Module 10 - Emergency devices

Module 10.1 - Learning objectives

• Have a basic knowledge of common emergency devices within a lab setting
• Be familiar with how these devices function

Module 10.2 - Emergency devices

While everything is planned to proceed under normal and safe circumstances, there are situations that must be prepared for. There are different types of emergency devices within lab spaces, including:

Fume hood purge buttons 

Upon activation, a temporary increase in face velocity within the fume hood is activated and is intended to assist in clearing contaminants. Note that not all fume hoods are equipped with a purge button; therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself with the fume hood that you will be working in.

Emergency showers

Provide a steady flow of water (75.7 litres per minute) for at least 15 minutes. New facilities (for example, in STEM and ARC) are supplied with tepid water, while historical units elsewhere on campus are supplied with cold water. If exposed to chemical products, it is generally recommended to douse the affected area(s) with copious amounts of water to flush the contaminated surfaces for at least 15 minutes. It is critical that contaminated clothing be removed while under the shower. There is no time for modesty when dealing with strong corrosives. In certain buildings with cold water units, there are warm-up showers in the washrooms, which are to be used for the sole purpose of post-exposure emergency response. Shower activations are immediately and automatically reported to Protection Services. Emergency showers are activated by pulling the handle located overhead.

Emergency eyewashes

Provide a steady flow of water (1.5 litres per minute) for at least 15 minutes. As with emergency showers, flushing with water is a critical early intervention. Because these units are more easily managed, lab users are required to regularly inspect their emergency eyewashes in accordance with the type of facility (tepid water stations require weekly inspections, whereas cold water stations require monthly inspections). An eyewash checklist (PDF, 483KB) is available to guide users during this inspection. There are several types of eyewashes on campus, which have slightly differing means of activation. Ensure you familiarize yourself with how the units nearest you operate.

Spill kits

Any space on campus that stores hazardous materials (solvents, oils, acids, bases, etc.) or has equipment that could release hazardous materials in the event of a malfunction (e.g., fuel storage tanks) requires a spill kit. The Office of the Chief Risk Officer supplies laboratories with universal spill kits, typically yellow spill kits capable of cleaning up a 4-litre spill. Specialty spill kits for unique hazards (e.g., mercury and hydrofluoric acid) may be required. The Office of the Chief Risk Officer also offers Spill Response Training free of charge.

First aid kits

Provide supplies for initial basic first aid care. Protection Services, the University of Ottawa Student Emergency Response Team (UOSERT) and designated first aiders provide support to persons requiring first aid. The Office of the Chief Risk Officer offers training in standard first aid to designated first aiders (free of charge) and members of the University community. 

Fire extinguishers

Located in all laboratory spaces, most extinguishers are universal class ABC dry powder extinguishers, meaning they are suitable for most types of fire expected in a laboratory. Nevertheless, a special extinguisher may be required for reactive metals. Fire extinguishers are provided through Protection Services and the Fire Prevention Coordinator. All extinguisher use must be reported to Protection Services.

Panic buttons

Devices that, when activated, immediately alert Protection Services of an emergency. A specific protocol will be put into action upon activation of a panic button. The buttons may be stationary (e.g., fixed to a wall or equipment) or mobile (e.g., on a chain or necklace).