SOP - Sensitizers

This standard operating procedure outlines the handling and use of sensitizers. Review this document and supply the information required in order to make it specific to your laboratory. In accordance with this document, laboratories should use appropriate controls, personal protective equipment, and disposal techniques when handling sensitizers.

A sensitizer (allergen) is a substance that causes exposed people to develop an allergic reaction in normal tissue after repeated contact with the substance. The reaction might be as mild as a rash (contact dermatitis) or as serious as anaphylactic shock. Sensitizers may also be corrosive or carcinogenic.

Examples of compounds that may cause sensitization in some individuals are diazomethane, various isocyanates, formaldehyde, latex, and benzylic and allylic halides.

Use a properly functioning lab fume hood when handling sensitizers that can be inhaled (via mist/fume/gas/vapor). If the process does not permit the handing of such materials in a fume hood, contact OSEH at (734) 647-1143 for review of the adequacy of ventilation measures.

For sensitizers that are also considered a particularly hazardous substances, a designated area shall be established per the other applicable SOP.

• The use of latex gloves may sensitize you to latex. If you feel that you develop a reaction to latex, please inform the PI and nitrile gloves will be provided for you.
• The use of masks while in the animal rooms may help prevent sensitizing to animal dander. These are provided in each animal room and are highly recommended for use each time interacting with the animals.

At minimum, safety glasses, lab coat, long pants, and closed toed shoes are to be worn when entering laboratories having hazardous chemicals.

Additionally, when handling hazardous chemicals or contacting potentially contaminated surfaces, protective gloves are to be worn. For proper selection of glove material, review the SDS or refer to the glove compatibility charts available through the OSEH website.

For hazardous chemicals that are toxic via skin contact/ absorption, additional protective clothing (i.e., face shield, apron, oversleeves) is appropriate where chemical contact with body/skin is foreseeable.

Goggles (not safety glasses) are appropriate for processes where splash or spray is foreseeable.

Follow any substance-specific storage guidance provided in the SDS documentation. �

Many sensitizers intended for disposal may likely be considered hazardous wastes. For general guidance regarding waste disposal, refer to the OSEH Hazardous Materials Management (HMM) chemical waste information available online. For specific guidance, contact OSEH-HMM at (734) 763-4568.

If the employee is in need of emergency medical attention, call 911 immediately.

Contact Occupational Health Services (734) 764-8021 or the UMHS Emergency Room (734) 936-6666 for advice. Be prepared to provide them with a copy of the SDS so that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.

Contact OSEH for advice on symptoms of chemical exposure, or assistance in performing an exposure assessment.

Report all work related accidents, injuries, illnesses or exposures to WorkConnections within 24 hours by completing and submitting the Illness and Injury Report Form. Follow the directions on the WorkConnections website Forms Instructions to obtain proper medical treatment and follow-up.

Complete the OSEH Laboratory Incident and Near-Miss Report form.

• U-M Occupational Health Services -- Campus Employees

Mon-Fri 7:30 am - 4:30 pm After hours - go to UM Hospital Emergency Dept. – Urgent Care Clinic C380 Med Inn building 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor (734) 764-8021

• University Health Services -- University students (non-life threatening conditions)

Mon-Fri 8 am – 4:30 pm, Sat 9 am – 12 pm Contact for current hours as they may vary 207 Fletcher Street, Ann Arbor (734) 764-8320

• UMHS Emergency Department -- after clinic hours or on weekends

1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, (734) 936-6666 Click here for additional accident and injury reporting information.

• When a spill occurs, personal safety should always come first.
• Alert and clear everyone in the immediate area where the spill occurred.

For a small spill, inside the fume hood, use proper personal protective equipment as indicated above. Absorb the material with an absorbent, non-combustible material such as sorbent pads, sand or vermiculite. Collect residue, place in container and contact OSEH-HMM (734) 763-4568 for proper disposal.

• Attend to injured or contaminated persons and remove them from exposure.
• Alert people in the laboratory to evacuate.
• If spilled material is flammable, turn off ignition and heat sources. Don’t light Bunsen burners or turn on other switches.
• Call University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) at 911 immediately for assistance.
• Close doors to affected area.
• Post warnings to keep people from entering the area.
• Have person available that has knowledge of incident and laboratory to assist emergency personnel.

• www.oseh.umich.edu/pdf/chemspil.pdf
• http://www.oseh.umich.edu/emer-chemical.shtml.

Report all emergencies, suspicious activity, injuries, spills, and fires to the University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) by calling 911 or texting 377911. Register with the University of Michigan Emergency Alert System via Wolverine Access.

All personnel are required to complete the General Laboratory Safety Training session (BLS025w or equivalent) via OSEH’s My LINC website. Furthermore, all personnel shall read and fully adhere to this SOP when handling sensitizers.

I have read and understand the above SOP. I agree to contact my Supervisor or Lab manager if I plan to modify this procedure. Sign by logging in and typing * ~~~~ in the list below:

• Mollyec (talk) 16:13, 19 October 2016 (UTC)
• Reddj (talk) 16:55, 7 November 2016 (UTC)
• Iharvey (talk) 21:27, 10 November 2016 (UTC)
• Snyderds (talk) 19:53, 7 June 2017 (UTC)

Prior Approval required – Is this procedure hazardous enough to warrant prior approval from the Laboratory Director? ☐ YES X NO Laboratory Director - Dave Bridges Revision Date - 2016-10-19