Latest News

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. One of the students had performed this work before; no supervisor was present.   

The experiment involved heating a chemical mixture on a hot plate inside a fume hood. The mixture overheated, ignited, and caused second-degree burns on a student’s hands. The student received medical care and has recovered.

What contributed to the incident?

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, wearing these items in the lab can expose you to hazards. Proper lab attire ensures your skin is covered and protected.

Even if you aren't working with hazardous materials that day, your coworker might be, so always dress to protect yourself. We recommend keeping an appropriate change of clothes and shoes in the lab so you are never without the right gear.

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 days. Such research is defined in Section 8 of the order.

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-wildlife conflicts.

To learn more about the impact of feeding wildlife and discover alternative ways to connect with nature:

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 falls are among the most commonly reported work-related incidents at the UW.    

The course covers identification, prevention, safe behavior techniques, and proper response to fall injuries. While not mandatory, this course is highly recommended to enhance your safety awareness and prevention skills.