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It is time for the biannual health and safety committee elections.  Nominations will open soon for the next two-year committee term, which will begin on January 1, 2022. Please nominate yourself or a colleague to serve on a committee.

The updated UW Accident Prevention Plan contains new and updated health and safety information and resources for University units to share with employees. In addition, EH&S created a template Supplemental Accident Prevention Plan for units to address site-specific workplace hazards.

Several recent incidents have occurred at the University in which a chemical or infectious material splashed or splattered into the eye because the individual was not wearing the correct type of eye protection for the hazards they faced, or not wearing eye protection at all. You should always evaluate your workplace for potential eye hazards so you can select the appropriate safety equipment.

Eyeglasses versus safety glasses or goggles

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.

Can wearing a facemask while working in hot weather cause me to overheat?

No. A face covering alone will not cause a person to overheat. Studies have shown that filtering facepiece respirators, such as an N95, do not cause additional physiological stress to most wearers and do not contribute to heat stress.

Excessive exposure to heat can cause a range of heat-related illnesses, from less serious heat rash and heat cramps to more serious heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention because it can be deadly, so take precautions while working in the summer heat.

The UW Environmental Health & Safety Department (EH&S) congratulates EH&S staff who have been recognized for outstanding service and dedication to the UW community through the UW Awards of Excellence.

The Managing Laboratory Chemicals – Online course has been updated to improve accessibility and incorporate adult learning concepts. The updated course replaces the existing HTML course and is similar in content.

As we look forward to a safe return to on-site work and in-person instruction, evacuation directors and building coordinators should review their building emergency plans, including Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans, to ensure that plans integrate COVID-19 face covering and distancing requirements with emergency evacuation procedures.

If you are partially or completely vacating your laboratory for remodeling, relocation or closure, you must leave it clean and safe. Follow all applicable instructions on the Notice of Laboratory Moveout form (updated on 4/8/21):