AS 2243.2:2021 pdf free download – Safety in laboratories Part 2: Chemical aspects and storage.
This document sets out requirements and recommended procedures for sale work with chemicals in the laboratory.
This document applies to —
(a) substances, mixtures or materials defined as hazardous chemicals, dangerous goods or hazardous substances, except for those that are explosive. infectious and radioactive;
(b) combustible liquids;
(c) goods too dangerous to be transported; and
(d) nanomaterials.
NOTE Reler to Nat ion,il. state and territory legislation fur transport of dangerous goods requirements.
This document also applies to chemicals not classed as hazardous or dangerous if compatibility problems could arise during storage.
This document also sets out the requirements for the safe keeping and storage olchemicals and gases —
(I) inside a laboratory; and
(II) in associated storeroorns or spaces which are support areas to the laboratory.
The requirements of this document apply only to the keeping, in use or storage, of chemicals in packages
and apparatus.
1.2 Application
This Standard is intended to be used in conjunction with AS 2243.1, which provides requirements and recommendations on matters common to all types of laboratory work.
Where the size of packages of chemicals or the aggregate quantities to be stored exceed the limitations of this document, reference should be made to —
(a) AS 1940, for storage of flammable and combustible liquids;
(b) AS/NZS 1596. for UP Gas;
(c AS 3780, for storage and handling olcorrosive substances; or
(d) other appropriate Australian, Australian/New Zealand or New Zealand Standards.
NOTE Refer to national. state and terntory regubtions for specific Information.
For fluorine, information on the hazards involved in the handling of fluorine shall be obtained from the
supplier and any requirements or recommendations it contains should be observed.
For ammonia, handling instructions shall be in accordance with AS/NZS 2022.
For chlorine, AS/NZS 2927 shall be consulted [or handling instructions.
The concentrations of toxic or flammable gas in the atmosphere of the area of use shall be monitored based on a risk assessment. A manual system (gas detection tubes with hand.pump) may be used; however, the use of an automatic alarm system with remote sensors is preferred. Hydrocarbon gas detection should be provided in all areas where light hydrocarbon gases and liquids are stored. Ceiling detectors should be calibrated for light volatile hydrocarbons (methane and ethanc), while at floor level the detectors should be calibrated for heavier hydrocarbons. e.g. propane, butane.
4.3.3 Handling of cryogenic fluids
Information on the hazards of cryogenic fluids, and olemergency procedures to be followed when using them, can be found in AS 1894, which deals with the safe handling of these materials.
For Laboratory situations, the precautions, safe practices and emergency measures shall conform to Appendix C.
4.4 Flammable chemicals
4.4.1 General
Flammable chemicals are assigned to the following dangerous goods classes:
(a) class 2.1— Flammable gases.
(b) class 3 — Flammable liquids, which are further divided into Packing Group I. II or Ill depending on tlashpoint.
(c Class 4.1 — Flammable solids.
(d) Class 4.2 — Spontaneously combustible substances or pyrophoric compounds.
(e) Class 4.3 — Substances that emit flammable gases when in contact with water. NOTE I InAustralia,refertoAS 1940.
NOTE 2 In New Zealand. consult the hazardous substances regulations.
The following requirements and recommendations apply to the use and storage of flammable chemicals:
(I) Flammable chemicals shall be stored in a well-ventilated, cool area. They shall not be used in proximity to sources of Ignition such as flames, hot surfaces, sparks from electrical switches, or static electricity.
(Ii) Flammable gases and the vapour from other flammable chemicals, combustible dusts. mists, fumes and fibres, even at ambient temperature, can be carried by draught through a laboratory area to a source of ignition. These materials can then ignite and burn back, setting lire to surroundings or the parent chemical. Flammable and combustible chemicals therefore shall only be used in sufficiently ventilated areas or in a fume cupboard to prevent ignition.
(Ill) containers of flammable chemicals shall not be left open in the laboratory or storage area. Container lids should he replaced immediately.
