OIST Graduate University
Policies, Rules & Procedures
Authority: Approved by the CEO/President, the Secretary General and the Provost•

Industrial Safety and Health Act•

Offensive Odor Control Law•

Act on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of Their Manufacture,etc.

•

Explosives Control Act•

High Pressure Gas Safety Act•

Ordinance on Safety and Health of Work under High Pressure•

Fire Service Act•

Water Pollution Prevention Act•

Air Pollution Control Act•

Act on Confirmation, etc. of Release Amounts of Specific Chemical Substances inthe Environment and Promotion of Improvements to the Management Thereof•

Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Act•

Agricultural Chemicals Control Act•

Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act•

Stimulants Control Act•

Waste Disposal and Public Cleansing Act•

Act on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity through Ruleson the Use of Living Modified Organisms•

Act on Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases Control•

Act Concerning the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Medical Care for Patientswith Infectious Diseases•

Rabies Prevention Act•

Plant Protection Act•

Act on the Protection of Fishery Resources•

Invasive Species Act•

Act on Welfare and Management of Animals•

Act on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons and the Regulation of SpecificChemicals•

Act on Prevention of Radiation Disease Due to Radioisotopes, etc.

•

Act on the Regulation of Nuclear Source Material, Nuclear Fuel Material andReactors
1
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_clChapter 13: Safety, Health & Environmental Protection
13.1

PolicyThrough an array of orientation programs including safety matters, research- and jobspecific safety and education and training courses, and health and wellness programs,
OIST Graduate University (“the University”) promotes the safety and health of its
students, employees, and others within the University Community. The University also
strives to carry out the activities that comprise and support its education and research
mission in a manner that will preserve and protect the distinctive natural environment
in which the campus is located. This includes conscientious recycling and appropriate
handling and disposal of hazardous waste and other waste materials, as well as
utilization of energy efficient practices and modalities. Additionally, because Okinawa
is located in a unique geological region subject to earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons,and other natural disasters (and associated fires), the University has in place rigorous
Disaster and Emergency Preparedness protocols and training for students andemployees.
It is University policy to meet or exceed all legal and regulatory requirements regarding
Safety, Health & Environmental Protection (“SHEP”) and may impose additional
requirements as appropriate. Each member of the University community is expected
to comply with the University’s policies, rules, and procedures regarding safety(including disaster preparedness), health, and environmental protection in addition tocomplying with all relevant Japanese legal requirements. The dedication and active
commitment of every individual regarding SHEP is critical to the success of the
University’s safety, health, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness
programs.
13.1.1 General Safety Policy
General workplace safety training is important for everyone at the University, eventhose who believe that they have a non-hazardous desk job. Safety training is one of
the most basic and important functions of the University. Safety training provides
insight into potential hazards in the workplace, how to spot them, and what to do
once a hazard is recognized. Several forms of training are available, such as group
instruction, WEB-based training, or one-on-one sessions. The University requiresthat all those who operate in the University take safety training programs, including
the Basics of Health and Safety program which extensively covers workplace safety
matters [Link: 13.3.1], and renew program certifications as necessary.

2ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.1.1.1 Job-Specific Safety Policy. Numerous hazards are job-specific. Operationof machine tools, electrical work, construction, plumbing, and just about any effort
involving machinery will expose those doing that work to dangers. Work involving
these dangers is subject to stringent occupational safety regulation and training,
and those who are engaged in those occupations (or those otherwise carrying-out
such activities) at the University must take the relevant safety training [Link:
13.3.2].
13.1.1.2 Research Safety Policy. Different experiments pose different potential
risks. Individuals involved in conducting experiments must familiarize themselveswith all potential risks before starting the experiment so that they can anticipate
possible incidents, ensure to follow safe experimental procedures and take safetymeasures to prevent incidents. Additionally, Faculty members and Lead
Investigators must instruct research personnel about appropriate safety measures,and research personnel must follow their instructions and advice. If an accident
occurs, OIST personnel must implement appropriate first-aid responses, giving
priority to rescuing activities and attending to injured people, and to preventing
the spread of damage.
13.1.2 Health & Wellness Policy
The University offers training, programs and medical services to promote thephysical and mental health and well being of employees and students and to supporta healthy and productive work environment. Employees and students are expected
to engage in the University’s Health & Wellness programs, to be conscious of theirhealth, to undergo periodic general and specific medical examinations [Link: 41.3.1],
to pay attention to diet and nutrition, to exercise daily, to get enough sleep each night,
and to take time for relaxation and recreation.
13.1.3 Environmental Protection Policy
The University is committed to the continuous development of technologies related
to renewable energy, to research in the environmental and associated sciences, andto minimization of energy consumption in its activities. All employees and students
are expected to behave in conformance with the University’s policy of reducing
environmental impact, reducing waste, managing and handling of hazardous waste,
and maximizing energy efficiency.

3ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.1.4 Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Response Policy
In order to minimize the adverse impact of the unpredictable natural and otherdisasters that may strike, the University has developed and deployed preparedness
and emergency response plans. It has also established evacuation areas, evacuationroutes, and emergency contacts. University employees and students are expected tofamiliarize themselves with these preparations, plans and precautions. All membersof the University community are expected to also have personal plans for dealing
with disasters and emergencies away from the University. For details, see “OIST
Graduate University Emergency, Safety and Health Procedures and Guidelines.”
13.2 General Considerations
13.2.1 Industrial Safety & Health Act and Other Significant Laws
With regard to occupational safety and health, the University’s activities are subject
to Japan’s Industrial Safety and Health Act. In addition, the University has its own
Safety and Health Management Rules, Rules for Safety Management System and a
University Safety and Health Committee. Also, additional laws applicable to the
University’s various research and academic activities are set out where relevant
elsewhere in this Chapter.
13.2.2 (Deleted and merged into PRP4.11.7)
13.2.3 Transporting Biological Agents, Chemical Materials, and Other
Regulated Material
Transportation of many research materials, devices, and substances is subject tostrict regulations, under the provisions of the Postal Act, Terms and Conditions ofDomestic Postal Services, Universal Postal Convention, and IATA Dangerous Goods
Rules, among others. Additionally, containers and packaging for transport within
Japan and overseas must comply with specific requirements.
Relevant laws affecting import/export of biological agents and chemical materials
include:•Act on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity throughRules on the Use of Living Modified Organisms (Cartagena Act)•Act on Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases Control•

Rabies Prevention Act•

Act Concerning the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Medical Care forPatients with Infectious Diseases
4ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl•Plant Protection Act•

Invasive Alien Species Act•

Act on the Protection of Fishery Resources•

Import and export of chemical materials is regulated by the Act on the
Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of Their Manufacture, etc.
(Chemicals Evaluation Act)13.2.4 Acquisition of Genetic Resources
If genetic resources are acquired abroad or are brought into Japan for research
purposes, the University shall review providing country’s laws and regulations inadvance based on the Convention on Biological Diversity and complete Access andBenefit-Sharing (ABS) procedures. Researchers shall contact Academic Agreement
Section in case of acquiring from or jointly acquiring from academic institution ofproviding country, or Technology Licensing Section in case of acquiring from or
jointly acquiring from organization of providing country other than academic
institution, and complete necessary procedures. Genetic resources subject to ABS
include animals, plants, microorganism (including viruses), DNA/RNA extract, andtraditional knowledge about use of genetic resources.
13.2.5 Safety-Related Signage“Safety Signs” warning of hazards and the need for caution are posted at various
locations around the campus. Some are temporary warnings, such as used during
construction or roadwork. Those placed on laboratory doors are generally permanentand must be taken seriously. Employees, students, and visitors are expected to notice,read, and obey all safety signs. Safety signs are fabricated and maintained inaccordance with University Safety Signs Guidance
13.2.6 Incident and Accident Response & Reporting
Everyone in the University has a responsibility to respond to and report health orsafety incidents and accidents in accordance with the “OIST Graduate
University Emergency, Safety, Health Procedures & Guidelines”, "OIST Incident and
Accident Reporting Guideline" and other relevant rules.
If in the case of minor incidents or accidents or the victim or witness is able toidentify the section that should respond, then he/she may directly contact that
section without following the procedure above.
However, a report shall be submitted to the Safety and health via WEB form or othermeans to a University Safety and Health Committee at a later date.
5ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl

