Date Issued

10-1-2017

Document Type

Policy

Purpose

Pyrophoric and water-reactive materials can ignite spontaneously on contact with air, moisture in the air, oxygen, or water and therefore atmospheric exposure must be limited appropriately for the risk posed by the material employed. These materials can be found in solid, liquid, or gas form. Table 1 lists common classes of chemicals that fall into this category. Inattention to proper handling procedures outlined by the University and laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs) can result in fire or explosion, culminating in serious personal injuries, death and/or significant damage to facilities. Any handling of a pyrophoric/water-reactive material is high risk and must be controlled with adequate engineering controls, direct supervision, and documented training.

Responsible Party

Environmental Health & Safety

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