Because chemical engineers will be working with so many different chemicals and materials, safety is especially important. Of course, workplace safety is important in all branches of engineering and the risk involved in any sub-field depends upon the specifics of the job. But, as the name suggests, chemical engineers will be working with more substances than most, and many of these can be quite dangerous if not properly handled. When it comes to chemicals, safety is not just an important part of how chemicals are used, but also how they are stored, transported, packaged, etc. Fortunately, chemical engineers have spent a lot of time working on this problem, so there is a lot of information available to those entering the field.
One of the most valuable tools is a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), which is a document that comes with instructions for use and storage of a chemical. Any workplace that houses potentially dangerous materials must have the MSDS on site and available at all times. This greatly reduces the amount that engineers need to know since the essential information is on hand. Of course, chemical engineers will want to know everything possible about the chemicals that they are working with, but what if they knock something over in the storeroom? These kinds of accidents are why having all chemicals properly labeled and stored with the MSDS nearby is especially important.
Knowing what the chemicals are and how to handle them is not enough. Every workplace should have a plan for an accident with dangerous chemicals. If you have ever participated in a fire drill, then you have seen a safety plan in action. Preparing for regional emergencies, like earthquakes or tornadoes, is part of workplace safety, but so is knowing how to handle a chemical spill or an explosion. Part of this comes from knowing what you are dealing with, and the second part is knowing how to react and get emergency help. When it comes to hazardous materials, having an emergency plan is key.
Wearing the right protective gear is also essential. Legally, companies are obligated to have the required protective gear available and instruct employees on its proper use. You might have seen on television or in movies the protective "hazmat" (as in hazardous materials) suits that are generally bright yellow or orange and cover the whole body. These are the most thorough type of protection since they eliminate the possibility of coming into contact with potentially dangerous elements. They often also have air filters or a breathing apparatus so that there is no chance of inhaling a dangerous element. Some chemical engineers will get good at working in these suits. Others will find that safety goggles and gloves, which are standard in most labs, are all they need.
For this activity, you will need to look up how to handle a hazardous material or chemical. Do online research, and make sure that you are on a legitimate website such as those maintained by universities or government agencies. Hazardous materials come in many forms, so you can choose a barrel of sulfuric acid, explosives, used needles, or any other subject that presents a serious risk to heath if proper precautions are not taken.
Imagine that you have been tasked with preparing a workplace safety lesson on the hazardous material you have chosen. Your presentation should cover the following:
Define the hazardous material and the form of it you are exploring (liquid, gas, etc.)
Indicate how a chemical engineer might use it
Explain the physical harm that the material can cause
Explain how the hazardous material should be handled
Explain how the hazardous material should be stored
Demonstrate the safety procedures and/or equipment to minimize the risk
Provide guidelines for how to respond in the event that an accident involving this substance occurs
Any other information required for employees to safely use this hazardous material in the workplace
You can either make a video or use presentation software such as PowerPoint, Prezi, or another of your choosing. If you make a video, be sure that the visual and audio elements are clear. If you choose a presentation, make sure that all information is easy to read, free of mechanical errors, and that you have appropriate images.
1 answer
Workplace Safety Lesson on Hazardous Material: Sulfuric Acid
Presentation Format: PowerPoint
Slide 1: Title Slide
Title: Workplace Safety: Handling Sulfuric Acid
Subtitle: A Guide for Chemical Engineers
Your Name
Date
Slide 2: Definition of Sulfuric Acid
Definition: Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is a colorless, odorless, and highly corrosive strong mineral acid.
Form: Liquid (commercially available in concentrated and dilute forms).
Common Name: Battery acid, oil of vitriol.
Slide 3: Applications in Chemical Engineering
Usage in Industries:
Production of fertilizers.
Manufacturing of chemicals (e.g., hydrochloric acid, nitrogen oxides).
Petroleum refining.
Wastewater processing.
Role of Chemical Engineers:
Design processes that utilize sulfuric acid.
Ensure safe handling and storage in plant operations.
Slide 4: Physical Harm Caused by Sulfuric Acid
Contact Hazards:
Skin contact: Causes severe burns and tissue damage.
Eye contact: Can lead to permanent eye damage, including blindness.
Inhalation: Causes respiratory tract irritation, lung damage, or pulmonary edema.
Reactivity Hazards:
Reacts violently with water, releasing heat and causing splattering.
Slide 5: Proper Handling Procedures
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., rubber or neoprene).
Use safety goggles or face shields to protect eyes.
Don chemical-resistant aprons and shoes.
Use NIOSH-approved respirators when necessary.
Handling Techniques:
Always add acid to water (never water to acid) to prevent exothermic reactions.
Use fume hoods when working with concentrated sulfuric acid.
Ensure that tools and equipment used are made from materials resistant to corrosion.
Slide 6: Safe Storage Procedures
Storage Requirements:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Use acid-compatible containers (glass, polyethylene).
Keep away from incompatible materials (metal oxides, organic materials).
Labeling:
Ensure all containers are clearly labeled with the name of the chemical and hazard warnings.
Slide 7: Safety Procedures and Equipment
Safety Equipment:
Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be readily available.
Proper spill containment kits should be accessible.
Regular Training:
Conduct regular training sessions and drills on handling spills or accidents.
Keep all MSDS documents visible at work stations.
Slide 8: Emergency Response Guidelines
In Case of Spills:
Evacuate the area and alert emergency personnel.
Use absorbent materials or neutralizing agents (sodium bicarbonate) to contain small spills.
Do not attempt to clean up large spills without proper training and equipment.
In Case of Exposure:
For skin contact, flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.
For eye contact, immediately rinse with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
For inhalation, move the victim to fresh air and seek medical assistance.
Slide 9: Additional Safety Considerations
Regularly check MSDS for updates on safety information.
Practice good laboratory housekeeping: Keep work areas clean and free of clutter.
Maintain open communication with colleagues about safety concerns.
Slide 10: Conclusion
Summary: Proper handling, storage, and emergency preparedness can minimize risks associated with sulfuric acid.
Reminder: Always prioritize safety in the workplace when dealing with hazardous materials.
Slide 11: Questions and Discussion
Open the floor for questions.
Encourage discussion on personal experiences with hazardous materials and safety practices.
Visual Elements
Include relevant images or icons for PPE, storage methods, and emergency procedures throughout the presentation.
Use bullet points for clarity and avoid excessive text on slides.
Ensure that all visuals are clear and support the learning objectives of the presentation.
This outline will help you create a comprehensive and informative presentation regarding the safe handling of sulfuric acid in the workplace, tailored for chemical engineers and their respective roles.