The reports are used only for accident prevention activities, and the reporters will
not be sanctioned for reporting the cases.
13.3 Rules
13.3.1 Training
Training on health and research as well as environmental protection is provided inclassroom-based, online and hands-on forms. At the University, all persons who
operate in the University, regardless of their affiliation or how long they have beenor will be operating at the University, must select and take any trainings that are
required for the type of activity they plan to engage in, before engaging in it or before
submitting the required application. Certification of trainings is generally valid forfive years; however, certification of some trainings expires earlier. In addition, allpersons are required to take the Basics of Health and Safety and the Update Session
on Research Safety every year to renew certification of these trainings. Training must
be retaken when deemed necessary by the University, such as when laws andregulations are revised, or before the expiration of the validity period. In addition to
taking the required trainings, supervisors, such as faculty members and section
leaders, must also inform their subordinate faculty and staff members as well as nonUniversity personnel they have accepted about all required trainings and confirm
that they have completed these trainings. For details on education and training andwho can attend, see WEB Link.
13.3.1.1 Basics of Health and Safety
The Basics of Health and Safety is a comprehensive training on health and safety
and environmental protection, which is also one of the important initial trainings
that all new personnel at OIST must receive. Its training material puts together all
the basic health and safety matters that those operating at OIST ought to know. It
enables trainees to develop an overall understanding of emergency procedures,
applicable legal and regulatory requirements as well as University rules. All
University students and employees, including clerical workers (and contract
workers) not directly engaged in research or experiments, must receive thistraining. The material is updated as necessary, to include revision of laws andregulatory provisions as well as University rules. Certification of this training isvalid only for one year, and thus all persons are required to complete annual
renewal by receiving the training again before expiry.

6ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.3.1.2 Responsible Conduct of Research
The Guidelines for Responding to Misconduct in Research (Decision by the
Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, August 26, 2014)
require research institutions such as universities to provide research ethics
education to a wide range of persons who are involved in their research activities.
All persons who are involved in research activities or operations for supporting
research at the University must take the Responsible Conduct of Research program.
Administrative employees who are not directly involved in research activities arealso strongly recommended to take this program. [Link: 4.8.2] Additionally, taking
research ethics materials provided by an institution other than OIST is also
encouraged. Of note, those who have acquired an external research grant may berequired to take an additional research ethics material by the funding agency.
Certification of this program is valid for five years.
13.3.1.3 Required Trainings for Personnel who Operate in the
University
To perform certain types of work, personnel must take certain trainings which arerequired by laws, regulations and guidelines, or are necessitated to operate safely.
Those who are engaged in an activity at the University must complete all required
trainings before the commencement of the activity or application procedures
relating to it. Information on required trainings for specific works can be obtained
from the relevant laws and regulatory provisions as well as the University's Healthand Safety website. Persons who operate at the University are recommended toadditionally take a broad range of programs even if they are not mandatory. In
addition, if training programs consist of multiple modules, including those of
mandatory and non-mandatory, likewise, trainees should willingly take nonmandatory modules as well.
Persons who are engaged in waste collection or cleaning as well as outsidecontractors who have access to laboratory areas must complete the Advanced
Safety Program on Health and Safety in advance of the commencement of the work
and, subsequently, at least once in five years.
13.3.2 Hazardous Work and Handling of Harmful AgentsThe following general rules must always be observed when performing hazardous
work or handling harmful agents:(1) When handling an apparatus or equipment that involves high temperatures, high7ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_clpressure, high voltage or high speed or that is heavy weight, use appropriate
protective measures and equipment and work attentively.
(2) Before using an apparatus or equipment that is new to the operator, the operator
must carefully read operation manuals, do any other appropriate preparation
work and ask for guidance from a person who has experience in using theapparatus or equipment.
(3) Before operating an apparatus, device, or equipment that requires a particularskill, the potential user must be familiar with basic operations of the apparatus
or equipment.
(4) After use, the apparatus, device, or equipment - and the surrounding areas - must
be cleaned up; if any defect is found, it must be promptly repaired (or the next
user notified of the problem).
(5) The following personal protective equipment must be provided and used asnecessary:•Protective equipment for eyes and face (such as glasses with face shield)•

Protective equipment for body, hands and feet (such as protective clothes,
gloves and safety shoes)•

Protective equipment for respiration (such as dust respirator, gas mask andair respirator)(6) Maintain personal protective equipment so as to be used in the best condition
anytime and clearly indicate the place where they are stored.
(7) Be familiar with how to wear personal protective equipment so that they can beworn quickly and appropriately when necessary.
(8) After use, personal protective equipment must be sterilized appropriately andstored in an appropriate place.
(9) Employees who are engaged in work with limitations on working conditions orwork specified as dangerous or harmful work under the Industrial Safety and
Health Act or any other relevant laws must have license or have completed skill
trainings or special trainings required by the Act or such laws.
13.3.3 Machinery, Equipment, Instruments & Devices
In performing their duties for the University, workers may make use of a variety ofmachines, equipment, devices, tools and instruments, large and small, simple andcomplex, from hammers and welding torches to cranes and lasers (collectively
referred to as “equipment”). All workers must read the related manuals thoroughly
to understand and know the measures how to avoid or mitigate hazards.

8ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.3.3.1 Equipment that Require License or Notification
The Industrial Safety and Health Act or any other relevant laws may require a
potential user of certain equipment to obtain license or submit a notification for
the use in advance; for details, see “OIST Safety and Health Management Rules”
and the University's pertinent website. However, for any license or notification
procedures which involve the Fire Prevention Ordinance of the Okinawa
Prefecture, the Facility Management Section will act as the contact office forcommunication between the University and the Okinawa Prefecture.
13.3.3.2Unattended Operation of Equipment
Although refrigerators, freezers and incubators operating in an intermediate
temperature range may be left unattended exceptionally, the general rule is thatno equipment may be left unattended while operating (including overnight
operation). However, in the case of low risk machines that are provided with safety
devices, unattended operation may be conducted if all pertinent ancillary safety
precautions are in effect. When performing unattended operation, the following
notices must be posted:•

On the equipment, indicate that unattended operation or overnight operationis scheduled;•

On the equipment, post a description of the current operation and provide
emergency response and contact person information.

13.3.3.3 Equipment Requiring Periodic Inspection
The Industrial Safety and Health Act or any other relevant laws may require
periodic inspection on certain equipment and installations; for details, see “OIST
Safety and Health Management Rules” and the University's pertinent website.
13.3.3.4 Use of Laser
Refer to “Laser Safety Management Rules” and “Laser Safety Standards” for use oflaser.
13.3.3.5 Use of X-ray Instruments
The necessary requirements to ensure the safe and appropriate use of X-ray
instruments are stipulated in “X-ray Instruments Management Rules”. The
University's X-ray instrument website is [Link].

9ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.3.3.6 Mechanical Workshop
In order to obtain permission to enter the Mechanical Workshop and to use theequipment, a user must apply to the Engineering Section and successfullycomplete the training concerning safe use of the equipment beforehand. Whenusing the equipment, a user must pay attention to safe operation, following therules set by the Engineering Section.
13.3.4 Rules for Working with Electrical Hazards
Electricity, especially high-voltage electricity, can be extremely dangerous to workwith or around. It poses a serious risk to human life, as well as to property, if notproperly, appropriately, and carefully managed and handled. All persons working
with electricity must make efforts to prevent electrical accidents or injuries andconduct the electrical work under the supervision of the Electrical Chief Engineer
whenever such work is needed. When conducting electrical work on campus, theprocedures for electrical work [Link: Procedures for Electrical Work] must be
observed.
13.3.5 High Pressure and Liquefied Gas
In the case of handling high pressure or liquefied gas, the person must comply withthe requirements of the “High Pressure Gas Safety Act”, which regulates the use ofcompressed gases and stipulates in detail how to use these gases. Liquefied gases thatcan become 0.2 MPa are also regulated as high pressure gases such as petroleum gas,
compressed acetylene gas, liquefied hydrogen cyanide, liquefied ethylene oxide andliquefied bromomethyl. Those using such regulated high pressure/liquefied gas must
undergo training concerning high pressure gas and must use the high pressure gases
in safe manner, undertaking all necessary safety measures in compliance with theHigh Pressure Gas Safety Law.
13.3.6 Experiment/Research required Institutional Review
If an experiment involves recombinant DNA [Link: 13.3.7], pathogens and toxins[Link: 13.3.8], laboratory animals [Link: 13.3.9], radiation [Link: 13.3.10], humansubjects research [Link: 13.3.11], field work [Link: 13.3.13], or laser [Link: 13.3.3.4],
the experimenter must submit an application to the pertinent secretariat (Section in
charge) for review by the pertinent Institutional Review Committee before
commencing the experiment and obtain approval from the Secretary General.
However, animal experiment requires approval from the Provost.

10ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl

The Institutional Review Committees established in the University are:•

Biosafety Committee•

Animal Experiment Committee•

Radiation Safety Committee•

Human Subjects Research Committee•

Field Work Safety Committee•

Laser Safety Advisory Committee
13.3.7 Recombinant DNA Experiments
Operation of Recombinant DNA Experiments must comply with the following Rules
and Acts, and other legal and regulatory provisions. In addition, completion of
appropriate training programs and necessary procedures is also required before
commencing any experiments in this category. When procuring or acquiring living
modified organisms (LMOs) from or providing LMOs to other institutions, necessary
procedures must be completed beforehand, in compliance with all legal andregulatory provisions concerning import/export as well as the rules of a carrier ofinternational shipment.
•

OIST Graduate University Recombinant DNA Experiment Rules•

OIST Graduate University Biosafety Management Rules•

OIST Graduate University Biosafety Committee Rules•

OIST Biosafety Manual•

Act on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity throughRules on the Use of Living Modified Organisms•

Recombinant DNA WEB site (Occupational Health and Safety)•

Japan Biosafety Clearing-House (J-BCH)

13.3.8 Experiments Handling Pathogens and Toxins
Operation of Experiments handling Pathogens and Toxins must comply with thefollowing Rules and Acts, and other legal and regulatory provisions. In addition,completion of appropriate training programs and necessary procedures is also
required before commencing any experiments in this category. When procuring or
acquiring pathogens and toxins from or providing them to other institutions,necessary procedures must be completed beforehand, in compliance with all legal
and regulatory provisions concerning import/export as well as the rules of a carrierof international shipment. Of note, a wide variety of biological agents are subject tothe biosafety committee review at OIST.
•OIST Graduate University Biosafety Management Rules
11ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl

•OIST Graduate University Biosafety Committee Rules•

OIST Biosafety Manual•

National Institute of Infectious Diseases Safety Management Regulations for
Pathogens and Toxins•

Act Concerning the Prevention of Infectious diseases and Medical Care forPatients with Infectious Diseases•

Pathogens and Toxins WEB site (Occupational Health and Safety)

13.3.9 Animal Experiments
Operation of Animal Experiments must comply with the following Rules and Acts,
and other legal and regulatory provisions. In addition, completion of appropriate
training programs and necessary procedures is also required before commencing any
experiments in this category. When procuring or acquiring laboratory animals fromor providing them to other institutions, necessary procedures must be completed
beforehand, in compliance with all legal and regulatory provisions concerning
import/export as well as the rules of a carrier of international shipment.
•

OIST Graduate University Animal Experiment Regulations•

OIST Graduate University Detailed Stipulations for Animal Care and use
Committee•

OIST Graduate University Detailed Stipulations for the Vivarium Operation
Committee

•

SOP

•

Act on Welfare and Management of Animals•

Standards Relating to the Care and Management of Laboratory Animals andRelief of Pain (MOE)•

Fundamental Guidelines for Proper Conduct of Animal Experiment and Related
Activities in Academic Research Institutions (MEXT)•

Guidelines for Proper Conduct of Animal Experiments (Science Council ofJapan)•Act on Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases Control•

Act on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity throughRules on the Use of Living Modified Organisms•

Control on animal import•

Animal Resources Section WEB site

13.3.10 Experiments Involving the Use of Radiation
Operation of experiments involving use of radiation must comply with the following
12ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl

Rules and Acts, and other legal and regulatory provisions. In addition, completion of
appropriate training programs and necessary procedures is also required before
commencing any experiments in this category. Only the Radiation Protection
Supervisor can handle the procurement procedures of Radioisotopes. Of note, the“Act concerning Prevention of Radiation Hazards due to Radioisotopes, etc.” mayrequire installation of equipment generating radiation be performed under a permit
obtained from or a notification submitted to the regulatory authority in advance of
the installation.
•

OIST Graduate University Rules for Prevention of Radiation Hazards•

OIST Graduate University Instructions on Prevention of Radiation Hazards•

OIST Graduate University Rules for Radiation Safety Committee•

OIST Graduate University Instructions for Joint Use of RI Facility•

Manual for the handling of Radioisotopes•

Act Concerning Prevention of Radiation Hazards due to Radioisotopes, etc.

