Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

Longwood University strives to protect all members of the university community from the health and environmental hazards presented by hazardous chemicals.  It requires that the procedures, safety equipment specifications, and work practices covered in the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) be properly enforced, implemented, and observed.  The Chemical Hygiene Officer is responsible for implementing the provisions of the CHP.  College employees are responsible for observing the provisions of the CHP and for reporting unsafe conditions to their immediate supervisors. 

 Appendices

How to properly use a chemical hood (aka 'hood')

  • Before use check to see if the hood is pulling air properly
  • Place chemical containers at least a foot inside the hood
  • Use as few containers and pieces of equipment as possible
  • In situations where the floor of the hood will be more than 50% covered, work with EH&S to elevate the working surface. This will improve the capture of fugitive vapors and dust.
  • Do not use the hood as a long-term storage location
  • Keep the hood sash (the sliding glass window) as low as feasible while working, and close it entirely when not in use.

How to properly use a biological safety cabinet (BSC)

  • Before use check the gauge for adequate suction pressure
  • Never use flammable liquids or gases unless using as fuel for the flame sterilizer
  • Work at least a foot inside of the BSC opening
  • For BSCs with moving sashes, lower the sash as low as feasible
  • Decontaminate the BSC working surface when done working