Risk Analysis of Laboratory Bench Top Processes to Ensure Safety in Smart Laboratories
Lisa Mahar, CIH, CSP, RN, University of California (UC), Irvine
In 2011, UC Irvine began the ambitious project of installing a centralized demand-control ventilation (CDCV) system in seven of its largest research facilities. The goal was to reduce the general laboratory ventilation in these buildings from the current rate, estimated at six to 12 air changes per hour (ACH) to four ACH when occupied and two ACH when unoccupied. The CDCV system would use a suite of sensors to monitor carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, particulate, and volatile organic compound levels, and increase ACH as required to reduce contaminant levels below threshold levels. Fume hood function would remain unaffected by the project.
Recognizing that the CDCV system is not capable of detecting all contaminants, UCI Environmental Health and Safety began collecting data regarding bench top research activities that involved the use of highly toxic, carcinogenic or reproductive toxins that could affect researchers via inhalation. The resulting data would be used to determine whether it was appropriate to reduce the general ventilation rate in a particular laboratory, and to determine whether quantitative exposure studies should be conducted.
Biography:
Lisa Mahar is the Senior Manager, Occupational Health and Energy Programs in the Environmental Health and Safety Office at the University of California (UC), Irvine. Ms. Mahar is a Certified Industrial Hygienist, Certified Safety Professional, and Registered Nurse. She has over 25 years of health and safety experience working for industries in aerospace, chemical, and petroleum, including 9 years at UC Irvine. She is a member of the UC Irvine Energy Team and works closely with Facilities Management to ensure that safety is addressed in Smart Lab projects such as centralized demand controlled ventilation and high-performance hoods.