Hazardous Materials Policy and Procedures

Summary

This policy outlines the procedures to purchase, store, handle, and dispose of hazardous materials. In addition, it provides information about the Employee Right to Know Act of 1983 with regards to handling hazardous or toxic materials.

I. Hazardous Materials Policy And Procedures

The University subscribes without exception to the laws of the State of Missouri and the United States with respect to the purchase, storage, handling and disposal of all hazardous materials. Staff and faculty who knowingly violate these laws and statutory requirements are advised that they are not only endangering themselves and the Maryville community, but are subject to personal liability. In the event a question arises regarding the purchase, storage, handling or disposal of these materials, employees are encouraged to contact either the Human Resources Office or a member of the Hazardous Materials and Safety and Environment Committee for assistance.

All hazardous materials are to be stored and handled in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Where necessary, fume hoods, safety gear and other precautions must be employed.

The University maintains a contract with a licensed disposal firm for the removal and destruction of hazardous materials from University property. Departments are individually responsible for the charges which are associated with the removal and processing of all hazardous materials.

Any employee, who violates this policy or any laws or regulations pertaining to hazardous materials, unless such violation occurs despite reasonable reliance upon advice given by the University, shall be deemed to have acted outside the scope of the employee’s authority.

II. Employee’s Right To Know

The Employee Right to Know Act of 1983 defines handling procedures for working with and handling hazardous and toxic chemicals. The following summarizes the provisions of the Act:

Provides for occupational safety and health; Defines “hazardous substance”;
Defines “harmful physical agent”;
Requires employers using hazardous substances and harmful physical agents to provide employees with certain training information.
Requires that hazardous substances and harmful physical agents may be labeled under certain circumstances; Creates a right to refuse to work under conditions violating the state Occupancy Safety and Health Act.
Creates a right to refuse to work with a hazardous substance or harmful physical agent under certain conditions; and provides penalties.