Hazardous Materials
Many everyday items used at the University are considered hazardous if not properly controlled. Common examples include flammable liquids, pressurized gases, and corrosive liquids. Because these materials are used and transported regularly throughout our campus, it's essential to have an accidental spill plan in place.
A scientist named Ludwig Benner once described "hazardous materials" as any substance which, if it gets out of its container, will harm whatever it touches.
Factors that define the potential extent of a hazardous materials incident consist of the material involved, how it was released, and variables such as location, time of day, and even weather conditions.
Several departments work to control hazardous materials and act to cope with any problems that might develop. These departments include University Police, Emergency Management, and Environmental Health & Safety. Systems are in place to provide continuous availability of emergency response and oversight in the event of any emergency involving hazardous materials at the University.
Use of hazardous materials within the University is for educational, medical, and research purposes and is quite small compared to commercial applications. The potential for serious consequences as a result of an accident or spill within the University is small.
Radioactive materials and/or biological agents are used in some medical and research laboratory applications at the University. All of these laboratories are posted with appropriate caution signs in accordance with applicable federal and state regulations, and personnel who work in these areas receive special training in procedures and precautions to protect themselves and the environment. If a spill of radioactive or biological material occurs, personnel are trained to immediately restrict access to the spill area, to assure that personnel in the area are properly monitored, and if necessary, decontaminated, and to immediately notify the Radiation Protection and/or Biological Safety Officers to request assistance in the management of the spill.
In the event of larger release of hazardous materials, such as from nearby commercial industrial operations or a transportation accident, it may be necessary to request emergency response assistance from the municipal fire department and/or from state or federal emergency management agencies. The University Department of Emergency Management has an emergency response plan that incorporates notification and management procedures in case of such an unlikely event. This plan is reviewed and tested every year.
If you are involved in a hazardous materials incident:
- CALL 911 to reach University Police. Provide necessary information regarding type of incident including material and amount released, its location (including building and room number), and provide your name and phone number.
- Traffic and personnel into the area should be restricted.
- If radioactive material is involved, hold all personnel who were in the area at the time of the occurrence in a nearby safe location for evaluation by Radiation Protection staff.
- University Police will assist in further coordination of the incident.
- As always, the ultimate responsibility for your safety rests with you. You should be knowledgeable about the materials used in your workplace, and what hazards they might pose. Material Safety Data Sheets that provide detailed information on these materials are available.
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Helpful Links & Info
Department of Environmental Health and Safety
FM Hazardous Materials and Asbestos Program
The Emergency Procedures Guide is a good campus emergency information desk reference. Download this document for immediate access in the event of an emergency.
Emergency Response Procedures Guide |
