Environmental Health & Safety
Chemical Safety
Chemical Safety
Cabrillo Community College District is committed to supporting a safer and healthier learning and working environment through effective chemical safety practices. Employees and students who work with or around hazardous chemicals should understand the hazards associated with those materials and follow applicable labeling, Safety Data Sheet (SDS), training, storage, handling, engineering control, and personal protective equipment requirements. PPE and other protective measures must be selected based on the hazards of the specific chemical and task.
The District maintains both a Hazard Communication (HazCom) Program and a Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP). The Hazard Communication Program addresses chemical hazard communication requirements across District operations, including labeling, Safety Data Sheets, and employee information and training. The Chemical Hygiene Plan provides additional requirements for employees working with hazardous chemicals in covered laboratory settings. The two programs work together to support chemical safety and regulatory compliance.
In laboratory settings, the CHP applies to employees who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, including faculty, laboratory coordinators, technicians, staff, and student assistants. Students are also required to follow applicable laboratory safety rules and procedures.
In the event of a chemical spill, exposure, fire, or other emergency, follow the applicable District emergency procedures and laboratory or departmental response procedures. Alert others when necessary, leave the area if conditions are unsafe, and contact the appropriate emergency or campus resources.