Category Archives: EHSO

Environmental Health & Safety Office

Laboratory Ergonomics

November 1, 2013

When most people hear the word “ergonomics,” they immediately think of an office setting. However, ergonomics has many other applications and it applies to any worker, performing any task, in any work environment. The goal is to optimize the individual’s health and well-being, while improving overall system performance. Research labs commonly focus on experimental efficiency, […]

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PDF: November 2013 Lab Rat Newsletter

November 1, 2013

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New Green Lab Program

October 1, 2013

The Green Lab Program was developed as a collaborative effort between EHSO, Sustainability Initiatives, Campus Services and Procurement. We are ready to test the program and need your help to implement elements of the Green Lab Program! If your lab is interested in becoming more sustainable by participating in the pilot, submit your information here. […]

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Building Liaison Updates!

October 1, 2013

Research Safety recently added members to the group and adjusted the Building Liaison assignments for the laboratories. Your previous Research Safety Building Liaison or Radiation Safety Liaison may have changed. Review the list to ensure you contact the appropriate person for any laboratory safety or radiation safety related information or questions. Research Safety Building Liaison […]

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PDF: October 2013 Lab Rat Newsletter

October 1, 2013

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Labeling and Transfer of Chemicals

September 1, 2013

Lab personnel cannot use chemical containers that do not meet the labeling requirements of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard.  At a minimum, purchased chemical containers must have labels that meet the following: 1. The name of the chemical and the hazards of the chemical must be present on the label 2. The label must be legible […]

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7 Steps to Prevent Cross Contamination

September 1, 2013

1.  Don’t Leave the Lab Wearing Your Gloves!  Gloves are used to protect skin from chemicals and infectious materials.  Once used, gloves are considered contaminated.  Gloves must be removed upon exiting the lab to prevent cross contamination of commonly used surfaces.  As a general rule, never touch elevator buttons, door handles, etc. while wearing gloves. […]

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Hazard Communication Standard Update: Globally Harmonized System

September 1, 2013

In March 2012, OSHA updated the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)  (HAZ COM) to align with the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).  Under the 2012 HAZCOM revision, significant changes were made to the chemical labeling and Material Safety Data Sheets. Chemical Labeling Chemical labels now must have […]

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PDF: September 2013 Lab Rat Newsletter

September 1, 2013

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EHSO Inspections: We like what we see!

August 1, 2013

EHSO Inspections are underway in the research labs!  We have inspected approximately 60 labs and we  want to acknowledge how safe the researchers are working.  Here are some good things we’ve noticed in the labs: Sharps – Labs are using the appropriate sharps containers.  Sharps containers are in a locations close in proximity to the […]

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