New spend category and purchasing requirements for research with synthetic nucleic acids and synthesis equipment
A new spend category has been created for the purchase of synthetic nucleic acids and synthesis equipment to help ensure compliance with the Framework for Nucleic Acid Synthesis Screening. This…
New online course for preventing slips, trips, and falls
Environmental Health & Safety is pleased to announce the launch of a 25-minute, self-paced online course to help reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in the workplace. Slips, trips, and…
Help keep wildlife wild
Learn Why You Shouldn't Feed Wildlife at the UW
Feeding wildlife might seem like a kind gesture, but it can have unintended consequences for both animals and people and contribute to human-…
UPDATE: Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP) Policy Implementation and Reminder
UPDATE: The White House issued an executive order on May 5, 2025, directing federal agencies to end funding for "dangerous gain-of-function research” and develop a new oversight policy within 120…
2025 UW Biosafety Manual and Biological Use Authorization (BUA) Application updates
Biosafety Manual Updates
The 2025 edition of the UW Biosafety Manual is available for download. The updated information covers hazards associated with the use of biohazardous agents and…
Temporary Food Service Permit Fee Memo
This memo was sent to University of Washington (UW) unit leaders and contacts with temporary food service establishments on May 27, 2025 regarding Temporary Food Service Permit fees starting on July…
Chemical Hazard Communication (HazCom)
The UW is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, students and visitors. Individuals who work with or near hazardous substances need to be aware of the identity…
Shipping Hazardous Materials
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) provides online and classroom training courses for UW personnel who ship hazardous materials (refer to the Training section below).
We also ship…
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…
Compressed Gases and Cryogens
Compressed and liquefied gases are routinely used in laboratories, shops and various other operations at the University. Compressed gas is a generic term used for describing compressed gases,…