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Dean  
View profile  
 More options May 3 2012, 4:36 pm
From: Dean <dean.bar...@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 3 May 2012 13:36:49 -0700 (PDT)
Local: Thurs, May 3 2012 4:36 pm
Subject: Chemical Storage
 
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Andy Hayward  
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 More options May 3 2012, 4:43 pm
From: Andy Hayward <a...@buteo.org>
Date: Thu, 3 May 2012 21:43:11 +0100
Local: Thurs, May 3 2012 4:43 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage
On 3 May 2012 21:36, Dean <dean.bar...@gmail.com> wrote:

Sigh.

I've got spare chipboard here; if someone can measure up the shelf
size I'll bring a new shelf or two down next week.

-- Andy


 
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Dean  
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 More options May 3 2012, 4:51 pm
From: Dean <dean.bar...@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 3 May 2012 13:51:42 -0700 (PDT)
Local: Thurs, May 3 2012 4:51 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

I think Paul's already bought one, I'm sure a second wouldn't hurt though.


 
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Ryan .  
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 More options May 3 2012, 7:55 pm
From: "Ryan ." <ry.wh...@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 4 May 2012 00:55:49 +0100
Local: Thurs, May 3 2012 7:55 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage
HEHEHEH

i'm just glad no one was hurt... that seems like it could be pretty
nasty to get on your skin.

Thanks for sorting that paul, I'm out of town 'til monday-tuesdayish,
but I'll see it then :)


 
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Alex  
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 More options May 4 2012, 7:18 pm
From: Alex <alex...@btinternet.com>
Date: Sat, 5 May 2012 00:18:46 +0100 (BST)
Local: Fri, May 4 2012 7:18 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Ouch! (at least nothing other than shelves were harmed here).

A couple of questions:

1. what on earth was in the containers to go through a shelf like that?

2. can I nick at least one of the pics to put on the yoof/ravers site I help run as a cautionary warning as there is a contingent of folk there who are increasingly becoming interested in stuff like hackspaces and the like (I can keep quiet about exactly where it came from to protect the guilty if you so wish).

Alex

________________________________
 From: Andy Hayward <a...@buteo.org>
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Sent: Thursday, 3 May 2012, 21:43
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

On 3 May 2012 21:36, Dean <dean.bar...@gmail.com> wrote:

Sigh.

I've got spare chipboard here; if someone can measure up the shelf
size I'll bring a new shelf or two down next week.

-- Andy


 
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Ed Pinkney  
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 More options May 4 2012, 7:20 pm
From: Ed Pinkney <yenk...@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 5 May 2012 00:20:39 +0100
Local: Fri, May 4 2012 7:20 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The bottle was labelled as 0.3 Molar HCl


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 4 2012, 7:28 pm
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 5 May 2012 00:28:44 +0100
Local: Fri, May 4 2012 7:28 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The container contains HCl for PCB etching. It was, originally tripple
bagged and tucked out the way. Unfortunately it got unpacked onto the
normal shelves. I'm guessing someone fiddled with it, to cause it to leak,
but that's only a guess.

Suffice to say, I'll have a proper chemical cupboard set up with proper
tracking and precedure early next week.

I've no issue taking most of the blame, I had noted the potential issue,
but hadn't gotten around to sorting it properly.

Paul
On May 5, 2012 12:18 AM, "Alex" <alex...@btinternet.com> wrote:

> Ouch! (at least nothing other than shelves were harmed here).

> A couple of questions:

> 1. what on earth was in the containers to go through a shelf like that?

> 2. can I nick at least one of the pics to put on the yoof/ravers site I

help run as a cautionary warning as there is a contingent of folk there who
are increasingly becoming interested in stuff like hackspaces and the like
(I can keep quiet about exactly where it came from to protect the guilty if
you so wish).


 
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Stuart Livings  
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 More options May 5 2012, 6:03 am
From: Stuart Livings <stu...@livings.co.uk>
Date: Sat, 05 May 2012 11:03:01 +0100
Local: Sat, May 5 2012 6:03 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage
On 5/5/2012 12:28 AM, cynar blackmane wrote:

> The container contains HCl for PCB etching. It was, originally tripple
> bagged and tucked out the way. Unfortunately it got unpacked onto the
> normal shelves. I'm guessing someone fiddled with it, to cause it to
> leak, but that's only a guess.

