Chapter 3 Safety - OSHA, Hazards, and Hazard Communication (Vocabulary Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering OSHA standards, hazard types, labeling systems (GHS, DOT, NFPA), chemical hygiene, PPE, and safety procedures from Page 1 notes.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

Regulates workplace safety; issues standards to protect workers; requires documentation of OSHA compliance; regulations are revised as needed.

Hazards

Potential sources of harm in the workplace; examples include physical hazards like wet floors or improper lifting and cluttered work areas.

Sharps

Sharp medical instruments (e.g., needles); use safety features and dispose of them in puncture‑resistant containers.

Needle Stick Safety and Prevention Act (2001)

Law requiring safer needle devices and practices to prevent needlestick injuries; employers must switch to safety devices.

Sharps container

Puncture‑resistant container for disposing of used sharps; sharps should never be picked up by hand.

Safety device

Devices that reduce injuries from sharps, such as shielded or self‑blunting needles.

GHS (Globally Harmonized System)

System for classifying and labeling chemicals; includes chemical identity, manufacturer, pictograms, hazard statements, and safety data sheets.

Pictograms

Graphic symbols on chemical labels that convey hazard information at a glance.

SDS / MSDS (Safety Data Sheet / Material Safety Data Sheet)

Documents with hazard information, handling, and cleanup procedures for chemicals; typically organized into sections.

16 sections of an SDS

Standard structure of an SDS, detailing hazard identification, first aid, handling, storage, disposal, and more.

Secondary labels

Additional labels applied to containers to convey hazard information beyond the primary label.

DOT label

Department of Transportation label; shows hazard type, UN four‑digit ID, and hazard class.

UN four‑digit ID

The unique four‑digit United Nations number identifying a specific hazardous substance.

NFPA label

National Fire Protection Association label; blue (health), red (flammability), yellow (reactivity), white (special); numbers 0–4 indicate hazard severity.

Hazard Communication Standard (HazCom)

OSHA standard (Right to Know) to control exposure to dangerous chemicals; requires labeling, training, and a chemical hygiene plan.

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

Document describing safety procedures, precautions, and emergency procedures; employers must train employees on plan details.

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

Equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats used to protect against hazards.

Acid-to-water rule

When mixing acids, add acid to water, not water to acid, to minimize exothermic reaction heat.

Safety shower and eyewash station

Facility for decontamination; areas must be flushed for at least 15 minutes and regularly tested/maintained.

Spill/accident response protocol

In a chemical spill or exposure, use safety shower/eyewash if needed, flush area, report to supervisor, and seek medical attention at the emergency department.

Radioactive hazards

Hazards from exposure to radiation; minimize exposure by reducing dose, time, and increasing distance; follow institution procedures and shielding guidelines.

Radiation symbol

Hazard symbol indicating radioactive materials; used to warn and inform personnel.