Lab animal allergens can be a serious health concern for those who work with animals at the UW; it’s important to understand the health risks and how to protect yourself. EH&S has resources that can help.
After a research group has moved or left the University, the department may be faced with handling a variety of hazards. There may be chemicals, radioactive materials, biological materials, and equipment containing hazardous materials that must be managed before a new group takes ownership of the space.
If you use an autoclave to decontaminate biohazardous waste, you need to have a site-specific SOP. Use this fillable PDF template to create your SOP. Any personnel operating the autoclave needs to have documented training on the site-specific procedures.
Updated July 17, 2024
Emergency washing equipment is provided in University facilities for the purpose of removing hazardous materials from the eyes and skin in the case of an exposure. Examples of emergency washing equipment are listed below.
Does your biological safety cabinet (BSC) have an ultraviolet (UV) lamp in it? If so, it may not be as effective for sterilization/decontamination purposes as you need it to be.
Ultraviolet radiation is a form of non-ionizing radiation, and biological effects from it vary with wavelength, photon energy, and duration of exposure. The 100-280 nm wavelength band is designated as UV-C, which is used for germicidal purposes.
The sterilization/decontamination activity of UV lights is limited by a number of factors, including:
All University personnel and students are required to follow the guidance provided in the University’s safety manuals and program manuals that are applicable to hazards in their work area and/or associated with a specific job task.
The safety and program manuals listed below were prepared in accordance with federal, state and local regulations and policies.
Click on the title to access each manual.
Laboratory Safety and Compliance is now Laboratory Safety Compliance AND Laboratory Safety Practices!
In response to attendee suggestions, the Laboratory Safety and Compliance course has been revised and split into two easily-accessible parts: An online and a classroom training.
Use Biological Toxin Checklist to ensure compliance and safe work practices for research involving biological toxins.
