I look forward, with great enthusiasm, to reporting on the progress of the CIMS initiative. When CIMS is completely implemented, NOAA will have a state of the art, web based, chemical information management tool which will be a benefit to all. I have heard these questions several times, and from several sources, so I thought it might be helpful to provide everyone a rough line diagram. Hopefully, next time you are at a meeting and someone mentions a particular person, when discussing environmental and safety issues within the DOC, you will be able to mentally place them within the organization and understand their role and responsibility. A reaction could cause a container to be damaged, a hazardous spill, a toxic gas, a fire, or an explosion.
Most organic liquids are flammable or combustible.
Most oxidizing inorganic acids are corrosive and highly reactive. Safety cabinets are necessary for storing flammables, corrosives, oxidizers and toxics. Shelves are adequate for general dry chemicals. Above the bench is appropriate for reagents and frequent-use chemicals. A lip on the edge of shelves is advisable.