>> >I can empathize with this researcher.... I work with Hydrogen, CO, and O2 in the lab and did not consider the issue with fires.... I will conduct a SAP review and modify our current working conditions. I teach a safety course and work closely with SAChE but and aware of the LFL and UFL of H2... we as researchers get tunnel vision.

I've had three conversations with chemists in the last couple of months that emphasize this point. They ask me about the safety and reactivities of the molecules they're using in very small quantities, but aren't concerned about the fire and other hazards of the solvents and other chemicals they use as tools to conduct the work with. After all, they've been using those chemicals since first year chemistry...

There is a significant challenge in developing a balanced overall risk perception for chemists in the laboratory setting. I'm not clear how to address this issue.

- Ralph

Ralph Stuart
secretary**At_Symbol_Here**dchas.org
Secretary
Division of Chemical Health and Safety
American Chemical Society

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