1. www.jst.umn.edu Flash Chromatography Hazards and Controls

2. www.jst.umn.edu Flash Chromatography HazardControl Spilled solvent could contact skin Solvent could penetrate through gloves and contact skin Wear goggles, gloves (nitrile), and lab coat Change gloves if they are contaminated with solvent, discolored, or misshapen. Inhalation of solvent vapor, either from unsealed containers (like fractions), solvent leaks for the column, or small spills Perform in fume hood (both the column and measuring of mobile phases). Keep fractions and other open solvent/ eluent containers in hood. Check that adaptors fit and are leak free Only measure the amount of mobile phase needed.

3. www.jst.umn.edu Flash Chromatography HazardControl Fire risks from flammable solvents Remove potential ignition sources; Do not run a column and high temperature reaction in your hood at the same time. Cap fractions or evaporate them when finished running the column. Inhalation of silica dustHandle silica in the hood, and pack column in the hood. Wear a dusk mask/respirator when filling small silica containers from the large drum of silica.

4. www.jst.umn.edu Flash Chromatography HazardControl Glassware under pressure can fail (crack, rupture, etc.) causing cuts or related physical injuries Inspect glassware prior to use for faults and cracks. Securely clamp column. Only use gentle air pressure. Install a pressure relief valve or use a plastic snap joint as “weak” point in your air tubing.