05/12/2008

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Photocopy Room Hazardous Substances

Issue	Hazard	Solution	Check it
Handling	Manufacturers instructions unknown or not followed.	Employees should obtain and read instructions for use, and know safe handling precautions to take before working with a hazardous substance. Employees should wear industrial gauntlet-length rubber gloves when handling hazardous substances, whether or not these are known.
Storage	Chemicals stored above head height may spill on employee lifting them down. Hazardous substances stored in close proximity to non-hazardous substances. Hazardous chemicals not securely contained.	Do not store hazardous substances on a shelf above head height. Maintain clear separation of storage of hazardous substances from non-hazardous substances. Ensure that all hazardous substances are kept in undamaged containers with secure caps or lids.
Labelling and identification	Hazardous substance used for wrong purpose.	Record details of all hazardous substances kept. Maintain file of Material Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous substances used / stored by the organisation. Ensure that all hazardous substances are clearly marked as such.
Spillages	Unsafe clean-up.	Provide employees with instruction in dealing with spillages of hazardous substances, including the name of contacts to arrange clean up. Avoid skin contact with substance and don?t inhale any fumes. Warn others to stay clear of spillage site.
First aid treatment	Contact with an unknown substance.	Ensure first aid officers have information about treatment for skin or eye contact with, inhaling or accidentally swallowing hazardous substances used by the organisation.

Further Information

Regulations
Occupational Health and Safety (Safety Standards) Regulations 1994 Part 6: Hazardous Substances

Comcare Guidance Material
OHS Book 1 - Officewise

Other Guidance Material 
ASCC Index of National Standards, Codes of Practice and related Guidance Notes

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Page last updated:July 11, 2008