SAFETY Manual Complete

Los Angeles Police Department
Scientific Investigation Division
Safety Manual
Reviewed By: __________________________________

Safety Officer
_______________
Date
__________________________________
_______________
Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manager
Date
__________________________________
_______________
Chief Forensic Chemist I, Forensic Analysis
Date
__________________________________
_______________
Chief Forensic Chemist II, Laboratory Director
Date
LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY GENERAL SAFETY

1.1
Safety Program Organization and Responsibilities
1.2
Routes of Hazardous Materials Exposure and Protective Measures
1.3
Protective Measures
1.4
Evidence Handling Procedures
1.5
Hazardous Waste
1.6
Chemical Hazards and Storage Precautions
1.7
Labeling of Chemicals
1.8
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
1.9
Incompatible Chemicals
1.10
Spill Control
1.11
Instrumentation , Equipment and Firearms Hazards
1.12
Firearms
1.13
Vehicles
1.14
Miscellaneous Equipment
1.15
Laboratory Experiment Safety
1.16
Safety Training
1.17
Title 8 Training Requirements
1.18
Crime Scene and Field Call Safety
1.19
Clandestine Laboratories
1.20
Narcotics Destruction
1.21
Firearms Destruction
1.22
Emergency Procedures
1.23
First Aid Recommendations
1.24
Safety Inspections
1.25
Records and Recordkeeping
REVISION DATE 10/20/03
1.26
2.0
3.0
4.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Power Failure
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN

2.1
Responsibility for the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan
2.2
Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan
HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM

3.1
Criminalistics Laboratory Written Hazard Communication Plan
3.2
Criminalistics Laboratory Compliance Program
3.3
Criminalistics Laboratory Inventory Control Program
3.4
Labeling System
3.5
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
3.6
Employee Information and Training
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TO HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS IN

LABORATORIES (CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN)
4.1
History of the OSHA Laboratory Standard
4.2
Summary of OSHAs Health and Safety Standards; Occupational Exposure to

Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories
4.3
Role of the Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.4
Chemical Hygiene Plan Coverage
4.5
Description of Criminalistics Laboratory
4.6
4.5.1
Description of Criminalistics Laboratory Activities
4.5.2
Map
Responsibilities for the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

4.6.1
Personnel Responsible for Implementing the Chemical Hygiene Plan
4.6.2
Responsibilities of Each Employee
4.7
4.8
4.9
5.0
6.0
7.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chemical Hygiene and Safety Plan

4.7.1
General Standard Operating Procedures
4.7.2
Procedure-Specific Safety Procedures
4.7.3
Control Measures and Equipment
4.7.4
Special Procedures for Carcinogens
Criteria for Control Measures

4.8.1
Exposure Guidelines
4.8.2
Fire Guidelines
4.8.3
Reactivity Guidelines
4.8.4
Corrosivity and Contact Hazards
Exposure Evaluations and Medical Consultations

4.9.1
Suspected Exposures to Toxic Substances
4.9.2
Exposure Evaluations
4.9.3
Medical Consultation
4.10
Documentation
4.11
Notification
EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING

5.1
Information Requirements
5.2
Training Under 29 CFR 1910.1450
5.3
Evaluate the Training Programs Effectiveness
RECORD KEEPING
6.1
Records
6.2
Record Keeping
LIST AND LOCATIONS OF AVAILABLE SAFETY REFERENCES AND

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS
8.0
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LAPD INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A Unit Forms and Records
APPENDIX B Safety Inspection Checklist
APPENDIX C Safety Inspection Training Guide
APPENDIX D Lab Organizational Chart
APPENDIX E Map of Criminalistics Laboratory
1.0
GENERAL SAFETY
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY GENERAL SAFETY

The Criminalistics Laboratory Safety Manual provides general information and
guidelines regarding laboratory safety practices. This Safety Manual is designed to
comply with the recommended guidelines of the American Society of Crime Laboratory
Directors (ASCLD), Title 8 of The California Code of Regulations, Federal and State
legislation related to Bloodborne/Airborne Pathogens, Hazards Communication and
Laboratory Chemical Hygiene. This Manual is also in compliance with the Los Angeles
Police Department (LAPD) Manual, City rules, mandates and guidelines where
applicable.
These safety guidelines shall be adhered to within the laboratory and while in the field
during crime scene investigations. Each laboratory employee is expected to be aware of
the necessity for following safety procedures in all phases of work and to utilize good
judgement along with common sense.
The goal of this endeavor is the implementation of and compliance with safety measures
that ultimately ensure the highest level of efficiency and professionalism within the
Criminalistics Laboratory, as well as reduction of the accident/injury rate.
1.1
SAFETY PROGRAM ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.1.1
The Laboratory Director is ultimately responsible for the overall

laboratory safety program. The Laboratory Director may delegate this
oversight to a safety officer.
1.1.1.1
The Laboratory Director has designated the Quality Assurance

Manager to be the Safety Officer. Working under the
GENERAL SAFETY
Laboratory Director, the Safety Officer will be responsible for

managing the safety program.
1.1.2
Each Supervising Criminalist is responsible for reporting all health and

safety hazards to the Safety Officer and ensuring that all employees under
his/her supervision observe proper safety procedures.
1.1.3
Each employee is responsible for complying with the safety program,

taking all requisite safety precautions, and immediately notifying
supervisory personnel of any safety hazards and/or concerns.
Chief Forensic Chemist II

Laboratory Director
Quality Assurance Manager
Safety Officer
Safety Committee
Chief Forensic Chemist I (2)

Assistant Laboratory Directors
Unit Supervisors
Non-supervisory
Laboratory Staff
1.1.4
GENERAL SAFETY
Safety Committee
1.1.4.1
The Safety Committee has been established to promote a safe

working environment throughout all Criminalistics Laboratory
facilities. The committee will be comprised of at least one
designee from each of the following sections/units:
Scientific Analysis Section (Piper Tech)
Forensic Science Section (Piper Tech)
Firearms Analysis Unit
Valley Unit
Questioned Documents Unit
Courier Unit (only if desired or necessary)
1.1.4.1.1
The Safety Committee will be chaired by the Safety

Officer.
1.1.4.1.2
The Safety Committee Chair will present inspection

reports and discuss safety issues with Officers-InCharge (Assistant Laboratory Directors) of the
Scientific Analysis and Forensic Science sections of
the laboratory. The Safety Committee will conduct
annual inspections of facilities and examine
laboratory procedures for each laboratory unit.
Quarterly facility inspection reports will be
generated by unit supervisors and reviewed by the
Safety Officer.
1.1.4.1.3
The primary responsibilities of the Safety

8
GENERAL SAFETY
Committee are to:
Conduct a regular program of safety

inspections.
1.2
Check for compliance with safety regulations.
Develop and conduct safety education activities.
Keep abreast of current safety information.
ROUTES OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EXPOSURE AND

PROTECTIVE MEASURES
1.2.1
Routes of chemical and biological contamination

1.2.1.1
Evidence specimens, e.g. physiological fluids and chemicals,

are potential hazards and must be handled appropriately to
protect the analyst and co-workers in the immediate vicinity
from contamination. The hazards of such samples will vary
according to the susceptibility of the individual, the route by
which the contamination is transmitted (e.g. respiratory,
alimentary, or absorptive), and the nature and concentration of
the contaminant. Chemical and biological contamination
occurs through either absorption, inhalation, inoculation,
vectors, ingestion or radiation.
1.2.1.1.1
Absorption - Breaks in the naturally contiguous

skin surface, especially on the hands, are portals of
entry for infectious agents. Penetration through the
intact surface of the skin is possible by some
infectious agents and chemicals, while others may
enter through the conjunctiva of the eye or other
mucous membranes as a result of contact with
GENERAL SAFETY
contaminated hands or direct contact by the source

of contamination/hazard. Direct physical contact by
handling wet or dry samples (chemical solutions or
physiological stains), as well as inadvertent
splashing of liquids, are common means of
acquiring a contaminant.
1.2.1.1.2
Inhalation - Contaminating agents that become

airborne pose a hazard if inhaled. Infectious agents
may become airborne through accidental spills,
dropped glassware, centrifuging, vortexing,
sonication, transfer pipetting, sample
homogenizing, flaking of dried stains, removal of
Vacutainer caps, and mechanical handling of
evidence items.
1.2.1.1.3
Direct Inoculation - Broken glassware, needles,

scalpels, forceps, biological probes, knives,
syringes and staples on evidence packages are
potential sources of inoculation through which
infectious agents are introduced into the
bloodstream. Some types of evidence, e.g., bloody
knives and glass fragments, are potential sources of
biological infection if not properly handled. The
collection of blood standards from laboratory
personnel is another potential source of infection.
10
1.2.1.1.4
GENERAL SAFETY
Vectors - Ticks, fleas, body lice, and other

ectoparasites sometimes found in evidence items
are potential sources of infection.
1.2.1.1.5
Ingestion - Smoking, eating, or drinking after

handling evidence specimens may result in
ingestion of infectious agents or hazardous
chemicals. Actions such as mouth pipetting,
placing pens or pencils in one's mouth, fingernail
biting, or hand contact with mucous membranes
may also result in contamination.
1.2.1.1.6
Radiation - Energy from various instruments used

in the laboratory and in the field pose a special
danger to skin and eyes. LASERs, Alternate Light
Sources (ALS), ultra-violet (UV) lamps, etc. all
require the use of protective eyewear to guard
against radiation damage. Monitoring badges for
gamma and alpha radiation must be worn where the
possibility of exposure exists.
1.3
PROTECTIVE MEASURES
1.3.1
Protective measures against infectious agents which may be encountered

in the laboratory should primarily be directed against the main routes of
transmission and subsequently against secondary routes. These measures
must also be reinforced by general attention to laboratory cleanliness and
hygiene. Laboratory supervisors must carefully scrutinize and evaluate
the potential hazards that may exist within different laboratory procedures
11
GENERAL SAFETY
and delineate appropriate safety measures to ensure minimal exposure

events.
1.3.2
Chemical exposures related to reagent usage and evidence handling are

similar to modes of transmission for biological pathogens. Therefore,
most of the recommendations in the guidelines are applicable to both
chemical and biological risks. It may be necessary to utilize a
combination of protective measures to achieve a maximum level of
protection to minimize employee exposure.
1.3.2.1
The following recommendations are based on the premise that

avoiding contamination is directly proportional to adherence to
organization, good housekeeping, personal hygiene, utilization
of proper technique, and discipline.
1.3.2.1.1
Prudent Laboratory Operations
Laboratory coats and jumpsuits (field call

apparel) shall be removed prior to entering
conference rooms, offices, lunch rooms or any
carpeted area in order to keep these rooms free
of casework contaminants. All employees or
visitors should wear clean laboratory coats or
jumpsuits when working in the laboratory work
areas. This clothing, if not disposable, should
be laundered on site or commercially laundered.
Safety glasses, appropriate to protect against

injury, shall be worn wherever the potential for
eye injuries or the eye as a portal of entry exists.
12
GENERAL SAFETY
Eye protection against UV, IR and LASER

radiation will be worn wherever applicable.
Gloves shall be worn when handling potentially

hazardous materials. The type of glove used
must be impervious to the hazardous material
being handled; glove manufacturer
specifications should be followed. Double
glove if circumstances indicate this is essential.
Personnel with breaks in their skin surface
should cover the affected area with a waterproof
bandage prior to utilizing gloves.
Avoid touching unprotected body areas with

hands or gloves. Hands should be washed
frequently. Hands shall be washed after
exposure to contamination and prior to leaving
the analytical work area.
Implements utilized to handle evidence

specimens shall be decontaminated after each
use.
Broken and chipped glassware shall only be

disposed of in a suitable "sharps" container.
No eating, drinking or smoking is permitted in

the laboratory work areas or where the hazard of
contamination exists.
No food will be stored in the analytical areas or

in an evidence storage refrigerator/freezer.
No oral pipetting of any substance will be

permitted.
13
GENERAL SAFETY
Procedures involving hazardous substances

(including flammables) shall be performed in
hoods wherever practical. All chemical
spraying in the laboratory shall be done in a
fume hood. Disposable or Teflon coated
backdrop materials should be used in fume
hoods where chemical spraying occurs.
Radiation monitoring will be in effect at all

locations where radiological hazards exist.
Analytical, clerical, and evidence reception

areas subject to contamination must be kept
clean and shall be decontaminated regularly.
If feasible, at least one sink and work area

should be designated for biological cleanup and
shall be stocked with antibacterial soaps, bleach,
and any other appropriate decontaminating
agents.
Any physical evidence should be stored or

handled with consideration to the hazards they
represent.
All waste materials contaminated by potential

biohazards should be discarded into
BIOHAZARD WASTE receptacles. These
receptacles shall be replaced in their entirety a
minimum of every four days regardless of their
condition. Employees responsible for the
disposal of these receptacles shall wear safety
glasses, a particle filter mask, two pairs of
14
GENERAL SAFETY
gloves and a lab coat.
Spills will be immediately collected and

absorbed, then neutralized or sterilized as
applicable prior to disposal. A supervisor shall
be notified immediately of the spill and of
measures utilized to remedy the situation.
Any chemical which reacts with amino acids,

proteins, or enzymes of the human body should
be considered hazardous and shall be handled
with care, utilizing the appropriate personal
protective equipment (gloves, safety glasses,
particle filter mask, fume hoods, etc.).
Any employee who detects a possible hazard

should immediately report it to a supervisor for
appropriate action.
It is good laboratory safety practice to wipe off

residual material from the external surface of a
reagent container following its use.
1.4
EVIDENCE HANDLING PROCEDURES

1.4.1
Care should be taken during the collection, receipt and examination of

physiological specimens (liquids or stains) to prevent exposure of
proximal personnel to contamination. Therefore, potentially hazardous
samples shall be opened only in designated work areas.
1.4.2
Stained evidence specimens should be collected and submitted in

appropriate packaging and in secured containers (e.g. envelopes, paper
bags, etc.). Any damaged, leaking, or broken samples should immediately
15
GENERAL SAFETY
be turned over to the appropriate professional staff member for proper

handling. Contaminated containers should NEVER be re-used for
packaging or re-packaging evidence samples.
1.4.3
To avoid unnecessary or inappropriate handling of potentially infectious

evidence items, all courts that conduct trials utilizing this type of evidence
should be advised of all possible health hazards and be instructed in
proper handling procedures.
1.5
HAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL

1.5.1
Chemical or biological waste disposal, regulated by Federal law, is

administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in
conjunction with the Department of Water and Power (DWP) for the City
of Los Angeles. Laboratory waste materials which cannot legally be
flushed into the sewage system must be disposed of by a certified
hazardous waste hauler.
1.5.1.1
Chemical Hazardous Waste - It is the responsibility of the

Criminalistics Laboratory Hazardous Chemical Team to
coordinate the disposal of chemical hazardous waste. When a
unit within the Laboratory accumulates chemical hazardous
waste, it is the responsibility of that unit's Supervising
Criminalist to notify a member of the Hazardous Chemical
Team of the need for removal and disposal of the waste
material. The specific procedures that the Hazardous Chemical
Team follow are detailed in the Hazardous Chemical Team
Procedures Manual.
16
1.5.1.2
GENERAL SAFETY
Biohazardous Waste - The procedures to follow when handling

biohazardous waste are delineated in SID ORDER NO. 2,
which was issued by the Commanding Officer of Scientific
Investigation Division in 1990. A copy of this ORDER is in
the Appendix. In 1991 Federal bloodborne pathogens
legislation was enacted (CFR 29 1910.1030). This legislation
also deals with biohazardous waste procedures.
1.6
CHEMICAL HAZARDS AND STORAGE PRECAUTIONS

1.6.1
Chemical Precautions - The Criminalistics Laboratory uses and stores

many different chemicals, some being categorized as biohazardous,
carcinogenic, corrosive, explosive, flammable or organic. This section of
the Safety Manual addresses the specific safety concerns related to the
storage, labeling, spill control, and exposure treatment for chemicals used
throughout the Laboratory.
1.6.1.1
Biohazards - Acute or chronic health hazards other than

carcinogens. (Examples are poisons, irritants, drugs, etc.). The
quantity of these chemicals stored should always be kept to a
minimum. When inside storage of biohazard chemicals is
necessary, the area should be well ventilated to the outside and
kept cool. Chemicals which react to form toxic by-products
must not be stored in the same area.
1.6.1.2
Carcinogens - mutagenic, teratogenic agents which misdirect

cellular growth. It is sometimes necessary to store and use
known and suspected carcinogens in the laboratory. Quantities
of known carcinogens should be kept to a minimum. If
17
GENERAL SAFETY
uncertainty should arise as to the proper method of storing or

handling a carcinogen, the Safety Officer for the City of Los
Angeles should be consulted.
1.6.1.3
Corrosives - Caustic agents including acids, bases, and

oxidizing agents.
1.6.1.3.1
Mineral acids and bases should not be stored

together or in the proximity of other chemicals.
Corrosive liquids should be stored in an area which
is cool but maintained above the freezing point of
the chemical. This area should be well ventilated
and dry. Acids can react with many metals to form
hydrogen gas. Alkalis may react with aluminum on
contact to form hydrogen gas also. Since hydrogen
is capable of forming an explosive mixture with air,
the accumulation of hydrogen in storage areas must
be prevented.
1.6.1.3.2
The quantity of strong oxidizing agents stored in the

laboratory should always be kept to a minimum.
The proper storage area for strong oxidizing agents
should be cool, fire-resistant, and ventilated to the
outside. Strong oxidizing agents should not be
stored in the same area with any fuel such as
flammables, organic chemicals, dehydrating agents,
18
GENERAL SAFETY
or reducing agents.
1.6.1.4
Explosives - Solids, liquids, or vapors which will violently and

rapidly release energy. The quantity of explosives stored in the
laboratory should always be kept to a minimum. The
appropriate storage facility will depend upon the particular
chemical and the quantity stored. In general, the storage of
explosive chemicals should only be done in an isolated area
which is prominently identified as containing potentially
explosive materials.
1.6.1.5
Flammables - Substances which are easily ignited or oxidized

to produce flame or fire. The quantity of flammable materials
stored in the laboratory should always be kept to a minimum.
Working quantities may be kept at an individual workstation.
Flammables shall be stored in approved flammable storage
cabinets.
1.6.1.6
Radioactive Chemicals - Substances which contain unstable

atoms and, as a result, emit dangerous radiation. The use of
radioactive chemicals is regulated by the State of California,
Department of Health Services. The Criminalistics Laboratory
is currently licensed by the State to use one radioactive
material: Iodine-125, whic is used in radioimmunoassay kits.
This is the only radioactive material currently on the premises
of the Laboratory. Any additional procurements of radioactive
19
GENERAL SAFETY
materials must first be approved by the State, with subsequent

updating of the Laboratory Radioactive Material License. The
specific State requirements regarding the handling and storage
of radioactive materials, as well as other requirements and
responsibilities, are detailed in the Laboratory Radioactive
Material License. This Radioactive Material License is in the
Appendix.
1.6.1.7
Compressed Gases - Non flammable materials which are

compressed to more than 40 pounds per square inch absolute at
70oF or more than 104 pounds per square inch absolute at
130oF. (Also, flammable materials which are compressed more
than 40 pounds per square inch at 100oF.) Compressed gases
are stored with the shipping caps on, and in an upright
condition, when not in use. The cylinders must be securely
clamped to a firm support and may only be used with a
reducing valve or preset pressure controller. Large gas
cylinders may only be transported by means of a wheeled cart
to which the cylinder is secured. The cylinders must be
marked as to their contents, and should never be heated or
stored near a heat source. Cylinder valves must not be
lubricated or modified in any way.
1.7
LABELING OF CHEMICALS
1.7.1
All chemicals within the laboratory must be clearly labeled as to the

chemical identity and bear the appropriate hazard warning. Each unit
supervisor is responsible for ensuring that his/her unit's chemical
containers are properly labeled.
20
1.8
GENERAL SAFETY
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDSs)

