7. The Chemical Hygiene Plan and Hazard Communication

Two related but distinct standards typically govern school laboratories, and confusing them is one of the most common structural gaps in districts.

Chemical Hygiene Plan (CHP): Where chemical use is directly supervised by someone trained in the relevant hazards — the situation in most science classrooms — the laboratory standard generally applies, and a written, site-specific Chemical Hygiene Plan is required. The CHP describes standard operating procedures, exposure controls, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and training specific to your site.

Hazard Communication Program (HazCom): This applies more broadly to non-laboratory chemical use — custodial and maintenance chemicals, for example — and centers on labeling, SDS access, and “right to know” training.

Many districts need both: a CHP covering science lab spaces, and a HazCom program covering facilities, custodial, and other non-lab chemical use.

A CHP should typically address:

• Standard operating procedures for lab chemical handling

• Criteria for additional protective measures

• Fume hood and ventilation function checks

• Employee information and training requirements

• Activities requiring prior approval

• Medical consultation and examination provisions

• Designation of a Chemical Hygiene Officer

• Special provisions for particularly hazardous substances

Internal link opportunities: “Chemical Hygiene Plan” → Chemical Hygiene Plan Requirements for K–12 Schools (Template Included); “Chemical Hygiene Officer” → How to Designate and Train a School Chemical Hygiene Officer.