Changes to hazardous material shipping regulations in 2023
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published updated regulations manuals for 2023, which may impact University units and departments that ship dangerous goods by air. Notable changes include:
Indoor Air Quality Occupant Diary
Report sick, injured or deceased wildlife
If you see wildlife that is visibly injured, sick or deceased at a UW location, report it promptly to EH&S via our reporting form (UWNetID required) or by calling (206) 543-7262.
The University works with federal wildlife biologists and professional contractors to evaluate animals, and where necessary, to support safe and appropriate removal of sick, injured, or dead wildlife from campus locations.
Avian influenza outbreaks in Washington state
A strain of avian influenza virus (H5N1) has been detected in wild birds and domestic poultry in many parts of the U.S. and in Washington state. Avian influenza has been confirmed in raccoon, raptor, hawk, waterfowl, raven and crow samples in Washington state, including samples from King and Pierce counties.
2022 Laboratory Safety Manual is now available
The December 2022 version of the UW Laboratory Safety Manual (LSM) is now available for download or printing. It's time to review, bookmark, or print a copy of the updated LSM and make it available for all staff and students in your lab. Keeping your safety documents up to date and easily accessible are key for staying safe.
Bats at the UW
Although bats are a key part of our ecosystem, it is important to remember that a small proportion of bats in Washington state carry rabies, a deadly disease in the saliva of infected animals.
You may have noticed bats flying around campus. They are commonly seen flying at dusk, which is normal and not a cause for concern. However, if a bat is found on the ground or indoors, it may be an indication of something wrong with the bat.
Coyotes on UW Campuses Focus Sheet
The information in the Coyotes on UW Campuses Focus Sheet is intended to educate the UW community about living and working around urban coyotes, preventing conflict with these animals, and reporting coyote activity on campus.
New option for battery recycling
University departments and units that purchase commercial and industrial batteries now have a third option for recycling (or disposing of) used batteries. Options include:
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 materials should be prepared to respond in the event a spill occurs.