Hazardous Materials Security

The devastating events of Sept. 11, 2001 have raised questions concerning security and vulnerability of our campus. International terrorism, domestic terrorism, and criminal actions are all potential avenues of threats that we may face. The principles of our country and the freedom we enjoy do not readily lend themselves to high levels of security and restrictions. However, recent events do show that we need to have a greater awareness of and take greater responsibility for safety and security in the work place.

The use of hazardous materials at the university is one area where safeguards and increased security should be in place. However remote the possibility, we should do our best to prevent the unintentional removal of biological agents, radioactive materials, and hazardous chemicals. By using common sense and by following simple guidelines, we can greatly reduce the potential for problems:

• Do not leave laboratories, or other areas where hazardous materials are present, open and unattended for long periods of time (more than a few minutes). If you leave the area, make sure the door is locked.
• When not in use, return hazardous materials to their proper storage area. Storage areas in unattended spaces should be locked.
• Maintain an inventory of hazardous materials and routinely check these materials.
• Do not allow unauthorized personnel into your work space. Question people who enter your work space and who are unfamiliar to you.
• If you notice any hazardous materials missing or believe they have been stolen, please contact the Moscow Police Department at 208-882-2677 and the Environmental Health and Safety Office at 208-885-6524.

This notice is not meant to be alarming; we are just reinforcing basic safety and security measures any laboratory should be practicing. The current national slogan is to "be alert," a good lesson to follow at all times. If you have any questions, please call Environmental Health & Safety at 208-885-6524 or Risk at 208-885-7177.

Related Training

• Environmental Waste Awareness Training for Custodians
• Environmental Waste Awareness Training for Shops and Maintenance
• Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Laboratory Operations
• Hazardous Waste Management Workshop for Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQG)

For more information

Mark Borth
Hazardous Materials Specialist
208-885-6279
borth@uidaho.edu

Vacant
Hazardous Materials Technician
208-885-6524
safety@uidaho.edu