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Organization and Policies

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Lab Safety

Purpose:

The purpose of this Lab Safety Plan is to ensure a safe and healthy environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors in laboratories across the San Mateo County Community College District (SMCCCD). This plan outlines guidelines, procedures, and responsibilities to minimize risks associated with laboratory activities.

Scope:

This plan applies to all laboratories within the SMCCCD campuses, including but not limited to chemistry, biology, physics, engineering, and computer science labs.

Responsibilities:

  • Lab Instructors/Supervisors: Lab instructors and supervisors are responsible for implementing this plan, ensuring that all lab participants are familiar with safety protocols, and supervising safe lab practices.

  • Lab Participants (Students and Staff): Lab participants must adhere to safety protocols, attend safety orientations, and report unsafe conditions immediately.

  • Safety Officer: Each campus will designate a safety officer responsible for overseeing lab safety, conducting regular inspections, and providing safety training.

 General Safety Guidelines:

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Lab participants must wear appropriate PPE, such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes, as required by the specific lab activity.

  • Chemical Handling: Follow Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for chemical storage, handling, and disposal. Use chemicals in well-ventilated areas and keep emergency eyewash and shower stations accessible.

  • Equipment Usage: Operate lab equipment only if trained and authorized. Report malfunctioning equipment promptly.

  • Fire Safety: Know the location and proper use of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and evacuation routes. Keep flammable materials away from open flames.

  • Electrical Safety: Inspect cords and plugs for damage, avoid overloading outlets, and disconnect equipment when not in use.

Emergency Procedures:

  • Chemical Spills: Immediately contain the spill if safe to do so. Evacuate the area if the spill is hazardous. Notify the lab supervisor and follow established spill cleanup protocols.

  • Fire: Alert others, activate the nearest fire alarm, and evacuate the building. Do not use elevators during a fire alarm. Use fire extinguishers if trained and safe to do so.

  • Injury: Attend to injured individuals, provide first aid if trained, and notify the lab supervisor. For serious injuries, call campus security or emergency services.

  • Evacuation: Follow evacuation procedures posted in labs and evacuate to designated assembly points. Do not re-enter the building until given clearance.

Training and Orientation:

  • Lab Safety Orientation: All lab participants must attend a safety orientation before beginning lab work.

  • Annual Refresher Training: Lab participants must attend annual refresher safety training to reinforce proper safety practices.

Chemical Waste Disposal:

  • Segregation and Labeling: Segregate chemical waste by type and label containers with contents and hazards. Follow guidelines for hazardous waste disposal.

Safety Inspections:

  • Regular Inspections: Safety officers will conduct regular lab inspections to identify potential hazards and ensure compliance with safety protocols.

  • Corrective Actions: Any identified safety issues must be addressed promptly. Lab activities may be suspended if significant safety violations are found.

Incident Reporting and Investigation:

  • Near Misses: Report near misses and incidents to lab supervisors or safety officers to prevent future occurrences.

  • Investigation: Safety officers will investigate incidents to determine causes and implement preventive measures.

Review and Revisions:

This Lab Safety Plan will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to incorporate lessons learned, new regulations, and emerging best practices.

By following this Lab Safety Plan, the San Mateo County Community College District aims to provide a safe and productive environment for all lab participants.