I like using glass containers for HCl, they're strong and don't tend to
degrade or go weak and brittle like plastic containers.  Obviously you
need to make sure they don't get dropped :)

Stuart


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 5 2012, 9:24 am
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 5 May 2012 14:24:11 +0100
Local: Sat, May 5 2012 9:24 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The container it's in is the original one it came in, so it should still be
good.

Either way, hopefully I should have it all set up on Monday.
On May 5, 2012 11:03 AM, "Stuart Livings" <stu...@livings.co.uk> wrote:


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 6 2012, 4:40 am
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 09:40:01 +0100
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 4:40 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Just thought I would give people a quick update on what I'm setting up at
the hackspace to resolve this. If anyone has any additional ideas/feedback,
let me know.

I've already brought a metal cabinet for use as a chemical cupboard. I've
also got a large plastic box, that should fit, for anytihng that might
attack the metal. This should keep all spills contained with little/no
damage. I'm also going to mark out areas in the cabinet for different sorts
of chemicals. This should, hopefully, keep anything that might interact
with each other apart.

Finally, I'm going to get up a sign in/ sing out sheet on the door. If you
want anything from the cupboard, you need to sign it out and back in. That
way, in the case of leaks, damage or improper storage, we know who to chat
to about it.

It might seem a little OTT if your just after the cleaning supplies, but it
keeps us covered when it comes to the more dangerous stuff. Particularly
keeping it contained and where it cant injure someone.

Location wise, I believe the downstairs toilet is vented, if so, I'm
planning on putting the cabinet in their. This will contain and vent any
chemical smells or leaks safely. It will also limit how much smell gets
into the hackspace proper. If anyone has and objections to this, or better
ideas for locations, let me know.

I'm planning on picking up the cabinet tomorrow and running it over to the
hackspace, hopefully I can get the whole lot set up in 1 hit. If anyone
feels up for it, a proper chemical handling checklist on the wiki would
also be useful, as well as a laminated copy on the cupboard door itself.

Paul


 
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Richard Ibbotson  
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 More options May 6 2012, 6:09 am
From: Richard Ibbotson <richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 03:09:33 -0700 (PDT)
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 6:09 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

It's great to see a small accident result in lively debate and quick
resolution.

I am strongly in favour of being able to store and use chemicals in the
hackspace. It would even be good to have an etch tank already set up with
pump, heater etc. Maybe we can attract some biohackers!

The cabinet, plastic trays, and proper bottles already described, seem to
meet the standards for containment, and together with lables and safety
information will meet the needs. Not sure about the signing in/out though.

I would vote against the downstairs toilet for location. It would be good
to keep both the disabled loo and the kitchen completely free of all hack
stuff. This will help to keep them clean and safe. I fear folk may mix and
use chemicals in there too. How big is the cabinet ( thinking: wheelchairs
if downstairs, and getting it upstairs)

Maybe one of the upstairs toilets is better, I assume they have ventilation
too.

Do you want a hand tomorrow?


 
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Stuart Ward  
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 More options May 6 2012, 6:11 am
From: Stuart Ward <stuart.w...@bcs.org>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 11:11:44 +0100
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 6:11 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

> Finally, I'm going to get up a sign in/ sing out sheet on the door. If you

sing a song of sixpence for some silver nitrate perhaps?

Stuart


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 6 2012, 6:29 am
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 11:29:28 +0100
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 6:29 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Fair point on usage of the downstairs loo. I'll check if the upstairs is
ventilated. My only worry if how far you have to go to get outside.

The cabinet is 45x90x180cm (dxwxh). So a good size, but not an unreasonable
footprint.

As for the signing in and out. It's more to remind people that they are
working with potentially dangerous chemicals and they have just taken
responsibility for them. Maybe limit it to only a couple of shelves?

As for arrival times, I've no idea right now, I'll post here when I'm
heading down though. If you want to come help your more than welcome. :)

Paul
On May 6, 2012 11:09 AM, "Richard Ibbotson" <richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com>
wrote:


 
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Alex  
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 More options May 5 2012, 4:02 pm
From: Alex <alex...@btinternet.com>
Date: Sat, 5 May 2012 21:02:44 +0100 (BST)
Local: Sat, May 5 2012 4:02 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

cheers - did think it was something like that (shows how out of touch I've become as I was still using FeCl last time I was etching PCBs, probably high school now!)

