Hazardous Material Master Planning: A Valuable Investment To Improve Stakeholder Collaboration

Abstract

This article presents the construct and value of a hazardous material master plan for all laboratory stakeholders. Several common challenges of laboratory design and laboratory operation are discussed, including recommendations on how using a hazardous material master plan can reduce conflict and address these common challenges. Major topical areas to be included in such a master plan are suggested as well as how to construct and maintain a master plan throughout the building’s life cycle.

Introduction to a Virtual Special Issue: Safe Lab Design

“…This includes the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)-45 Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals, and the International Building Code (IBC) and attendant International Fire Code (IFC). Lebowitz proposes the use of a Hazardous Material Master Plan to be the basis of design of all laboratory protective systems, which brings the information into a single location for operators, EHS professionals, lab designers, and maintenance personnel to reference. This includes identifying all the building and fire code requirements that affect the design of a laboratory.…”