Vacuum Systems Vacuum work can result in an implosion and the possible hazards of flying glass, splattering chemicals, and fire. All vacuum operations must be set up and operated with careful consideration of the potential risks. The following guidelines should be followed when using vacuum apparatus in the laboratory: Do not water, solvents, or corrosive gases to be drawn into vacuum systems. Protect pumps with cold traps and vent their exhaust into an exhaust hood. Assemble vacuum apparatus in a manner that avoids strain, particularly to the neck of the Avoid putting pressure on a vacuum line to prevent stopcocks from popping out or glass apparatus from exploding. vacuum apparatus in such a way that the possibility of being accidentally hit is minimized. If necessary, place transparent plastic around it to prevent injury from flying glass in case of an explosion. When using a rotary evaporator, the glass components of the rotary evaporator should be made of Pyrex or similar glass. Glass vessels should be completely enclosed in a shield to guard against flying glass should the components implode. Increase in rotation speed and application of vacuum to the flask whose solvent is to be evaporated should be gradual. When a vacuum source, it is important to place a trap between the experimental apparatus and the vacuum source. The vacuum trap protects the pump and the piping from the potentially damaging effects of the material, protects people who must work on the vacuum lines or system, and prevents vapors and related odors from being emitted back into the laboratory or system exhaust. The following vacuum trapping guidelines should be followed: Make sure the flask is properly clamped and secured. Make sure the vacuum hose is connected to the vacuum line, not the gas line. To prevent contamination, all lines leading from experimental apparatus to the vacuum source should be equipped with filtration or other trapping device as appropriate. For particulates, use filtration capable of efficiently trapping the particles in the size being generated. For most aqueous or non-volatile liquids, a filter flask at room temperature is adequate to prevent liquids from getting to the vacuum source.
personnel, contact REM at 49-40121 during normal business hours (7 AM – 4 PM) for spill cleanup assistance (dial 911 if spill occurs after hours and assistance is needed). Chemical Spill on Body or Clothes: Remove clothing and begin first aid procedures (Section 7) immediately. Seek medical attention; dial 911. Chemical Splash into Eyes: Immediately rinse eyes and begin first aid procedures (Section 7) immediately. Seek medical attention; dial 911. Section 10 – Medical Emergency Life Threatening Emergency, After Hours, Weekends And Holidays: Dial 911. Non-Life Threatening Emergency: Immediately report injury to supervisor and complete the First Report of Injury. () Section 11 – Waste Disposal Procedures Label Waste: Make sure the waste container(s) is properly labeled; label should indicate all of the contents of the container. REM provides hazardous waste labels free of charge, call 49-40121 to obtain labels. Waste: hazardous waste in closed containers, and in a designated area. Hydrogen peroxide waste should be segregated from all incompatible chemicals such as organic compounds. Dispose of Waste: Complete a Chemical Pickup Request Form to arrange for disposal by REM. Call REM at 49-40121 or visit the REM webpage for questions. () Section 12 – Safety Data Sheet (SDS)