What is the purpose of a chemical hygiene plan (CHP), and what are three core components?

• A. CHP provides safe lab chemical handling and practice. Core components: SOPs for chemical handling, storage and labeling; PPE requirements; emergency response and spill procedures; training.
• B. CHP is a financial plan for chemical purchases; core components: budgeting, supplier evaluation, invoicing.
• C. CHP is a marketing plan for chemical products; core components: branding, advertising, social media.
• D. CHP is a regulatory filing; core components: annual report, licensing, audit.

Answer: (B)

A chemical hygiene plan guides safe management of laboratory chemicals by outlining practices that limit exposure and prevent accidents. Its purpose is to translate safety into everyday work, so everyone knows how to handle, store, label, and dispose of chemicals, what protective gear to wear, and how to respond if something goes wrong. Three key parts typically included are written procedures for chemical handling, storage and labeling; requirements for personal protective equipment; and clearly defined emergency response and spill procedures, with training so everyone can follow them. Other options focus on finances, marketing, or regulatory filings, which don’t address the essential safety practices needed in the lab.