MN Right to Know North Memorial Human Resources
Minnesota Employee Right to Know Act Minnesota Right to know act: Combination of State and Federal Laws That ensure employees are informed about the dangers of working with hazardous substances
Hazardous Substances Chemicals that can potentially harm or injure you are classified as hazardous substances (chemicals, including pharmaceuticals) When used correctly, they are safe When used incorrectly, they can harm you and the environment
Hazardous Substances A hazardous substance can be a: Physical Hazard which can create a dangerous situation when in contact with other chemicals or when certain environmental conditions exist. - Combustible liquids - Compressed gases - Flammables Health Hazard which can be caused by chemicals, making you ill, causing vomiting, cancer, irritation or severe burns to organs, and cause death. Acute Health Effect may occur within 24 hours Chronic Health Effect may occur at a later point in time
Hazardous Substances Chemicals can enter your body through: Contact: splashing on your skin or in your eyes Inhalation: breathing in fumes, vapors, dust particles or mists Ingestion: swallowing chemicals or eating contaminated food/drinks Protect yourself! Know how to safely handle, use, store, and dispose of chemicals you use. Signs of overexposure includes, but are not limited to: nausea, headache, burns, irritation, vomiting blurred vision If you think that you have had an overexposure, tell your manager/supervisor and get immediate assistance
Chemical Information Sources: Labels Labels Provides information about ingredients, health hazards, safe handling, storage and disposal: read all labels carefully. If a container does not have a label, do not use it. Tell your manager so that it can be labeled.
Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS) A MSDS gives you: Ingredients in products you might use on the job. What protective equipment to use when handling a product. How a substance can enter your body and signs of over exposure.
Emergency Eye Wash Stations Find out if there are emergency eyewash stations located near your work area Know how to use it BEFORE you need it!
North Memorial is regulated by Hennepin County and the Minnesota PCA as a hazardous waste generator All hazardous waste generators must meet requirements which provide for the safe handling and proper disposal of all hazardous waste
Hazardous Waste Identification/Disposal Know what waste is generated in your area and how to dispose of it properly Aerosol Cans (e.g. Quik-Care containers): Empty (less than 3% remaining), place in regular waste/trash Not empty, call Environmental Services for pick up Batteries: Place in used battery containers in your area If a container is full call Environmental Services for pick up Ignitable Liquids and Gels: Any liquid containing greater than 24% alcohol is hazardous per ignitability, including hand cleaners Empty (less than 3% remaining), place in regular waste/trash Not empty, call Environmental Services for pick up
Handling of Hazardous Waste Containers All hazardous waste containers must be kept closed at all times, except when materials are being put into the container. After a material has been added, the container s cover/lid should be closed immediately. If a container s lid has a locking feature, do not lock the container. Once locked, the container cannot be reopened and used. The waste removal company will lock the container when removing it from your location.
Pharmaceutical Waste Put non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste in the WHITE container in your area Hazardous pharmaceutical waste designated by a special handling required label should be put in a BLACK container
Identified/Unidentified Leak or Spill Identified -When appropriate, use the provided spill clean-up kits/equipment -Know nearest eye wash station and safety shower locations -Complete an Safety First report -Obtain a copy of the chemical SDS Unidentified -Secure the area to prevent persons from coming in contact with the spill -Remove people to a safe area as needed (e.g. away from overpowering fumes) -Dial *99, 9-911, 911, or Dispatch (indicate the location of spill/leak) -DO NOT move/remove anything without the permission of Safety and Security or public safety agency
Summary Everyone is accountable for safety. ALWAYS practice good safety techniques We're all in this together!