Chemical Labeling, Segregation and Storage

Use Full Chemical Name

Write out the full name as stated on the "stock" container when transferring to "working" reagent containers. (i.e. Use Ethanol or Ethyl Alcohol and not EtOH; Hydrochloric Acid and not HCl.)

Non-Hazardous Buffers

Statement on labeling shelves and containers filled with non-hazardous buffers. (It is not necessary to spell out all ingredients on buffer labels. Use the word "BUFFER" if the pH is between 2.50 and 11.50 and contain no hazardous components.) e.g. Transfer buffer contains methanol so it is NOT considered a non-hazardous buffer and should not be stored on a shelf designated for non-hazardous buffers. This also holds for “working” containers of 100% ethanol, ethidium bromide solutions, or other reagents that are stored together at a research work station or individual lab bench.

Stanford Compatible Storage Group Classification System was developed for laboratory scale storage applications and should not be routinely applied to non-laboratory storage situations.

Stanford Chemical Storage Group information is posted in the Life Safety Box outside each lab or is available online in the Chemical Safety Database.

Storage Group Stickers and Stanford Chemical Storage Group Guide are available from the SCA team member for your building.

• Use secondary containment to prevent spills and separate incompatible material.
• Single Container - Secondary containment for a single container must be sized to contain 110% of its capacity.
• Multiple Containers - When multiple containers are stored in the same secondary container, it must be able to contain 150% of the largest container or 10% of the aggregate quantity stored, whichever is greater.

Check ALL chemical storage locations including flammable liquid storage cabinets, fumehoods, cold rooms, equipment rooms, film processor rooms and lab benches.

• Chemical Storage Room that are not routinely occupied will require completing a monthly inspection using the Hazardous Materials Storage Area: Monthly Inspection form.
• Corridors and Stairwells are not acceptable storage locations! Remove items stored in this location!

Quarterly Self-Inspection Records - Chemical labeling, segregation and storage are included on the Laboratory Self-Inspection forms. Have all items been corrected and corrections noted on forms?

Are lab personnel appropriately trained to perform research functions including experimental processes and operate and maintain equipment used in their research?