Are you lot OK for me to borrow a couple of pics? not sure which one of you is the dude looking sllightly perturbed but if you don't mind that pic is good for the comedy value. its all in the interests of getting the younger lot interested in real hardware again without getting hurt..

Alex

________________________________
 From: Ed Pinkney <yenk...@gmail.com>
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Sent: Saturday, 5 May 2012, 0:20
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The bottle was labelled as 0.3 Molar HCl


 
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Ryan  
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 More options May 6 2012, 6:49 am
From: Ryan <ry.wh...@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 03:49:59 -0700 (PDT)
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 6:49 am
Subject: Re: Chemical Storage
It's me in the pic, what do you want to use it for again? :)

On May 5, 9:02 pm, Alex <alex...@btinternet.com> wrote:


 
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Robert Thomas  
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 More options May 6 2012, 7:00 am
From: Robert Thomas <robtheb...@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 12:00:21 +0100
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 7:00 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Do you have someone who has COSHH training? If not, I can take a look about. I'm on a tight deadline though, as I am off on holiday next w/e.
Rob.

On 6 May 2012, at 11:29, cynar blackmane wrote:


 
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cynar blackmane  
View profile  
 More options May 7 2012, 12:55 pm
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 17:55:11 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 12:55 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Just to let people know, I couldn't pick up the cabinet today, evidently
there is no one their till Wednesday. Nice of them to mention this BEFORE
the auction!


 
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Matt Beddow  
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 More options May 7 2012, 12:59 pm
From: "Matt Beddow" <matt.bed...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 17:59:19 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 12:59 pm
Subject: RE: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

I seem to have missed all the messages about this chemical storage issue
you're having so whats it all about?

Im about to graduate with a degree in chemical engineering and a major part
of that is to do with plant and chemical safety so can probably answer 99%
of questions you may have about storage etc.

Matt

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 17:55
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Just to let people know, I couldn't pick up the cabinet today, evidently
there is no one their till Wednesday. Nice of them to mention this BEFORE
the auction!

On Sun, May 6, 2012 at 12:00 PM, Robert Thomas <robtheb...@gmail.com> wrote:

Do you have someone who has COSHH training? If not, I can take a look about.
I'm on a tight deadline though, as I am off on holiday next w/e.

Rob.

On 6 May 2012, at 11:29, cynar blackmane wrote:

Fair point on usage of the downstairs loo. I'll check if the upstairs is
ventilated. My only worry if how far you have to go to get outside.

The cabinet is 45x90x180cm (dxwxh). So a good size, but not an unreasonable
footprint.

As for the signing in and out. It's more to remind people that they are
working with potentially dangerous chemicals and they have just taken
responsibility for them. Maybe limit it to only a couple of shelves?

As for arrival times, I've no idea right now, I'll post here when I'm
heading down though. If you want to come help your more than welcome. :)

Paul

On May 6, 2012 11:09 AM, "Richard Ibbotson"

<richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com> wrote:

It's great to see a small accident result in lively debate and quick
resolution.

I am strongly in favour of being able to store and use chemicals in the
hackspace. It would even be good to have an etch tank already set up with
pump, heater etc. Maybe we can attract some biohackers!

The cabinet, plastic trays, and proper bottles already described, seem to
meet the standards for containment, and together with lables and safety
information will meet the needs. Not sure about the signing in/out though.

I would vote against the downstairs toilet for location. It would be good to
keep both the disabled loo and the kitchen completely free of all hack
stuff. This will help to keep them clean and safe. I fear folk may mix and
use chemicals in there too. How big is the cabinet ( thinking: wheelchairs
if downstairs, and getting it upstairs)

Maybe one of the upstairs toilets is better, I assume they have ventilation
too.

Do you want a hand tomorrow?

On Sunday, May 6, 2012 9:40:01 AM UTC+1, cynar wrote:

Just thought I would give people a quick update on what I'm setting up at
the hackspace to resolve this. If anyone has any additional ideas/feedback,
let me know.

I've already brought a metal cabinet for use as a chemical cupboard. I've
also got a large plastic box, that should fit, for anytihng that might
attack the metal. This should keep all spills contained with little/no
damage. I'm also going to mark out areas in the cabinet for different sorts
of chemicals. This should, hopefully, keep anything that might interact with
each other apart.