•

RI WEB site (Occupational Health and Safety)

13.3.11 Human Subjects Research
Operation of Human Subjects Research must comply with the following Rules andGuidelines, and other legal and regulatory provisions. In addition, completion of
appropriate training programs and necessary procedures is also required before
commencing the research. To handle Human Specimens, infection prevention
measures against blood-borne pathogens must be taken. When procuring or
acquiring Human Specimens from or providing them to other institutions, necessary
procedures must be completed in compliance with all legal and regulatory provisions
concerning import/export as well as the rules of a carrier of international shipment.
•

OIST Graduate University Human Subject Research Rules•

OIST Graduate University Detailed Information on Human Subjects Research•

OIST Graduate University Human Subjects Research Committee Rules•

OIST Graduate University Human Subject Research Manual [Link]•

Ethical Guidelines for Medical and Health Research Involving Human Subjects•

Declaration of Helsinki (WMA)•

The Belmont Report (The National Commission for the Protection of Human
Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research)•

Human Subjects Research WEB site (Occupational Health and Safety)•

Health and Labour Sciences Researches WEB site (MHLW) (Japanese website)•

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Bioethics andBiosafety WEB site (MEXT) (Japanese website)
13
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.3.12 Chemical Materials(Rules that apply to Radioisotopes (RIs) are described in the section of Experiments
Involving the Use of Radiation [Link 13.3.10].) Handling, use and storage of chemicalmaterials at the University must comply with “OIST Graduate University Rules for
the Management of Chemical Materials,” the “Industrial Safety and Health Act” andother relevant legal and regulatory provisions. A user of chemical materials must beaware that safety requirements differ depending on each specific chemical. In
addition, completion of all necessary training programs is required before
commencing any experiments involving use of chemical materials.
•

Occupational Health and Safety WEB site•

Chemical Hazards Control Division WEB site (MHLW) (Japanese website)•

Chemical Management Policy WEB site (METI) (Japanese website)•

National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE)
13.3.12.1 Basic Chemical Safety Rules•

Before working with any new chemical materials, use Chemical Risk
Information Platform (CHRIP) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

•

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (such as lab coat, rubber
gloves, safety glasses and masks).

•

Consider a lower risk alternative, if a chemical material that you intend to workwith poses a high potential risk.

•

Before use, again review the physical and chemical properties of chemicalmaterials that you will work with, along with information concerning hazards
and disposal methods.

•

Plan and take safety measures to prevent potential accidents and mitigate
hazards.

13.3.12.2 Export/Import of Chemical Materials
In Japan, the “Act on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of
Their Manufacture, etc.” has been established to evaluate whether new chemical
substances to be manufactured or imported have harmful properties to humans,
and to control the manufacture, import and use of chemical substances posing therisk of impairing human health through the environment. Those who intend toimport chemical materials must contact the Chemical Materials Safety Supervisor
at Occupational Health and Safety, and take necessary instructions from theSupervisor.
14
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl•Chemical Materials WEB site•

Chemical Management WEB site (METI) (Japanese website).

13.3.12.3 Transport of Chemical Materials
Transport of chemical materials is controlled by the provisions of the Postal Act,
Terms and Conditions of Domestic Postal Services, Universal Postal Convention,
IATA Dangerous Goods Rules, etc., and transportable goods are specified in thesestipulations. Containers and packages for transport must comply with specificrequirements.
Contact the carrier or shipping company, as they may decline to handle delivery of
dangerous goods or quarantine items. See 4.11.7 in the Chapter 4, and the
University’s Security Export Control website.
13.3.12.4 Special Requirements for handling Chemical Materials
The chemical materials listed below have been deemed hazardous by regulatory
agencies and are subject to stringent requirements regarding their handling,
management and storage. In addition, if a non-listed chemical material is expected
to pose a hazard similar to those associated with any of the below-listed chemicalmaterials, then those safe handling requirements apply. Further, other relevant
legal and regulatory provisions and OIST Rules must also be observed as well:(a) Organic solvents (Ordinance on the Prevention of Organic Solvent Poisoning)(b) Specified chemical substances (Ordinance on Prevention of Hazards due toSpecified Chemical Substances)(c) Poisonous substances, Deleterious substances and Specified Poisonous
Substances (Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Act)(d) Dangerous materials (Fire Service Act)(e) High pressure gas (High Pressure Gas Safety Act)(f) Narcotics and Psychotropics (Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act)(g) Stimulants (Stimulants Control Act)(h) Nuclear fuel material (Act on the Regulation of Nuclear Source Material,
Nuclear Fuel Material and Reactors)•

