Tag Archives: safety

Eye and Face Protection

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, each day 2,000 U.S. workers experience a job-related eye injury that requires medical treatment. One third of the injuries are treated in hospital emergency departments. Healthcare and laboratory workers are at risk of eye exposures to chemicals and infectious materials. This can occur through direct […]

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Outcome of FY2021 Research Safety Laboratory Assessments

During fiscal year 2021, the EHSO Research Safety team conducted assessments of research spaces to help ensure a safe work environment, to identify and correct laboratory hazards and to assist with regulatory compliance. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a modified assessment was performed in research and core facility laboratories following COVID-19 safety recommendations. The checklist of items reviewed was communicated to researchers in the Special Edition Lab […]

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Hierarchy of Controls

Emory has a commitment to its faculty, staff, and students to keep them safe while conducting research. A “Hierarchy of Controls” is used to minimize employee exposure to hazards. The control methods at the top are perceived as more protective than those at the bottom. Eliminating the hazard is the most effective control method, however […]

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Summer Clothing and Lab Safety

The weather is warming up, and while shorts and sandals are great if you are spending time outside, it is important to be properly dressed when working in a laboratory to reduce injuries and exposures if an accident occurs. Along with proper attire, remember to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) according to your laboratory’s PPE […]

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FY2021 Lab Assessments

The EHSO Research Safety team conducts assessments of research spaces to help ensure a safe work environment, to identify and correct laboratory hazards and to assist with regulatory compliance. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a modified assessment visit will be conducted for your laboratory following current safety recommendations. What to expect? A 15-minute visit with […]

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Update to the Hazardous Waste Guidelines

The Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) updated and expanded the Hazardous Waste Guidelines, now titled Regulated Waste Guidelines to include additional topics listed below. The current version is on our website under Forms/Documents. This guideline provides information for proper management of regulated waste so that we protect our environment and maintain compliance with applicable […]

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Are You Autoclaving Safely?

Autoclave safely by using EHSO’s Autoclave Safety Checklist. This checklist is a reminder to confirm that materials are autoclave compatible, alert researchers about malfunctions by posting “DO NOT USE!” signage, ensure proper exhaust and drainage by keeping the chamber’s drain strainer clean, always use secondary containment, and much more. The checklist can be found on […]

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Holiday Safety

Gatherings during COVID-19 This holiday season poses additional safety concerns due to COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides considerations for small gatherings to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Please note that this does not replace any regional, state, or federal health and safety laws, rules, or regulations concerning small gatherings. […]

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Update to the Formaldehyde Fact Sheet

The Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) has updated the Formaldehyde Fact Sheet and the current version is now on our website under Forms/Documents. Emory’s Formaldehyde Program was developed to protect Emory University employees, students and visitors from exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde as prescribed in OSHA’s Formaldehyde Standard (29 CFR 1910.1048). The Formaldehyde […]

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Laundering Your Lab Coat

Lab coats are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) in the laboratory. They provide an additional layer of protection from chemicals, biological materials, isotopes, and flames. If exposed to one of these hazards, you can remove your lab coat, which has taken the brunt of the exposure, and rinse the affected area. Not only does a […]

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