Finally, I'm going to get up a sign in/ sing out sheet on the door. If you
want anything from the cupboard, you need to sign it out and back in. That
way, in the case of leaks, damage or improper storage, we know who to chat
to about it.

It might seem a little OTT if your just after the cleaning supplies, but it
keeps us covered when it comes to the more dangerous stuff. Particularly
keeping it contained and where it cant injure someone.

Location wise, I believe the downstairs toilet is vented, if so, I'm
planning on putting the cabinet in their. This will contain and vent any
chemical smells or leaks safely. It will also limit how much smell gets into
the hackspace proper. If anyone has and objections to this, or better ideas
for locations, let me know.

I'm planning on picking up the cabinet tomorrow and running it over to the
hackspace, hopefully I can get the whole lot set up in 1 hit. If anyone
feels up for it, a proper chemical handling checklist on the wiki would also
be useful, as well as a laminated copy on the cupboard door itself.

Paul


 
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Please update your nickname on the subscription settings page before posting.
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cynar blackmane  
View profile  
 More options May 7 2012, 1:07 pm
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 18:07:54 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 1:07 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

We had a leak of Concentrated HCl at the space. The damage was limited, but
it reminded us that we are working with hazardous equipment and materials.
Since it was me who brought the HCL to the space (for PCB etching), and it
was only luck that the situation was not a lot more serious, I thought it
only fair I sort out storing them safely.

We need a formal system for dealing with hazardous materials. My opinion is
that we make it a lot more strict than it needs to be, so even if it
slackens off, things still remain safe.

Paul


 
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Matt Beddow  
View profile  
 More options May 7 2012, 1:16 pm
From: "Matt Beddow" <matt.bed...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 18:16:22 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 1:16 pm
Subject: RE: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Fair enough. Not a huge amount you can do about preventing leaking
containers, other than keeping them somewhere, that in the event of a
spillage, minimises the hazard.
The most common mistake ive seen, and thus my biggest warning, is to be
careful of what you store in the same cupboard, namely, do NOT keep
oxidising agents and flammable substances in the same place.

It might seem obvious, but the number of people that see the hazard labels
both have flames on them and so think they can be kept together and then are
surprised when they find their lab/house/factory etc burn out.

Just please make sure that you have a folder with the COSHH sheets for every
chemical somewhere in the space that everyone has access to, along with any
safety equipment and spillage clear up equipment suggested readily available
and check that things are safe to be stored together.

As for sign in/out sheets, they are not strictly necessary but could be a
good way of ensuring that things go back in the correct place and as a way
of tracking the quantities available on site. I don't suppose you have
access to any chemicals that legally require records to be kept

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 18:08
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

We had a leak of Concentrated HCl at the space. The damage was limited, but
it reminded us that we are working with hazardous equipment and materials.
Since it was me who brought the HCL to the space (for PCB etching), and it
was only luck that the situation was not a lot more serious, I thought it
only fair I sort out storing them safely.

We need a formal system for dealing with hazardous materials. My opinion is
that we make it a lot more strict than it needs to be, so even if it
slackens off, things still remain safe.

Paul

On Mon, May 7, 2012 at 5:59 PM, Matt Beddow <matt.bed...@gmail.com> wrote:

I seem to have missed all the messages about this chemical storage issue
you're having so whats it all about?

Im about to graduate with a degree in chemical engineering and a major part
of that is to do with plant and chemical safety so can probably answer 99%
of questions you may have about storage etc.

Matt

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 17:55
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com

Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Just to let people know, I couldn't pick up the cabinet today, evidently
there is no one their till Wednesday. Nice of them to mention this BEFORE
the auction!

On Sun, May 6, 2012 at 12:00 PM, Robert Thomas <robtheb...@gmail.com> wrote:

Do you have someone who has COSHH training? If not, I can take a look about.
I'm on a tight deadline though, as I am off on holiday next w/e.

Rob.

On 6 May 2012, at 11:29, cynar blackmane wrote:

Fair point on usage of the downstairs loo. I'll check if the upstairs is
ventilated. My only worry if how far you have to go to get outside.

