Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for the safe and effective response to chemical spills in order to protect the health and safety of the University community and ensure proper handling of hazardous materials. This policy emphasizes immediate reporting, evacuation, and appropriate first aid measures while preventing untrained individuals from attempting cleanup.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the Hofstra University community, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, across all campus locations, including classrooms and laboratories. It governs response actions to chemical spills, including notification of Public Safety, evacuation procedures, personal decontamination steps, and adherence to additional safety protocols in specialized environments such as laboratories.

Policy

Chemical Spill

If you discover a chemical spill:

• Call the Department of Public Safety at x36789.

• Inform them of the type and amount of spill (if known).

• Immediately inform everyone in the area to leave the area.

• Do not clean up any chemical spill on your own.

If the chemical comes in contact with any person:

• Remove all contaminated clothing but do not discard them.

If contact is made with eyes:

• Begin rinsing the eyes and continue to rinse for at least 15 minutes.

If contact is made with skin:

• Thoroughly rinse the affected area and then wash with soap and water.

If you discover a chemical spill within a classroom/laboratory setting:

• Follow the procedures outlined above as well as those posted inside the laboratory.

Related Policies and References

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