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This procedure ensures that all chemicals and gases are ordered, stored, and used safely, with full awareness of their hazards and legal requirements.

✅ 1. Before You Order

• Check Existing Stock: Use LabCup to confirm the chemical or gas isn’t already available.
• Order Minimum Quantities: Only order what you need to reduce waste and disposal costs.
• Review SDS: Read the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the supplier’s website or LabCup.

⚠️ 2. Understand the Hazards

Review Hazard Statements:

• H-Codes: Standard hazard statements (e.g., H225 – Highly flammable liquid and vapour)
• P-Codes: Precautionary measures for safe handling and storage.

Check Storage & Handling Requirements:

• Do you have the right PPE, fume cupboards, and trained staff?
• Is your lab equipped to store the chemical safely?

🧾 3. Add to LabCup

• Add the chemical/gas to LabCup before ordering.
• This generates a unique barcode for tracking.

🛒 4. Place the Order in Opera

For each chemical or gas:

• Enter the LabCup barcode into internal note on OPeRA separately per each item ordered.
• Input the hazard categorisation level from LabCup. Please note all pressurised gases are HIGH hazard due to H280 (Pressurised Gas).
• Add a statement in the internal comments confirming:
• A COSHH Risk Assessment has been completed.
• The chemical has been reviewed for safe use.
• If non-hazardous, state this clearly.

⚠️ Orders missing this information will be returned to the originator.

📄 5. COSHH Risk Assessment

• A COSHH Risk Assessment is legally required for all hazardous substances.
• Include identified hazards and control measures.
• Templates and guidance are available on the central COSHH webpage.

📦 6. Receiving and Labelling

For Chemicals:

• You’ll receive an email when your order arrives at Stores.
• Collect the printed label from Stores—items will not be released without it.
• Bring the item to its nominated storage location, attach the label, and update its location in LabCup.

For Gases:

• Gas location will already be decided at the point of ordering. Once you have the gas cylinder, you can update the short LabCup-generated barcode for the BOC barcode on the cylinder.

🔐 7. Final Storage

• Store the chemical in the correct cabinet based on its hazard class.
• Ensure all safety measures are in place before use.
• Remove expired, used up chemicals (empty bottles) and/or chemicals no required anymore via the Departmental Waste Procedure. Remember to update the LabCup records to ensure the information is accurate.