Chemical Hygiene Officer

The responsibilities of a Chemical Hygiene Officer in school settings are generally aligned with the guidance provided in Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA's) Laboratory Standard, Appendix A , and should be defined by the employer within the district’s Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP).

1. Establishes, maintains, and revises the chemical hygiene plan (CHP)
   
   
2. Creates and revises safety rules and regulations
   
   
3. Monitors procurement, use, storage, and disposal of chemicals
   
   
4. Conducts regular inspections of the laboratories, preparations rooms, and chemical storage rooms, and submits detailed laboratory inspection reports to administration
   
   
5. Maintains inspection, personnel training, and inventory records
   
   
6. Assists laboratory supervisors in developing and maintaining adequate facilities
   
   
7. Seeks ways to improve the chemical hygiene program

The CHO supports the development, implementation, and maintenance of the CHP in collaboration with educators, site administrators, and district leadership. Copies of the plan should be available to employees, school administrators, and appropriate central-office personnel.

The CHO should support initial and periodic training related to the CHP, laboratory safety procedures, chemical hazards, emergency response, and required personal protective equipment. The CHO should also maintain or support access to required records, including training documentation, chemical inventories, Safety Data Sheets, exposure or incident reports, and other records required by local procedures or applicable regulations.

The CHO should help ensure that engineering controls, administrative procedures, standard operating procedures, and personal protective equipment are available, functioning as intended, and used consistently. The CHO may also assist with compliance inspections, annual laboratory safety reviews, and documentation needed for safety and health officials. When a chemical exposure or incident occurs, the CHO should report the incident through established administrative channels, document the circumstances, and support appropriate medical consultation, evaluation, and follow-up.

Science safety is a shared responsibility among educators, administrators, staff, and students. The CHO plays a critical role in coordinating chemical hygiene practices and supporting safeguards designed to protect both employees and students. Schools and districts should ensure that one or more qualified CHOs are designated and supported to carry out these responsibilities.

A CHO must be selected by the local educational agency that is trained and qualified to provide technical guidance in the development and implementation of the CHP.