A training workshop/seminar, Chemical Waste Management, was held on 11 October 2011 at IRRI.
Charita Saloma Kwan of the Research and Analytical Services Laboratory under the Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines-Diliman, was resource speaker for the workshop, which aimed to inform users on proper handling of various chemicals used in experiments, as well as develop effective strategies for managing laboratory waste.
One hundred fifty-three staff from various units at IRRI attended the workshop, which was organized by IRRI's Risk Management and Quality Assurance office.
Ms. Kwan spoke on the importance of reading the material safety data sheet (MSDS) of each chemical used in both laboratory and field experiments, as the MSDS contains information on toxicity, environmental hazards, and first aid and treatment, among others.
She also discussed chemical waste management and minimizing waste in experiments and other Institute activities.
Waste minimization strategies, Ms. Kwan said, cuts across offices and begins with purchasing, inventory control, chemical exchange, materials substitution, and procedures modification.
Glenn Enriquez, senior manager of IRRI's Safety and Security Services, introduced to the participants the only two IRRI staff authorized to handle chemical waste in the Institute: Rodelo Empalmado and Pablo Erasga.
