Lab Safety Training

Lab safety, whether as part of a class or for independent research, is our highest priority. All personnel are required to complete safety training as appropriate for the lab in which they will learn/work.  Employees may not enter any laboratory until all required safety training is completed. This is true for faculty, staff, post-doctoral scholars, visiting researchers, graduate and undergraduate students, and high school students working with a faculty mentor.

Report any unsafe or dangerous behavior in the laboratory to the responsible faculty member, the department safety officer, Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies, or UK Environmental Health and Safety (859)257-3827.

• Complete appropriate safety training before working in any lab
• If you are unsure as to what training to complete, ask the PI, department safety officer, or review this chart. (link to the safety training chart I will send to you)
• Do not work alone in the laboratory, particularly after regular business hours
• Know the location of all room and building exits, fire alarms, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, eyewash, and safety shower
• Approved eye protection (safety glasses, or goggles) must be worn at all times in the laboratory. Standard prescription eyeglasses are not acceptable for eye protection
• Always wear appropriate attire when working in the lab. No shorts, skirts, dresses, or other clothing that leave areas of skin exposed where hazardous chemicals are in use.
• Shoes must completely cover the foot. No sandals, open-toed shoes, shorts, or crocs are allowed
• Long hair must be tied back, and all loose-fitting clothing or dangling jewelry must be secured or removed while in the laboratory.
• No food or drink of any kind is allowed at any time in the laboratory
• No equipment may be used without proper training or demonstrated competency
• All aisles must be kept clear. All exits, eyewash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers, and emergency disconnects, must remain accessible at all times
• All equipment guards must remain in place. You may not modify equipment without approval of the PI or department safety officer who must do a hazard assessment associated with proposed changes
• All chemical storage rules must be observed at all times. All chemicals must remain closed until used, and all chemicals must be marked with substance name, hazard information, concentration, date of creation, and the person responsible
• All chemical waste must be disposed of in approved and labeled containers. Do not place chemicals or other hazardous waste into sinks or garbage cans
• Any unsafe or dangerous behavior must be reported to the PI, department safety officer, or UK EHS (859)257-3827.