Environmental Health and Safety

Environmental Health and Safety

Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) plays a crucial role in promoting a safe and healthy environment within the university community. EHS develops and implements policies and programs to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding environmental protection and workplace safety. Specific responsibilities include facilitating safe work practices, providing training in workplace and environmental safety to ensure that employees and students are prepared for potential incidents, such as chemical spills or fires, and conducting regular safety inspections and audits. Resources and guidance on topics like handling of hazardous materials, indoor air quality, noise exposure, and ergonomic practices are also offered, fostering a culture of safety and well-being across campus. Through these efforts, EHS aims to protect the health of individuals and the environment while supporting the university's educational and research missions.

U of I Emergency Response Team

Due to the diversity and advanced research and education activities at the University of Idaho, the EPA classifies the university as a large quantity generator of hazardous waste. In accordance with state and federal regulations, the University of Idaho maintains an Emergency Response Team (UIERT) through the office of Environmental Health and Safety. The team is trained and equipped to handle most hazmat incidents that may occur on campus. The UIERT also has an agreement with the City of Moscow to respond to other incidents in the city as requested.

The UIERT is comprised of members of Environmental Health and Safety, and they cover all types of hazardous materials. All team members are trained up to hazardous materials technician and operations levels. All team members are FEMA ICS trained (level 100 - 800) and maintain their certifications through annual refreshers and close collaboration with the State of Idaho Fire Marshal's office.

Activation and dispatch of the UIERT is done by contacting U of I security, the university safety officer in Environmental Health and Safety, or the Incident Commander acting for the City of Moscow via 911. The dispatcher will need to know what type of hazardous material is involved (e.g., chemical, radioactive, or biohazardous material), if the information is available. If the material cannot be identified, they will follow call-out procedures for a chemical spill.