Many chemical substances have hazardous properties that that could cause adverse events such as explosions, fire, health disorders, and environmental pollution.This is particularly true at universities where advanced research is being conducted. Additionally, universities sometimes handle chemical substances whose dangers and hazards are unknown.
In Japan, chemical substances are regulated by multiple laws. For example, substances that are toxic to the human body are regulated under the Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Act. Substances that could pose a risk of fire or explosion are regulated under the Fire Service Act and are defined as "Hazardous Materials". It is important to remember that chemical substances must be considered from various aspects, such as the need to handle and monitor exposure to them in ways to prevent health disorders and the fact that they are potential environmental pollutants.
The Environmental Safety Center provides guidance to students, faculty, and staff members who handle chemical substances. The Center also holds seminars on handling chemical substances to develop human resources that can appropriately handle chemical substances and promote effective chemical substance management.
In 2012, we prepared the "Chemical Substances Handling Manual at the University (For guidance) " as a student textbook. The content explains the university's chemical substance management regulations and handling guidelines. Please download and use it from the following link.