Generating standard operating procedures
(SOPs) for high-risk chemical
processes where toxic, pyrophoric, self-reactive, or energetic materials
are used is necessary for academic research safety. When such chemicals
are used, the highest level of safety must be employed. The SOP development
process provides an opportunity to determine what the reaction setup
requirements are, identify potentially unsafe conditions, decide how
to properly manage unwanted materials, and perform an overall hazard
assessment. Here, we provide suggestions for what SOPs should be developed
in academic research institutions and an SOP example for the Grignard
reaction (Supporting Information). Developing a complete, shareable
library of SOPs, covering common experiments to highly complex techniques,
is essential. We strongly believe that the use of well-reasoned and
well-written SOPs helps ensure that safe laboratory practices are
followed and helps enhance the overall safety culture in academic
research departments.
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