Chemicals
167 results
Ethanol: Versatile, Common and Potentially Dangerous
We have all heard of ethanol, somehow, somewhere. But what is it, exactly? How is it used? And most importantly – how can ethanol be dangerous in the workplace and beyond? (Photo: Corn and Cornier by Seth Anderson) In this information post from the experts at VelocityEHS, we’ll take a look at what ethanol is, […]
Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite) Safety Tips: Bleach Safety Instruction
Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach) Safety Information It whitens your whites, cleans your floors and acts as a great sanitizer. But bleach, (also known as its chemical name, sodium hypochlorite) can be quite hazardous when not handled properly. What Is Bleach AKA Sodium Hypochlorite? Sodium hypochlorite is a green/yellow liquid that smells like chlorine. It is a […]
Acetone: The Hidden Hazard
What Is Acetone? Acetone, also known as propanone, is a clear, colorless liquid that is highly flammable. It is not necessarily a household word, but this will ring a bell: nail polish remover. Acetone is also used as a degreaser, for thinning fiber glass resin, and helps remove adhesives and vinyl resins. While it is […]
NFPA, HMIS and OSHA’s GHS Aligned Hazard Communication Standard
Now that OSHA has revised its Hazard Communication Standard to align with GHS, the big question many employers, chemical manufacturers and distributors have is, “Can I continue to use NFPA and HMIS systems and labels?” The short answer is yes. However, whether or not they should (or will even want to over the long run) […]
12 of the Most Hazardous Chemicals You’ll Find at a Nail Salon
Why Chemical Safety Matters in Nail Salons When we think about dangerous workplaces, nail salons and beauty shops don’t immediately come to mind; however, maybe they should. Many products used in the giving of manicures and pedicures often contain chemicals with well-known health effects. Nail salon employees are especially at risk given their long-term exposure […]
Does OSHA Really Require Employers to Keep SDSs and MSDSs for 30 Years?
Note: This blog was updated on September 20, 2024 to provide additional clarification. The short answer is: “No, not quite.” What Does OSHA’s 30-Year Requirement Actually Cover? Many EHS professionals don’t realize that the “30-year” requirement is not actually in the HazCom standard. It’s found in a different standard, 1910.1020 on “Access to Employee Exposure […]
Are MSDSs Required for Consumer Chemical Products?
Just back from the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) show in San Antonio. Great show and thanks to all that stopped by our booth. A number of people at the show asked me if material safety data sheets (MSDSs) are required for consumer products like Windex or Lysol? This is a common question we […]