Inspections of laboratory and research spaces are an important mechanism to evaluate work practices and procedures, verify work is conducted safely and in compliance with applicable requirements, educate individuals who work in the area, and identify opportunities for improvement.
Self-Inspections
Principal Investigators (PIs), Laboratory and/or Shop Supervisors are responsible for managing safety and compliance in their areas. By performing periodic self-inspections, PIs and supervisors remain informed and involved with safety practices in their areas. Self-inspections should be conducted by reviewing items from the Lab Safety Audit Form that are applicable to the specific area being inspected. Laboratories or research spaces that use hazardous chemicals should be self-inspected at least annually.
Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Inspections
EHS conducts routine inspections in laboratory and shop areas campus-wide for EHS related concerns. These inspections address a number of categories:
- Biological safety
- Chemical safety
- Compressed gas and cryogenic safety
- Electrical safety
- Emergency preparedness
- Engineering controls
- Equipment safety
- Fire safety
- General safety
- Laser safety
- Magnet and magnetic fields
- Personal protective equipment
- Radiation safety
- Regulated waste
- Standard operating procedures
EHS staff will contact the PI, Laboratory and/or Shop Supervisor to schedule an inspection. The PIs/Supervisors can prepare for the inspection by reviewing the Lab Safety Audit Form and performing a self-inspection of their area. After the inspection, EHS issues a report with corrective actions that must be addressed within 45 days. The PI/Supervisor is responsible for implementing the necessary corrective actions and responding to EHS with confirmation of completion.
