Inventory logs are used (biological and chemical)

Corrective actions:

Labs must maintain an up-to-date list of each purchased chemical by using paper log, an excel file, or a chemical tracking software. Update the chemical inventory upon purchase of chemicals and when they are used up or discarded as waste. Be sure to include chemical name and location within the lab.

  • EHS recommends the use of ChemInventory, a site for tracking your chemicals. It can be accessed at: ChemInventory
    • Eventually, the use of ChemInventory will be a requirement
    • Some features you may enjoy with ChemInventory are:
      • SDS’s can be uploaded and saved with the chemical
      • Labels with hazard information can be made for secondary containers
      • Groups can share inventories to see if someone has something they could borrow

Similarly, labs must keep an inventory containing information on storage, use, transfer and destruction of biological materials. Appendix H of the MSU Biosafety Manual has an example of a log file outlining information regarding organism’s name, characteristics, and source. MSU Biosafety Manual (PDF)  Requirements are more stringent for labs that have USDA/APHIS and/or CDC permits.

Additional information:

An up-to-date, accurate inventory listing all chemicals stored in the lab must be available. Chemical inventories are necessary to ensure employees are aware of the hazards present in their work area, encourage management of purchased reagents and materials and provide helpful information to Emergency Responders during emergencies.

In addition, current inventories may be requested by regulatory agencies.

Material accountability procedures should be established to track the inventory, storage, use, transfer and destruction of dangerous biological materials and assets when no longer needed. The objective is to know what agents exist at a facility, where they are located, and who is responsible for them.

References:

  • BMBL 6th ed. HHS Publication No. (CDC) 300859
  • MSU Biosafety and Security Manual
  • OSHA Standard 1910.1450 App A.
  • OSHA Standard 1910.1200(a).(2); 1910.1200(e).(1).(i)
  • MIOSHA R 325.70101- R 325.70114, Appendix A: E.3.

 

Lab Safety Inspections