Standard Operating Procedures versus Safety Data Sheets
Safety data sheets (SDSs) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) are both required elements of a laboratory’s chemical hygiene plan but each captures different types of information. Use the…
Lab Safety Rating Calculations
Safety rating calculations are based on an inspection's answers to 30 target questions derived from the checklist. These target questions address the most pressing issues related to lab safety.Visit…
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,…
Incompatible Chemicals Focus Sheet
The Incompatible Chemicals Focus Sheet contains a Chemical Compatibility Chart chart adapted from the CRC Laboratory Handbook which groups various chemicals into 23 groups with…
NFPA Hazard Ratings and Permit Thresholds
The NFPA hazard rating system refers to a safety standard by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) that outlines a hazard rating system for emergency personnel.
The NFPA 704…
Caution and Warning Signs
Caution Signs are required to be posted at the entrance to a space where hazardous materials are stored or used. The Caution Sign is based on a location's chemical inventory; it alerts emergency…
Safety Equipment Status Report
This report shows the most recent survey status of UW laboratories' safety facilities and equipment (eye washes, fire extinguishers, emergency showers and autoclaves). Its data is ordered by…
Chemical Waste Management Practices
University personnel who generate hazardous chemical waste for the University, including all campuses and off-site locations, are required to follow chemical waste management practices when…
Work safely outdoors with heat and wildfire smoke training
As outdoor temperatures rise and wildfire season approaches, it’s important to know how to protect yourself while working outdoors. Environmental Health & Safety offers two required online…
Lessons learned from a chemical fire
In December 2024, a group of undergraduate research students conducted an experiment in a shared research/shop space following a standard operating procedure (SOP) they had recently updated.…
Temporary Food Establishment Permit Fees
UW Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) charges fees for Temporary Food Establishment Permits based on the temporary food establishment’s (TFE’s) risk level (minimal, moderate, or complex),…
Temporary Food Establishment Permit Application Form
UW students and personnel hosting or sponsoring an event at a UW location where food will be served, sold, or given away may need to apply for a Temporary Food Establishment Permit from UW…
Personal Flotation Devices Focus Sheet
In work areas where the danger of drowning cannot be mitigated by engineering or other workplace safety measures (e.g., guardrails), the University of Washington is required to provide and ensure…
Personal Flotation Device Requirements Flowchart
Use the Personal Flotation Device Requirements Flowchart to determine whether you are required to wear a personal flotation device.Visit the Boating Safety page for more information.
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…
Emergency Procedures Flip Chart
Areas with hazardous materials can post the Emergency Procedures Flip Chart to be prepared in case of an emergency.
Teaching Laboratory Risk Assessment Tool (Teaching Lab R.A.T.)
The Teaching Laboratory Risk Assessment Tool (Teaching Lab R.A.T) provides a framework for risk assessment of work done in teaching laboratories. This tool provides a format for responsible…
Laboratory Facility Use Agreement Template
This template can help establish clear expectations and responsibilities health and safety in the event UW personnel or students request to use your laboratory for student work or a capstone project.
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…