Hazardous Material Disposal and Recycling
University personnel have the following options for getting rid of hazardous materials and potentially contaminated supplies and equipment.Note: Not all options are available for all items.
Export restrictions on certain pathogens
EH&S Biosafety is sharing a message on behalf of the UW Export Controls Office:There are U.S. export license requirements for certain pathogens and toxins, including genetic elements from, and/or…
Biological Research Approval
Biological Use Authorization (BUA) is the process for reviewing and approving research involving biohazards, including recombinant or synthetic DNA/RNA.
Prepare for EPA's new rule for trichloroethylene
In December 2024, the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a new rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to protect workers, the public, and the environment from the risks…
Pressure Vessels
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Pressure vessels, autoclaves and steam sterilizers operating at pressures greater than 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) and larger than…
Chemical use in biological safety cabinets
A biological safety cabinet (BSC) can contain the most infectious pathogens. However, the BSC design determines its effectiveness. As a BSC user, it is important to understand there can be…
Fume Hood Condition Explanations
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) provides the following answers to common questions in response to receiving a notice on a fume hood.Frequently asked questionsWhy did I receive a Fume…
Emergency Procedures Flip Chart
Areas with hazardous materials can post the Emergency Procedures Flip Chart to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Respiratory Protection
When respirators are used properly, they can prevent injury and illnesses from exposure to airborne substances that may be inhaled.University managers and supervisors are responsible for controlling…
Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC)
The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) reviews, approves and oversees research involving the use of recombinant or synthetic DNA/RNA and other biohazards. The IBC meeting is open to the public,…
Laser Safety
The Laser Safety Program facilitates the safe and knowledgeable use of lasers in University laboratories and classrooms, and ensures the protection of the environment. The Laser Safety Program…
Biosafety Month 2025: Learn how a biosafety cabinet protects you
October is Biosafety Month, a time to focus on biosafety practices in your lab. For 2025, Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) encourages labs to learn more about how biosafety cabinets…
IBC Meeting Agenda
Agenda for a meeting of the UW Institutional Biosafety Committee
Biological Safety Cabinets
Biological safety cabinets (BSCs) are used to protect personnel, products and the environment from exposure to biohazards and cross contamination during routine procedures.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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The purpose of personal protective equipment (PPE) is to protect researchers, employees, students, and visitors from potential hazards in the work…
Hazardous Material Spills
A hazardous material spill is an uncontrolled release of a substance that is potentially hazardous to humans, animals and/or the environment. University personnel and students working with hazardous…
Welcome to Environmental Health & Safety
The University of Washington is committed to providing a healthy and safe environment for faculty, staff, students, visitors, and volunteers in all sites owned, operated, or controlled by the…