1.8.1
MSDSs provide technical information relating to chemical, physical, and

hazard information for hazardous materials. MSDSs must be maintained
for all hazardous chemicals in the Laboratory. The first shipment of any
new hazardous chemical to the laboratory must be accompanied by a
MSDS. Copies of these MSDSs are available to all laboratory
employees. Binders containing MSDSs are located in the Criminalistics
Laboratory's library and at the Valley, Firearms Analysis and Questioned
Documents Units facilities.
1.9
INCOMPATIBLE CHEMICALS
1.9.1
Certain combinations of chemicals can be explosive, poisonous, or

hazardous in some way. The following is a list of incompatible chemicals
that shall be stored in a manner that prevents them from coming into
contact. The list is by no means complete, but does cover the more
common incompatible chemicals.
ALKALI METALS - such as potassium, sodium and calcium: DO NOT
CONTACT WITH - water, carbon dioxide, carbon tetrachloride, and other
chlorinated hydrocarbons.
ACETIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - chromic acid, nitric acid,
hydroxyl containing compounds, ethylene glycol, perchloric acid,
peroxides and permanganates.
ACETONE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - concentrated sulfuric and
nitric acid mixtures.
21
GENERAL SAFETY
ACETYLENE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - copper tubing, fluorine,

bromine, chlorine, iodine, silver, mercury or their compounds.
AMMONIA, ANHYDROUS - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - mercury,
halogens, calcium hypochlorite or hydrogen fluoride.
AMMONIUM NITRATE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acids, metal
powders, flammable fluids, chlorates, nitrates, sulfur and finely divided
organics or other combustibles.
ANILINE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide
or other strong oxidizing agents.
BROMINE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - ammonia, acetylene,
butadiene, butane, hydrogen, sodium carbide, turpentine, or finely divided
metals.
CHLORATES - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - ammonium salts, acids,
metal powders, sulfur, carbon, finely divided organics or other
combustibles.
CHROMIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acetic acid,
naphthalene, camphor, alcohol, glycerine, turpentine and other flammable
liquids.
CHLORINE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - ammonia, acetylene,
butadiene, benzene and other petroleum fractions, hydrogen, sodium
22
GENERAL SAFETY
carbides, turpentine and finely divided powdered metals.

CYANIDES - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acids.
HYDROGEN PEROXIDE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - copper,
chromium, iron, most metals or their respective salts, flammable fluids
and other combustible materials, aniline and nitro-methane.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - nitric acid,
oxidizing gases.
HYDROCARBONS - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - fluorine, chlorine,
bromine, chromic acid or sodium peroxide.
IODINE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acetylene or ammonia.
MERCURY - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acetylene, fulminic acid,
hydrogen.
NITRIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acetic, chromic and
hydrocyanic acids, aniline, carbon, hydrogen sulfide, flammable fluids or
gases and substances which are readily nitrated.
OXYGEN - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - oils, grease, hydrogen,
flammable liquids, solids and gases.
OXALIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - silver or mercury.
23
GENERAL SAFETY
PERCHLORIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - acetic anhydride,

bismuth and its alloys, alcohol, paper, wood and other organic materials.
PHOSPHOROUS PENTOXIDE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - water.
POTASSIUM PERMANGANATE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH glycerine, ethylene glycol, benzaldehyde, sulfuric acid.
SODIUM PEROXIDE - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - any oxidizable
substances, e.g., methanol, glacial acetic acid, acetic anhydride,
benzaldehyde, carbon disulfide, glycerine, ethylene glycol, ethyl acetate,
furfural, etc.
SULFURIC ACID - DO NOT CONTACT WITH - chlorates,
perchlorates, permanganates and water.
1.10
SPILL CONTROL
1.10.1 Chemical or biohazard spills pose one of the most significant threats to the
health and safety of the laboratory staff. Extreme caution should be taken
in any related clean-up procedure. The procedures outlined below are
recommended for large spills but should be considered for the remediation
of any spill.
1.10.1.1
Rubber gloves, self contained breathing apparatuses,

respirators, Tyvek suits and shoe covers, laboratory coats, or
disposable aprons are available as needed for use in the cleanup of chemical spills.
24
1.10.1.2
GENERAL SAFETY
Highly specialized clean-up equipment is available through the

Hazardous Chemical Team and the Safety Office for the City
of Los Angeles as needed.
1.10.1.3
In the event of any large spill, chemical or biological, a

supervisor must be notified as soon as possible. General
procedures are as follows:
ACID: Cover the contaminated surface with sodium
bicarbonate or a soda ash and slaked lime mixture (50-50).
Mix and add water if necessary to form a slurry. Scoop up the
slurry and wash down the drain with excess water. Wash the
spill site with soda-ash solution.
CAUSTIC ALKALI, AMMONIA: Solids should be swept
up, diluted and neutralized with 6M HCL in a large bucket,
then washed down the drain with excess water. Solutions
should be neutralized and mopped up or, if available, a water
vacuum may be used. Discharge the residues to the sewer with
excess water.
HYDROCARBONS, ALCOHOLS, & KETONES:
Eliminate all sources of ignition and flammables.
GASES: Keep concentration of gas below its explosive
mixture range by forced ventilation. Remove the tank to an
open area and allow dissipation to the atmosphere. Hearing
protection should be considered when rapidly discharging a
25
GENERAL SAFETY
tank. Attempt to cap the valve outlet and notify the

Storekeeper of the necessity to return the
leaking/malfunctioning tank to the vendor.
LIQUIDS AND SOLIDS: If the size of the spill or the nature
of the chemical warrants concern regarding flushing into the
City sewage system, then the Hazardous Chemical Team must
be consulted for appropriate action or dispensation. In the
event that flushing is not appropriate and the spill does not
warrant intervention by the Hazardous Chemical Team then
consider this alternative: Absorb or sweep onto paper,
evaporate in the hood (if possible), then seal remaining residue
in a plastic bag or bucket and discard or release to the
Hazardous Chemical Team as appropriate.
1.10.2 Exposure Symptoms and Treatment
1.10.2.1
Individuals may react differently to chemical exposure. Acute

symptoms require emergency medical care. Chronic symptoms
may not be immediately obvious, but may linger for hours and
possibly days. Exposures to carcinogens or mutagens may not
be manifest for several years.
1.10.2.2
In the event of chemical contact, wash the area with cold water
for 10-15 minutes.
1.10.2.3
If serious exposure occurs, the subject(s) may require

immediate medical care from a physician or emergency
26
GENERAL SAFETY
medical personnel.
1.10.2.4
Chemical exposures shall be reported immediately to the

appropriate supervisory personnel. The concerned employee
shall complete an Employee's Report, Form 15.7, and submit
this form to the notified supervisor.
1.10.2.4.1 The supervisor shall complete the Employer's
Report of Occupational Injury or Illness, Form
General 166, and follow procedures as delineated in
Los Angeles Police Department Manual 3/712.10,
Exposure to Hazardous Materials.
1.10.2.4.2 If the exposure/injury is non-serious, the supervisor
shall complete Non-Emergency Medical Order
Form, General 83, in addition to the Form General
166, and instruct the employee to deliver the Form
General 83 to the designated Workers'
Compensation doctor. (See LAPD Manual
3/711.20)
1.11
INSTRUMENTATION, EQUIPMENT AND FIREARMS HAZARDS

1.11.1 Equipment utilized by Criminalistics Laboratory personnel can present
safety hazards if not handled properly. The specific safety concerns
regarding the use of any tool or analytical instrument are addressed in the
operation manuals provided by the manufacturers. For equipment located
at Piper Technical Center, copies of these manuals are available near each
instrument. Manuals for equipment located at the satellite laboratory
27
GENERAL SAFETY
facilities - Questioned Documents Unit, Firearms Unit, and Valley SID are maintained by the unit supervisors at those facilities.
1.11.2 Listed below are equipment usage guidelines that are fundamental to
maintaining a safe laboratory work environment:
Personnel will only be allowed to use equipment after it has been

determined that the employee is familiar with the equipment, its
operation, safety features and inherent hazards by a supervisor or the
laboratory safety officer.
The supervisor or a designee will provide operational and safety

lessons to employees regarding the use of laboratory equipment within
his/her unit.
No alteration of manufacturer's safety features shall be allowed

without the expressed consent of the Laboratory Director.
Periodic safety inspections of all equipment shall be performed to

identify any real or potential hazards.
Safety interlocks or emergency shutdown procedures should be

established for every instrument where the potential for shock hazard
exists. This information should be delineated in the operation and
procedure manuals of the laboratory unit utilizing the equipment.
All electrical equipment must be grounded or double insulated.
All equipment maintenance must be performed by qualified personnel.
Compressed gas cylinders must be secured by chain or heavy duty

strap. In the Criminalistics Laboratory at Piper Technical Center, most
gas cylinders are stored in the stockroom (Room #29). At Valley SID,
gas cylinders are stored in Room 217.
All pressurized gas lines shall be labeled or colored-coded. Cylinders,
28
GENERAL SAFETY
tubing, valves, and regulators shall be routinely inspected for leaks, or

other hazardous conditions.
1.11.3 Glassware Usage
Do not use broken, chipped, starred, or badly scratched glassware.
Do not pick up broken glass with bare hands. Use gloves or sweep up
with broom and dustpan.
Fine glass particles may be picked up with wet paper towels.
Discard broken glass in designated containers.
Fire polish all tubing and rods.
Protect hands with gloves, towel, or tubing holder when inserting

tubing into stoppers. Lubricate the tubing with water or glycerine.
Keep hand on tubing close to the stopper and out of line with the end
of the tube.
Remove frozen stoppers by cutting away or with the aid of a cork

borer.
Protect glass vessels with asbestos centered wire gauze when heating
them over a burner.
Handle hot beakers with tongs of the proper size and type.
Use steam, heating tape, IR lamp or heating mantle when heating a

flammable solvent.
Do not attempt to catch falling glassware.
1.11.4 Vacuum Distillation Apparatus Usage
Do not use cracked, starred, badly scratched, or creased flasks - they

implode readily.
Use only round bottom flasks. (Maximum size: 5 liters).

29
GENERAL SAFETY
Use protective shatterproof shield.
Use stirrer, boiling chips or capillary tube with inert gas flowing
through it to prevent bumping.
Use steam or heating mantles to heat flasks.
Relieve vacuum slowly, avoiding sudden pressure change which could

cause breakage or splattering of contents.
Do not relieve vacuum until flask has cooled.
1.11.5 Ambient Pressure Distillation Apparatus Usage
Secure glass joints with wire or clamps to prevent vapor leakage.
Make sure system is vented and watch for plugging in the condenser.
Use boiling chips or stirring to prevent bumping.
Use heating mantle where possible.
Avoid overheating still bottoms at end of distillation.
Do not distill ethers until peroxides have been removed.
1.11.6 Vacuum Equipment Usage
Apply vacuum only to glassware designed to handle reduced

pressures, e.g., desiccators and filter flasks.
Be sure filter crucible cannot slip through holders.
Shield dessicators that are under vacuum in metal desiccator guards.
Do not subject glassware under vacuum to mechanical shock.
Use protective shatterproof shields.
Always wrap glass Dewar flasks with tape before use.
Do not stopper glass flasks containing hot, condensable vapors.
Check condition of mechanical vacuum pumps (oil level, etc.) before

using.
30
GENERAL SAFETY
Relieve vacuum in all parts of system before opening apparatus.
1.11.7 Pressurized Equipment Usage
Except for pressure transfer from carboys or other large containers, do

not apply pressure to glassware. When transferring liquids by
pressure, use a pressure reducing regulator valve. Never use direct
line pressure. Do not use more than 4.5 psig pressure on glass
carboys.
Before attempting to use equipment designed for high pressure (parr

bombs, autoclaves, etc.) check with a supervisor for precise operating
instructions. Be sure the rupture discs or pressure relief valves are in
good condition before using.
Provide adequate shielding to protect personnel.
Set up equipment in a hood if reaction products are in any way toxic.
Vent pressure in all parts of the system before opening apparatus.
1.11.8 Electrical Equipment Usage
Do not use electrical equipment if power cords are frayed or control

switch and thermostats are not in good working order.
Keep all equipment and hands dry while handling.
Only qualified personnel should attempt to make repairs on electrical

equipment.
Use grounded outlets only.
Outputs from variable transformers (powerstat, Variac, etc.) are

usually not grounded even though the input line must be. Equipment
regulated by a variable transformer should be grounded separately.
Do not use electrical equipment such as mixers or hotplates around

31
GENERAL SAFETY
flammable solvents.
Before adjusting or servicing large electrical equipment, lock the main

power switch in the "off" position.
Special electrical equipment such as the X-ray and spectrographic

power sources and RF generators should be operated only by trained
personnel.
In case of fire on or near any electrical equipment, use only carbon

dioxide or dry powder fire extinguishers.
1.11.9 Specialized Instruments and Equipment Usage

Specialized instruments and equipment (e.g., spectrometers,
electrophoresis units, x-ray fluorescence instruments, chromatographs,
alternate light sources and lasers) must be operated within the guidelines
set forth in the manufacturer operation manuals as well as the procedure
manuals established by each laboratory unit. For a listing of the
equipment utilized by each laboratory unit, the appropriate unit manual
should be consulted.
1.12
FIREARMS
1.12.1 General Safety Procedures
All firearms handled within the laboratory or being submitted for

examination shall be given a preliminary safety inspection to insure
that the weapon is unloaded and in a safe condition.
Firearms in the laboratory shall not be in a loaded condition, except in

designated test-firing areas.
No firearm will be pointed at another person under any circumstances.
Any problems or doubts concerning the safety of a particular firearm
32
GENERAL SAFETY
should be brought to the attention of another experienced firearms

examiner and the Firearms Unit supervisor. If doubt exists as to the
safety of direct firing, a remote firing device should be employed.
All personnel who conduct test-firings should be thoroughly proficient

in the proper handling of firearms.
Any unusual occurrence must be reported immediately to the

appropriate supervising personnel.
1.12.2 Test-Firing Safety
All test-firing should be conducted in the presence of another person

acting as an observer.
All personnel in a test-firing area should wear suitable safety glasses

and hearing protection.
When test-firing is conducted indoors, there should be appropriate

warning signs posted to notify others that test-firing is in progress.
Verbally announce the commencement of firing and/or clear the areas

where firing is to begin.
Check the bore of the firearm for obstruction prior to loading and testfiring.
1.13
The firearm shall only be loaded in the test-firing area.
VEHICLES
1.13.1 It is recommended that each employee check the following items before
driving any department vehicle:
Steering, gasoline, horn, windshield wipers, brakes, mirrors, lighting

(headlamps, turn indicators, hazard lights, etc), tire pressure and tread
condition, and seat belts.
33
GENERAL SAFETY
If any of these items are found to be unsuitable and/or unsafe then the
employee has the responsibility to notify a supervisor and/or Motor
Transport Division of this condition. (Note: Employees should also
inspect the vehicle for any recent body damage and report those
findings to the vehicle fleet supervisor for appropriate action.)
1.13.2 Vehicles assigned to Scientific Investigation Division shall contain:
Road flares, First Aid Kit and Personal Protective Equipment Kit.
Specialized field investigation response vehicles will have additional

safety equipment as required for their respective operation.
1.14
MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT
1.14.1 The mechanical hazards of all equipment should be considered before an
employee is allowed access and use of that equipment. Employees must
be familiar with safe operating procedures. Manufacturer operation
manuals contain the specific safety information for a particular piece of
equipment. Certain equipment items warrant the following
considerations:
Microscopes should be periodically inspected to ensure that light

levels which could be damaging to vision are not used.
Radiation from LASERs, Alternate Light Sources, UV lamps,

photofloods, etc. should never be viewed directly. Eye protection
should be worn when working with certain light wavelengths, and
caution must be exercised when viewing any object capable of
specular reflection.
Copy equipment should be used in well ventilated work areas to

34
GENERAL SAFETY
remove noxious vapors.
Thermally insulated light bulb sockets are to be used where floodlights

are employed.
1.15
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT SAFETY

1.15.1 Laboratory experiments, in particular chemical reactions and syntheses,
require special attention to safety precautions. Any experiment conducted
in the laboratory should first have a well-defined plan of action.
Following are a list of precautions that should be included in any
laboratory experiment plan:
Obtain supervisory approval prior to conducting any laboratory

experiment.
Follow recognized safety procedures concerning protective equipment,

hazardous chemicals, and lab equipment usage and operation.
Consider all possible reactants, intermediates, and products in terms of

flammability, toxicity, and reactivity hazards.
Consider all possible reactions including side reactions before

beginning any chemical synthesis.
In an unknown chemical reaction, always start with small quantities of

material and carefully observe reaction characteristics, such as
temperature, color, viscosity, and physical state.
Provide adequate cooling, ventilation, pressure relief, and gas purging.
Do not leave an are where a hazardous chemical reaction occurred

unattended.
For each chemical reactant, intermediate or product, consider the

following:
1. 1. Flash point, flammability range, auto-ignition point, vapor pressure