OIST Graduate University Rules for the Management of Chemical Materials•

OIST Graduate University Rules for Poisonous and Deleterious Substances
Management•

OIST Graduate University Rules for Management of Narcotics, Psychotropics
and Stimulants
15ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl

•OIST Graduate University Rules for the Management of Nuclear Fuel
Materials•

OIST Chemical Management Manual

13.3.13 Field Work
Field work involve risks and dangers which are different from those that may bepresent in indoor academic or research activities. Besides, access to work sites andcollection of biological resources are subject to restrictions imposed by various legal
and regulatory provisions. Thus, operation of field work require careful planning of
the work, taking measures to ensure safety, and acting in strict compliance with thelaw. People who intend to conduct any field work must carefully read OIST Rules for
Field Work and OIST Field Work Manual beforehand, and complete all appropriate
training programs, acquire required qualifications, and receive designated healthexaminations.
13.3.14 Rules Regarding Health & Wellness
All University students and employees must pay attention to their own health andwellness in addition to complying with safety rules. In particular, each work area
should be free of hazards and contain the proper equipment, should be appropriately
lighted, should provide ergonomically correct tools, equipment, and furniture, andshould be properly ventilated. Students and employees should also be mindful of theneed for enough sleep each day, for a modicum of daily exercise, for a nutritious diet,and for periods of relaxation and recreation.
13.3.15 Rules Concerning Environmental Protection
University students and employees must perform their University duties incompliance with the following:
1. Reduce energy consumption and greenhouse-gas emission by using facilities andapparatus/equipment efficiently;
2. Manage/handle hazardous materials in keeping with legal and University
requirements to prevent release to the environment.
3. Participate in training sessions concerning environmental protection.
4. Actively exchange information that promotes environmental protection activities.
5. Minimize waste and reuse resources where feasible.
13.3.15.1 Waste Management
Management of waste must comply with the following Rules and Acts, and other16
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cllegal and regulatory provisions. All training programs and procedures required forsuch work must be completed before commencing work. Appropriate protective
gear must be worn in carrying out waste handling and disposal:•

OIST Graduate University Rules for Waste Management•

OIST Graduate University Manual for the Management of Waste•

Waste Disposal and Public Cleansing Act

13.3.16 Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Response Rules
Prevention of hazardous incidents and appropriate responses under an emergency
situation is possible if each person knows what an emergency situation is like andwhat to do in response. Employees and students must maintain preparedness by
periodically reviewing emergency response procedures, emergency contacts,
evacuation routes, for the areas where they work. Employees and students must readand understand “University Emergency, Safety, Health Procedures & Guidelines.”
Employees and students should also prepare an individual emergency response plan
based on the specifics of their work. Please refer to the “Typhoon Guidelines” in caseof typhoon. For earthquake, take necessary preparedness measures in accordancewith the "Earthquake Preparedness Manual."
13.4 Responsibilities
13.4.1 All Employees and Students
The University's safety management is based on the premise that all members of the
OIST community shares responsibility for ensuring safety. Every member of the
OIST community must comply with the University's safety, health, environmental
protection, and disaster preparedness program.
13.4.2 Faculty members and Section Leaders
Faculty members and section leaders fall into the "foremen" under Article 60 of theIndustrial Safety and Health Act (those who directly guide or supervise workers inoperations), and have the following responsibilities: they are primarily responsible
for the safety and environmental sanitation of their laboratory or workplace, andmust have an understanding of the hazards associated with operation and/or
research and disseminate the information on hazards to their members under theirsupervision; they also need to set and reinforce safety standards for their laboratory
and/or office, having their members receive proper training on general and labspecific hazards and making sure that the members are using the appropriate
equipment following proper procedures; they need to have their members receive
17
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cldesignated health examinations and make sure that the members have completed
the health examinations; they are also required to make sure that the members
comply with relevant legal and regulatory provisions, and OIST Rules and follow
proper procedures; further, during lab rotation and when appointed to a PhD Thesis
Supervisor, they are primarily responsible for ensuring safety and environmental
sanitation of the students.
13.4.3 Fire Safety Manager
Fire Safety Manager is responsible for fire prevention management for the University.
This includes preparing a fire defense plan, providing drills for fire fighting andevacuation, enabling emergency reporting and evacuation, ensuring inspection andmanagement of fire extinguishers and similar equipment, and other efforts toprevent fires and mitigate the effects of both man-caused and natural disasters.
13.4.4. Manager of Occupational Health and Safety
Manager of Occupational Health and Safety is responsible for ensuring research in
the University compliance with requirements of the University’s rules, and legal andregulatory provisions.
13.4.5 Manager of Animal Resources Section
Manager of Animal Resources Section is responsible for ensuring safety, and health,environmental protection, and disaster preparedness in Animal Facilities andAnimal Experiments.
13.4.6 Manager of General Facility Management Section
Manager of General Facility Management Section is responsible for management
and maintenance of facilities in a manner that will ensure the workplace safety andhealth, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness.
13.4.7 Research Personnel
In order to avoid unnecessary risk to themselves and/or other researchers,
individuals engaging in research at OIST, regardless of their titles such as researcher,technician or student, are responsible for conducting experiments only when theyacquire sufficient knowledge and understanding of health and safety issues
associated with research activities. To this end, research personnel must actively
participate in a variety of educational and training programs on safety and health,and follow appropriate instructions and advice from faculty members, section
18
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_clleaders and personnel associated with OIST safety management duties, including
principle investigators, as listed below.
13.4.8 Specific Research-Related Responsible Roles•

