WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW AND WHAT YOU SHOULD DO ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND USE OF CHEMICALS AND CHEMICAL PRODUCTS

What is a Chemical Product?

Chemical products include inks, toners, and dyes; paints and thinners; adhesives and lubricants; disinfectants and cleaners; fertilizers and pesticides ... virtually any product that results in the exposure of the user to a potential hazard through contact, ingestion, or inhalation.

Does The Purchase of Chemicals or Chemical Products Require Special Procedures?

The purchase of chemicals or chemical products should go through the LCSB warehouse where they have been approved by Maintenance. All chemicals or chemical products should have a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The intent of this requirement is to prevent unacceptable health risks from entering the school buildings.

Does This Mean That The Use of Certain Products in LCS Is Prohibited?

Yes it does. Products that contain cancer causing ingredients, are potentially explosive, or severely toxic are prohibited.

Where Can I Find Health And Safety Information About The Chemical Products I Handle?

The manufacturer is required to provide health and safety information on the label. You should read the label carefully and follow directions exactly. Very often the manufacturer will describe safety precautions and recommend personal protective equipment such as gloves or goggles. More detail is available on the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) prepared by the manufacturer. MSDS can be obtained by contacting the manufacturer. NO LCSB EMPLOYEE MAY USE A CHEMICAL PRODUCT WITHOUT FIRST READING THE LABEL AND REVIEWING THE MSDS.

What About Accepting Donations of Paints, Printing Materials, Shop Supplies, Etc.?

No one is permitted to accepts gifts of chemicals. The unauthorized acceptance of gifts may lead to dangerous conditions in school buildings and expensive disposal problems.