35
GENERAL SAFETY
and vapor density.

2. Stability - does the material decompose? If so how rapidly and to what
products? When storing the material how does heat, light, water,
metals, etc. affect it?
3. Is the material impact-sensitive?
4. Is the material toxic? If so, what type of hazard - inhalation, ingestion,
skin contact? What chemical protective measures are required?
5. What is the recommended first-aid treatment in case of an accidental
exposure?
For the reaction itself, consider:

1.
How violent will it be?
2.
What is the effect of catalysts or inhibitors?
3.
Will water or air effect the reaction?
What would happen and what should be done if:

1.
Electric power fails?
2.
Cooling system fails?
3.
Pressure gets out of hand?
4.
Water leaks into system?
5.
Air leaks into system?
6.
Reaction container falls and contents spill?
Keep in mind that certain combinations of chemicals are incompatible

and potentially extremely hazardous.
1.16
SAFETY TRAINING
1.16.1 It is inherent that work that is performed properly in the Criminalistics
Laboratory is work that is performed safely. The daily activities of
laboratory employees involves working with materials and equipment that
pose safety hazards. Each unit supervisor is responsible for assuring that
36
GENERAL SAFETY
any work conducted in his or her unit is done safely. When a laboratory
employee transfers into a new unit, the supervisor must ensure that the
employee is properly trained and understands all the safety precautions for
any given procedure. Each unit manual describes the specific procedures
that all employees must follow while working in the laboratory. When
new equipment is acquired or a new test procedure is implemented in a
laboratory unit, it is the supervisors responsibility to ensure that their
personnel who use the new equipment or perform the new procedure are
properly trained and aware of any safety hazards.
1.16.2 The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for coordinating ongoing
safety training on safety matters that are of general concern to the
Criminalistics Laboratory staff. The QA Manager is also responsible for
the orientation of new laboratory employees. A part of the new employee
orientation is training regarding the Laboratory Safety Program.
Federal OSHA training requirements regarding bloodborne pathogens,
hazards communication and laboratory chemical hygiene are presented in
2.0, 3.0 and 4.0, respectively, of this manual.
1.17
TITLE 8 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

1.17.1 Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations delineates several specific
safety training requirements that must be included the Laboratory Safety
Program. These include:
A system for ensuring that employees comply with safe and healthy
work practices. Part of the compliance with this provision will include
training and retraining programs.
A system for communicating with employees in a form readily

37
GENERAL SAFETY
understandable by all affected employees on matters relating to

occupational safety and health. Part of the compliance with this
provision will include a training program.
Training and instruction shall be provided:

1.
When the program is first established.
2.
To all new employees.
3.
To all employees given new job assignments for which training

has not previously been received.
4.
Whenever new substances, processes, procedures or equipment

are introduced to the workplace and represent a new hazard.
5.
Whenever the employer is made aware of a new or previously

unrecognized hazard.
6.
For supervisors to familiarize themselves with the safety and

health hazards to which employees under their immediate
direction and control may be exposed.
1.18
CRIME SCENE AND FIELD CALL SAFETY

1.18.1 The crime scene is a source of contamination from a variety of potentially
infectious materials, such as dead bodies, blood, and other body fluids. In
addition, the facilities for adequate clean-up, washing and
decontamination are often severely limited , and thisincreases the
likelihood of infection. It should be understood that viruses, such as
hepatitis, HIV, etc. are to be regarded as potentially infectious, regardless
of their physical state (i.e. liquid or dried). Carriers of infectious agents
appear not only in blood and semen, but also in feces and saliva.
1.18.2 The basic guidelines for crime scene processing, autopsies, and postmortem examinations are as follows:
38
GENERAL SAFETY
Gloves shall be worn when handling blood, physiologically stained

materials, and decedents.
When practicable, decontamination by wiping or washing affected

areas with virucidal agents or any appropriate disinfectant (i.e.
Viconex, ethanol, Dispatch, etc.) should be done.
Personnel at the crime scene should, when appropriate, wear suitable

protective clothing (e.g. labcoat, jumpsuit, overshoes, caps, etc.).
There shall be no eating, smoking, or drinking within the crime scene

itself.
In the event of exposure, contaminated clothing and body areas should

be cleaned with an appropriate disinfectant.
Evidence collected for transport back to the laboratory should be

packaged to maintain its integrity as well as to prevent contamination
of other items or personnel. Paper bags may not be suitable for
transporting bloody items if seepage will occur. Therefore, temporary
packaging in plastic bags may be necessary for transporting or
containing evidence until it can be properly dried and packaged for
long-term storage.
Any tools or utensils which cannot be adequately cleaned in the field

should be taken into the Criminalistics Laboratory for subsequent
cleaning and disinfection.
Upon completion of a field examination, protective clothing (if

disposable) should be placed into proper containers along with other
disposable materials (swabs, tissues, etc.) generated at the scene. The
container should be sealed for transport to the laboratory for proper
disposal. If non-disposable protective clothing is used, it should be
packaged in an appropriate container for decontamination and
39
GENERAL SAFETY
disinfection at the laboratory.
Proper safeguards must be taken whenever spraying chemicals in a

field situation. Primary consideration must be given to chemical
contamination of personnel present. Clear the crime scene of
unnecessary personnel. Restrict access to a minimum number of
people and provide those individuals with adequate protective
equipment (e.g. mask, jumpsuit, shoe covers, etc.). It is incumbent
upon the Criminalist to notify Department personnel (ie. investigating
officer) if chemical residues are left at the scene.
The crime scene must be secured and protected for the safety of the
analyst. If the analyst requires protection by sworn personnel, he or
she is at liberty to await such protection before assuming field
investigative tasks.
1.19
CLANDESTINE LABORATORIES
1.19.1 Safety concerns pertaining to clandestine laboratory investigations are
detailed in the Hazardous Chemical Team Procedures Manual.
Clandestine laboratories, certain narcotic seizures, and other non-routine
chemical hazard calls are the responsibility of the Hazardous Chemical
Team.
1.20
NARCOTICS DESTRUCTION
1.20.1 The destruction of narcotics is accomplished in accordance with LAPD
Manual Section 4/552.02 and 4/552.05. Although this function is the
responsibility of Property Division, and the Commanding Officer of the
Scientific Investigation Division is notified, the Criminalistics Laboratory,
when solicited, acts in a support capacity.
40
1.21
GENERAL SAFETY
FIREARMS DESTRUCTION
1.21.1 Firearms destruction is the responsibility of Property Division with
notification to the Commanding Officer of the Scientific Investigation
Division. See LAPD Manual 4/552.10.
1.22
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
1.22.1 Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations delineates the requirements
for employer Emergency Action and Fire Prevention Plans. A copy of the
legislative requirements can be found in the Appendix. See Title 8,
Subchapter 7, Sections 3220 and 3221. The Criminalistics Laboratory
Emergency Procedures Plan was designed to comply with the elements of
this legislation. A copy of this Emergency Procedures Plan is located in
the Appendix.
1.23
FIRST AID RECOMMENDATIONS

1.23.1 First aid should be administered by qualified personnel only.
1.23.2 The victim should be made as comfortable as possible, and notification
should be made to someone in the work area who is trained in first aid
procedures. If qualified help is unavailable or delayed, and the injury
warrants immediate medical attention, paramedics should be summoned.
1.23.3 Minor first aid treatment for small cuts, burns, eye irritation, etc. may be
self-administered or administered with the help of a co-worker. On the
following page are some First-Aid DOs and DON'Ts to follow when
administering first aid.
41
GENERAL SAFETY
Dos and Donts
PROBLEM
DO
DONT
Bleeding
Apply a tourniquet
Fractures
Apply firm pressure with a

clean cloth pad
Seek professional help
Thermal Burns
Apply cool water
Chemical Burns
Flush with ample amount of

cool water
Begin artificial respiration as
soon as possible
Cessation of breathing
Move the victim unless

absolutely necessary
Remove clothing
Rinse sparingly
DELAY! Seek professional
help immediately
1.23.4 Any emergency medical condition including unconsciousness, cardiac

dysfunction, oxygen deprivation, or other life-threatening conditions require
emergency medical professionals. Contact paramedics and pursue all means
necessary to insure their expedient arrival. Comply with instructions given by
emergency medical personnel and notify a supervisor at the earliest possible
opportunity.
1.24
SAFETY INSPECTIONS
1.24.1 The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for implementing and
maintaining the Criminalistics Laboratory's Safety Inspection Program.
The program consists of quarterly inspections of all Criminalistics Section
facilities and equipment. Quarterly inspections are conducted by unit
supervisors or their designee, and annual inspections are conducted by the
Safety Committee.
42
GENERAL SAFETY
1.24.2 The content of a safety inspection - the hazards that are checked for and
the equipment and facilities to be inspected - are detailed in the Safety
Checklist. A sample checklist is in the Appendix. These checklists are
used as a guide and are completed as the safety inspections are performed.
The completed checklists are reviewed by the Quality Assurance
Manager, who then highlights deficiencies and forwards the checklists to
the section OIC (CFC I) for review and corrective action.
1.24.3 The Laboratory Safety Inspection Program complies with the elements of
the California Code of Regulations Title 8, Subchapter 7, Section 3203,
which details the elements of employer safety inspections. A copy of this
legislation can be found in the Appendix.
1.25
RECORDS AND RECORDKEEPING

1.25.1 In compliance with Title 8 Section 3203 of the California Code of
Regulations these Safety Inspection Checklists are maintained by the
Quality Assurance Manager for three years.
1.25.2 All records of employee safety training are maintained by the Quality
Assurance Manager. As called for in Title 8 Section 3203 of the
California Code of Regulations, these training records will record the
name of each employee in attendance, type of training, training date, and
name of trainer. The records will be maintained for three years.
1.25.3 In compliance with Title 8 Section 3203 of the California Code of
Regulations, all written records generated by the Safety Committee will be
maintained for three years by the Quality Assurance Manager.
43
GENERAL SAFETY
1.25.4 Whenever an employee incurs an on-the-job injury which results in lost

work time beyond the day of injury or requires medical treatment other
than first-aid, then the employee's supervisor must file a City of Los
Angeles Form 166 - Employer's Report of Occupational Injury or Illness.
The information on Form 166 must also be logged on OSHA Form 200.
Both of these records - City of Los Angeles Form 166, and OSHA Form
200 - are maintained by Medical Liaison Section, Personnel Division, Los
Angeles Police Department.
1.25.5 Title 8 Section 3204 of the California Code of Regulations details
employee and OSHA rights of access to exposure and medical records.
These records are maintained by the City of Los Angeles Medical Liaison
Section.
1.25.6 A copy of Title 8 Section 3204 as well as the telephone number and
location of the Medical Liaison Section can be found in the Appendix.
1.25.7 The procedures covering employee injuries while on duty are described in
the Los Angeles Police Department Manual Section 3/711.20. The reports
that are generated for injuries on duty are maintained by the Office of the
Commander, Scientific Investigation Division.
1.26
POWER FAILURE
In the event of a prolonged power failure, the backup generator will provide for
emergency lighting. Follow the instructions of laboratory management, the Floor
Warden, or supervisors for a safe evacuation of the building. Refer to the
Emergency Evacuation Plan located in the Appendix.
44
LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LAB SAFETY MANUAL
2.0
B. P. EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN

One of the major goals of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is
to regulate facilities where work is carried out...to promote safe work practices in an
effort to minimize the incidence of illness and injury experienced by employees.
Relative to this goal, OSHA has enacted the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, codified as
29 CFR 1910.1030. The purpose of the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard is to "reduce
occupational exposure to Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV) and other bloodborne pathogens" that employees may encounter in their
workplace.
The Criminalistics Laboratory believes that there are a number of good laboratory
practices that should be followed when working with bloodborne pathogens. These
include that:
It is prudent to minimize all exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
Risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens should never be underestimated, therefore,

Universal Precautions shall be followed when working with body fluids.
The Criminalistics Laboratory shall institute as many work practice and engineering
controls as possible to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to bloodborne
pathogens.
This Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan has been implemented to meet the
letter and intent of the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard. The objective of this plan
is twofold:
To protect our employees from the health hazards associated with bloodborne
pathogens.
45
To provide appropriate treatment and counseling should an employee be exposed to

bloodborne pathogens.
This Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan is part of the Criminalistics

Laboratory's Safety Program. It details the Laboratory's plan to minimize or eliminate
employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens. It also delineates job classifications and
tasks within the Criminalistics Laboratory where occupational exposure may occur.
All employees will comply with the provisions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure
Control Plan. This Plan applies to all employees exposed to blood or other potentially
infectious materials.
The primary responsibilities of the Criminalistics Laboratory are the collection and
analysis of physical evidence seized as a result of law enforcement activities within the
City of Los Angeles. The Laboratory is divided into two sections which are subdivided
into 15 operational units.
Examples of routine laboratory analysis conducted include: narcotics analysis,
determination of alcohol levels in samples of blood and urine, blood typing, arson and
explosives analysis, examination of paint, glass, hair and fibers, and the screening and
confirmation of the presence of drugs and drug metabolites in blood and urine samples.
Examples of routine evidence collection include: Blood and semen stain collection
and/or collection of items containing these stains, shoe print/impression and tire track
collection, collection of firearms and ammunition, and trace evidence collection.
46
2.1
RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE

CONTROL PLAN
2.1.1
Personnel Responsible for Implementing the Bloodborne Pathogens

Exposure Control Plan
2.1.1.1
Quality Assurance Manager/Laboratory Safety Officer under

the direction of the Laboratory Director:
Develops and updates the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure

Control Plan and appropriate policies and practices.
Oversees compliance with the Bloodborne Pathogens

Exposure Control Plan.
Maintains and updates a list of job classifications that entail

occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens (exposure
determination).
Coordinates Hepatitis B vaccinations for all employees

who have occupational exposure.
Conducts the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan

training program.
Maintains training records for the Bloodborne Pathogens

Exposure Control Plan.
2.1.1.2
Unit Supervisors:
Ensure implementation of engineering and work practice

controls to minimize employee exposure within their unit.
Ensure that contaminated needles/sharps are properly

handled and disposed of, and packaged/repackaged.
47
Ensure that specimens of blood or other potentially

infectious materials are handled and contained properly.
Ensure that personal protective equipment is available to

and utilized by all employees with occupational exposure.
Ensure that proper housekeeping measures are followed.
Conduct preliminary employee exposure evaluations and

ensure "exposed" employee initiates entry into the
Occupational Exposure Procedures developed by the City
of Los Angeles Occupational Health and Safety Division.
A copy of these Procedures can be found in Appendix.
2.1.1.3
City Safety Office - Medical Liaison Section (213) 485-4087:
2.1.1.4
Maintains employee Medical and Exposure records.
City Occupational Health and Safety Division:
Oversees the Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne

Pathogens Program for the City of Los Angeles.
Determines occupational exposure risk levels for job

classifications.
2.1.1.5
Administers Hepatitis B vaccinations.
Confirms/determines employee exposure incidents.
Prescribes and administers post-exposure care.

Each employee whose duties entail occupational exposure to
bloodborne pathogens, having been trained and having access
to a copy of this document, is responsible for following the
48
proper procedures when working with materials that pose a

bloodborne pathogen hazard.
2.1.1.5.1
These procedures include:
Washing hands immediately after handling

blood or other infectious materials.
Flushing mucous membranes with water

immediately if contact with blood or other
infectious materials occurs.
Proper handling and storage of contaminated

needles and sharps, and other hazardous items.
Proper handling and storage of blood and other

contaminated evidence.
Wearing appropriate personal protective

equipment when working with blood or
Launder or dispose of personal protective

equipment when contaminated.
Follow appropriate housekeeping procedures.
Report all exposure incidents to their supervisor

immediately.
2.2

2.2.1

General standard operating procedures are safety precautions which
should be familiar to all employees whose duties have actual or potential
occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. These procedures are
49
designed to eliminate or minimize employee exposure to bloodborne

pathogens.
2.2.1.1
Criminalistics Laboratory occupations determined to involve

occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens are:
2.2.1.2
Criminalist
Laboratory Technician
Student Professional Worker
Supervising Criminalist
Chief Forensic Chemist
Evidence Courier
Architectural Drafting Technician
Composite Artist
Storekeeper
Photographer
Police Officer
Detective
Sergeant
Firearms Examiner
Police Administrator
General Rules - Universal Precautions shall be practiced to

prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious
materials. Universal Precautions entail treating all human
blood and certain human body fluids as if known to be infected
with HIV, HBV, and other bloodborne pathogens.
50
All employees having occupational exposure shall be made

aware of:
Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
Following proper personal hygiene procedures.
Proper handling and storage of contaminated materials.
Use of properly labeled containers.
Performance of procedures so as to minimize splashing,

spraying, spattering, and generation of droplets of blood or
other potentially infectious materials.
2.2.1.3
Appropriate clean-up procedures.
Engineering and work practice controls are those controls that

reduce the likelihood of exposure to blood or infectious
materials by altering the manner in which a task is performed.
These controls include:
Immediate washing of hands upon removal of gloves or

other personal protective equipment.
Immediate washing of hands and skin with soap and water

upon contact with blood or potentially infectious materials.
Immediate flushing of mucous membranes with water upon

contact with blood or potentially infectious materials.
Waste materials which may be contaminated with blood or

infectious materials shall be placed in red bags labeled for
biohazardous waste. These bags are located in designated
areas of the Criminalistics Laboratory as indicated in SID
Order No. 2 Dec, 1990 (See Appendix).
51
Material which must be placed in biohazardous waste bags

includes disposable labware, gloves, and lab bench paper.
Infectious sharps shall be placed into benchtop cardboard

containers specifically designed to hold, and labeled for
biohazard sharp object disposal. These benchtop cardboard
containers shall be sealed and disposed of on a regular
basis.
Recap needles by utilizing a mechanical device or a onehanded technique. The need to perform this operation shall
be minimal.
Biohazardous waste bags will be disposed of on a regular

basis. When ready for disposal they will be knotted and
placed into a second biohazardous waste bag, which, too,
will be knotted.
The supervisor of each laboratory unit designated to have

biohazardous waste bags and benchtop cardboard
biohazardous waste containers will ensure that these
receptacle are changed twice weekly. The storage bins for
these items are located at the Piper Technical Center
Laboratory and Valley Headquarters Building.
Eating, smoking, drinking, applying cosmetics or lip balm,

and handling contact lenses are prohibited in work areas
where exposure to blood or infectious materials occurs.
Food and/or drink shall not be kept in refrigerator, freezer,

shelves, cabinets, drawers, countertops or benchtops where
blood or other potentially infectious materials are present.
52
Laboratory procedures involving blood or infectious

materials shall be performed in a manner that will minimize
splashing, spraying, or spattering.
Mouth pipetting of any substance in the laboratory is

forbidden.
Containers of whole blood or other infectious liquids shall

be sealed to safely prevent spillage prior to placing in
biohazardous waste storage containers.
All spills of blood or potentially infectious materials shall

be decontaminated with Dispatch solution prior to cleanup. All clean-up materials will then be placed into
biohazardous waste bags.
2.2.1.4
All employees working at crime scenes and other locations

where there is possible exposure to blood or other potentially
infectious materials will follow all of the above mentioned
Engineering and Work Practice Controls. To comply with this
directive all employees who may go to crime scenes will
ensure that they are equipped with the following items before
departing to the scene:
If wash facilities are not available at the scene - Antiseptic

hand cleanser with clean paper towels. Afterward, hands
shall be washed with soap and water as soon as feasible.
Appropriate personal protective equipment.
Biohazardous waste bags and cardboard biohazard sharps

disposal containers.
Bottle of dilute bleach solution or appropriate disinfectant.

