Hazardous Substances

What are the requirements for using hazardous substances?
What is an MSDS?
Where can I find an MSDS? (Chem Alert)
What if I can't find an MSDS on Chem Alert?
How do I get a new MSDS into Chem Alert?
How do I manage my stock inventory?
What are the requirements for working with carcinogenic substances?
Managing hazardous waste
Managing dangerous goods

What are the requirements for using hazardous substances?

The University has developed guidelines for the safe use of hazardous substances. These guidelines outline:

Responsibilities
Hazardous substances register
Material safety data sheets
Labelling
Hazardous substances risk assessment [doc-82kb]
Risk control strategies
Storage of hazardous substances
Health surveillance and monitoring

Download the Working With Hazardous Substances Guidelines [pdf-390kb]

What is an MSDS?

A Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a document which outlines specific health and safety information about the substance. Information includes:

Whether the substance is classified as hazardous
Chemical aspects of the substance
First aid advice
Risk controls to prevent injury

Where can I find an MSDS? (Chem Alert)

UOW utilises the online chemical database Chem Alert to access Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and record maximum stock levels as required by hazardous substances and dangerous goods legislation.

Chem Alert has an extensive collection of MSDS's within its library which is available to all staff and students of the University at: Chem Alert 2 Intranet

Off campus access is available at Chem Alert via UOW Library

Chem Alert setup requirements :

Macintosh - Mozillla Firefox
Windows - Internet Explorer (IE)

Browser proxy settings are to be configured as per UOW web proxy configuration

Browser Pop up blockers are required to allow popups from Chem Alert (add rmt.com.au to Popup Blocker/Manager via Tools menu).

What if I can't find an MSDS on Chem Alert?

Although there is an extensive library of MSDS on Chem Alert you may not find the MSDS with your initial search.

Firstly, check your search parameters.

Change the search function to "contains" or break up the substance name into parts and select 'Add to search list'
Search by ingredient or Manufacturer/Supplier

How do I get a new MSDS into Chem Alert?

If you have purchased a new chemical or have an existing chemical which is not available on Chem Alert, request a soft copy of the MSDS from the supplier and send it by email to the OHS Unit . If you have the supplier's original MSDS in hard copy form only then fax (ext 5361) or mail a copy to the OHS Unit.

If you are unable to contact the supplier please complete the Chemical Listing for Chem Alert and send by email to the OHS Unit .

Chem Alert will add an MSDS to the library within 48 hours.

How do I manage my stock inventory?

If you need to manage chemical stock in the database for your area, eg add a new chemical or modify the quantities for an existing item, you will need a user account. Please contact the OHS Unit on 3528 for assistance.

Training is provided on the key aspects of Chem Alert. Click here for details : OHS Training Courses

What are the requirements for working with carcinogenic substances?

The OH&S Regulation 2001 outlines specific carcinogenic substances which require notification and control prior to use. The University has developed the Use of Carcinogenic Chemicals Guidelines to help outline the necessary precautions when using these substances.

Download the Use of Carcinogenic Chemicals Guidelines [pdf-203kb]

Download WorkCovers Work involving Use of Carcinogenic Substances - Notification Form