The cabinet is 45x90x180cm (dxwxh). So a good size, but not an unreasonable
footprint.

As for the signing in and out. It's more to remind people that they are
working with potentially dangerous chemicals and they have just taken
responsibility for them. Maybe limit it to only a couple of shelves?

As for arrival times, I've no idea right now, I'll post here when I'm
heading down though. If you want to come help your more than welcome. :)

Paul

On May 6, 2012 11:09 AM, "Richard Ibbotson"

<richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com> wrote:

It's great to see a small accident result in lively debate and quick
resolution.

I am strongly in favour of being able to store and use chemicals in the
hackspace. It would even be good to have an etch tank already set up with
pump, heater etc. Maybe we can attract some biohackers!

The cabinet, plastic trays, and proper bottles already described, seem to
meet the standards for containment, and together with lables and safety
information will meet the needs. Not sure about the signing in/out though.

I would vote against the downstairs toilet for location. It would be good to
keep both the disabled loo and the kitchen completely free of all hack
stuff. This will help to keep them clean and safe. I fear folk may mix and
use chemicals in there too. How big is the cabinet ( thinking: wheelchairs
if downstairs, and getting it upstairs)

Maybe one of the upstairs toilets is better, I assume they have ventilation
too.

Do you want a hand tomorrow?

On Sunday, May 6, 2012 9:40:01 AM UTC+1, cynar wrote:

Just thought I would give people a quick update on what I'm setting up at
the hackspace to resolve this. If anyone has any additional ideas/feedback,
let me know.

I've already brought a metal cabinet for use as a chemical cupboard. I've
also got a large plastic box, that should fit, for anytihng that might
attack the metal. This should keep all spills contained with little/no
damage. I'm also going to mark out areas in the cabinet for different sorts
of chemicals. This should, hopefully, keep anything that might interact with
each other apart.

Finally, I'm going to get up a sign in/ sing out sheet on the door. If you
want anything from the cupboard, you need to sign it out and back in. That
way, in the case of leaks, damage or improper storage, we know who to chat
to about it.

It might seem a little OTT if your just after the cleaning supplies, but it
keeps us covered when it comes to the more dangerous stuff. Particularly
keeping it contained and where it cant injure someone.

Location wise, I believe the downstairs toilet is vented, if so, I'm
planning on putting the cabinet in their. This will contain and vent any
chemical smells or leaks safely. It will also limit how much smell gets into
the hackspace proper. If anyone has and objections to this, or better ideas
for locations, let me know.

I'm planning on picking up the cabinet tomorrow and running it over to the
hackspace, hopefully I can get the whole lot set up in 1 hit. If anyone
feels up for it, a proper chemical handling checklist on the wiki would also
be useful, as well as a laminated copy on the cupboard door itself.

Paul


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 7 2012, 2:01 pm
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 19:01:27 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 2:01 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The sign in/out idea was mostly to remind people that it's not vinegar and
baking soda they are playing with.

COSHH sheets are a good point. A folder on the inside of the door might be
the best place along with spare gloves etc on the top of the cabinet.

Storage wise. I was thinking plastic boxes, it keeps things separate, and
it's easy to label the outside. If something goes back in the wrong place,
check the signing sheet and have a word with the last user. Do you think
this should be sufficient? I know were are currently not storing much in
the way of dangerous stuff, but that could change in the future (without us
really noticing), so it's better to plan ahead now.


 
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Matt Beddow  
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 More options May 7 2012, 4:31 pm
From: "Matt Beddow" <matt.bed...@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 21:31:53 +0100
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 4:31 pm
Subject: RE: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Fair enough, Im not sure about putting the coshh sheets inside the cupboard,
especially if its going to be a locked cupboard, these need to be accessible
fairly rapidly in case of an incident.

Plastic trays are a nice idea for keeping things separate but glass would be
better as it is more inert but practicality and cost will probably force
your hand here a little (youre not a massive company with an endless budget
after all)

Im not sure if ventilation has been mentioned already but any cupboard
should have some sort of ventilation. It doesn't need to be a fan or
anything, just an opening at the top and bottom to prevent any vapour build
up, also the room it is stored in may need some sort of ventilation,
depending on the size and what you're storing. Im guessing for PCB etching
solutions and household cleaning products, plastic trays and a vented box
will suffice.
Its when you start ordering specialist things, stuff not readily available
over the counter and/or flammable/explosive materials that you need to start
being serious about storage

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 19:01
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The sign in/out idea was mostly to remind people that it's not vinegar and
baking soda they are playing with.

