PHS

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Particularly Hazardous Substances (PHSs)

What is a Particularly Hazardous Substance? 
OSHA’s Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories Standard (29 CFR 1910.1450) defines particularly hazardous substances (PHSs) as “select” carcinogens, reproductive toxins, and those substances with a high degree of acute toxicity.
Duke OESO has also included chemicals that need special handling based on their reactive nature (explosives, flammable solids, peroxide formers, oxidizers, and compounds that are reactive with air or water).
The last 2 columns include the EPA Extremely Hazardous Substances List (40 CFR 335) and the Department of Homeland Security Chemicals of Interest list (6 CFR 27). These specialized lists include chemical materials that have a high potential for environmental contamination or use by terrorists.

See the spreadsheet and .pdf document below for the actual lists and further details on PHSs. (Note the tabs at the bottom of the spreadsheet.)

PDF Document

Spreadsheet

If my lab is using chemicals on this list, what do we need to do?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that, where PHSs are used, written Standard Operating Procedures include provisions for establishing a designated area, use of containment devices, procedures for safe removal of contaminated waste, and decontamination procedures. (See the Chemical SOP page for guidance on creating written SOPs.)

As with all hazardous chemicals, employees working with the chemicals on this list must be trained on the hazards associated with these chemicals, proper procedures for working with them, and necessary controls.