I have a question about "explosion proof" or "explosion resistant" refrigerators/freezers.  Where is the best place to put one in a lab? Where are places to avoid putting them in a lab? What kind of ignitions sources should be avoided and how far away from these sources can the flammable or explosion proof refrigerator be safely installed? Do we have to worry about nearby lights and electrical outlets?

Another question that has come up for us is this: if the MSDS sheet states that mechanical ventilation is needed for a flammable solvent, does Cal OSHA mandate that this MSDS be followed? Obviously, for safety reasons we should, but we are having trouble getting our facilities people to understand this. The only thing they understand is when we say "it's the law".  We are purchasing new stand-alone flam cabinets and we would like mechanical ventilation, but they don't want to go to the trouble and expense. Currently, the only mechanically ventilated flam cabinets we have are the small ones underneath fume hoods. These are in the teaching labs and they have no locks, so we are hesitant about using them to store larger quantities of flammable solvents.

Thanks for any help!

Marjorie Samples
Chemistry Dept.
Folsom Lake College