Hazardous Substances

Objects

Hazards

Possible Controls

Storage

• Hazardous Substances are stored in photocopy area
  
• Chemicals / toners stored above head height that may spill on worker lifting them down
  
• Hazardous substances stored with non-hazardous substances and are hard to distinguish
• Hazardous chemicals not securely contained potentially producing odours / fumes

• Where possible do not store chemicals in photocopy area
  
• Ensure all hazardous substances are stored in a secure location
  
• Where possible avoid storing hazardous substances on a shelf above head height to reduce chance of falling onto head
  
• 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 and that they are labelled correctly

Handling

• Manufacturers instructions unknown or not followed
  
• Exposure to toner during replacement of toner/clearing paper jams

• Workers should obtain and read instructions for use, consult the Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and know safe handling precautions to take before working with a hazardous substance
  
• Where possible workers should call for technical staff to replace cartridges / toner
  
• Arrange contract for periodic cleaning and service in accordance with manufacturers instructions

Labelling and identification

• Substances kept in containers without proper labels

• Record details of all hazardous substances kept
  
• Maintain file of SDS for all hazardous substances used / stored by the workplace
  
• Ensure that all hazardous substances are clearly marked
  
• Dispose of all unidentified substances appropriately

Spillages

• Unsafe clean-up

• Provide workers with instruction in dealing with spillages of hazardous substances, including the name of contacts to arrange clean up
  
• Warn others to stay clear of spillage site
  
• Workers should obtain and read instructions for use, consult the MSDS, and know safe handling precautions to take before cleaning up a hazardous substance spillage

First aid treatment

• Contact with an unknown substance

• Treat contact with unknown substances with caution until substance is identified
  
• Ensure first aid officers have information about treatment for skin or eye contact with, and for inhaling or accidentally swallowing, hazardous substances used at the workplace