Laboratory Safety

Students required to undertake work in laboratories are to comply with local laboratory safety information, rules, manuals and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action being taken by the University. 

Students must take personal responsibility for ensuring their own safety and the safety of others by: 

• taking the necessary action(s) to eliminate or minimise the risks of laboratory hazards over which they have control;
• complying with safety instructions, policies and procedures, including local/departmental safety rules, manuals and SOPs;
• completing the appropriate laboratory safety induction and training to enable them to undertake their work safely, and ensure that this training is documented and records kept by the supervisor/laboratory manager;
• making proper use of all safety devices and personal protective clothing and equipment;
• complying with the instructions given by emergency response personnel such as emergency wardens and first aid officers;
• not wilfully placing at risk the health and safety of any other person;
• seeking information or advice where necessary before carrying out new or unfamiliar work;
• maintaining dress standards appropriate for the work being done ie appropriate personal protective clothing, footwear and equipment must be worn and used at all times;
• only consuming or storing food and drink in designated areas outside the laboratory;
• being familiar with emergency and evacuation procedures and the location and use of emergency equipment (only if appropriately trained;
• reporting all incidents, injuries, hazards and 'near miss' incidents to their supervisor and submitting a report on the 'myHRonline'reporting system.