University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
Hazardous Material Chemical Management Plan

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Chemical Hygiene Plan

Each Department or Unit that handles chemicals is required to develop a chemical safety procedure for employees.  In the Laboratory Setting, this is referred to as the Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP) -- a written program developed and implemented by the employer which sets forth procedures, equipment, personal protective equipment and work practices.  For uniformity, the term Chemical Hygiene Plan will be used in all units handling chemicals.

The CHP must be readily available to employees, students, and contractors, and will:

• Provide information and instructions that protect employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in that particular workplace;
• Provide processes and procedures intended to minimize chemical exposures;
• Indicate specific measures that the employer will take to ensure employee are protected from unnecessary exposure;
• Define standard operating procedures to ensure safety and health considerations are followed when work involves the use of hazardous chemicals;
• Require fume hoods and other protective equipment are periodically checked to ensure proper operation and employees are aware of their proper use;
• Be readily available to employees, students, and inspectors.

A model CHP is available from the Environmental Health and Safety Office.