Examples
Quick links
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.
- read the MSDSs for the polymer and solvent
- fill in a Risk Assessment / Experiment in Progress form, signing it
- a COSHH Special RA is not required and neither is a supervisor's signature on this procedure
- paste one copy into the lab book as the risk assessment for the procedure
- put the other copy in a prominent place next to the reaction
- ... lab work ...
- 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.
- similar characterisation of surfactants by NMR has been done before by this researcher
- get out the previously filled in risk assessment for this and double check it is appropriate
- the researcher refreshes her memory of any risks that were identified
- in the lab book, the page number where the previous risk assessment is to be found is noted
- ... lab work ...
- the form is filed again for next time
Synthesis
A new student wants to polymerise styrene. Styrene is flammable, toxic and a suspected carcinogen.
- read the MSDSs for the monomer, solvent and initiator
- fill in a Risk Assessment / Experiment in Progress form, signing it
- 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.
- the risks involved and the inexperience of the researcher indicate that the supervisor should sign off on the assessment, which is then done
- paste one copy into the lab book as the risk assessment for the procedure
- put the other copy in a prominent place next to the reaction
- ... lab work ...
- once finished, keep the form for the next time this procedure has to be performed