New focus sheet explains SDSs vs. SOPs
Why should labs have a standard operating procedure (SOP) for a chemical when the manufacturer safety data sheet (SDS) is available? Both documents are required in the lab and offer different…
EH&S Guide for Principal Investigators
The Guide for Principal Investigators (PI Guide) is an introduction to Environmental Health & Safety for principal investigators (PIs) who are new to the University of Washington and…
Hydrofluoric Acid Focus Sheet
The Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) Focus Sheet covers the health hazards of HF exposure, safe use, storage, emergency procedures, incident reporting, spills, and disposal.
2-Mercaptoethanol SOP
Standard operating procedure template for laboratories using 2-Mercaptoethanol
Gear up for summer lab work
Summer in Seattle means hiking, biking, kayaking and ... lab work. Yes, many of us spend gorgeous summer days working in the lab. While it's fine to wear shorts, skirts, sandals or flip flops outside…
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.
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…
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.
Mercury
Elemental or metallic mercury is a potent neurotoxin, even with small exposures. Avoid exposure by replacing broken thermometers and lamps, and use a spill kit to manage a spill clean-up.Health…
Laboratory-Specific Safety Training Record
UW research and training laboratories can download and use the Laboratory-Specific Safety Training Record to record trainings related to the Chemical Hygiene Plan, chemical safety,…
New drowning prevention guidance
The Environmental Health & Safety Boating Safety Program created two new resources to help UW personnel identify and reduce the risk of drowning while working on, over, or alongside water. These…
Lab Refrigerators and Freezers for Flammable Materials
Flammable liquids should not be stored in standard refrigerators or freezers. Use the Lab Refrigerators and Freezers focus sheet to determine the best selection for your application.
Chemical SOPs
If you operate a chemical laboratory as defined in Washington Administrative Code 296-828, Using Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories, you must have standard operating procedures (SOPs) that…
Specific Chemical Hazards
Chemicals are used in laboratories, maker spaces, shops and other areas across campus. Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) provides information and guidance on safe practices for…
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…
Wastewater
All items that enter the the sewer system (e.g. poured down a drain or flushed down a toilet) must comply with local, state and federal wastewater rules, regulations, and standards. These rules are…