53
Upon returning from the crime scene the employee will

immediately dispose of any biohazardous waste collected at the
scene into biohazardous waste storage bins.
2.2.1.5
Personal protective equipment is provided by the

Criminalistics Laboratory to employees as necessary. Each
employee is responsible for ensuring that they are properly
protected from exposure to blood or other potentially infectious
materials. Appropriate personal protective equipment will not
permit blood or other potentially infectious materials to pass
through and contact skin, eyes, mouth, or clothing.
These items include:
Gloves - Disposable latex gloves or equivalent.
Goggles - These form a seal around the eyes.
Safety glasses - These do not form a seal around the eyes.

Goggles should be used when splashing or spattering of
blood or infectious liquids is a possibility.
Face shields - Provide mouth and nose protection against

blood or other potentially infectious liquids. They are to be
worn with safety goggles or glasses.
Dust/mist respirators - Are acceptable for protecting mouth

and nose from splashing blood or other potentially
infectious liquids, IF they do not absorb liquids. These are
to be worn in conjunction with safety goggles or glasses.
Laboratory coats/aprons - Afford protection of clothing

against splashes of blood or other potentially infectious
liquids. Laboratory coats are to be removed, disposed of
properly, and replaced upon contamination with blood or
54
other potentially infectious liquids.
Tyvek suits - Come with and without shoe covers and

hoods. These afford protection of clothing and skin against
gross contamination of blood or other potentially infectious
materials.
Tyvek shoe covers - Protect shoes against gross

contamination from blood or other potentially infectious
materials. These are to be worn at crime scenes where
floors or ground are contaminated.
All personal protective equipment is to be removed and

properly contained prior to leaving laboratories or potentially
contaminated crime scenes.
Laboratory coats and other reusable, washable personal
protective clothing shall be laundered at the Criminalistics
Laboratory as soon as feasible with soap and bleach or
appropriate disinfectant when visible contamination is present.
2.2.2
Housekeeping
2.2.2.1
Those Criminalistics Laboratory facilities where blood,

contaminated items of evidence, or other potentially infectious
materials are worked upon shall follow a regular schedule of
surface and equipment decontamination. These Criminalistics
Laboratory facilities are: Serology/DNA, Toxicology,
Firearms, Trace, Blood Alcohol and Field Unit Evidence
Processing Room. Decontamination of the affected areas is to
55
be done on a weekly basis utilizing appropriate procedures.

2.2.2.2
Other Criminalistics Laboratory Units may on an infrequent

basis have the need to examine evidence that is potentially
contaminated with blood or other infectious materials. For
those infrequent occasions, the surfaces and equipment that
come into contact with contaminated evidence shall be
decontaminated immediately or as soon as feasible after the
examination is complete. The surfaces and equipment will be
washed with dilute bleach solution or appropriate disinfectant.
2.2.2.3
Any Criminalistics Laboratory Facility surface or equipment

that becomes contaminated due to a spill or other accidental
means will be decontaminated with dilute bleach solution or
appropriate disinfectant immediately or as soon as feasible.
2.2.2.4
Whenever a protective bench covering (such as butcher paper

or plastic-backed paper) is used to separate an item of
biologically stained evidence from a workbench, the paper
shall be placed in a biohazard disposal receptacle immediately
after the examination of the evidence item has been completed.
Protective bench coverings (such as butcher paper or plasticbacked paper) simply used for a blotter shall be placed in a
biohazard disposal receptacle immediately after it has become
soiled.
2.2.2.5
All receptacles intended for reuse, e.g., biohazardous waste bag

frames and sharps disposal pouch frames shall be inspected and
56
decontaminated during the regularly scheduled laboratory

facility surface and equipment decontamination. These
receptacles shall be decontaminated immediately or as soon as
feasible if visible contamination occurs.
2.2.2.6
Broken blood vials or contaminated glassware shall not be

picked up directly with the hands. Mechanical devices, e.g.,
forceps, tongs, tweezers, or brush and dust pan shall be used.
2.2.2.7
Reusable tools that come into contact with blood or other

potentially infectious materials shall be decontaminated
immediately or as soon as feasible after use. Contaminated
tools are not to be stored in any container.
2.2.3
Waste Receptacles - Employees of the Criminalistics Laboratory may

dispose of contaminated sharps only in either of two containers:
Biohazard Sharp Objects Disposal Pouch - lined with a biohazardous

waste bag, held in a rigid frame.
Biohazardous Waste Incinerator Box - lined with a biohazardous waste

bag.
These containers are to be located as close as feasible to the immediate

work area where sharps are used. They must remain upright during use.
When ready for disposal they must be sealed prior to removal. They must
be replaced at least two times during a work week.
Other contaminated items, e.g., gloves, paper towels, bench top paper,
sealed vials, etc., may be disposed of only in either of two containers:
Biohazardous Waste Incinerator Box - lined with a biohazardous

57
waste bag.
Large Biohazardous Waste Bag - held in a rigid frame with hinged

lid.
When ready for disposal these containers must be sealed. They must be
replaced at least twice per work week. Appropriate personal protective
clothing shall be worn by Criminalistics Laboratory employees when
disposing of biohazard waste receptacles.
2.2.4
Hepatitis B Vaccinations and Post Exposure Evaluation and Follow Up.

All Criminalistics Laboratory employees whose jobs are classified by
OHSD as having occupational exposure are entitled to have hepatitis B
vaccinations provided by the City of Los Angeles. These are available to
employees at no cost, while on duty and are administered by the City of
Los Angeles Occupational Health and Safety Division.
2.2.4.1
The Criminalistics Laboratory Training Coordinator is

responsible for coordinating hepatitis B vaccinations. All
employees with occupational exposure will receive hepatitis B
training, and will have the option of being vaccinated within
ten working days of initial assignment. Employees do not have
to undergo prescreening for prior exposure to hepatitis B in
order to receive the vaccination.
If an employee initially declines the hepatitis B vaccination but
at a later time, while still covered under the standard decides to
receive the vaccination, the employee shall receive it at no
cost. An employee who declines to be vaccinated for hepatitis
58
B after receiving training will fill out a Hepatitis Vaccine

Informed Refusal form (See Appendix).
2.2.4.2
Any Criminalistics Laboratory employee who experiences an

occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious
materials will be provided prompt evaluation and treatment for
hepatitis B virus and HIV. This will include prophylactic
medication, counseling the employee on the risk and test
results related to the exposure, providing supportive counseling
to deal with the psycho-social effects of the exposure, and
adherence to laws and regulations relating to confidentiality of
medical information. Evaluation and treatment for an exposed
employee will be considered to be and handled as an InjuryOn-Duty condition.
2.2.4.3
The responsibilities and procedures to follow in case of

employee exposure are documented in the City of Los Angeles
Policies and Procedure Manual, Occupational Exposure to
Blood and Body Fluid (See appendix). They are summarized
below:
59
2.2.4.3.1
Exposed Employee Responsibility:
Immediately clean contaminated area with soap

and water.
Immediately report the exposure to the

supervisor.
2.2.4.3.2
Complete an Employee's Report, Form 15.7
Immediate Supervisor Responsibility:
Contact Workers' Compensation Division to

report the injury (not necessary if only an
exposure with no injury).
For an injury, give employee a Claim Form

WC66 (See Appendix).
Contact OHSD at (213) 485-4635 immediately

and refer employee to OHSD, or if after-hours
or weekends, refer exposed employee to 24hour medical dispensaries at Parker Center or
Van Nuys.
Obtain name, address and telephone number of

source person and call this information to
OHSD staff. Transport source person to clinic
or dispensary.
Maintain confidentiality and limit dissemination

of information to those who need to know.
Prepare documentation to describe the injury
incident without reference to HIV.
60
Instead of HIV exposure, write: "Blood

splashed on open cut".
2.2.4.3.3
Employee Route of Entry into Blood and Fluid

Exposure (BBFE) Protocol:
First treatment of the employee may occur at the

OHSD Central Clinic Body Station I, at a Jail
Dispensary or at a hospital.
OHSD - Once exposure status is determined

(Body Fluids Exposure Injury Description
Report), employee is evaluated, treated and
monitored through the BBFE Protocol Case
Management by Station I personnel. Employee
must come into OHSD Central Clinic at 6th and
Loma for completion of required documents,
informed consents, counseling and any
necessary referrals, obtain blood specimens,
arrange for Source Consent and sign a request
for Source test results.
Jail Dispensary - Once exposure is determined

(Body Fluids Exposure Injury Description
Report), employee will receive immediate
treatment, education and counseling, arrange for
Source Consent and be referred to OHSD
Central Clinic at 6th and Loma for completion
of the process of entry into the BBFE protocol.
At OHSD the BBFE protocol process will be
61
picked up and completed as in 2 above.
Hospital Emergency Room - M.D. will do

immediate treatment of any injury and may do a
body fluids exposure assessment. The
employee must then come to the OHSD Central
Clinic immediately for entry into the BBFE
protocol or, if after hours, go to a Jail
Dispensary to initiate the process of entry into
the BBFE protocol. If a blood test was done at
the hospital, employee will have to sign a
release of confidential test results to OHSD to
enter the protocol process.
2.2.5
Warning labels are used to warn employees of the possibility of exposure

to bloodborne pathogens. These labels are to be found on the following
containers and locations:
Refrigerators and freezers containing blood or other potentially

infectious materials
All biohazard waste receptacles:
Biohazard waste bags.
Biohazard sharps pouches.
Biohazard incinerator boxes.
All evidence envelopes that contain blood or other potentially

infectious evidence items.
2.2.6
Evidence Processing Room #29B at Piper Technical Center Facility.
Contaminated equipment.
All Criminalistics Laboratory employees determined to have occupational
62
exposure to bloodborne pathogens shall receive comprehensive training

about this issue and will be furnished with as much information as
possible.
2.2.6.1
The Department has developed a mandatory 4-hour POSTcertified Bloodborne/Airborne Pathogens Training Course that
is presented to all personnel. (See Appendix for Course
Outline).
2.2.6.2
Employees will also receive annual retraining to keep their

knowledge current. Additionally, all new employees, as well
as employees changing jobs or job functions, will be given any
additional training their new position requires at the time of
their new job assignment.
2.2.6.3
The topics covered in our training program include, but are not
limited to, the following:
The Bloodborne Pathogens Standard itself.
The epidemiology and symptoms of bloodborne

diseases.
The modes of transmission of bloodborne pathogens.
The Criminalistics Laboratory's Bloodborne Pathogen

Exposure Control Program - and where employees can
obtain a copy.
63
Appropriate methods for recognizing tasks and other

activities that may involve exposure to blood and other
potentially infectious materials.
A review of the use and limitations of methods that will

prevent or reduce exposure, including:
Engineering controls.
Work practice controls.
Personal protective equipment.
Selection and use of personal protective equipment

including:
Types available.
Proper use.
Location within the facility.
Removal and handling.
Decontamination and disposal.
Visual warnings of biohazards within the Criminalistics

Laboratory including labels, signs and "color-coded"
containers.
Information on the Hepatitis B Vaccine, including:
Efficacy and safety of the vaccine.
Method of administration.
Benefits of vaccination.
The City of Los Angeles' free vaccination program.
Actions to take and persons to contact in an

emergency involving blood or other potentially
64
The procedures to follow if an exposure incident

occurs, including incident reporting.
Information on the post-exposure evaluation and

follow-up, including medical consultation, that the City
of Los Angeles will provide.
2.2.7
Recordkeeping
2.2.7.1
All employee records relating to employee exposure to

bloodborne pathogens, hepatitis B vaccinations, results of
examinations and medical testing are maintained by the City of
Los Angeles Occupational Health and Safety Division,
Medical Liaison Section in compliance with 29 CFR
1910.1030 (see appendix).
2.2.7.2
To facilitate the training of our employees, as well as to

document the training process, the Quality Assurance Manager
maintains training records containing the following
information:
Dates of all training sessions.
Contents/summary of the training sessions.
Name of the instructor.
Name and serial number of employees attending the

training sessions.
These training records are available for examination and

copying to our employees and their representatives, as well as
OSHA and its representatives.
65
3.0

HISTORY OF FEDERAL HAZARD COMMUNICATION STANDARD
The purpose of the Federal Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 29, 1910.1200 (HCS) is to have employers inform their employees
about any chemical hazards in the workplace. The underlying assumption is that
informed employees will closely monitor any workplace threat to their health.
STATE PREEMPTION ISSUES
In the early to mid-1980's, many states passed their own versions of "Right-to-Know"
laws which were generally stricter than the Federal Standard. The co-regulation of
industry by both the states and the Federal Governments upset both industry (because of
the duality of the regulation) and labor unions (because the federal program is considered
less strict). Therefore, labor unions, industry and some states sued in the Federal courts
which found that the Federal Standard would preempt any state laws in states which did
not have Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved state plans
(see Table 1). Today, it seems that the courts are leaning toward allowing states to issue
regulations on "Right-to-Know" related issues, which are not addressed by the Federal
HCS, such as community rights and the regulation of non-manufacturing businesses.
66
NOTE: States in capital letters denotes states with federally approved state plans. *Indicates that
state plan covers only state and local government employees.
TABLE 1: STATE RIGHT-TO-KNOW LAWS, 1985
State
Worker
Community
Right-to-know
Right-to-know
ALABAMA
ALASKA
ARIZONA
ARKANSAS
CALIFORNIA
COLORADO
CONNECTICUT*
DELAWARE
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
IOWA
KANSAS
LOUISIANA
MAINE
HAWAII
IDAHO
ILLINOIS
INDIANA
KENTUCKY
67
State
Worker
Community
Right-to-know
Right-to-know
MARYLAND
MASSACHUSETTS
MICHIGAN
MINNESOTA
MISSISSIPPI
MISSOURI
MONTANA
X
X
NEW HAMPSHIRE
NEW JERSEY
NEBRASKA
NEVADA
NEW MEXICO
NEW YORK*
NORTH CAROLINA
NORTH DAKOTA
OREGON
PENNSYLVANIA
RHODE ISLAND
TENNESSEE
TEXAS
OHIO
OKLAHOMA
SOUTH CAROLINA
SOUTH DAKOTA
68
State
Worker
Community
Right-to-know
Right-to-know
UTAH
VERMONT
VIRGINIA
WASHINGTON
WEST VIRGINIA
WISCONSIN
WYOMING
LIABILITY ISSUE
Regardless of which set of regulations must be obeyed (OSHA or California) one of the
side-effects of the Right-to-Know issues is that an employers potential liabilities related
to worker protection now involve the anticipation of ALL possible incidents.
The liability insurance crisis of the mid-1980's is compounded by court tendencies to
inquire, in the event of any accident, whether simple regulatory compliance is sufficient
to protect one's employees and the public. Large cash awards are sometimes granted
whenever it could have been used. So in developing a HCS or Right-to-Know
Compliance Package, it helps to review the Los Angeles Police Departments (LAPD)
entire safety system to ensure that it is the best system possible, regardless of regulatory
requirements.
69
3.1
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORYS WRITTEN HAZARD

COMMUNICATION PLAN
3.1.2
Chemicals in the Workplace

The inventory of chemicals used by the Criminalistics Laboratory (CL)
indicates that some of the substances used in the workplace are hazardous.
It is imperative that proper safety measures be used in accordance with CL
policy when working with any of these chemicals.
3.1.2.1
Chemical Hazards Present in the Criminalistics Laboratory

The following substances and hazards are associated with
chemical supplies used at this facility:
flammability
corrosivity
reactivity
toxicity
radioactivity
system poison
asphyxiant
compressed gases
sensitizer
3.1.2.2
Laboratory employees will be trained to recognize these

appropriate hazard types and how to safely handle and use the
chemicals involved.
3.1.2.3
Each Supervising Criminalist will ensure that employees in

his/her unit are trained in hazardous chemical recognition and
safe handling/usage of chemicals, especially those unique to
the unit of assignment.
70
3.2
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY COMPLIANCE PROGRAM

The following briefly highlights the policies and regulatory compliance program
of the CL concerning hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
3.2.1
Written Program
This management manual represents the Written Program required by
OSHA. This manual outlines the CL practices, policies and procedures.
3.2.2
Labeling
The CL will use and preserve the labels already on containers when
purchased as provided by the chemical manufacturers or suppliers.
Whenever any materials are transferred to other containers for later use,
the new container will be labeled immediately with the chemical name (or
product name) as it appears on the manufacturers label. The new
container label will also include the appropriate hazard warning.
3.2.3
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

The Storekeeper is responsible for obtaining and maintaining MSDS on all
chemical substances in the facility. No delivery of chemicals will be
accepted unless a MSDS is already on-file or is provided with the
shipment. Our MSDS files are maintained to provide easy access. The
files are located in Room 18, Piper Technical Center (PTC).
3.2.4

All employees will be trained on general chemical hazards relevant to
materials used in the CL Retraining will occur as needed, when new
employees start employment, or an employee is transferred to a position
71
which involves chemicals of differing hazards than that employee is used

to handling. All employees will be informed about special hazards before
commencing unusual work activities.
3.2.5
Trade Secrets
While respecting a company's legal right to protect secret formulations,
MSDS's which omit health hazard information because of trade secrets
will not satisfy the CL's requirements. If the supplier will not provide
necessary health and hazard information (which is not part of the
formula), then an alternate chemical supply will be sought.
3.2.6
Receipt and Distribution of Chemicals

The Storekeeper is responsible for receiving, storing, and (when
necessary) distributing chemicals in the laboratory. Delivery of chemicals
will be made only to those persons designated to purchase chemicals. It is
the responsibility of those individuals to edit, revise, and update the
chemical inventory for their respective unit(s).
3.2.6.1
The Laboratory Director, Assistant Laboratory Directors,

Supervising Criminalists and Storekeeper are the ONLY
employees authorized to make chemical purchases.
3.2.7
General Information About Chemicals

3.2.7.1
Chemical Inventory
An inventory of CL chemical stock, uses and projected needs
will be kept current. The appropriate hazardous ingredients
and chemical hazard property information are needed to
72
complete the Chemical Inventory.

