Author: Beth Savoy
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Updates and Changes to the Laser Safety Program
Do you occasionally borrow or plan to borrow Class 3B or Class 4 laser equipment to use in your studies? If so, there is a new document that must be completed by both parties (borrower and lender) prior to the exchange of equipment. The Procedure for Access to Laser Equipment document outlines the responsibilities of…
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Biological Safety Cabinet Certification Reminder
Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs) on campus at Emory must be certified every year by the vendor of your choice. One of the three vendors, Safety Plus, ENV, or Environments of Care (EOC) {formally Air Gas} must be selected in Emory Express at the designated time for your research building. Below, is the biological certification schedule…
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What is the Purpose of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?
It’s really not a simple answer and requires an understanding of general biosafety. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines biosafety as principles, practices, and strategies aimed at minimizing the unintentional release of a biological agent. Biosafety is achieved by utilizing the four primary controls – engineering, PPE, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and administration. These controls…
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What Can You Do to Improve the Safety Culture of Your Lab?
Would you like to begin incorporating safety into everyday activities of your research? Do you want to reduce the probability of accidents or injuries in your lab? If your answer is “yes” to these questions, then consider including “lab safety moments” in every lab meeting. At the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), the Department…
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The Global Phase-Out of Mercury Thermometers
Several governmental agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are jump-starting an effort to phase out mercury (Hg) thermometers from common use. At Emory University, we want to follow the same precedent and also raise awareness about the dangers of mercury. Below are some quick facts about Hg thermometers…
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Is Your Lab Leaving Emory or Relocating to another Lab on Campus?
Prior to departing from an assigned research space, all labs are requested to contact EHSO to schedule a Lab Decommissioning meeting. During this meeting, our office provides a comprehensive overview of the decommissioning process. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss the safety requirements that apply to your lab move. Additionally, at the meeting, we…
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Proper Use of a Steam Autoclave
Laboratories use autoclaves as a method to sterilize instruments, glassware or media. The lab can also use the autoclave to decontaminate waste before disposal. The chart and tips provided in this article can be used as a guide and reference for all personnel who use autoclaves. Safe use and operation of the autoclave will ensure…