Holidays are around the corner! Many of us will be taking some time off, but whether it is for a couple of days or a week, refer to the following Green Holiday Checklist to ensure that your lab space is green and sustainable before you leave for break:
- Turn off all computers and unplug any devices such as radios, speakers, monitors and/or printers. Electronics still consume energy even when turned off.
- Turn off all lights, including the UV light inside the Biosafety Cabinet.
- Turn off any lab equipment (centrifuges, water baths, etc.) that is not in use.
- Close chemical fume hood sashes so that the sash is completely down.
- Dispose of any unneeded/old samples stored in lab fridges/freezers.
- Ensure that all waste (chemical, biological, and radioactive) is disposed of properly.
- Secure and store all hazardous materials appropriately.
- Check and report any water leakage.
- Ensure that lab spaces are locked and secured against unauthorized entry.
- Ensure that staff has access to emergency and alternate contact information (please submit a signage update if the contacts and/or phone numbers have changed). Be sure to include cell phone numbers only, as office numbers are not appropriate.
- As always, refer to the “Just in Time” guide for emergency follow-up instructions.
Contact the EHSO Spill Team at 404-727-2888 (24/7) for spills, and refer to ehso.emory.edu/emergency/ for more information on reporting accidents and/or incidents during regular business and after business hours.
