Chemical Hygiene Officer

The position is a two-year appointment for the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 school years with a stipend of $1,000.

About the Role

Every school in New York State should have a designated Chemical Hygiene Officer responsible for the chemical management of school science labs, as outlined in the NYS School Science Chemical Management Guidance Manual. The officer must receive proper training in accordance with OSHA Laboratory Standard 29CFR 1910.1450. While the designated officer may not have a background in chemistry or chemical health and safety, adequate training will be provided.

The Chemical Hygiene Officer is responsible for conducting and managing a chemical inventory, evaluating chemicals for proper storage and labeling, determining appropriate quantities and excess, and ensuring safe disposal of waste chemicals. Safety considerations include identifying potentially explosive or reactive chemicals, known carcinogens, pharmaceuticals, and damaged or leaking containers.

Responsibilities

• Work with administrators and other employees to develop and implement appropriate chemical hygiene policies and practices.
• Monitor procurement, use, and disposal of chemicals used in the lab.
• Review all purchase orders that include chemical reagents.
• Review all lab procedures, including new procedures to be introduced.
• Ensure that staff training and facilities are adequate for materials ordered.
• Ensure all MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) forms are available and current.
• Maintain appropriate audits.
• Assist the building safety chairperson, principals, and department chairs in developing precautions and adequate facilities.
• Know the current legal requirements concerning regulated substances.
• Seek ways to improve the chemical hygiene plan.
• Ensure that workers know and follow the chemical hygiene rules.
• Provide adequate training for all workers regarding safety, chemical hygiene, and chemical hazards.
• Determine the appropriate protective equipment required and ensure its availability and functionality.
• Conduct regular, formal chemical hygiene and housekeeping inspections, including:
  • Stockrooms and storerooms
  • Lab ventilation
  • Sinks and clean-up areas
• Regularly inspect all safety and emergency equipment to ensure it is in good working order, including:
  • Fume hoods
  • Fire equipment
  • Eye stations and deluge showers
  • Protective apparel
• Maintain records for:
  • Training
  • Inspections
  • Medical
  • Inventory
  • Accidents and spills