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The Office of Environmental Safety and Health provides services to assist the University in proactively managing biological, chemical, physical and radioactive hazards in academic and research laboratories. Our goal is to work cooperatively with faculty, scientists and students to reduce hazards and risks.

Safety Plans

• Art Safety Guide

• Chemical Hygiene Plan

• Lab Decommissioning

• Laser Safety

• Radiation Safety

• Theatre Safety Plan

Chemistry Lab Safety

We strive to maintain the safest laboratory environment possible for our students and employees. Prior to entry into the laboratory portion of a course, each student is given a list of general guidelines for laboratory conduct. Most of these focus on safety issues. Close adherence to these rules will minimize the chance for laboratory accidents such as:

• Cuts

• Burns

• Fires

• Chemical Exposure

Each laboratory is equipped for limited emergency response with the following items:

• Telephone

• Fire Extinguisher

• Safety Shower

• Eyewash

Familiarity with the location and proper use of these devices will give the student additional protection in an emergency. First aid supplies are located in the office of the lab/safety/waste coordinator in the Chemistry Building. Any accident or injury should be reported there.

Students and employees should refer to the ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ Chemical Hygiene Plan. This is available in the Chemistry Department or from the Office of Environmental Health and Safety. Also available at the same locations are safety data sheets (SDS). These provide information regarding the hazards of chemicals purchased by the university.

Laser Safety

ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ strives to provide the safest environment in and out of the classroom. The university follows the American National Standard Z136.5-2000 which provides guidance for the safe use of lasers and laser systems in educational institutions. The provisions of this standard are applicable to educational facilities ranging from grade school through college and university settings. Engineering and administrative control measures appropriate for typical educational activities associated with lasers are established at ÌìÃÀ´«Ã½ to ensure a sound laser safety program in the educational environment.

The Laser Operating and Safety Procedures are guidelines that are followed by trained individuals at the university. For more information, please contact Dr. Jamie Rogers of the Physics Department at 270.809.4976.