What is the recommended method to smell a chemical safely?

What is the recommended method to smell a chemical safely?

• A. Sniff directly to test odor
• B. Wafting to smell
• C. Place nose directly over container
• D. Smell from a distance of several meters

Answer: (B)

Wafting is the safest way to smell a chemical. Instead of bringing your nose directly to the container, gently fan the vapors toward your nose with your hand. That small, controlled amount of odor lets you detect what’s present without inhaling concentrated fumes that could irritate or injure your lungs or airways. Do this in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood, and keep your face away from the container. If you still can’t detect an odor, don’t try to sample more by getting closer or sniffing harder; some chemicals have little or no odor but can still be hazardous. Always follow safety guidelines and consult the SDS for specific odor and exposure information. Direct sniffing, placing the nose over the container, or smelling from far away aren’t recommended because they either expose you to higher concentrations or fail to provide a controlled, safe sampling method.

Wafting is the safest way to smell a chemical. Instead of bringing your nose directly to the container, gently fan the vapors toward your nose with your hand. That small, controlled amount of odor lets you detect what’s present without inhaling concentrated fumes that could irritate or injure your lungs or airways. Do this in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood, and keep your face away from the container. If you still can’t detect an odor, don’t try to sample more by getting closer or sniffing harder; some chemicals have little or no odor but can still be hazardous. Always follow safety guidelines and consult the SDS for specific odor and exposure information. Direct sniffing, placing the nose over the container, or smelling from far away aren’t recommended because they either expose you to higher concentrations or fail to provide a controlled, safe sampling method.