Exposure Assessment

If you have been exposed to a hazardous chemical, biological or radiological agent, notify your supervisor immediately. The claim must also be reported to Corvel (1-866-245-8588) using the nurse triage line where you can be directed to medical care if needed.

Concerns about exposures to chemicals or other hazardous agents should be reported the Office of Research Safety Affairs (901.448.6114). The Office of Research Safety Affairs will work to characterize employee exposures to hazardous agents and prescribe an appropriate set of controls (engineering controls, work practices, PPE) to ensure personnel exposure does not exceed the occupational exposure limit.

Exposure assessment is sometimes necessary for safety regulation compliance. For these cases, the Office of Research Safety Affairs may contact work area supervisors to schedule an assessment of chemical handling practices and exposure scenarios. These exposure assessments will be documented with records retained by the Office of Research Safety Affairs.

Examples of chemicals that may require exposure assessment:

• Formaldehyde or formalin
• Waste anesthetic gas (e.g. isoflurane)
• Methylene Chloride
• Hexane
• Methyl methacrylate
• Other volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Lead
• Chromium
• Mercury

Employees who are or may become pregnant may be particularly concerned about exposure to hazardous chemicals. It is sometimes – but not always – possible for their supervisor to assign them to job responsibilities with lower potential for exposure to hazardous chemicals. Concerned employees are encouraged to contact the Office of Research Safety Affairs for a review of work practices and controls.