UNC Charlotte sets forth procedures, work practices and personal protective equipment intended to reduce risk and protect researchers, instructors, employees and students from the safety and health hazards (chemical, biological, radiation and physical) presented by the laboratory workplace.
The regulatory basis for Chemical and Laboratory Safety at UNC Charlotte is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard 1910.1450 - Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals in laboratories. The goal of the Chemical Hygiene Plan and the Chemical / Laboratory Safety program at UNC Charlotte is to ensure that all individuals at risk are adequately informed about the work/instructive procedures completed in the laboratory, the risks involved with completing the procedures and the engineering / personal protection equipment controls necessary to conduct the activities safely. Lastly, the programs detail the procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency incident, such as a hazardous material spill.
Every laboratory worker needs to know the location and proper use of available protective apparel and equipment. Personnel within the laboratory shall be trained on the Chemical Hygiene Plan and emergency procedures that are relevant to the laboratory. Literature and consulting advice concerning Chemical and Laboratory Safety is readily available to researchers, laboratory personnel, and students through the Environmental Health and Safety Office at ehsoffice@uncc.edu or 704-687-1111.