Examples

The scenarios outlined here are designed to illustrate how the actual workflow would function in the colloids labs.

Simple sample preparation

A researcher wants to dissolve 10 mg of polymer (PVP) in a 10 mL of flammable solvent (propan-2-ol) and wants to leave the reaction overnight.

  1. read the MSDSs for the polymer and solvent
  2. fill in a Risk Assessment / Experiment in Progress form, signing it
  3. a COSHH Special RA is not required and neither is a supervisor's signature on this procedure
  4. paste one copy into the lab book as the risk assessment for the procedure
  5. put the other copy in a prominent place next to the reaction
  6. ... lab work ...
  7. once finished, keep the form for the next time this procedure has to be performed

Routine characterisation

A sample of surfactant (SDS) that was recently purchased is to be checked by NMR in D2O solution.

  1. similar characterisation of surfactants by NMR has been done before by this researcher
  2. get out the previously filled in risk assessment for this and double check it is appropriate
  3. the researcher refreshes her memory of any risks that were identified
  4. in the lab book, the page number where the previous risk assessment is to be found is noted
  5. ... lab work ...
  6. the form is filed again for next time

Synthesis

A new student wants to polymerise styrene. Styrene is flammable, toxic and a suspected carcinogen.

  1. read the MSDSs for the monomer, solvent and initiator
  2. fill in a Risk Assessment / Experiment in Progress form, signing it
  3. on the back (COSHH assessment), none of the risk phrases indicate that a COSHH Special Assessment is required and it is not listed as a category 1 or 2 carcinogen.
  4. the risks involved and the inexperience of the researcher indicate that the supervisor should sign off on the assessment, which is then done
  5. paste one copy into the lab book as the risk assessment for the procedure
  6. put the other copy in a prominent place next to the reaction
  7. ... lab work ...
  8. once finished, keep the form for the next time this procedure has to be performed