CEHS retains the option to confiscate such items if found in the laboratory. Many federal and Illinois state regulations required training of personnel working in laboratories. Personnel falling under these regulations include faculty, staff, graduate assistants and student employees. The Center is also available to assist with or conduct required training sessions. To ensure compliance, CEHS personnel will compare training records and requirements to a roster of employees in the work area.
Back injuries arising from slipping or tripping are among the most common injuries in laboratories.
Slipping or tripping while transporting chemical containers can result in a chemical spill and splash exposure. Obstructed exitways cannot only hinder the exit of occupants in an emergency situation but can also hinder or endanger emergency response personnel. In most cases, two means of egress are required to prevent entrapment during a fire or other emergency. Since fires are one of the most common types of laboratory accidents, fire extinguishers are required in all chemical laboratories. Fire extinguishers underneath labcoats, hidden behind refrigerators, or otherwise blocked cannot be located or reached during the vital seconds following initiation of a fire, when extinguishing efforts are most likely to be effective.