PerkinElmer OPTIMA 8000, Customer Hardware And Service Manual

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Safety Practices
• Store solvents in an approved cabinet (with the appropriate ventilation, as
required) away from the instrument.
• The responsible body has the responsibility for carrying out appropriate
decontamination if hazardous material is spilt on or inside the instrument.
Sample Preparation
Sample preparation for ICP spectroscopy may require the handling of organic or
corrosive solutions. Dilution of samples and adding dilute acid to a liquid sample
is generally less hazardous than putting a solid sample into solution. This section
will deal specifically with the potential hazards associated with dissolving solid
samples, although the information can be applied to any sample handling situation.
Also, refer to the general precautions for handling chemicals described at the
beginning of this chapter.
Reference 6 contains general information on sample preparation procedures as well
as an appendix on laboratory safety. Reference 7 contains information on
laboratory safety and sample preparation methods prescribed by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Reference 8 contains information on
microwave sample preparation, which is not covered in this section.
Solid samples may be put into solution by dissolving the sample in an organic
solvent or acidic solution; digesting the sample; or reacting the sample with a
fusion mixture. Each of these techniques has certain hazards associated with it.
Dissolving Solid Samples in Organics
• Always work in a fume hood so that flammable and/or toxic solvents do not
concentrate in the work area.
• Wear protective clothing and gloves. Some solvents are readily absorbed
through the skin.
Always wear appropriate eye protection while preparing samples.
Use safety glasses with side shields, goggles, or full-face shields,
depending on the chemicals you are handling.
!
Warning