3.2.7.2
Health and Safety Information

In the CL, we use chemicals with flammable, corrosive, toxic,
reactive, oxidizer, or radioactive properties. To ensure the
continued safe use of these chemicals, the CL has mandated the
following safety precautions:
3.2.7.2.1
Flammable Chemicals
All flammable chemicals will be stored and used
away from ignition sources such as open flames,
cigarettes, and sparking tools. All vessels
containing flammable chemicals will be grounded
in accordance with OSHA and National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) regulations and
codes. Appropriate fire extinguishing materials will
be kept available for fire emergencies.
3.2.7.2.2
Corrosive Chemicals
All corrosive chemicals will be managed to prevent
spills. Personnel using corrosive materials will be
protected with rubber gloves, goggles, and other
protective equipment. No bottles of corrosive
chemicals will be moved except when protected in a
suitable safety carrying device.
3.2.7.2.3
Toxic Chemicals
73
All toxic chemicals will be managed according to

OSHA's guidelines, such as the Permissible
Exposure Limit (PEL) or the Threshold Limit Valve
(TLV) airborne guidelines. Workers will be
trained on the proper chemical handling methods
and the appropriate personal protective equipment.
3.2.7.2.4
Reactive Hazards
Chemicals which are incompatible with other
chemicals or substances will be segregated to avoid
accidental incompatible chemical reactions. No
mixing of chemicals is allowed except under
management supervision. No employees, except
professional staff members (PSM - professional
staff is any employee represented by the Engineers
and Architects Association Professional,
Engineering and Scientific Unit, MOU #8, or the
Supervisory Professional, Engineering and
Scientific Unit, MOU #17), will mix any chemicals
unless a PSM has specified which chemicals to mix,
the order of mixing, and the amount.
No PSM will order chemical mixing to take place
without first double checking the containers labels
to confirm that it is the proper chemical to use, and
without double checking the MSDS to note special
mixing hazards.
74
Oxidizers are chemicals which create a persistent

fire when mixed with a flammable or combustible
material. All oxidizing chemicals will be
segregated from all flammable and combustible
materials including solvents, cleaner, paint, rags,
paper, and wood. Personnel handling oxidizers will
wear protective clothing and equipment.
3.2.7.2.5
Radioactive Chemicals
Any radioactive chemicals will be managed and
monitored according to the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission, the Department of Energy and the
Atomic Energy Act, under the direction of the
Radiation Safety Officer.
3.2.7.2.6
Cleaning Supplies
The everyday common cleaning supplies must not
be overlooked in a "Right-to-Know" compliance
program (see Appendix). Corrosive and toxic
chemicals are often used as ingredients in cleaning
supplies.
3.2.7.2.7
Compressed Gases
Compressed gases must be managed to prevent
accidental damage to the cylinder or the
uncontrolled release of its gaseous contents.
Damaged cylinders can result in "unguided
missiles". Uncontrolled releases of compressed
75
gasses could lead to asphyxiation. Cylinders will

be secured to walls or benches whenever stationary,
and will not be moved without a valve protector in
place.
3.3
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY INVENTORY CONTROL

PROGRAM
The CL has an inventory control program to limit or eliminate unnecessary
chemical stock. The primary tools of the inventory control program are
purchasing controls and the chemical inventory.
3.3.1
Purchasing Policies
Purchases of chemical stock will be restricted to prescribed limits based
on:
(1) The maximum amount which can be safely stored; (2) The
minimum amount necessary for uninterrupted operation of the laboratory;

and (3) The projected production schedule for any particular time period.
Purchasing authority will be limited to a few designated responsible
personnel. These individuals will be responsible for ensuring that all old
chemical stock is used before starting to use the newly purchased stock.
See 3.2.6.1 for personnel authorized to purchase chemicals.
76
3.3.2
Periodic Inventories
All chemical containers shall be marked with their received date so older
chemicals can be used before newer stock. During the chemical inventory
which must occur at least annually, any expired chemicals shall be noted
of. The responsible purchaser for that material will have to justify why
expired chemicals are maintained there and not used or disposed of
appropriately. Analytical standards will be inspected, however, they are
exempt from justification. Any expired chemicals shall be disposed of
appropriately.
3.3.3
Other Inventory Methods

Each Unit Supervising Criminalist will be responsible for maintaining the
Chemical Inventory database for his/her unit. This responsibility is to
include editing, revising and updating the chemical inventory for his/her
respective unit(s).
3.3.4
New Procedures
Before installation of a new procedure, the requesting PSM will be asked
to review the chemical types to be used. Justification will be requested for
use of any unusually hazardous chemicals. The PSM will also be asked if
any alternate, and less hazardous chemicals could be substituted or if an
alternate process using less hazardous chemicals could be substituted.
3.4
LABELING SYSTEM
The labeling system of the CL will rely mostly on labels provided by the chemical
manufacturer.
77
3.4.1
Labeling Requirements
The CLs requirements for labels under OSHA is to include: (1) The
chemical identity and (2) The appropriate hazard warning. The chemical
manufacturer and supplier must also provide that information on all
delivered drums, jars and bottles; therefore, it is the CL policy to preserve
and maintain those labels whenever possible.
3.4.2
In-House Labels
Some shipments of chemicals may arrive in bulk form and later be
transferred to smaller containers. Those smaller containers must also be
labeled as required above. CL personnel who transfer the material
between containers will immediately label the smaller container with the
appropriate (1) chemical identity and (2) the hazard warning.
3.4.3
J.T. Baker Chemical Company Hazard Labels

A majority of our chemicals are supplied by the J.T. Baker Chemical
Company. Their hazard warning labeling system is designed for
simplified explanation and training. The attached SAF-T-DATA Labeling
Guide explains the labeling system and is used as a training aid.
3.5
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS, see attached) are required with each first
shipment of a hazardous chemical from any supplier to the CL.
3.5.1
Hazard Determination
The manufacturer or importer of a chemical must determine if the
chemical product is hazardous under OSHA's HCS. The CL is not
responsible for testing any materials we purchase to determine hazard
78
properties; however, CL personnel will be aware of minimal hazard

determination procedures:
The Department of Transportation ( DOT ) hazard class labels on the

containers must coincide with the hazards described on the MSDS.
(e.g. If the MSDS says that the material is not hazardous but the DOT
shipping label is "poison", the supplier must be contacted to clear the
discrepancy.)
If experience has shown the material to have a different hazard than

stated on the MSDS, then the supplier must be contacted for
explanation and clarification.
If the MSDS states that the ingredients are a "trade secret" but gives
no hazard warnings or first-aid information, then the supplier must
provide a new and more complete MSDS.
3.5.2
Chemical Inventory/Purchases/MSDS
All hazardous chemicals in stock, regardless of when purchased, must
have a MSDS on record in the CLs files.
No new chemical may be purchased without the supplier sending a MSDS
to the CL management before hand so the appropriate safety personnel
may note our in-house ability to handle this chemical before receipt of
shipment.
Complimentary samples from a supplier's sales staff will not be accepted
without an MSDS.
3.5.3
MSDS Inventory
The Storekeeper is responsible for obtaining and maintaining MSDS for
79
each of the chemical materials used by the CL. The MSDS master file
will be arranged so that the proper MSDS file can be found using minimal
information during an emergency. The MSDS file will be reviewed
whenever the chemical inventory is updated to ensure that every chemical
in stock has a corresponding MSDS in the files. Old MSDS for materials
no longer in stock or used by the CL will be transferred to a permanent
"inactive" MSDS file. Those "inactive" MSDS will be retained in case of
future questions concerning those materials.
3.5.4
J.T. Baker MSDS Sets

As part of our MSDS filing system, we have a complete set of Material
Safety Data sheets for our use as provided by the J.T. Baker Chemical
Company.
3.5.5
Understanding the MSDS

The entire purpose for having a MSDS hinges on a persons ability to
make proper use of the document. The following includes some of the
most important features of a typical MSDS.
3.5.5.1
Contents of an MSDS
Paragraph (g) of the Hazard Communication regulation lists
the required contents of a MSDS. The attached is an example
of a MSDS from J.T. Baker Chemical Company. It satisfies
the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard requirements.
3.6

3.6.1
Employer Responsibility
The CL is responsible under the Hazard Communication Standard for
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employee training. The form and format of that training is at our

discretion. The following sections outline the contents of the training
programs and our training program options.
3.6.2
Employee Information
CL employees must be informed about certain matters relating to
hazardous chemicals; these matters include:
The regulatory requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard
Presence, identity, and location of hazardous chemicals in the

workplace
The location and availability of this (or other) Written Hazard

Communication Program and MSDS.
The above information may be presented during training or at another time

in the form of a bulletin board notice.
3.6.3
Employee Training
All employees who have the potential of being exposed to a hazardous
substance in the course of their work must be trained about the chemical
hazards, including:
Chemical detection methods
The chemicals physical and health hazard
Appropriate protective measures including ventilation and personal

protective clothing
Details on the labeling system used
How to read and interpret an MSDS and label warnings
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3.6.4
Retraining
Retraining is required whenever new hazards are introduced into the
workplace. It is recommended that between formal training periods,
employee questions are documented, along with the answers, to
demonstrate that training and information are ongoing processes. A
formal training program is suggested annually.
3.6.5
Unusual Work Assignments

Occasionally some unusual work assignment is made; for example, some
crime scenes present extreme universal hazards which may include;
confined space, above ground work, biological contamination, or other
unstable environments. If known, the employee shall be notified in
advance of unusual work environments by a PSM. Once at a scene with
an unusual work environment, the employee shall contact laboratory
management and be counseled on additional safety precautions and
Department resources prior to commencing with the activity. This
laboratory policy shall be disseminated to employees during the course of
field training.
3.6.6
Example Outline of Training Program

The following is an example of an employee training program outline.
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Table 4:
EMPLOYEE TRAINING PROGRAM CONTENTS OUTLINE
Introduction
Company Polices and Practices
Toxic Chemical Hazards
Flammable Hazards
Corrosive Hazards
Reactive Hazards
Special Topics
Conclusion and Summary
Chemical Safety Test
3.6.7
New Employees
New employees will be trained prior to their initial work assignment in
work areas where hazardous materials are present.
3.6.7.1
Each new employee will watch the J.T. Baker SAF-T-TEST

videotape, read the J.T. Baker SAF-T- TRAINING Manual and
score 100% on each of the 7 parts of the J.T. Baker SAF-TTEST prior to commencing any chemical analysis in the unit of
assignment.
3.6.8
Outside Contractors
Outside contractors must be informed of the hazardous materials their
employees may be exposed to while performing their work. When an
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outside vendor or a City employee not a member of the CL staff is

working in the CL, that employee will always be accompanied by a PSM
who is qualified to communicate potential hazards.
If necessary, protective personal equipment will be provided to the outside
worker or a City employee not a member of the CL staff, during their
exposure to hazardous materials.
3.6.9
Visitors and After Hours

Visitors will not be allowed in areas containing hazardous materials unless
they are accompanied by a PSM who is qualified to communicate
potential hazards. Areas containing hazardous materials will be restricted
and entry denied, during hours when PSM personnel are not present to
accompany visitors.
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LAPD CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL
4.0
CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TOHAZARDOUS CHEMICALS IN

LABORATORIES(29 CFR 1910.1450) CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN
This section establishes the role of the Chemical Hygiene Plan within the Criminalistics
Laboratory.
4.1
HISTORY OF THE OSHA LABORATORY STANDARD

On November 25, 1983, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) published the Hazard Communication Standard that applied to certain
manufacturers and in part to certain laboratories. OSHA received many
comments regarding whether the procedures of the Hazard Communication
Standard should apply to laboratories where the staff is usually highly educated.
OSHA decided although 31.9% of all laboratory workers have bachelors
degrees, 20.6% have masters degrees, and 20.9% have doctorates,
thatthere is some question as to whether laboratory workers actually make
themselves as knowledgeable as they should be and some laboratory employees
are not professionally trained. 51 CFR 26664.
Other unique differences for laboratories were noted including: the small amounts
of chemicals used; the vast numbers of different chemicals involved; and that
nearly half of the laboratories in one survey could not accurately predict their
chemical needs even one month in advance.
OSHA decide that Despite the existence of the unique characteristics of
laboratory work places, in actual practice incidents of acute adverse health effects
resulting from exposures to toxic substances in laboratories do occur.
Furthermore, some studieshave shown increased risks of certain types of
diseases for laboratory workers. In addition, although laboratory workers are, in
85
general, a well educated work force, there is evidence that many laboratories do
not have health and safety programs. Therefore, OSHA proposed the
Occupational Exposures to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories rule from
which this Chemical Hygiene Plan originates.
On January 31, 1990, the Department of Labor published in the Federal Register
an amendment to 29 CFR 1910, Subpart Z, identified as Section 1910.1450. The
title of that amendment is Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in the
Laboratory, but is better known as the Laboratory Standard. (Attachment A)
The effective date of the standard is May 1, 1990. That standard requires the
development and implementation of a chemical hygiene plan by January 31,
1991.
4.2
SUMMARY OF OSHAS HEALTH AND SAFETY STANDARDS;

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS IN
LABORATORIES (29 CFR 1910.1450 LAB STANDARD)
A.
Scope and Application

1. Applies to all employers whose laboratories use hazardous chemicals.
2. This amends (for laboratories) all other provisions of 29 CFR 1910
Subpart Z except for PEL.
3. This does not apply to activities that do not fit the term laboratory
use.
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B.
Definitions
1. Laboratory any facility where the laboratory uses of hazardous
chemicals occur. It is a work place where relatively small quantities
of hazardous chemicals are used on a non-production basis.
2. Laboratory Scale Level of analytical activity in which the containers
used for reactions, transfers, and other handling of substances are
designed to be easily and safely manipulated by one person.
"Laboratory scale" excludes those work places whose function is to
produce commercial quantities of materials.
3. Laboratory use of hazardous chemicals handling or use of such
chemicals in which all of the following conditions are met:
a) Chemical manipulations are carried out on a laboratory scale.
b) Multiple chemical procedures or chemicals are used.
c) The procedures involved are not part of a production process, nor
in any way simulate a production process.
d) Protective laboratory practices and equipment are available and in
common use to minimize the potential for employee exposure to
hazardous chemicals.
C.
Laboratory Standard Application

Where this section applies, it shall supersede, for laboratories, the
requirements of all other OSHA health standards in 29 CFR Part 1910,
Subpart Z, except as follows:
87
1. For any OSHA health standard, only the requirement to limit

employee exposure to the specific permissible exposure limit shall
apply for laboratories.
2. Prohibition of eye and skin contact where specified by any OSHA
health standard shall be observed.
3. Where the action level or the PEL is routinely exceeded for an OSHA
regulated substance the monitoring and medical surveillance parts of
the standard will be applied.
D.
Employee Exposure Determination

1. Initial monitoring The employer shall measure an employees
exposure to any substance regulated by a standard which requires
monitoring if there is reason to believe that exposure levels exceed the
PEL or action level.
2. Periodic monitoring If initial monitoring indicates employee
exposure above the PEL or action level the employer shall
immediately comply with the monitoring provisions of the relevant
standard.
3. Termination of monitoring the employer may terminate monitoring
in accordance with the relevant standard.
4. The employee must be notified of the result of the monitoring within
15 days of the employers receipt of the results.
88
E.
Chemical Hygiene Plan

1. Where hazardous chemicals are used in the work place, the employer
shall develop and carry out the provisions of a chemical hygiene plan
which is:
a) Capable of protecting employees from health hazards associated
with hazardous chemicals in that laboratory and
b) Capable of keeping the exposures below the action level or PEL.
2. The chemical Hygiene Plan must be readily accessible to employees.
3. The Chemical Hygiene Plan shall include each of the following
elements and shall indicate specific measures the employer will take to
ensure laboratory employee protection:
a) Standard operating procedures relevant to safety and health.
b) Criteria employer will use to implement control measures to
reduce employee exposure to hazardous chemicals.
c) A requirement that fume hoods and other protective equipment are
functioning properly and methods to be taken to ensure proper and
adequate performance.
d) Provisions for employee training and information.
e) Circumstances requiring prior approval from the employer or his
designee before implementation.
f) Provisions for medical consultation and examination.
g) Designation of personnel responsible for implementation of the
Chemical Hygiene Plan.
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h) Provisions for additional protection for employees working with

particularly hazardous substance including:
Select carcinogens
Reproductive toxins
Substance with high degree of acute toxicity
Specific consideration shall be given to the following provisions,

which shall be included where appropriate.
Establishment of a designated area
Use of containment devices such as fume hoods or glove boxes
Procedures for safe removal of contaminated waste
Decontamination procedures
4. The employer shall review and update the plan on a yearly basis.
F.

1. The employer shall provide employees with information and training
to ensure that they are apprised of the hazards of chemicals in their
work area.
2. Such information shall be provided at the time of an employees initial
assignment to a work area where hazardous chemicals are present and
prior to assignments involving new exposure situations.
3. Information employees shall be informed of:
a) The contents of this standard.
b) The location and availability of the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
90
c) The PELs for OSHA regulated substance or recommended

exposure limits for other hazardous chemical where PELs do not
exist.
d) Signs and symptoms associated with exposures to the hazardous
chemical used in the laboratory.
e) The location and availability of known reference materials
including MSDSs, but not limited to them.
4. Training Employee training shall include:
a) Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence
or release of a hazardous chemical.
b) The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area.
c) Measures employees can use to protect themselves from these
hazards, including specific procedures such as appropriate work
practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective
equipment to be used.
The employee shall be trained on the applicable details of the
employers written Chemical Hygiene Plan.
G.
Medical Consultation and Medical Examinations.

