Drugs are classified as hazardous if they may cause cancer, developmental or reproductive toxicity or harm to organs at low doses. They include drugs used for cancer chemotherapy (also called antineoplastics), antiviral drugs, hormones, some bioengineered drugs and other various drugs.
Check the NIOSH List of Hazardous Drugs in Healthcare Settings, 2024 to determine if a drug is classified as hazardous.
In a laboratory setting, researchers and workers may be exposed to formaldehyde vapor emitted from formalin and paraformaldehyde solutions or from contaminated surfaces or materials. Follow the Formaldehyde, Formalin, Paraformaldehyde Safe Work Practices to reduce risk of exposure and know how to respond in the event of a spill or other emergency..
University laboratories and users of formaldehyde complete the Formaldehyde SOP Template (Word) by filling in chemical/lab-specific information.
The Biohazard Warning Sign restricts laboratory access during work with biohazards, communicates the agents in use, and specifies entry or exit requirements. It is the responsibility of the Principal Investigator or supervisor to properly identify and restrict access to the laboratory and to notify emergency and support personnel of any hazards in the laboratory.
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 (Word).
University units and researchers using hazardous chemicals can use the Blank Chemical SOP Template (Word) to modify to your specific location and procedures.
Visit the Chemical SOPs page to view and download example SOPs.
A pressure vessel is a closed container designed to hold gases or liquids at a pressure substantially higher or lower than the ambient pressure. Examples include glassware, autoclaves, compressed gas cylinders, compressors (including refrigeration), vacuum chambers and custom designed laboratory vessels.
The purpose of the personal protective equipment (PPE) program is to protect researchers, employees, students, and visitors from potential hazards in the work environment. However, eliminating hazards through engineering or administrative controls provides better and more consistent protection than relying on PPE alone. If PPE is necessary, it is best used with engineering and/or administrative controls along with good work practices.
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) provides information, resources and tools to meet the requirements of the International Fire Code for proper storage, use and disposal of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials generally refers to chemicals, compressed gases, and cryogenic fluids that present physical and health hazards.
Updated July 15, 2024
Caution Signs are required to be posted at the entrance to a space where hazardous materials are stored or used. The Caution sign is based on a location's chemical inventory; it alerts emergency responders and visitors of potential hazards and precautions for entry.
Warning Signs alert personnel and visitors to health and safety hazards beyond those identified in the caution sign. Specific warning signs may be required based on the type of hazard present.
