Chemical Specific Guidance

Hazardous chemicals used across the Columbia University research community may pose a wide range of health hazards. Excess exposure may result in health hazards ranging from minor irritation to carcinogenicity and fertility damage. Physical hazards, such as flammability and reactivity, can also have serious consequences. Additionally, various regulatory agencies have developed regulations on safe use and practices which must be implemented. The following information outlines best practices for the use and storage of specific chemicals for laboratories as well as instructions on how to remain in compliance with regulatory requirements.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for assuring a safe and healthy working environment for all employees. One of the ways OSHA accomplishes this is through the establishment of exposure limits for chemicals that are known to be hazardous, such as carcinogens, toxic metals, reproductive hazards, and other hazardous chemicals. These chemicals are listed on the OSHA Z table where permissible exposure limits (PELs) are assigned to set the maximum allowable concentration of the substance that an employee can be exposed to during an eight-hour workday.  

For guidance on chemicals regulated by OSHA commonly used at Columbia University, review the guidance on OSHA Regulated Chemicals.   

Environmental Protection Administration  

Under the Toxic Substance Control Act of 1976, the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) has the authority to restrict, require testing, reporting, and record-keeping related to chemical substances and/or mixtures. The EPA determines restrictions that will be placed on chemicals based on a finding of unreasonable risk of injury to potential exposed persons. Chemical substance regulations under TSCA are often more restrictive than OSHA requirements.  

For more information about chemicals used at Columbia University that are regulated by the EPA like methylene chloride, perchloroethylene, and trichloroethylene, review the EH&S webpage on TSCA Regulated Chemicals.