What is a common approach to evaluating new chemical hazards before introducing them into a BE workflow?

• A. Conduct a risk assessment, review SDS, identify exposure routes, and implement engineering controls and PPE as needed
• B. Rely on supplier assurances without assessment
• C. Avoid hazard reviews if the chemical seems benign
• D. Only check for color and odor

Answer: (A)

Evaluating new chemicals before bringing them into a BE workflow relies on a proactive hazard assessment that uses documented hazard information and a plan to control exposure. Start with a risk assessment that pulls in authoritative hazard data, including the Safety Data Sheet, to understand health, environmental, flammability, and reactivity hazards. Then consider how people could be exposed—through inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, or surface contamination—and how likely and severe those exposures would be. Use this information to apply the hierarchy of controls: prioritize engineering controls such as enclosed systems and proper ventilation to remove or minimize exposure, add administrative controls like procedures and training, and use PPE only when necessary. This approach ensures hazards are understood and mitigated before the chemical enters the workflow, reducing risk and supporting safe, compliant operations.

Relying on supplier assurances without assessment leaves unknown risks unaddressed. Assuming a chemical is harmless without hazard review is unsafe, as many hazards aren’t obvious from appearance. Checking only color and odor is not sufficient, since many hazardous substances are colorless, odorless, or have hazards that aren’t detectable by senses.