COSHH sheets are a good point. A folder on the inside of the door might be
the best place along with spare gloves etc on the top of the cabinet.

Storage wise. I was thinking plastic boxes, it keeps things separate, and
it's easy to label the outside. If something goes back in the wrong place,
check the signing sheet and have a word with the last user. Do you think
this should be sufficient? I know were are currently not storing much in the
way of dangerous stuff, but that could change in the future (without us
really noticing), so it's better to plan ahead now.

On Mon, May 7, 2012 at 6:16 PM, Matt Beddow <matt.bed...@gmail.com> wrote:

Fair enough. Not a huge amount you can do about preventing leaking
containers, other than keeping them somewhere, that in the event of a
spillage, minimises the hazard.
The most common mistake ive seen, and thus my biggest warning, is to be
careful of what you store in the same cupboard, namely, do NOT keep
oxidising agents and flammable substances in the same place.

It might seem obvious, but the number of people that see the hazard labels
both have flames on them and so think they can be kept together and then are
surprised when they find their lab/house/factory etc burn out.

Just please make sure that you have a folder with the COSHH sheets for every
chemical somewhere in the space that everyone has access to, along with any
safety equipment and spillage clear up equipment suggested readily available
and check that things are safe to be stored together.

As for sign in/out sheets, they are not strictly necessary but could be a
good way of ensuring that things go back in the correct place and as a way
of tracking the quantities available on site. I don't suppose you have
access to any chemicals that legally require records to be kept

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 18:08

To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

We had a leak of Concentrated HCl at the space. The damage was limited, but
it reminded us that we are working with hazardous equipment and materials.
Since it was me who brought the HCL to the space (for PCB etching), and it
was only luck that the situation was not a lot more serious, I thought it
only fair I sort out storing them safely.

We need a formal system for dealing with hazardous materials. My opinion is
that we make it a lot more strict than it needs to be, so even if it
slackens off, things still remain safe.

Paul

On Mon, May 7, 2012 at 5:59 PM, Matt Beddow <matt.bed...@gmail.com> wrote:

I seem to have missed all the messages about this chemical storage issue
you're having so whats it all about?

Im about to graduate with a degree in chemical engineering and a major part
of that is to do with plant and chemical safety so can probably answer 99%
of questions you may have about storage etc.

Matt

From: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of cynar blackmane
Sent: 07 May 2012 17:55
To: reading-hackspace@googlegroups.com

Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

Just to let people know, I couldn't pick up the cabinet today, evidently
there is no one their till Wednesday. Nice of them to mention this BEFORE
the auction!

On Sun, May 6, 2012 at 12:00 PM, Robert Thomas <robtheb...@gmail.com> wrote:

Do you have someone who has COSHH training? If not, I can take a look about.
I'm on a tight deadline though, as I am off on holiday next w/e.

Rob.

On 6 May 2012, at 11:29, cynar blackmane wrote:

Fair point on usage of the downstairs loo. I'll check if the upstairs is
ventilated. My only worry if how far you have to go to get outside.

The cabinet is 45x90x180cm (dxwxh). So a good size, but not an unreasonable
footprint.

As for the signing in and out. It's more to remind people that they are
working with potentially dangerous chemicals and they have just taken
responsibility for them. Maybe limit it to only a couple of shelves?

As for arrival times, I've no idea right now, I'll post here when I'm
heading down though. If you want to come help your more than welcome. :)

Paul

On May 6, 2012 11:09 AM, "Richard Ibbotson"

<richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com> wrote:

It's great to see a small accident result in lively debate and quick
resolution.

I am strongly in favour of being able to store and use chemicals in the
hackspace. It would even be good to have an etch tank already set up with
pump, heater etc. Maybe we can attract some biohackers!

The cabinet, plastic trays, and proper bottles already described, seem to
meet the standards for containment, and together with lables and safety
information will meet the needs. Not sure about the signing in/out though.