Biosafety Officer： Must ensure compliance with legal and regulatory provisions
as well as the University Rules so that the operation of Recombinant DNA
Experiment and Experiment Handling Pathogens and Toxins is appropriately
performed in the University.

•

Human Subject Research Officer ： Must ensure compliance with legal andregulatory provisions, and guidelines as well as the University Rules so that theoperation of Human Subject Research is appropriately performed in the
University.

•

Personal Information Officer for Human Subjects Research ： Must manage
personal information to ensure appropriate protection of personal information
related to Human Subject Research in the University.

•

RI Facility Director： Must manage and mitigate radiation hazards and ensurecompliance with legal and regulatory provisions as well as the University Rules
so that experiments using radioisotopes are appropriately performed in the
University.

•

Radiation Protection Supervisor ： Assists the RI Facility Director, and mustensure compliance with legal and regulatory provisions as well as the University
Rules such that the prevention of radiation hazards and the implementation ofproper experiments are ensured.

•Chemical Materials Safety Officer ： Must ensure compliance with legal andregulatory provisions as well as the University Rules so that the handling ofchemical materials is appropriately performed in the University.

•

Diving Safety Officer: Must ensure safety and compliance with legal andregulatory provisions, as well as the University Rules, for diving and snorkeling,
through activities such as reviewing plans involving diving or snorkeling before
institutional review by the Field Work Safety Committee, and providing safety
training (including hands-on trainings) and giving guidance necessary for diving
or snorkeling.

•

Animal Experiment Coordinator ： Must ensure compliance with legal andregulatory provisions, and guidelines as well as the University Rules so that theoperation of Animal Experiment is appropriately performed in the University.

•

Controlled Drug Management Officer： Must instruct and advise the users ofControlled Drugs on their use and management in the University.
19ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl13.5 Procedures
N/A
13.6 Forms
13.6.1 Recombinant DNA Experiment
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site
13.6.2 Experiment Handling Pathogens and Toxins
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site
13.6.3 Common to Recombinant DNA Experiment and Experiment
Handling Pathogens and Toxins
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site
13.6.4 Animal Experiment
See Animal Resources Section WEB site
13.6.5 Human Subjects Research
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site
13.6.6 Chemical Material
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site (chemical material) andOccupational Health and Safety WEB site (narcotics and psychotropics)
13.6.7 Radioisotopes
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site
13.6.8 Field WorkSee Occupational Health and Safety WEB site (Field Work)13.6.9 Equipment requiring a License or Submission of a Notification(Regulated Equipment)
See Occupational Health and Safety WEB site (Regulated Equipment)
13.7

Contacts

Policy Owner:
20
ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_clSecretary General
ProvostVice President for Buildings & Facilities Management
13.7.1 Other Contacts:
Section Leader, Occupational Health and Safety Section Leader, Animal Resources
Section Leader, Scientific Imaging
Section Leader, Instrumental Analysis
Section Leader, Engineering
Section Leader, Facility Management21ch013_safety health and environmental protection_en_20231116_cl