otherwise become self-reactive and undergo violent chemical changes.
Specific Hazard - this term relates to a special hazard concerning the particular product or chemical, which was not covered by other labeled hazard items.
The degree of hazard is expressed by a numerical code:
4 = extremely dangerous material
3 = dangerous hazard
2 = moderate hazard
1 = slight hazard
0 = no hazard
The example, shown in figure 7-4, describes the hazards of methyl ethyl ketone. Methyl ethyl ketone is usually found mixed with paints, oils, and greases from solvent cleaning, paint removers, adhesives, and cleaning fluid residues. The numbers on the label identify this chemical compound as follows:
Health Hazard 2, "Hazardous"
Fire Hazard 4, "Flash point below 73°F, extremely dangerous material"
Reactivity 3, "Shock or heat may detonate, dangerous material"
Specific Hazard, "None"
Other specific labeling requirements are provided in the NAVSUPINST 5100.27 series. All supervisors should carefully review the contents of this instruction.
A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), OSHA Form 174, or an equivalent form containing the identical data elements, must be used by manufacturers of chemical products. This form communicates to users the chemical, physical, and hazardous properties of the
Figure 7-4. - Hazard warning label for menthyl ethyl ketone.
product. Manufacturers must use MSDS forms to comply with the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200. The completed form identifies key information on the product: name, address, and emergency contact of the manufacturer. The form also contains the identity of hazardous ingredients, physical/chemical characteristics, fire and explosion hazard data, reactivity data, and health hazard data. The form also lists the precautions for safe handling and use, and control measures. Notice that OSHA Form 20 or DD-1813 forms are considered obsolete and should not be used for supplying MSDS information. All data submitted must comply with the provisions of FED-STD 313C.
Upon drawing any hazardous material, MLO provides the crew leader with an MSDS. The MSDS identifies any hazards associated with exposure to that specific material. It also will identify any personnel protective equipment or other safety precautions required as well as first aid or medical treatment required for exposure. The crew leader is required by federal law to inform crew members of the risks and all safety precautions associated with any hazardous material present in the shops or on the jobsite. This should be done during each daily safety lecture. Additionally, the MSDS must be posted conspicuously at the jobsite, shop spaces, and any other approved hazmat storage area.
The safest practice concerning hazardous material is to draw only the amount of material than can be used that day. Storing hazardous materials on the jobsite requires the use of approved storage containers. These containers must be placed a minimum of 50 feet away from any ignition device or source. Plan for the delivery of proper storage equipment before having hazardous materials delivered to the jobsite. Since many hazardous materials require separate storage containers (for example, corrosives and flammable cannot be stored together), consult with the battalion safety office.
Any excess material must be disposed of through an authorized hazardous material disposal facility. Proper labeling of hazardous materials is critical. Properly labeled, waste can be disposed of for a relatively low price. Unidentified, it must first be analyzed, which is extremely expensive.
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