AHCES Blog

  Definition of DOT Class 6: Poisonous and Infectious Substance Materials Class 6 covers poisonous and infectious substance materials. The formal definition for 6.1 poisonous materials can be found at 49 CFR 173.132 and the formal definition for 6.2 infectious substances can be found at 49 CFR 173.134 . Class 6 Divisions Class 6 materials are grouped into two divisions. Division 6.1 Division 6.1 materials are poisonous materials, which can be toxic to humans through the exposure routes of oral toxicity, dermal toxicity, and/or inhalation toxicity. Division 6.2 Division 6.2 materials are infectious substances, consisting of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. Division 6.2 materials are further subdivided into Category A and Category B substances. Category A substances can cause long-term, permanent injury or life-threatening illness. Category B substances do not have a risk of causing long-term, permanent injury or life-threatening illness.

  An Introduction to the Written Hazard Communication Program A Written Hazard Communication Program (WHCP) is a technical and regulatory document that is used to describe how the criteria for compliance with OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) are being met by an employer. The full text for the Hazard Communication Standard can be found at 29 CFR 1910.1200 and the requirements for the Written Hazard Communication Program are found at 1910.1200(e) . What is a Written Hazard Communication Program (WHCP)? The WHCP is a written document which describes how an employer will meet the requirements for labels and other forms of warning, safety data sheets, and employee information and training that are necessary at the workplace. The WHCP must also contain a list of the hazardous chemicals known to be present in the workplace and the methods the employer will use to inform employees of hazards associated with non-routine tasks. The WHCP has important additions if there a multi-emp

  Definition of DOT Class 5: Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide Materials Class 5 covers oxidizers and organic peroxides. The formal definition for 5.1 oxidizers can be found at 49 CFR 173.127 and the formal definition for 5.2 organic peroxides can be found at 49 CFR 173.128 . Class 5 Divisions Class 5 materials are grouped into two divisions. Division 5.1 Division 5.1 materials are oxidizers, meaning materials that can increase the potency of a fire. This mechanism is typically associated with the release of oxygen by decomposition. Division 5.2 Division 5.2 materials are organic peroxides, containing the bivalent -O-O- structure. These materials are further subdivided into 7 types (A-G) depending on if they can detonate, deflagrate, and/or undergo a thermal explosion. Relationship Between Class 5 and OSHA Hazard Classifications Division 5.1 materials overlap with the OSHA Physical Hazard classifications of Oxidizing Liquids and Oxidizing Solids depending on their ph

   What is Lauric Acid? Lauric acid, also known as dodecanoic acid, is a saturated fatty acid which is solid at room temperature. Lauric acid is a major component in both coconut oil and palm kernel oil. Lauric acid has the CAS Number 143-07-7. The CAS Number is used to identify lauric acid as an ingredient on safety data sheets (SDS) and other safety documentation. When looking for lauric acid as an ingredient in products, look for the CAS Number within the composition table. Notable Properties of Lauric Acid Lauric acid is a solid at room temperature, white in color, with minimal odor described as either soap or bay oil. What Makes Lauric Acid Hazardous? Pure lauric acid is corrosive and an irritant; it can cause serious eye damage and irritation as well as skin irritation. Some sources also indicate that lauric acid can be harmful to the environment. Due to being a carbon-based substance and solid at room temperature, lauric acid can also form combustible dusts a