|
SECTION B13: SUPPORT STAFF ACTIVITIES
IN LABORATORIES
Introduction
For many employees not directly engaged in research or teaching, laboratories
are an unfamiliar environment. Support staff employees whose job responsibilities
require them to work in these areas must communicate with laboratory
occupants before beginning work to avoid creating a situation that may
be hazardous to one or both parties. Advance planning of projects and
effective communication will help to ensure that everyone involved understands
all the potential implications of the work.
The classic example is chemical fume hood system maintenance. If the
user attempts to work in the hood while maintenance is being performed,
the individual working on the system may be exposed to contaminants
being exhausted through the hood or to mechanical or electrical hazards.
Similarly, laboratory personnel may be exposed if an exhaust fan is
shut down without warning during an experiment. Following the procedures
given below will help to assure that all necessary precautions are taken
and that jobs are completed without undue risk.
Return to Top
Scope and Application
This procedure applies to any maintenance, repair or renovation activities
that may impact laboratory operations or create a potentially hazardous
work
environment for support staff. Examples of specific circumstances are
listed below:
- maintenance on fume hood exhaust systems requiring fan shut down
or work involving fan, ductwork, or fume hood interior surfaces
- changing of filters which have been used to trap radioactive
materials
- servicing plumbing and traps which may be contaminated with chemical
residues such as azides or mercury or radioactive materials
- maintenance of exhaust systems which have been used for perchlorates,
radioactive materials, etc.
- working in chemical storage areas
- installation or servicing of cables, telephones, computers, etc.
- cleaning floors, workbench surfaces or shelves in laboratories in
which open sources of radioactive materials have been used
More extensive planning may be required for larger projects or complete
system shutdowns. These are addressed in Section B14,
Projects Affecting Critical Services in Science and Engineering Buildings.
Return to Top
Procedure
Consult the Lab Occupants
Consult the people responsible for the area where the work will be
done before beginning. These are the people who can supply the most
information about the hazards likely to be found in the work area. They
also are the people who most need to be informed about the work and
how it might impact their work area. Often, the Department Manager or
Building Superintendent can help contact the right people.
Consult EHS
If consultation with the user concludes that exposure to hazardous
materials may occur, contact Environmental Health and Safety as far
in advance of the planned work as possible. EHS will survey the work
area and/or provide specific recommendations or precautions relating
to the work. When in doubt, consult EHS.
Notify the Occupants
Notify the occupants of all affected areas immediately before beginning
work. Post warning signs on equipment, such as sinks or hoods, which
may be affected. Be sure to remove the signs when the work is finished,
so there is never any doubt that an "Out of Service" sign
truly means that the equipment
cannot be used.
If health or safety problems arise in the course of the work, suspend
work and contact your supervisor or EHS.
Return to Top
For More Information
Contact EHS at 258-5294
- Refer to Princeton University Buildings Resource Book - Your
Guide To Service Provided By The Grounds And Buildings Maintenance Department
and The Building Services Department
- Health and Safety Guide for Project
Managers
Return to Top
Return to Health and Safety Guide Table of Contents
|
