With decreasing costs, liquid and gas chromatography is increasingly common in chemical, biomedical and engineering laboratories. The organic solvents used with these instruments raise multiple safety concerns. In our experience, the hazards of organic solvents in many of these laboratories are not sufficiently recognized by the instrument users or properly controlled. Too often we find liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) instruments associated with fire hazards, fugitive emissions, inadequate ventilation, and the potential to expose users and other laboratory occupants to harmful solvents. Other safety issues include pouring and mixing solvents, space and facilities, and waste collection. This paper will discuss common chromatography setups and the solvents used. Hazards and risks will be identified, as well as recommended control measures and best practices.

Safe solvent management for LC/MS and GC/MS

2019 Fall National Meeting

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