a typical Wednesday in the life of a CHRP Candidate

CI #36 – Chemical Exposure

Joe Simpson is a professor of Chemistry at Canada University, an institution known for research excellence in the field of chemical engineering.

Joe was working with a chemical substance called dimethyl mercury. As he was performing a research experiment some of the dimethyl mercury leaked through his latex glove and he received direct skin exposure to this chemical agent. This leakage is called “break through”.

The professor died a few days later after this relatively brief exposure to the substance. What should the organization have done to prevent this fatality?

A) The ventilation in the lab should have been increased so that the substance would evaporate inside the broken glove. The University should invest in better ventilation immediately.

B) The professor should have known about the hazards of the chemical through WHMIS and his own technical knowledge and e should have taken appropriate measures. The University needs to ensure that all persons working with dangerous materials are properly trained.

C) The barriers to exposure should be improved.

D) The University should develop a fast acting emergency plan to deal with every type of potential chemical exposure in the research program at Canada University. In addition, investigate the possibility of implementing WHMIS training for all employees.

Because I just got 82% on my practice exam, I am in a generous mood and I will buy a drink for the first non-HR person who can tell me what the “optimal solution” is, and why. L, if you are reading this, I hope your studying is strategic and that it is in line with your overall objectives.