I would vote against the downstairs toilet for location. It would be good to
keep both the disabled loo and the kitchen completely free of all hack
stuff. This will help to keep them clean and safe. I fear folk may mix and
use chemicals in there too. How big is the cabinet ( thinking: wheelchairs
if downstairs, and getting it upstairs)

Maybe one of the upstairs toilets is better, I assume they have ventilation
too.

Do you want a hand tomorrow?

On Sunday, May 6, 2012 9:40:01 AM UTC+1, cynar wrote:

Just thought I would give people a quick update on what I'm setting up at
the hackspace to resolve this. If anyone has any additional ideas/feedback,
let me know.

I've already brought a metal cabinet for use as a chemical cupboard. I've
also got a large plastic box, that should fit, for anytihng that might
attack the metal. This should keep all spills contained with little/no
damage. I'm also going to mark out areas in the cabinet for different sorts
of chemicals. This should, hopefully, keep anything that might interact with
each other apart.

Finally, I'm going to get up a sign in/ sing out sheet on the door. If you
want anything from the cupboard, you need to sign it out and back in. That
way, in the case of leaks, damage or improper storage, we know who to chat
to about it.

It might seem a little OTT if your just after the cleaning supplies, but it
keeps us covered when it comes to the more dangerous stuff. Particularly
keeping it contained and where it cant injure someone.

Location wise, I believe the downstairs toilet is vented, if so, I'm
planning on putting the cabinet in their. This will contain and vent any
chemical smells or leaks safely. It will also limit how much smell gets into
the hackspace proper. If anyone has and objections to this, or better ideas
for locations, let me know.

I'm planning on picking up the cabinet tomorrow and running it over to the
hackspace, hopefully I can get the whole lot set up in 1 hit. If anyone
feels up for it, a proper chemical handling checklist on the wiki would also
be useful, as well as a laminated copy on the cupboard door itself.

Paul


 
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Richard Ibbotson  
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 More options May 7 2012, 5:00 pm
From: Richard Ibbotson <richard.ibbot...@btinternet.com>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2012 14:00:02 -0700 (PDT)
Local: Mon, May 7 2012 5:00 pm
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The original HCL appears to be in a HDPE bottle and is still fully intact
as far as I can see.
I understand the leakage was from the PET bottle containing etchant
(primarily 3M HCL).
It appears PET is not a suitable container for strong HCL and the container
show signs of crazing at the moulding stress lines at the base. It appears
the leak from the bottle was slow.
I was amazed with the ability of the MDF shelf to absorb the leak and
sacrifice itself with almost no damage elsewhere.

There is a lot of potentially dangerous stuff in the space besides
chemicals. I hope we can continue to rely on the common sense of members,
good communication, and best practice(external and learnt) to maintain a
safe space without having to compromise our freedom to experiment.

I guess times have changed since I did my Chemistry degree 40 years ago.
Then, if you had enough functioning organs remaining to complete the
finals, you had passed the safety course.


 
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Stuart Livings  
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 More options May 8 2012, 3:07 am
From: Stuart Livings <stu...@livings.co.uk>
Date: Tue, 08 May 2012 08:07:16 +0100
Local: Tues, May 8 2012 3:07 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage
On 5/7/2012 7:01 PM, cynar blackmane wrote:

> Storage wise. I was thinking plastic boxes, it keeps things separate,
> and it's easy to label the outside. If something goes back in the
> wrong place, check the signing sheet and have a word with the last
> user. Do you think this should be sufficient? I know were are
> currently not storing much in the way of dangerous stuff, but that
> could change in the future (without us really noticing), so it's
> better to plan ahead now.

Pyrex and ceramic cooking dishes are not expensive from places like the
dreaded Tesco.  For the truly NastyStuff[tm] we could insist on one
container per dish and then if anything appears in the dish we replace
the container the NastyStuff[tm] is being contained in and clean the
dish to catch it next time.

Stuart


 
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cynar blackmane  
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 More options May 6 2012, 6:53 am
From: cynar blackmane <cynarblackm...@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 6 May 2012 11:53:29 +0100
Local: Sun, May 6 2012 6:53 am
Subject: Re: [RDG-Hack] Chemical Storage

The picture is of Ryan. I've no issue with it being used. Check with Ryan
though, I'm sure it will be fine, but just make sure he's happy with it.

I'm also going to do a full write up of the incident for the wiki, along
with the new established procedures. That way people know, not only the
what, but the why as well.


 
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