Managing Chemicals in Schools
- This information is available in PDF in English.
Chemicals in the school environment can be a problem due to improper storage or labeling, misuse, and accidental or unnoticed spills. Exposure to these chemicals and hazards can be very serious, especially for children. Managing chemicals in schools is crucial for a healthy environment.
Use Cleaner, Greener Chemicals and Products
- Adopt a “Green Chemistry” approach to minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and increase awareness of sustainability practices. Visit this website for resources.
- Learn about how New York State's Green Cleaning Law applies to schools.
- See additional resources below for information on approved products and how to build a greener, healthier school environment.
Perform a Chemical Inventory
- Identify all storage locations such as science labs, art rooms, vocational workshops, custodial closets, maintenance rooms, groundskeeping sheds, bus garages, and storage rooms. Also check the nurse’s office, other offices, classrooms, and cafeteria/kitchens.
- List all chemicals, their quantities, and expiration dates.
- Complete an annual Chemical Inventory.
Chemical Cleanout, Organization, and Storage
- Dispose of outdated and unused chemicals properly through a hazardous waste contractor or your local municipality.
- Organize remaining chemicals using the Flinn method, which sorts by organic, inorganic, and compatible families; or using the Color-coding method, which assigns a color to each hazard classification (i.e., blue = health hazard; red = flammable)
- List all chemicals, their quantities, and expiration dates.
- Review this guidance manual for more information on proper chemical storage, management, and disposal.
Manage Chemicals
- Ensure the school has up-to-date safety data sheets (SDSs) for all chemical products.
- Develop and maintain a Chemical Management System, a framework to address chemical spills, conduct cleanouts, and other ways to manage chemical hazards.
Health Effects of Chemicals
- Chemicals can worsen student and staff health symptoms and conditions.
- Chemical products used in schools can contain ingredients that are corrosive, toxic, irritants/sensitizers, that worsen asthma, or disrupt hormones.
