700 - HANDLING HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

The purpose of this policy is to ensure the safe handling, storage, use, and disposal of hazardous materials in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) and any industry-specific requirements. It applies to all employees or other workers (e.g. contractors, volunteers, program participants, etc.) who may come into contact with hazardous materials while performing their job duties.

Definitions

  • Hazardous Materials: Any substance or chemical that poses a physical or health hazard, including but not limited to flammable liquids, corrosives, toxins, compressed gases, and biohazards.

  • SDS (Safety Data Sheet): Document that provides information on the properties of each hazardous chemical and instructions for safe handling, storage, and emergency measures. Company and customer SDS sheets can be found here.

  • PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards, such as gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing.

Responsibilities

  • Supervisors/Managers

    • Ensure employees receive training on hazardous materials relevant to their job.

    • Maintain accessible and up-to-date SDSs for all hazardous materials on site.

    • Enforce compliance with handling and disposal procedures.

  • Employees

    • Follow all safety procedures outlined in training and SDSs.

    • Use required PPE at all times.

    • Immediately report spills, exposures, or unsafe conditions.

  • Safety Manager

    • Conduct periodic audits of hazardous materials handling.

    • Maintain records of training, incidents, and corrective actions.

Procedures

Hazard Communication:

  • All containers of hazardous materials must be clearly labeled with the product name, hazard warnings, and manufacturer information.

  • SDSs must be readily accessible to all employees during work shifts.

Storage:

  • Store hazardous materials in designated, ventilated areas according to manufacturer recommendations and OSHA standards.

  • Segregate incompatible materials (e.g., acids away from bases; flammables away from oxidizers).

  • Limit access to authorized personnel only.

Handling:

  • Employees must wear appropriate PPE when handling hazardous materials.

  • Use proper tools and equipment to transfer, mix, or dispense hazardous materials.

  • Never eat, drink, or smoke in areas where hazardous materials are used or stored.

Transportation:

  • Employees should not be transporting hazardous materials, but should such a situation occur, use approved containers and follow DOT and OSHA guidelines.

  • Secure loads to prevent spills, leaks, or accidental release.

Spill and Exposure Response:

  • In the event of a spill:

    • Alert others and evacuate the area if necessary.

    • Notify a supervisor and follow site-specific emergency response plans.

    • Only trained personnel may attempt cleanup using appropriate spill kits and PPE.

  • In the event of exposure:

    • Seek immediate medical attention.

    • Report the incident to a supervisor and complete required incident reports.

Disposal:

  • Dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with federal, state, and local environmental regulations.

  • Never pour hazardous materials down drains, into regular trash, or into the environment.

  • Use designated hazardous waste containers and coordinate with approved waste disposal vendors.

Training:

  • All employees who work with or near hazardous materials will receive initial training upon hire and refresher training annually.

  • Training will cover:

    • Hazard recognition

    • Reading/understanding SDS sheets

    • Safe handling and storage procedures

    • Use of PPE

    • Emergency response and first aid

Recordkeeping:

  • The Company will maintain records of training, SDSs, waste disposal manifests, and incident reports for at least three (3) years or as required by law.

Enforcement:

Supervisors and managers will inspect work practices and environments to ensure compliance with this policy. Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

@2021 The DPI Group. Creation Date: 09/24/2025. Revision Dates: 00/00/2000 - The policies do not form a contract, express or implied, nor do they guarantee employment for any specific length of time. Employment with The DPI Group or any subsidiary is at-will. This means that either the employee or employer can terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason. No statements made by any supervisor or manager can alter this at-will relationship. The at-will relationship can only be changed through a signed written agreement that specifically sets forth the terms between the employee and the President/Chief Executive Officer of the Company.