1. The employer shall provide all employees who work with hazardous
chemicals an opportunity to receive medical attention under the
following circumstances.
a) When the employee develops signs and/or symptoms associated
with a hazardous chemical to which the employee may have been
exposed in the laboratory;
91
b) When routine monitoring reveals and exposure above the PEL or

action level;
c) When an event takes place in the work area such as a spill or leak,
explosion or other occurrence resulting in the likelihood of a
hazardous exposure.
2. All medical examinations and consultations shall be performed by a
licensed physician or under his/her direct supervision.
3. Information provided to the physician The employer shall provide
the following information to the physician:
a) The identity of the hazardous chemicals to which the employee
may have been exposed.
b) A description of the conditions under which the exposure occurred.
c) A description of the signs and symptoms of exposure the employee
is experiencing, if any.
4. Physicians written opinion including:
a) Any recommendations for further medical follow-up.
b) The results of the examination and any associated tests.
c) Any medical condition that may be revealed in the course of the
examination which may place the employee at increased risk.
d) A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician
of the results of the examination and any medical condition that
may require further examination or treatment.
The written opinion shall not reveal specific finding of diagnoses
unrelated to occupational exposure.
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H.
Hazard Identification
1. With respect to labels and Material Safety Data Sheets:
a) Employees shall ensure that labels on incoming hazardous
chemicals are not removed or defaced.
b) Employers shall maintain any MSDSs received and make them
readily available to employees.
2. The following provisions shall apply to chemicals substances
developed in the laboratory:
a) If the composition of a chemical substance produced for laboratory
use is known and determined to be hazardous, the employer shall
supply appropriate training.
b) If the chemical produced is a by-product whose composition is not
known, the employer shall assume that it is hazardous and
implement the Chemical Hygiene Plan.
c) If the chemical substance is produced for another user outside of
the laboratory, the employer shall comply with the Hazard
Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.100) including the
requirements for the preparation of a Material Safety Data Sheet
and labeling.
I.
Use of Respirators
Where the use of respirators is required to maintain exposure below the
PEL, the employer shall provide the proper respirator equipment.
Respirators shall be selected and used in accordance with the requirements
of 29 CFR 1910.135.
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J.
Record Keeping
1. The employer shall establish and maintain for each employee an
accurate record of any measurements taken to monitor employee
exposures and any medical consultation and examinations including
tests or written opinions required by this standard.
2. The employer shall assure that such records are kept, transferred, and
made available in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.20
4.3
ROLE OF THE CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN

This Chemical Hygiene Plan describes the Laboratory Laboratorys safety
program, including but not limited to personal protective equipment used, control
equipment inventory and operations (such as vented hoods), employee training
programs, medical programs, and safety inspections. The Chemical Hygiene Plan
is supplemented by safety procedural notes included in test methods used. The
Chemical Hygiene Plan is designed as a tool to coordinate safety procedures.
Every employee in the laboratory must be trained in the applicable details of this
plan.
4.4
CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN COVERAGE

All employees will cooperate in complying with the provisions of the Chemical
Hygiene Plan. This Plan applies to all employers involved in laboratory use of
hazardous chemicals. With this OSHA standard laboratories which have
implemented a Chemical Hygiene Plan are otherwise exempt from other
regulations under 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Z, except for any activities which do not
match OSHA's definition of laboratory use of hazardous chemicals even though
the activity is done inside a laboratory.
94
4.5
DESCRIPTION OF CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY

This section establishes that the Criminalistics Laboratory is a Laboratory as
defined by OSHA, which activities must comply with this standard and which
others must comply with other OSHA standards, including Hazard
Communication.
4.5.1
Description of Laboratory Laboratory's Activities

The Criminalistics Laboratory is responsible for the analysis of physical
evidence seized as a result of law enforcement activities with the City of
Los Angeles. The Laboratory is divided into two sections, which are
further subdivided into 15 operational units.
Examples of routine analysis conducted include: Narcotics analysis,
determination of alcohol levels in samples of blood and urine, blood
typing, arson and explosive analysis, examination of paint, glass, hair and
fibers, and the screening and confirmation of the presence of drugs and
drug metabolites in blood and urine samples.
4.5.2
Map of Criminalistics Laboratory

Refer to APPENDIX E for the Map of the Criminalistics Laboratory.
4.6
RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE CHEMICAL HYGIENE PLAN (CHP)

This section defines who is responsible to implement and enforce the provisions
of this Plan. This section also co-assigns responsibility for individual safety to
each individual involved.
4.6.1
Personnel Responsible for Implementing the Chemical Hygiene Plan
95
The following personnel will be personally responsible for the following

duties:
O.I.C. of the hazardous Chemical Team, Chemical Hygiene Officer
Develops and updates the Chemical Hygiene Plan and appropriate

policies and practices
Provides technical assistance in complying with the Chemical Hygiene

Plan and answers safety questions for employees
Assists employees to develop appropriate safety precautions for new

projects and procedures
Remains current on developing legal rules and regulations concerning

chemicals used in the Criminalistics Laboratory
Ensures that employees comply with the Chemical Hygiene Plan
Criminalistics Laboratory Management
Determines when a complaint of possible over-exposure is

reasonable and should be referred for medical consultation
Determines when an Exposure Assessment is appropriate
Unit Supervisors
Monitors procurement of new chemicals
Monitors collection and disposal of chemical wastes
Ensures that appropriate personal protective equipment is available as

needed
Monitors proper functioning of protective equipment such as fume

hoods and arranges for prompt repairs as needed
Performs regular chemical hygiene and housekeeping instructions
Performs routine inspections of emergency equipment
96
Reviews chemical inventories to determine which chemicals are

carcinogens
City Safety Office (213) 485-4691
Conducts Exposure Assessments
Storekeeper
4.6.2
Gathers and maintains manufacturers Material Safety Data Sheets
Develops and implements a labeling program

Each person working with or around chemicals, having been trained, is
responsible for remaining aware of the hazards of those materials and
handling those chemicals in a safe manner. Each person is responsible for
knowing how to handle a hazardous chemical safely according to its types
of hazards, and if that person is unsure of a hazard of safety procedure, to
ASK!
Everyone shares the responsibility to ensure that all containers of
chemicals are properly labeled with the identity of the chemical and its
hazards.
REMEMBER: NO AMOUNT OF INSURANCE CAN CURE
BLINDNESS OR RESURRECT THE DEAD! SO BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WELL-BEING
97
4.7
CHEMICAL HYGIENE AND SAFETY PLAN

This section describes appropriate procedures and practices for chemical hygiene
and safety.
4.7.1

The General Standard Operating Procedures are fundamental safety
precautions that should be familiar to all employees.
These practices should be followed at all times.
4.7.1.1
General Rules
Awareness is the most fundamental rule of chemical safety.
Everyone should remain constantly aware of:
a) The chemicals hazards, as determined from the MSDS and
other appropriate references.
b) Appropriate safeguards for using that chemical, including
personal protective equipment.
c) Location and proper use of emergency equipment.
d) How and where to properly store the chemical when not in
use. (Remember: The chemical is actually used for only
minutes in the average workday, the rest of the time it is
being stored on the laboratory bench or in the fume
hood.)
e) Proper personal hygiene practices.
f) The proper methods of transporting chemicals within the
facility.
g) Appropriate procedures for emergencies, including
evacuation routes, spill cleanup procedures and proper waste
disposal.
98
NEVER work alone in a laboratory. Someone should be

working with you. If that is not possible, then someone should
know of the solitary worker and check on him/her at regular
intervals.
4.7.1.2
Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is an important factor in chemical hygiene. To
react with a person, a toxic chemical must contact that person.
The four routes of entry (inhalation, ingestion, injections, and
eye or skin contact) limit the chemicals ability to contact us. If
we properly protect ourselves, we can eliminate the chemicals
ability to do harm. Personal hygiene practices include:
a) Wash promptly if skin contact is made with any chemical,
regardless of corrosivity.
b) Wear appropriate eye protection at all times.
c) Avoid inhalation of chemicals; do not sniff test chemicals.
d) Do not mouth pipette anything; use suction bulbs.
e) Wash well before leaving the laboratory; do not wash with
solvents, use soap.
f) Change clothing as soon as possible after leaving laboratory
(if no locker rooms are available) and launder work clothes
often.
g) Do not eat or smoke in chemical areas.
h) Do not bring food, beverage or tobacco products into
chemical storage or use areas. Food, drink, and especially
tobacco absorb chemical vapors and gases from the air.
99
4.7.1.3
Food and Smoking

No eating, drinking or smoking is allowed in areas where
chemicals are either stored or used. Because chemical vapors
can be absorbed by foodstuff (especially bread) and tobacco, no
food or tobacco products should be allowed into chemical areas.
Instead of designating laboratory and stock areas as No
Smoking areas, ALL areas should be considered No Smoking
and No Food or Beverage except those few areas actually
designated as Smoking Permitted and Food and Beverage
Permitted.
4.7.1.4
Protective Clothing and Equipment

The Laboratory provides most personal protective equipment to
employees when and where necessary. It is the responsibility of
each employee to be certain that the appropriate equipment is
worn as necessary.
The most fundamental piece of personal protective clothing is
provided by each employee for his/her own use. It is the normal
clothing worn to minimize exposed skin surface available for
direct contact through splashing. Therefore, all employees are
encouraged to wear long sleeve/long legged clothing and avoid
short sleeved shirts, short trousers or skirts.
Additional equipment available from Laboratory includes:
Protective Eye wear
Lab coats
Gloves
100
Aprons
Face Shields
Respirators
The proper uses and maintenance of the equipment is discussed

in Section 4.3.6. on Control Measures.
4.7.1.5
Housekeeping
Common housekeeping practices contribute greatly towards
chemical hygiene and safety. A clean work area is much safer
than a cluttered or dirty one. Some appropriate housekeeping
measures include:
Keep all aisles, hallways, and stairs clear of all chemicals.
Keep all work areas and especially workbenches clear of

clutter and obstructions.
All working surfaces and floors should be cleaned regularly.
Access to emergency equipment, showers, eyewashes and

exits should never be blocked by anything.
Wastes should be kept in the proper containers and labeled

properly.
Any unlabeled containers are considered wastes by end of

each workday.
Laboratory staff should be considerate and aware of

housekeeping staff. The typical housekeeping staff is not as
familiar with chemicals and their hazards as most laboratory
workers. Therefore, for the safety of housekeeping staff,
laboratory workers should make sure that:
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All chemical are placed in proper storage areas by the end of

each workday.
All chemical containers are labeled with both the identity of

the chemical and its hazards.
All spills are promptly cleaned up and the spilled chemical is

properly disposed of.
No chemicals are stored in aisles, stairwells, on desks or

workbenches, on floors or in hallways, or left on shelves over
the workbenches.
4.7.1.6
Prior Approval
Approval to proceed with a laboratory task should be obtained
when:
There is a new procedure process or test, even if it is very

similar to older practices.
There is a change or substitution of any of the ingredient

chemicals in a procedure.
There is a substantial change in the amount of chemicals

used; usually one should review safety practices if the
volume of chemicals used increases by 20% or 25%.
There is a failure of any of the equipment used in the process,

especially safeguards such as fume hoods or clamp apparatus.
There are unexpected test results. When a test result in

different than the predicted, a review of how the new result
impacts safety practices must be made.
Where members of the laboratory staff become ill, suspect

exposure, smell chemicals, or otherwise suspect a failure of
engineered safeguards.
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Any new procedure should be subjected to peer review. Not

only from a scientific standpoint, but also to assure that all
safety considerations are in place prior to implementation.
4.7.1.7
Spills and Accidents

Spills of toxic substance or accidents involving any hazardous
chemical should be resolved immediately, according to
Laboratory Laboratorys Written Emergency Procedures Plan.
That plan is attached as Appendix B. The overall steps of
handling an accident are briefly:
1. Notify your supervisor and appropriate emergency
responders immediately.
2. If spilled chemical is flammable, extinguish all nearby source
of ignition.
3. If a person has been splashed with a chemical, wash them
with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, remove all
contaminated clothing, and GET MEDICAL
ATTENTION.
4. If a person has been overexposed by inhalation, get victim to
fresh air, apply artificial respiration if necessary, and GET
MEDICAL ATTENTION.
5. If other cases of overexposure, GET MEDICAL
ATTENTION and follow the instructions of the medical
professional.
6. After securing proper medical attention for a chemical
exposure victim, neutralize or absorb the spilled chemical
103
with the proper spill cleanup material and dispose of it in

accordance with hazardous wastes procedures.
For more detailed discussions on handling emergencies in the
laboratory and evacuation procedures, read Appendix B.
There are some fundamental actions which must NOT be used in
handling emergencies. Some of them include:
DO NOT force any liquids into the mouth of and

unconscious person.
DO NOT handle emergencies alone, especially without

notifying someone that the accident has occurred.
DO NOT apply medical aid procedures without some

training in that area (except to wash with WATER for 15
minutes and get victim to fresh air). If your are not trained in
fundamental first aid, get MEDICAL direction before
inducing vomiting, giving antidotes or applying a
neutralizer to the skin or eyes of the victim. DO NOT
linger at the accident scene if you are not one of the
emergency responders.
4.7.1.8
Waste Chemicals
Chemical wastes are regulated by the Environmental Protection
Agency under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and
its amendments. Under new changes to the regulations, a
Generator of hazardous wastes is now defined and regulated if
the entire facility produces more than 100 KG of hazardous
wastes per month.
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All employees should be advised by their supervisor on how to

handle wastes from their work.
4.7.2
Procedure-Specific Safety Procedures

Unit procedure manuals have a description of specific safety practices for
the procedures utilized by the unit. Employees should read and review
those practices before commencing a procedure.
4.7.3
Control Measures and Equipment

Chemical safety is accomplished by awareness of the chemical hazards
and by keeping the chemical under control through a variety of engineered
safeguards. Laboratory personnel should be familiar with the proper use
of those safeguards. Laboratory supervisors should be able to detect the
malfunction of those safeguards.
4.7.3.1
Ventilation
Laboratory ventilation should be normally not less than 20 linear
feet per minute airflow through each room. This gives the
workers comfortable breathing air. But 20 feet per minute
translates to less than one quarter mile per hour; the flow should
not be considered sufficient to prevent accumulation of chemical
vapors. Work done with chemicals with low TLVs or high vapor
pressures should be done in a fume hood.
Fume hoods should provide 80 to 120 linear feet per minute of
airflow. When using a fume hood the worker should be aware
that:
105
The fume hood is a safety backup device to the condensers,

traps, or other devices to trap and collect the flammable or
toxic vapors.
Fume hood shields should be lowered at all times except

when adjusting the apparatus inside.
The apparatus inside the hood should be kept towards the

rear of the hood to prevent vapors from escaping.
The design of the hood is usually for substance of specific

characteristics (e.g., venting at the top or bottom sides is for
chemicals of low and high vapor density, respectively).
Hoods are NOT storage areas.
The vent ducts and fans must be kept clean and clear of
obstructions.
The hood must remain on at all times when a chemical is

inside the hood, regardless whether any work is being done in
the hood.
Personnel should be aware of steps to take in case of power

failure or other causes of hood failure.
4.7.3.2
Safety Cans
Flammable liquids should be kept in cans specifically designed
for them. The cans should be used according to manufacturer
instructions and common safety practices, including:
The can must be kept closed except when adding or

removing liquid.
The flame arrestor screen must be kept in place at all times

and replaced it if punctured or damaged.
106
As with all chemicals, chemicals in safety cans must be

stored in storage areas and not in laboratory work areas or
hallways.
4.7.3.3
All flammables must be protected against sources of ignition.
Flammable Storage Cabinets

Cabinets designed for the safe storage of flammable chemicals
can only do so if used and maintained properly. Cabinets are
generally made of double-walled construction and are made of
18-gage steel. The doors are two inches above the base and the
cabinet is liquid proof to that point. Two vents are provided on
opposite sides of the cabinet and are equipped with flamearrestor screens. Always read the manufacturers information
and follow some prudent safety practices such as:
Store only compatible materials inside the cabinet.
Store chemicals of similar vapor density together when using

mechanical ventilation (e.g., heavier than air vapors are
vented through the bottom vent and lighter than air vapors
through the top vent).
Do not store paper or cardboard inside cabinets with the

chemicals.
4.7.3.4
Do not overload the cabinet.
Corrosive Storage cabinets

All corrosive chemicals should be kept in cabinets especially
designed to hold them. Care must be taken to separate acids
form bases by distance or barrier.
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4.7.3.5
Eyewash and Safety Showers

Wherever chemicals have the possibility of damaging the skin or
eyes, an emergency supply of water must be available. All
laboratories must be equipped with eyewashes and safety
showers. As with any safety equipment, these can only be useful
if they can be used, therefore:
Keep all passageways to the eyewash and shower clear of

any obstacle (even a temporarily parked chemical cart).
Eyewashes should be checked routinely (at least monthly) to

be certain that water flows through it.
Showers should be checked routinely to ensure that access is

not restricted and the start chain is within reach.
The flow through the safety showers should be tested

periodically to ensure a flow of 30 gallons per minute.
4.7.3.6
Protective apparel
Protective clothing was briefly discussed in Section 4.1.4. Some
additional information about the use of protective clothing
includes:
Gloves
Must be of a material compatible with the
chemicals used. Gloves should be inflated (by whipping it in air,

not by mouth inflation) to check its integrity before each use.
Safety Glasses
Should only be used when working with
solid materials, such as glass blowing. Glasses should not be

used with liquid chemicals.
108
Goggles - Form the liquid proof seal around the eyes

necessary when working with liquid chemicals.
Goggles with Face Shield -
For more hazardous
chemicals, corrosives, and hot chemicals, both face shield with

goggles must be used. The goggles protect the eyes in case
splash is from side or beneath shield.
Laboratory Coat -
Long sleeved coats offer the wearer
minimal skin protection against minor splashes, allowing the

chemical something to react with before the skin, and offering
the victim time to remove the coat and shower.
Laboratory Coat and Apron -
Rubberized aprons offer
additional time to react to the splash than the coat alone. Arm
guards should be worn when using an apron.
4.7.3.7
Respirators
OSHA requires all employers to primarily prevent atmospheric
contamination. If that cannot keep the vapor concentrations
below regulated levels, then the employer will implement a
written respirator program (see 29 CFR 1910.134). The written
respirator program will discuss such issues as respirator selection
criteria, inspection, and maintenance. All personnel using
respirators must be trained in their proper use and care. For more
detailed discussion of respirator uses and selection, see the
Laboratory Laboratorys written Respirator Program attached as
Appendix C.
109
4.7.3.8
Vapor Detection
Because odor thresholds can be greater than the TLVs, odors are
not to be used as the primary methods of vapor detection. If
suspicious odors are noticed, the investigators should obtain
mechanical vapor detectors, such as detector tubes or ionization
meters, and respiratory protection.
4.7.4
Special Procedures for Carcinogens

