precautions when working with chemicals.

3. Chemical Dangers
Chemicals are present in nearly every industry and play a vital role in manufacturing. However, improper
chemical management can result in severe injuries, illnesses, and even death. Employers must implement
adequate safety measures to safeguard employees from chemical hazards in the workplace.
There are four categories of chemical hazards:
● Physical
● Chemical
● Natural
● Ergonomic

4. Tips for Chemical Safety in the Workplace
Employee Chemical Safety Training
Before beginning work, all employees must receive workplace chemical safety training to maintain workplace
safety. You must also ensure that everyone is trained whenever a new chemical is introduced to your workplace.
Protective Gear
Before approaching dangerous chemicals, you must ensure you don the appropriate personal protective
equipment. This equipment will safeguard your health and provide protection.
If you have previously worked with a particular chemical, you should know the necessary protective apparatus
for handling it.

5. Everyone Adheres to Procedures
It is typical for employees to be unenthusiastic about adhering to stringent rules and regulations and complicated
regulations. It is crucial for their safety that they recognise these protocols as part of their job duties.
Maintain Cleanliness and Order
Another essential chemical safety recommendation is maintaining a clean and organised workplace. This
reduces the likelihood of hazardous chemical spillage and accidents.
Using Chemical Safety Data Sheets(SDS)
Utilising safety data sheets is another excellent method to practise chemical safety at work.

6. Classify/label Chemicals
Delays in labelling chemicals and their containers are a standard error in workplaces that deal with chemicals.
This is a straightforward issue to resolve.
Final Takeaway
In your workplace, all chemicals pose risks, even with safety measures. If there’s a spill, use your chemical
safety training:
● Alert colleagues to head to safety showers.
● Use emergency spill kits to contain the spill, then clean up any residue.
● Quick action is vital to ensuring everyone’s safety.

7. Below are essential takeaways on chemical safety, PPE usage, and overall worker protection.
Standard SOP: While companies may vary in their specific practices and chemicals, the standard operating
procedure for PPE use and handling should remain consistent.
PPE Fit Matters: Protective gear must fit correctly to be effective. Ill-fitting PPE can be even more hazardous.
Know Your PPE: Understand the purpose of each PPE item. For instance, while leather gloves guard against
cuts, they aren’t suitable for chemical exposure.

8. Maintain PPE Properly: Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain your protective gear. Damaged or poorly
kept equipment, like dirty glasses or gloves with holes, can be dangerous. Ensure every worker knows the care
and inspection routine for their assigned PPE.
Continuous Training: Chemical safety training shouldn’t be a one-time event. With evolving practices and
technologies, training should be regular and comprehensive to keep workers updated.

9. 1300 986 000 sales@garmentprinting.com.au
Remember, consistent adherence to these
points can ensure a safer workplace
environment.