Laboratory Safety
The University of Ottawa has a mandatory Laboratory Safety training applicable to all individuals working in a laboratory environment. All laboratory personnel should know the procedures for working safely and responding to emergencies. Lab personnel must always be aware of:
- The locations of emergency telephone numbers,
- The locations of eyewash fountains and emergency showers,
- The locations of spill kits,
- Glassware washing procedures,
- Science Stores procedures,
- Limits on volumes of flammable and combustible liquids in their labs,
- Special requirements applicable to the purchasing, handling, shipping, and disposal of radioactive sources,
- Special requirements applicable to biohazardous substances,
- Hazardous waste disposal guidelines, and
- Emergency exits and evacuation routes.
The Laboratory Safety training sessions are intended to provide personnel, students, and professors with the basic tools to work in a laboratory setting. The sessions are offered on a regular basis.
 |
The Laboratory Safety Manual provides details about laboratory practices to maintain a safe workplace and how to react in case of an incident or accident. |
|
Please read the Working with Compressed Gases Guide. |
|
The Sewer-Use Guideline is also important for laboratories. |
|
A pamphlet (8 1.2" x 14") is available to help you identify hazard signage used at the University. |
MIT's Virtual Campus provides information on EHS (American) rules applicable to Universities. The topics can be transferred to our University in intent.
Visit the fire prevention page to get information on signage and fire extinguishers.
Reproductive Hazards in Laboratories
Two guides have been prepared to inform laboratory workers on the reproductive hazards of working in different environments.
|
Policy for Pregnant Laboratory Workers (only available in French only at this time) |
|
Reproductive Hazards for Laboratory Workers Guide (available in French only at this time) |
The provide important information. If you have specific health concerns, please contact the Occupational Health and Disability Leave office.
Links
- AIHA Laboratory Safety Information
- US Department of Labor, Laboratory Safety
- University of Wisconsin Laboratory Safety page
- Health Canada Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines
- Lab Safety Videos Available from ORM