Surveys, process hazard review

Preventive Medicine Activity (MIRADCOM). This operation surveys all processes and procedures for medical safety. They review (and approve in selected instances) standard operating procedures. Laboratories are surveyed for toxic chemical levels. Also, chemical procedures are monitored to determine the level of exposure to toxic substances. They perform annual physical examinations on all personnel involved in hazardous operations or exposed to hazardous chemicals. Medical histories are maintained. Techniques of emergency treatment for both standard and unusual incidents are kept updated. 

Chapter 1 is used to review the history of polyethylene, to survey quintessential features and nomenclatures for this versatile polymer and to introduce transition metal catalysts (the most important catalysts for industrial polyethylene). Free radical polymerization of ethylene and organic peroxide initiators are discussed in Chapter 2. Also in Chapter 2, hazards of organic peroxides and high pressure processes are briefly addressed. Transition metal catalysts are essential to production of nearly three quarters of all polyethylene manufactured and are described in Chapters 3, 5 and 6. Metal alkyl cocatalysts used with transition metal catalysts and their potentially hazardous reactivity with air and water are reviewed in Chapter 4. Chapter 7 gives an overview of processes used in manufacture of polyethylene and contrasts the wide range of operating conditions characteristic of each process. Chapter 8 surveys downstream aspects of polyethylene (additives, rheology, environmental issues, etc.). However, topics in Chapter 8 are complex and extensive subjects unto themselves and detailed discussions are beyond the scope of an introductory text. 

The cornerstone of a sound program for prudent laboratory practices is a process designed to comprehensively review the operations and potential hazards associated with each experiment over its life cycle. This review should take place before any work is conducted. The diverse nature of research and development activities makes it advisable to have such a process in place as part of the scientific method of experimentation. In laboratories where this preliminary survey is routinely practiced, it has proved to be useful in both the maintenance of safe laboratory operations and the minimization of chemical exposure and waste generation. Because of the diversity of types of researchers and laboratory work, such processes— both formal and informal—can help individuals associated with new, modified, or unfamiliar experiments or procedures to plan and work safely, responsibly, and productively. By first evaluating the work area, materials, equipment, and procedures in depth, hidden hazards may be identified and addressed. The pre-experiment review process can also help to ensure that every experiment and laboratory operation complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and other policies. Moreover, by addressing all relevant health, safety, and environmental issues when an experiment is first conceived, further research, scale-up, or development based on it can be made safer and more effective. 

Methodical surveys are conducted periodically and drive appropriate corrective action. Initial surveys are conducted by a qualified professional. Cnrrent hazard analyses are documented for all work areas and are commnnicated and available to all the workforce knowledgeable persons review all planned/changed/new facilities, processes, materials, or equipment. 

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