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From other websitesContent disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Chemicals are used in the home every day. They include cleaning fluids, plant food, paint and fuels. Homes even contain chemicals within plastics used for insulation and flooring. Getting to know the labels on chemical products will help protect you and your family from harm. Cleaning products like bleach, oven sprays, liquid laundry capsules and toilet cleaners are chemicals. So are paints, glues,
oils, pesticides and medicines. Most of the chemicals you use at home aren’t dangerous if you use them properly. However, some chemicals need more careful handling than others. Some chemicals are particularly attractive to children or can be confused as food or drink if they are not stored in their original containers and safely out of reach. Labels can help you identify the more hazardous chemicals, tell you what the dangers are and advise how to use them safely. Recognising chemicalsMost chemical products carry hazard symbols telling you whether a substance is harmful and in what way. You might see one or more symbols on a single product. There are nine chemical product symbols. More detailed information on chemical symbols is available from the Health and Safety Executive for NI (HSENI).
Chemical products will also usually have information about safely using the product – it’s important to read and follow this advice. Sometimes, labels will give details of the supplier so you can get further advice. MedicinesMedicines are specialist chemicals. They won’t carry the symbols above but can be harmful if taken in the wrong quantities or by children, who may mistake them for sweets. Like other chemicals they should be:
Using hazardous chemical products safely Always read the warning label and follow the instructions. It’s also advisable to follow these guidelines:
Storing and disposing of chemical products safelySafely store chemicals by following the storage instructions on the label. In most cases, you should:
If a product is leaking, expired or looks bad, you should dispose of it. Never pour products down the drain unnecessarily – remember that your drainage ends up in seas and rivers. Instead:
Contact with a toxic substanceIf you or a member of your family may have swallowed or come into contact with a potentially toxic chemical, you must seek medical advice. Remember to provide a full description of the product and describe any symbols or guidance from the manufacturer detailed on the bottle or package. More useful links
What is the best source of information in which to find the precautions that should be taken when handling substances that contains chemicals?The SDS includes information such as the properties of each chemical; the physical, health, and environmental health hazards; protective measures; and safety precautions for handling, storing, and transporting the chemical.
How can you determine precautions that should be followed while using a hazardous chemical?Follow these safety precautions:. Carefully read the ingredient list of any product or chemical you use. ... . Purchase the proper personal protective equipment like gloves or goggles. ... . Be aware of the hazardous materials you come in contact with. ... . Follow safe procedures when you handle hazardous material.. How can workers get information about the chemicals in a product?Chemical manufacturers, distributors, or importers must provide an SDS in a uniform 16-section format that details a product's hazards. If a shipment does not come with an SDS, contact the manufacturer. Each chemical in the workplace must have an SDS that employees can access in their work area.
Which practice help prevent injuries to the wrist when using the computer keyboard for extended periods of time?Use a foam pad or towel in front of your keyboard to rest your wrists and forearms while you're not typing. Because you want your arms free to move your hands around the keyboard while typing, you should only use armrests on your chair when you're not typing.
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