OSHA Injury Report: Virginia Commonwealth University

At a glance

Where did this happen?

What was the outcome?

Before the incident

The employee was conducting a research experiment and initiated preparation of resin-embedded tissue samples for electron microscopy. Accurately measured and combined three of the four required chemicals into a disposable beaker following strict laboratory safety protocols including the use of a lab coat gloves and protective eyewear. The beaker was then transferred to a fume hood for the addition of the fourth chemical DMP-30 (246-Tris(dimethylaminomethyl)phenol) due to its volatile and potentially hazardous nature. A new 1?mL disposable syringe was gathered to accurately measure the DMP-30 as its viscous consistency requires precise handling with a fine-volume instrument. Before handling the chemical the fume hoods glass shield was lowered to ensure maximum protection during the procedure.

What happened

The employee was transfering the chemical [REDACTED]-30 with a syringe inside of a fume hood with the sash pulled down and in front of their face. During the process some of the fluid managed to splash out of the fume hood and hit their prescription eyeglasses and then splash around the glasses into their left eye.

Injury or illness

Corneal ulcers in left eye

Object or substance involved

DMP-30 (246-Tris(dimethylaminomethyl)phenol) chemical

Summary line

Corneal ulcers after getting a chemical (phenol) splashed in to left eye at work.

Employee and industry

When (timing detail)

Source

Data from OSHA ITA Form 300/301 electronic submissions, filing year 2025. ITA Case Detail records are establishment-reported submissions, not OSHA inspections — no per-record IMIS deep link exists.