Hazard Communication

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mike Maloney on June 14, 2010 at 4:35pm

It's always hard to get people to pay attention to those. They seem to think that they know all about the chemicals they use, especially since we keep striving for safer and safer products. I usually begin with common Baking Soda (Arm & Hammer). Everyone knows that you can brush your teeth with it and use it to settle an acid stomach. During the review, I read the part about systemic alkalosis. That usually gets their attention. It points out to them that even everyday products that are considered safe can cause problems if mishandled.

Permalink Reply by Kevin Gilbert on June 14, 2010 at 10:11pm

I try to start with household chemicals. Everyone knows if you mix Bleach and Amonia it creates a poisonous gas that will put you in the hospital. Also, anti-freeze and pets don't mix! It has a sweet smell but if your pets laps it up it will kill them.

This is a good start and then i address chemicals used as part of worker's duties. Most people really don't understand why the MSDS is there and need to be educated on that and their "Michigan Right To know" here in our State of Michigan.

Permalink Reply by Christie Mendola on June 16, 2010 at 8:50am

I agree that people tend to ignore MSDS sheets and assume that they know how to properly work with certain chemicals. These are both good, and similar, tactics. Thanks for sharing.

Permalink Reply by David Sharrow on June 17, 2010 at 7:27pm

In addition to the good suggestions above, I usually can find someone who has an unlabeled bottle of water. I will raise it up and ask if anyone wants to try and guess whether it holds water, vodka or gin :) I then, after the laughter dies down, pass around clear drinking bottle containing bleach and ask if anyone would like to try to explain to the parent of a student how their child drank bleach :(
This usually provides adequate reinforcement for complying with labeling requirements and reinforces the need for labeling even on 'temporary use' containers.

Permalink Reply by Christie Mendola on June 18, 2010 at 8:59am

Another good idea. Thanks for sharing everyone!