Chemical Exposures

Always call 911 for a medical emergency. Please note that all lab staff should know the physical address of the building and lab room number. It is recommended that this information or the EH&S’s Emergency Information Sheet be posted near the lab’s phone.

Hazardous (Chemical, Radioactive or Biological) Material Splashed in Eye:

• Immediately flush with gently flowing, potable water for at least 15 minutes. Use emergency eyewash to do this if available.
• Forcibly hold eye open to ensure effective rinsing behind eyelids. Have injured worker move eye side-to-side and up-down during rinsing. Remove contact lenses.
• Report incident to supervisor and EH&S (352) 392-1591.
• Always obtain medical attention for a hazardous material splash to the eye. The injured employee and supervisor must contact UF’s medical case management vendor, AmeriSys, by calling 1-800-455-2079. Treatment for any non-life threatening work-related injury or illness must be authorized by AmeriSys prior to obtaining medical treatment.

Chemical Spill On Body:

• Do not attempt to wipe chemicals off clothes. Quickly go to the safety shower or other water source. Remove contaminated clothes, shoes, jewelry, etc while rinsing.
• Flood exposed area with running water for at least 15 minutes.
• Place contaminated clothing in a plastic bag and dispose of as hazardous waste.
• Review the chemical’s Safety Data Sheet or call Poison Information Center (800) 222-1222 to determine if any delayed/systemic effects could be expected (e.g. phenol).
• Report incident to supervisor and EH&S at (352) 392-1591.
• Obtain medical attention as required or if any evidence of chemical burns. The injured employee and supervisor must contact UF’s medical case management vendor, AmeriSys, by calling 1-800-455-2079. Treatment for any non-life threatening work-related injury or illness must be authorized by AmeriSys prior to obtaining medical treatment.

Workers’ Compensation information can be found on UF’s HR website.