Chemical Hygiene Plan

Written Chemical Hygiene Plans are mandatory in California schools, and must include procedures for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals. The CHP applies to every school that engages in laboratory use of hazardous chemicals. Title 8, Section 5191 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) describes that the CHP shall include the following:

• Standard operating procedures relevant to safety and health considerations to be followed when laboratory work involves the use of hazardous chemicals
  
  
• Criteria that the local educational agency will use to determine and implement control measures to reduce employee exposure to hazardous chemicals including engineering controls, the use of personal protective equipment and hygiene practices; particular attention shall be given to the selection of control measures for chemicals that are known to be extremely hazardous
  
  
• A requirement that fume hoods comply with Section 5154.1 of Title 8 of the CCR, that all protective equipment shall function properly and that specific measures shall be taken to ensure proper and adequate performance of such equipment
  
  
• Provisions for employee information and training as prescribed in subsection 5191(f) of Title 8 of the CCR
  
  
• The circumstances under which a particular laboratory operation, procedure, or activity shall require prior approval from the employer or the employer's designee before implementation
  
  
• Provisions for medical consultation and medical examinations in accordance with subsection 5191(g) of Title 8 of the CCR
  
  
• Designation of personnel responsible for implementation of the CHP including the assignment of a Chemical Hygiene Officer and, if appropriate, establishment of a Chemical Hygiene Committee
  
  
• Training of all employees in applicable CHP details, with annual review and updates as necessary

Please note: This list is not an exhaustive summary of the requirements, and all applicable state and local requirements should be reviewed.