OSHA has noted that many laboratory workers use known or suspected
carcinogens. While industrial workers might use only one or a limited few
chemical carcinogens, laboratory workers are likely to use many such
chemicals. Exposures to those carcinogens would at least have an additive
impact on risk, if not synergistic. To limit the possible exposures, the
Laboratory has special procedures and precautions for work with
carcinogens. These procedures are included in the procedures manuals of
each individual unit.
4.7.4.1
Regulated and Controlled Work Areas

Special work areas are designated for work with carcinogens.
The rooms, including storage areas for the chemical carcinogens,
will have restricted access. Only personnel with special
instruction on the hazards and safe handling of carcinogens will
be permitted access to the areas.
4.7.4.2
Closed System Protection

All work involving carcinogens must be done in specially
equipped closed systems to reduce the risks of employee
110
exposure to the vapors. The closed systems include fume hoods,

glove boxes or similar devices.
4.7.4.3
Handling of Contaminated Waste Water

Rinse water and other wastewater contaminated with carcinogens
are to be collected for disposal. Specific disposal procedures will
be outlined by hazardous Chemical Team Personnel and will be
consistent with RCRA.
4.7.4.4
Personal Hygiene
Laboratory workers using carcinogens shall take extra
precautions in maintaining good personal hygiene. In addition to
hygiene practices in Section 4.1.2, workers will wash before
leaving the facility.
4.7.4.5
Protection of vacuum Systems

To protect vacuum lines and pumps, HEPA filters or high
efficiency scrubber systems should be used.
4.7.4.6
Protective Apparel
Persons working in restricted areas should not wear any personal
items such a s jewelry that might be lost if decontamination is
not possible. When possible, disposable clothing should be used.
Gloves and long sleeves should be used at all times to prevent
skin contact with the carcinogen.
111
4.7.4.7
Additional Precautions
Work with carcinogens should be done with the smallest amount
possible. Purchases of the chemicals will restricted to minimal
amounts necessary to prevent uninterrupted work.
4.8
CRITERIA FOR CONTROL MEASURES

4.8.1
Exposure Guidelines
Most materials used have some guidelines for exposure, such as Threshold
Limit Values (TLV) or Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL). When such
values exist, they will be used to assist the Safety Officer of the Chemical
Hygiene Officer in determining proper safety precautions, including
control measures and safety apparel.
When TLV or PEL values exist and are low, the user of the chemical must
use it in an operating fume hood or if a fume hood is not available, a
respirator will be used in accordance to the Laboratory Respirator Program
(see Appendix C).
When TLV or PEL values are not available for that substance, the Lethal
Dosage information
LD will be assessed. If that is low, then chemical
50
must also be used in a fume hood if possible, or a respirator must be used.
Whenever the chemical has a high vapor pressure, meaning that it
evaporates quickly at room temperature, it will be used in a fume hood or
else respiratory protection is needed. Those controls are necessary even if
the chemical with the high vapor pressure also
50 has a very high TLV or
LD, because such chemicals are likely to reach their exposure limits in air
112
at least as quickly as a chemical with low exposure guidelines and a low

vapor pressure.
Employees shall consult their supervisor to determine which chemicals in
their unit may only be used in a fume hood.
4.8.2 Fire Guidelines
In general, a flammable chemical is determined by its flash point, the
lowest temperature at which an ignition source can cause the chemical to
ignite momentarily. Although the lowest temperature at which the
chemical will catch fire with an ignition source is called the fire point, it
is rarely more than one or two degrees greater than the flash point.
Therefore, the flash point will be used as the reference of fire hazard
here in the Laboratory Laboratory.
OSHA and NFPA have guidelines on when a chemical is considered
flammable. Those guidelines are herein adopted for use in the laboratory.
Flammable is generally used to refer to chemicals with a flash point
below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (F). Chemicals with flash points between
100 and 200F will be considered a fire hazard and will be stored in a
flammable solvent storage area or flammable storage cabinet. They will
be used in a vented fume hood, away from source of ignition.
More detailed discussions on fire hazards can be found in OSHAs
regulations (29 Code of Federal Regulations 1910) and your local fire
codes.
113
4.8.3
Reactivity Guidelines
While NFPA has developed some guidelines on what constitutes a reactive
chemical, their emphasis is centered on a fire emergency.
Other guidelines on which chemicals are reactive can be found in
regulations from the Department of Transportation (49 CFR) and the
Environmental Protection Agency (40 CFR).
At the Laboratory Laboratory, a reactive chemical is one that is:
Ranked by NFPA as 3 or 4 for reactivity.
Determined by the U.S. DOT as either:
An oxidizer
An organic peroxide
An explosive (Classes A,B, or C)
Fits the U.S. EPA definition of reactive in 40 CFR 261.
Fits the OSHA definitions of unstable or polymerizable.
Is found to be reactive with ordinary substances.
Once a chemical has been determined to be reactive, all proper safety

precautions will be used including extra segregation in storage and
prohibition of mixing with other chemicals without appropriate personal
protection and precautions.
4.8.4
Corrosivity and Contact Hazards

A corrosive chemical is defined by OSHA, DOT, and EPA. The
Laboratory will consider a chemical corrosive if it fits the definition of
corrosive found in regulations by:
114
OSHA (29 CFR)
DOT (49 CFR)
EPA (40 CFR)
Or it has a very low or very high pH.
A skin or eye contact hazard chemical is one where the chemicals route
of entry for its toxic effects is through the skin or eyes. Chemicals which
are contact hazards will be determined by examining medical and
industrial hygiene literature.
4.9
EXPOSURE EVALUATIONS AND MEDICAL CONSULTATIONS

4.9.1
Suspected Exposures to Toxic Substances

There may be times when employees suspect that they have been exposed
to some toxic substance in the laboratory. It is up to Laboratory
management to develop criteria that will help determine if the suspicion is
reasonable. If the circumstances surrounding the complaint are
determined to cause a reasonable suspicion of exposure to a chemical, then
a designated responsible and unbiased individual in the Laboratory will
initiate actions to formally evaluate the complaint.
4.9.1.1
Example Criteria of Reasonable Suspicion of Exposure

The following are examples of some events or circumstances
which Laboratory management might reasonably consider as
evidence that an exposure to toxic substances is likely:
Victim has direct skin or eye contact with a chemical

substance.
115
Odor was noticed, especially if person was working with any

chemical that has a lower TLV than odor threshold.
Manifestation of health hazard symptoms such as headache,

rash, nausea, coughing, tearing, irritation or redness of eyes,
irritation of nose or throat, dizziness, loss of motor dexterity
or judgement which resemble drunkenness, etc.
Some or all symptoms disappear when person is taken away

from chemical area and into fresh air.
Symptoms previously complained about reappear soon after

person starts working with chemicals again.
Complaints are received from more than one person in the

same work area. It is Laboratory policy to promptly
investigate ALL complaints to determine risk of employee
overexposure to the toxic substances in their work place.
4.9.2
Exposure Evaluations
Once a complaint of possible hazardous chemical exposure has been
received, the complaint should be documented in a short memo along with
the decision of appropriate action. If it was decided that no further
evaluation of the event is necessary, the reason for that decision should be
included in the document. If a decision is made that the complaint should
be investigated, then a formal Exposure Evaluation will commence.
4.9.2.1
Steps of Exposure Evaluation

The actual steps of the Exposure Evaluation will have to be
determined by a responsible person or persons in Laboratory,
preferably with the assistance of a qualified Industrial Hygienist
116
from the City Safety Office. Some steps that might be

considered (but not limited to) include:
1. Interviewing the person initiating the complaint and the
victim if it is not the same person.
2. Listing essential information about the circumstances of the
complaint including:
Chemical of suspicion
Other chemical in use by victim
Other chemicals being used by others in the immediate area
Other chemicals stored in that area
Symptoms
How symptoms compare to information in the Material

Safety Data Sheets for those chemicals in the area
Were control measures, such as fume hoods and personal

protective equipment used and used properly?
Are any air sampling or monitoring devices in place or

available?
NOTE: The use or failure to use personal protective equipment

control measures and follow Standard Operating or Safety
Procedures might contribute to the cause of overexposure. It is
not the Exposure Evaluator who places blame for the event.
Blame, if appropriate, should come much later and from a
different source than the exposure investigator. THE PURPOSE
OF THE EXPOSURE EVALUATION IS TO DETERMINE IF
ANY EXPOSURE HAS TAKEN PLACE, NOT TO ASSIGN
BLAME.
3. Air sampling of the area for suspect chemicals.
117
4. Determining how the symptoms compare to the information

on the MSDS.
5. Deciding whether to send victim for medical evaluation.
6. Review of the adequacies of present control measures and
safety procedures.
The employees must be notified of the results of any monitoring
within 15 days of receipt of those results.
4.9.3
Medical Consultation
When employees are suspected or known to be overexposed to toxic
chemicals, they should receive prompt medical attention.
It is the authority of Chief Forensic Chemists to authorize medical
consultation in Non-Emergency cases.
The person who will be examined will visit a medical specialist provided
by the City of Los Angeles Personnel Department.
It is the responsibility of Unit Supervisor to arrange for the transportation
of the person to be examined to and from the medical center.
The medical report will be sent directly to the Commanding Officer,
Scientific Investigation Division, and he/she will pass the appropriate
information along to those involved.
4.10
DOCUMENTATION
All memos, notes and reports to a complaint of possible exposure to toxic
substances must be maintained in a file for easy retrieval with a cross-reference in
118
the victims personnel file. For more on reports and record keeping, see Section
8.0.
4.11
NOTIFICATION
The employee shall be notified of the results of any medical examination with
regard to any medical condition that might exist from overexposure to a chemical.
119
5.0

5.1
INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS
OSHA has required that employees be informed of:
The existence, location and availability of this document (the Chemical

Hygiene Plan).
29 CFR 1910.1450 and its appendices.
The criteria to select, use and the limits of personal protective equipment.
Exposure limits including TLV and PEL.
The emergency procedures and the location of the equipment.
The location of available reference materials including the Material Safety

Data Sheets.
NOTE: A formal training session is not necessary for information sharing.

Information can be dispersed by informal group or individual discussions with
ones supervisor, posted notices, or handout booklets. OSHA has not shown
interest in how the Employees receive this information, but if asked by an OSHA
inspector, the employees must be able to answer those issues accurately.
5.2
TRAINING UNDER 29 CFR 1910.1450

Training under 29 CFR 1910.1450 must include the following:
Methods and observations that may be used to detect the presence or release
of a hazardous chemical (such as monitoring conducted by the employer,
continuous monitoring devices, visual appearance or odor of hazardous
chemicals when being released, etc.);
The physical and health hazards of chemicals in the work area; and
The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards,
including specific procedures the employer has implemented to protect
120
employees from exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as appropriate work

practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment to be
used.
The employee shall be trained on the applicable details of the employers

written Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Chemical Hygiene Officers or his/her designate will provide this training to

all employees in the CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY.
This training will be in addition to the existing hazard communication training.

5.3
EVALUATE THE TRAINING PROGRAMS EFFECTIVENESS

Each employee shall be required to pass a written examination indicating a
working knowledge of the material contained in this plan.
121
6.0
RECORD KEEPING
RECORD KEEPING
6.1
Records
Specific records may be required in the event of lost work time resulting from an
exposure or accident on the job. The standard from OSHA 200 is used to
document lost workdays from incidents that occur at work.
Complaints from Employees Even if the complaint is found to be

unjustified, it is desirable to keep a record of the complaint, the investigation,
and the outcome. The concerned unit supervisor shall prepare complaints on
an Employees Report form (LAPD Form 15.7). The complaints might be
about chemical exposure, but could include complaints about inoperativeengineered controls or defective personal protective equipment.
Repair and Maintenance Record for Control Systems To demonstrate that

equipment such as fume hoods are well maintained and kept in proper
operating order. The training coordinator shall retain copies of all monthly
and yearly safety checklists completed.
Safety Suggestions from Employees All safety suggestions from employees

shall be submitted to the Chemical Hygiene Officer on an Employees Report
form.
6.2
Record Keeping
All records shall be kept for at least 30 years beyond the employees time of
employment.
All Exposure Evaluations, Medical Consultations and reports, shall be maintained
in accordance to 29 CFR 1910.20. Access to these records may be obtained
through the Chemical Hygiene Officer.
122
7.0
LIST AND LOCATIONS OF MSDSs
LIST AND LOCATIONS OF AVAILABLE SAFETY REFERENCES

AND MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS
PIPER TECHNICAL CENTER LABORATORY
All MSDS and the below listed safety references are located in the Library Multipurpose
Classroom (LMC).
1. Carcinogenically Active Chemicals, A Reference Guide

1991, Van Nostrand Reinhold
2. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, 5th ed.
1977, Sax, Van Nostrand Reinhold
3. Department of Transportation, Coast Guard
Chemical Hazards Response Information System (CHRIS)
Hazardous Chemical Data 1978
4. Effects of Exposure To Toxic Gases, First Aid and Medical Treatment 2nd ed.
1977 Matheson
5. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation
1987, Association of American Railroads Hazardous Materials Systems
6. Firs Aid Manual For Chemical Accidents, for use with nonpharmaceutical chemicals.
1980, Marc J. Lefevre
Dowden, Hutchinson and Ross Inc.
123
LIST AND LOCATIONS OF MSDSs
7. Hazardous Chemicals Desk Reference, 2nd ed.

1991, Lewis
Van Nostrand Reinhold
8. Merck Index, 11th ed.
124
INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION (IIPP)
SCIENTIFIC INVESTIGATION DIVISION

CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY
PIPER TECHNICAL CENTER FACILITY
INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
Safety Committee Members:

Safety Officer (Photographer III) ..John Taggart
Quality Assurance Manager (Criminalist II)....Lisa Lahendro
Floor Warden (Supervising Criminalist) ..Lawrence Blanton
Cal/OSHA Standard 3203 Plan

Adopted July 1, 1991
Revised August 2003
REVISION DATE 08/03
125
CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY
INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
The Los Angeles Police Department is committed to a successful Injury and Illness Prevention
(IIPP). This program is designed to lower the rate of injuries, illnesses, and fatalities and reduce
workers compensation costs. This program includes identifying personnel assigned to the
Safety Committee and requiring all employees to know the name of at least one committee
member. All employees shall know that the IIPP administrator is the Chief of Police. Personnel
assigned to the Safety Committee are responsible for establishing procedures for identifying and
correcting workplace hazards, providing current safety information and establishing reporting
procedures.
Responsibility
Responsible Personnel for the Criminalistics Laboratory (CL)/Piper Technical Center (PTC):
Department Program Administrator
Chief William J. Bratton has the authority and responsibility for implementing the provisions of
this program for the Los Angeles Police Department.
Divisional Program Administrator
The Commanding Officer, Scientific Investigation Division, has the responsibility of insuring the
IIPP is implemented and maintained by the safety committee members of every section assigned
to the division.
CL Safety Committee Chairperson
The Quality Assurance Manager (QAM), Scientific Investigation Division (SID), CL/PTC, is
responsible for insuring the IIPP is maintained and implemented by the CL/PTC. The QAM is
also responsible for insuring all employees within the CL/PTC have an opportunity to review the
IIPP.
Committee Members
CL Safety Committee members responsibilities:
REVISION DATE 08/03
126
Ensure that all employees assigned to the CL, are aware of the IIPP
Conduct preliminary hazard investigations
Distribute safety publications
Ensure the maintenance of a safety related bulletin board in a common area of the
workplace
The SID timekeeper is responsible for maintaining an updated OSHA 300 log with copies of the
EMPLOYER'S REPORT OF OCCUPATIONAL INJURY OR ILLNESS (FORM 1.66).
CL Safety Committee Responsibilities:
Ensure the Cal/O.S.H.A. 300 log is posted February 1st through March 1st of every year by
the SID timekeeper
Ensure the SAFETY AND HEALTH PROTECTION ON THE JOB poster is displayed in
a common area to all employees
Conduct quarterly audits of Cal/OSHA 300 log
Train and instruct personnel on safety related issues
Conduct periodic safety checks of the CL to identify unsafe conditions
Ensure correction of identified hazards in a timely manner
Establish an avenue for employees to report unsafe conditions
Ensure that employees report unsafe conditions to their immediate supervisor, any available
supervisor, or Safety Committee member
Maintain relevant safety related data
Submit recommendations to Division managers for improving working conditions
Conduct quarterly safety meetings and keep log of meetings
REVISION DATE 08/03
127
Review the results of periodic, scheduled workplace inspections to identify necessary

revisions to established safety procedures or programs and to track the status of corrective
actions
Conduct investigation of accidents and/or alleged hazards to assist in establishing corrective

action when deemed necessary by the Safety Committee
Submit recommendations to assist department management in the evaluation of employee

safety suggestions
Receive and review reports of unsafe conditions, workplace inspection reports, and injury
reports
Maintain and update this IIPP, assess the CLs compliance with applicable regulations and
Department policies, evaluate reports of unsafe conditions, and coordinate and assist with the
implementation of any necessary corrective action(s)
The CL Safety Committee will meet in February, May, August, and November of every year.
During the meetings, the committee members will evaluate the current IIPP and make any
revisions deemed to be necessary by the committee.
CL Supervisor Responsibilities:
All Managers, Commanding Officers and Supervisors are responsible for implementing and
maintaining the IIPP in their work areas and for answering employee questions about the
IIPP. A copy of this IIPP shall be available for each Manager, Commanding Officer and
Supervisor.
Line supervisors within the CL responsibilities:
Report in writing, safety hazards in the workplace to a CL Safety Committee member
Ensure that subordinates are following safe work practices in general and also as related
to their specific unit assignment
Ensure that subordinates have access to and utilize the required personal protective
equipment. Remember that safety is the responsibility of every employee.
Contacts:
Chief William J. Bratton ...............................................................................(213) 485-3202
REVISION DATE 08/03
128
Police Administrator Steven B. Johnson ......................................................(213) 847-0031

