Employees shall follow VA criteria which have been published on the proper use and disposal of syringes and needles. The program should be reviewed and certified annually as being adequate by the facility Director's representative. All applicable Federal, VA, EPA, State and local requirements must be followed. Disposal of any hazardous materials shall be concurred with by the facflity's Safety and Fire Protection Officer. Specific attention should be given to the use of respirators and adequate ventilation.
Flammable liquids are the main hazard most commonly found in the laboratory.
The requirements of the National Fire Protection Association Standard No. 30 shall be followed with regard to the amount of liquid allowed, proper storage of containers, the use of flammable liquid storage cabinets, etc. Only the minimum amount necessary shall be used in the laboratory. In the event of a fire, employees are responsible for sounding the building fire alarm system, alerting and rescuing other employees, closing the doors to the space and promptly evacuating the building. Firefighting should be left to the professionals. However, employees should be trained in the use of portable fire extinguishers and know where they are located.