Environmental Health & Safety

Laboratory Safety Sub Committee

HARVARD UNIVERSITY SAFETY ALERT

CYANIDES

Some of our laboratory operations involve the use of cyanides (potassium cyanide, sodium cyanide). Cyanides, as with other potentially hazardous chemicals, should be handled carefully. Care must be exercised to prevent skin contact and inhalation. Rubber gloves should be worn at all times when working with cyanides and all work should be confined to chemical fume hoods. Others in the area should be aware that you are working with cyanides. Make certain that you know where the antidote amyl nitrite ampules are and that they are always available.

The early warning symptoms of exposure to cyanides are general weakness and heaviness of the arms and legs, increased difficulty in breathing, dizziness, and nausea. If you feel you have been exposed, summon medical assistance immediately. Your laboratory emergency procedure should be followed. Normally, this will entail calling the Harvard Police. Let them know that the exposure was to cyanides.

As with all accidents, report any exposure as soon as you can to your supervisor and laboratory director.

In addition, safety information on cyanides and other chemicals can be obtained from your Safety Office or Environmental Health and Safety. If you have any concerns, give them a call.

Phone Numbers
Office	Days	Nights,Weekends
POLICE	5-1212	5-1212
UNIV. HEALTH SERVICES	5-5711	5-5711
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY	5-2852	5-5560
CMB SAFETY OFFICE	5-7767	5-5560
CMB DIRECTOR'S OFFICE	5-2302	5-5560