PiperTech Quality Assurance Manager Criminalist II Lisa Lahendro .........(213) 485-9962
PiperTech Floor Warden Supervising Criminalist Lawrence Blanton .........(213) 847-0064
PiperTech Safety Officer Photographer III John Taggart.............................(213) 847-0050
Compliance
All Department Employees assigned to the CL/PTC shall receive a copy of this IIPP. This IIPP
is worksite specific for the CL/PTC. The employees shall sign an acknowledgement of receipt
upon receiving a copy of this IIPP. The signed acknowledgement of receipt shall be placed in
the employees Divisional Package. Upon reassignment, the employee shall receive a copy of
the worksite specific IIPP for his/her newly assigned work site.
The Department shall provide employees with a safe and healthful place to work and employees
are expected to comply with and follow Department rules and regulations.
Failure to comply with the rules and regulations outlined in this guide will result in progressive
disciplinary action, which includes verbal and written warnings. The disciplinary policy of the
Department is intended to encourage employee compliance with the Cal/OSHA regulations. If
an employee is found to be grossly negligent, the employee could face possible termination.
All related Department Manual Sections should be used as a reference guide.
Safety rules violated by employees shall be documented on the Department approved form
deemed appropriate by the line supervisor conducting the investigation.
Communication
All employees shall notify their immediate supervisor, any available supervisor, or a CL
Safety Committee member in writing or verbally of hazards and safety concerns that may
arise within their work site.
The recipient shall document any verbal notification of a safety hazard.
Our communication system encourages all employees to inform their supervisors of

workplace hazards without fear of reprisal.
A bulletin board maintained in a common area shall be updated by the Safety Committee to
continuously inform and educate all employees of work safety issues and work site hazards.
REVISION DATE 08/03
129
Newly assigned employee orientations shall include a discussion of safety and health policies
and procedures. See attached CLs New Employee Orientation Checklist, Number Five Safety.
Employees assigned to the CL shall read the CLs Safety Manual and sign the Laboratory
Safety Manual Awareness Log (see attached).
All employees shall review and understand the CL/PTCs IIPP. Effective communication of
safety and health concerns between employees and supervising employees shall take place
during monthly unit meetings.
Safety hazards may also be reported anonymously to a supervisor or Safety Committee

member.
Hazard Assessment
Periodic inspections to identify and evaluate workplace hazards shall be performed by a
competent observer, Safety Committee member or other City employee.
Periodic inspections consist of identification and evaluation of workplace hazards utilizing the
attached Safety Inspection Checklist and any other effective method(s) used to identify and
evaluate workplace hazards.
The CL Safety Committee shall conduct an annual safety inspection of each CL unit. The unit
supervisor or a designee conducts remaining quarterly safety inspections with approval by the
supervisor prior to submission to the QAM.
Documenting Safety Hazards
Safety Hazards should be documented on an Employees Report, Form 15.7 and submitted to the
committee chairperson, but verbal notifications will also be accepted. Notifications should
include the following information:
Date the hazard or unsafe condition was identified
Description of the hazard or unsafe condition
Person or supervisor notified
Employees suggestions for corrective measures if applicable
Accident and Exposure Investigation
REVISION DATE 08/03
130
Safety Committee Response to Reported Unsafe Condition:

Upon identifying a hazard, or being informed by any employee or supervisor that a possible
unsafe condition exists, a Safety Committee member shall take the following action:
1. Immediately inspect the reported hazard.
2. Take appropriate action to ensure that employees are not continuously exposed to the
hazard. This may include restricting an area, prohibiting use of machinery or equipment,
or temporarily moving a workstation.
3. Convene with other Safety Committee members if practical to identify correctable
measures.
4. Ensure corrective measures are taken as soon as possible.
5. Allow no one, other than repair personnel to enter the affected area until corrective
measures are completed.
6. Document the identified hazard, action taken, and feasibility and completion of corrective
measures.
7. Notify the Commanding Officer, SID, of the hazard and corrective action taken, before
going end of watch.
8. Provide the employee reporting the hazard feedback and notification of the corrective
measures taken.
Hazard Correction
Unsafe or unhealthy work conditions shall be corrected in a timely manner based on the
severity of the hazards.
Should necessary corrective measures be delayed or lengthy in duration, committee
members shall complete a 5.2 to the Commanding Officer, SID, explaining the reason for
the delay, requests for repairs, persons notified, and the date the corrective measures are
expected to be completed.
A copy of the correspondence shall be inserted into a file maintained by the Safety
Committee chairperson. Upon completion of the repairs, a subsequent 15.2 shall be
generated to inform the Commanding Officer, SID, of the completed work. A copy of the
supplemental 15.2 shall be inserted into the aforementioned file.
REVISION DATE 08/03
131
Training and Instruction

All managers and supervisors shall provide job-specific safety and health guidelines to personnel
performing new jobs for which training has not been previously provided.
Whenever new substances, processes, procedures or equipment are introduced to the workplace
and present a new hazard, the unit supervisor shall provide training.
Supervisors shall become familiar with the safety and health hazards to which workers under
their immediate direction and control may be exposed to and provide training.
Provide a verbal explanation of the IIPP to all employees.
Keeping Records 1
Enter description of record keeping process and location of all records. Information about
recordable and non-recordable injuries is listed below.
Recordable Injuries
All occupational fatalities, regardless of the time between injury and death or the length of illness
are recordable injuries. It also includes all occupational illnesses, regardless of treatment or
severity (see the back of Log 300 for examples of occupational illnesses).
Examples of the occupational injuries:
1. Lost workdaya case in which the injury causes absence from work and/or restricted
work activity beyond the day of the injury. Time spent obtaining medical treatment is not
defined as lost time.
2. Injuries without lost workdays involving:
a) Absence from work and/or restricted work activity on the day of the injury only, other
than the time spent visiting the doctor or clinic.
b) Loss of consciousness.
c) Termination of employment.
1
The Criminalistics Laboratory Safety Manual is a comprehensive document that is applicable to all units within the
laboratory. Safety issues are also addressed in Section 7 of the Quality Assurance Program Manual. Safety issues
specific to a given unit within the laboratory are addressed in the Units Manual.
REVISION DATE 08/03
132
d) Permanent transfer to another job.

e) Medical treatment; Treatment administered by a physician or registered professional
personnel under the standing orders of a physician, but excluding first aid even
though provided by a physician or registered professional personnel. It includes:
--Two or more visits to a physician or
nurse for application of the same
treatment, except for observation or
change of a small dressing.
-- Antiseptics applied on second or
subsequent visit to a doctor or nurse.
-- Most treatments for second or third
degree burns.
--Butterfly sutures.
--Compresses, hot or cold, on second
or subsequent visit to a doctor or
nurse.
--Cutting away dead skin (surgical
debridement).
--Diathermy treatment.
--Foreign bodies, removal/embedded in

eye.
--Foreign bodies, if removal from
wound requires a physician due to
depth of embodiment or location of
wound.
--Infection, treatment for.
--Prescription medications.
--Soaking, hot or cold, on second or
subsequent visit.
--Sutures (stitches)
--Whirlpool treatment.
Non-recordable Injuries
First-aid treatment. The following are defined as first-aid treatment. Injuries involving only
these procedures are not recordable if they do not cause loss of consciousness, restriction of work
or motion, transfer to another job, or termination.
--Antiseptics, applied on first visit to a
doctor or nurse.
--Bandaging on any visit to a doctor or
nurse.
--Most treatments for first-degree
burns.
--Compresses, hot or cold, on first
visit to a doctor or nurse.
--Elastic bandage, applied on first visit
to a doctor or nurse.
--Foreign bodies in eyes, not

embedded, irrigation for removal.
--Foreign bodies, removal from wound
by tweezers or other simple
techniques.
--Nonprescription medications.
--Observation of injury on any visit.
--Ointment applied to abrasions to
prevent drying or cracking.
Other procedures not considered medical treatment. The following in themselves are not
considered as Medical treatment.
Tetanus shots and other preventive procedures.
Hospitalization for observation (no treatment other than first aid).
REVISION DATE 08/03
133
X-rays and other diagnostic procedures.
Injuries or illnesses that are not work-connected are not reportable for Cal/OSHA.
REVISION DATE 08/03
134
I have received, read and understand the Injury and Illness Prevention Program specifically
designed for the Criminalistics Laboratory/Piper Technical Center, Scientific Investigation
Division. I further understand that both general and specific safety policies are contained in the
Manual of the Los Angeles Police Department, and I have received a copy.
Print Full Name
Serial #
Employees Signature
Date
REVISION DATE 08/03
135
APPENDIX A
SAFETY MANUAL
APPENDIX A
Federal Register, December 6, 1991; Part II Department of Labor (29 CFR Part
1910.1030, 1910.1200, and 1910.1450)
California Code of Regulations. Title 8. Industrial Relations, Vol. 10
CAL/OSHA General Industry Safety Order 3203
City of Los Angeles Respiratory Protection Program
SID Order No. 2, December 5, 1990 Procedures for the Handling and Disposal of
Biohazardous Waste
California Radioactive Materials License, County of Los Angeles Department of Health

Services Public Health Programs and Services
Emergency (evacuation) Procedures Plan for Piper Technical Facility
Emergency (evacuation) Procedures Plan for Firearms Analysis Unit
Emergency (evacuation) Procedures Plan for Parker Center-4th floor
Emergency (evacuation) Procedures Plan for Valley Headquarters Building
Van Nuys Civic Center Emergency Phone List
Van Nuys Area Location of Companies- Los Angeles City Fire Department
Area Hospitals
Procedures for Opening Shelters During Local Emergencies
Other Important Phone Numbers
Safety Inspection Checklist and Training Guide
First Aid Station Checklist and Stations
Division Order No. 3-87, November 10, 1987 Safety Procedures for All SID Personnel
When Handling Possibly Contaminated Evidence in Lab or Field Settings
Notice, July 28, 1993. Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Protocol
136
APPENDIX A
Hepatitis Vaccine Informed Refusal
Occupational Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids, OSHA, City of Los Angeles
Employees Claim for Workers Compensation Benefits (Form 66-WC10 7/93)
Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens HIV & HBV Instructor Outline
J.T. Baker Hazard Communication and Right-To-Know Training Program
Scientific Investigation Division Injury and Illness Prevention Program (Valley area,
Piper Tech, Northeast Station annex, Parker Center as appropriate)
137

APPENDIX B
Unit/Location _____________________
Inspected by: __________________________________
Room No.: _______
Date: _________
Supervisor Approved: ___________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SAFETY INSPECTION CHECKLIST

HOODS/VENTILATION
SERVICES
Measure fume hood(s) flow draw.
OK
Is wiring in good condition, not frayed,

abraded or corroded?
YES
NO
Measure laminar flow and floor exhaust

draw stations (indicate
measurements/location on map).
OK
Check for overloaded circuits and unsafe

electrical cords in walkway.
OK
Test fume hood alarm.
OK
Check for inoperative lights at Exit signs,

bulbs indicator lights, etc.
OK
Is hood used for proper purposes?
YES
NO
Are there possible shock hazards from wet

areas, pipes, etc.?
YES
NO
Does fume hood sash(es) operate

properly?
YES
NO
Is hood free from clutter?
YES
NO
ENVIRONMENT
CHEMICAL STORAGE
Check chemical storage (proper labels,

containers and quantities).
OK
Are combustible materials kept a safe

distance from ovens (heat)?
YES
NO
Check overhead cabinets for unsafe

storage.
OK
Is combustible material kept to a minimum?
YES
NO
Check walkways for hazards.
OK
Are lab refrigerators free from food storage?
YES
NO
Check kneeholes for free access.
OK
Is chemical inventory current?
YES
NO
Check gas cylinder storage straps.
OK
Are expired chemicals disposed of or justified

for maintaining?
YES
NO
Are connections, and tubing in good

condition and used properly?
YES
NO
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Check doors for sticking handles, and

latches.
OK
RADIATION SAFETY
Are radiation film badges used?
YES
NO
WASTE AND CHEMICAL DISPOSAL
Check/restock first aid kit supplies.
OK
Test eyewash/eye shower stations.
OK
Check condition of fire extinguisher (indicate

date of service and location).
OK
Check exit signs for burnt out bulbs.
OK
OK
Are approved procedures used for

waste disposal (sharps, biohazard)?
YES
NO
Check the operation of internal escape

latches in freezer/refrigerator.
Are the approved procedures practiced

to prevent biohazard contamination?
YES
NO
Record pressure and condition of escape

respirators.
QA/QC Reviewed_______________________________
Date__________________________________
138
APPENDIX C
SAFETY INSPECTION TRAINING GUIDE

HOODS/VENTILATION
Place the Vaneometer inside the hood and pull the sash down approximately three-quarters closed. Take the reading
and record it on the checklist. If there is more than one hood, indicate locations on the map.
To measure the laminar flow, place the Vaneometer in front of the vent and record the reading and location on the
map.
To test the fume hood alarm, flip alarm switch to TEST. If operating properly, an alarm will sound. Flip the switch
back to SILENT.
The hood should be used for materials and evidence which are potentially hazardous or unpleasant in odor. It should
be used for equipment that needs venting; such as, hot plates, autoclave, etc.
The fume hood sash should be easy to lift up or down. It should completely close and not stick.
The hood should not be used to store dirty test tubes and empty bottles. Items in the hood should be accessible and
the hood should close easily.
ENVIROMENT
Overhead cabinets should be free of chemicals and glassware or anything that might be considered dangerous if it fell
out. Storage cabinets should be kept closed if not in use.
Walkways and kneeholes should be free of boxes and other hazards. Easy access to kneeholes and walkways is
essential in an earthquake or hasty escape.
Gas cylinder straps, connections and tubing should be in good condition to prevent equipment from falling over and/or
leaking.
Check door handles to ensure that they work properly and can be opened readily.
RADIATION SAFETY
Radiation film badges should be worn by all designated personnel and be changed monthly.
WASTE AND CHEMICAL DISPOSAL

All glass waste should be disposed of in appropriate containers and biological material should be disposed of in
biohazard bags.
Gloves, towels, or any other waste products that came into contact with biological material should also be disposed of
in the biohazards bags. Proper personal protective equipment shall be used when handling biological samples and
when dumping the biohazard containers. Every four days or when the biohazard bag is full, whichever is first, it shall
be double-bagged, tied-off and dumped into the biohazard receptacle.
SERVICES
Wiring should be in good condition; not frayed, bent, pulled tightly or corroded.
Check outlets for overloaded circuits and check walkways for exposed electrical cords.
Check for inoperative overhead lights, burnt-out indicator lights or other bulbs that are burnt-out.
Make sure that electrical equipment or other potential shock hazards are kept clear of sinks, faucets or other possible
wet areas.
CHEMICAL STORAGE
Make sure all chemical containers have identifying labels and hazards stickers. Make sure they are stored in the
appropriate locations and in minimum quantities.
All combustible materials should be kept to a minimum and be stored a safe distance from ovens or any other heat
source.
No food shall be kept in the laboratory refrigerators.
Audit chemical inventory, document expired chemicals and justification for keeping them.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Check and refill all first aid kits. The supply list should be on the inside cover of the box. Check the expiration dates.
Test all eyewash and shower stations. Unhook the horn and pull the shower handle using the sock and a bucket.
Test the eyewash stations by putting a beaker over each head, attaching a hose and bucket to the drain plug and
turning on the water flow. Unscrew the heads and clean filter if blockage of water flow occurs.
Check the date of service and location of the fire extinguishers.
Check exit signs for burnt-out bulbs and indicate location.
Check the operation of the internal latches on the freezer/refrigerator doors. They should be operable from the inside.
139

Check the pressure and condition of the escape respirators in units or hallways. Indicate locations.

140
APPENDIX C
APPENDIX D
Los Angeles Police Department

Scientific Investigation Division
Organizational Chart
Commanding Officer
Police Administrator I
Steve Johnson
Administrative
Unit
Technical
Laboratory
Criminalistics
Laboratory
Latent Prints
Unit
Photography
Unit
Quality Assurance/
Quality Control Unit
Administrative
Unit
Polygraph
Unit
Electronics
Unit
Forensic Analysis
Section
Scientific Analysis
Section
141

SAFETY Manual Complete

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Los Angeles Police Department

Scientific Investigation Division

Reviewed By: __________________________________

Quality Assurance/Quality Control Manager

Chief Forensic Chemist I, Forensic Analysis

Chief Forensic Chemist II, Laboratory Director

LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY GENERAL SAFETY

Safety Program Organization and Responsibilities

Routes of Hazardous Materials Exposure and Protective Measures

Evidence Handling Procedures

Chemical Hazards and Storage Precautions

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)

Instrumentation , Equipment and Firearms Hazards

Laboratory Experiment Safety

Title 8 Training Requirements

Crime Scene and Field Call Safety

First Aid Recommendations

Records and Recordkeeping

REVISION DATE 10/20/03

LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CONTROL PLAN

Responsibility for the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan

Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan

HAZARD COMMUNICATION PROGRAM

Criminalistics Laboratory Written Hazard Communication Plan

Criminalistics Laboratory Compliance Program

Criminalistics Laboratory Inventory Control Program

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)

Employee Information and Training

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TO HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS IN

History of the OSHA Laboratory Standard

Summary of OSHAs Health and Safety Standards; Occupational Exposure to

Role of the Chemical Hygiene Plan

Chemical Hygiene Plan Coverage

Description of Criminalistics Laboratory

Description of Criminalistics Laboratory Activities

Responsibilities for the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP)

Personnel Responsible for Implementing the Chemical Hygiene Plan

Responsibilities of Each Employee

REVISION DATE 10/20/03

LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

Chemical Hygiene and Safety Plan

General Standard Operating Procedures

Procedure-Specific Safety Procedures

Control Measures and Equipment

Special Procedures for Carcinogens

Criteria for Control Measures

Corrosivity and Contact Hazards

Exposure Evaluations and Medical Consultations

Suspected Exposures to Toxic Substances

EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING

Training Under 29 CFR 1910.1450

Evaluate the Training Programs Effectiveness

LIST AND LOCATIONS OF AVAILABLE SAFETY REFERENCES AND

REVISION DATE 10/20/03

LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

LAPD INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM

REVISION DATE 10/20/03

LAPD SID CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY SAFETY MANUAL

CRIMINALISTICS LABORATORY GENERAL SAFETY

SAFETY PROGRAM ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Laboratory Director is ultimately responsible for the overall

The Laboratory Director has designated the Quality Assurance