Lab Safety

Lab Safety

Chemical Spill Response Protocol

  • Contact Personnel: If a spill or release occurs, immediately contact HPU Security at (808) 544-1400 or emergency responders by dialing 9-1-1.
  • Provide Details: State the name of the chemical (if known), the amount spilled, and the exact building and room number.

  • Avoid Contact: Avoid all direct or indirect contact with the spilled material.
  • Ventilate: Open doors and windows only if it is safe to do so.
  • Relocate: Move to a safer location inside the building or evacuate the building entirely if the situation requires it.
  • Decontaminate: Any personnel who may have had contact with unknown materials should wash their hands and shower with soap and warm water as soon as possible. Do not use bleach or other disinfectants on unknown chemical spills.

  • Move Upwind: Move upwind and away from the spill area.
  • Seek Shelter: If you are outside, return to the building.
  • Seal the Area: Close all exterior windows, doors, and vents; shut down air intakes if possible.
  • Shelter-in-Place: Remain indoors until an "All Clear" is given by university authorities.

Lab Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Requirement: Proper PPE must be worn at all times when handling hazardous materials.
  • Basic Kit: This includes lab coats, safety goggles or face shields, and chemical-resistant gloves.
  • Maintenance: Inspect PPE before each use; dispose of contaminated or damaged equipment immediately.
  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves and before leaving the laboratory.

Chemical Management

  • SDS Access: All labs must have access to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for every chemical in their inventory.
  • Labeling: Every container must be clearly labeled with the chemical name and primary hazards.
  • Storage: Store chemicals by compatibility, not alphabetically. In the Las Vegas campus, ensure temperature-sensitive chemicals are stored in climate-controlled environments to prevent degradation from extreme heat.
  • Waste: Never pour chemicals down the drain. Follow the HPU Hazardous Waste Disposal guide for proper collection and pickup.

Mandatory Lab Safety Training

All individuals working in an HPU laboratory must complete mandatory safety training prior to beginning work. This includes:

  • General Lab Safety & Chemical Hygiene
  • Hazard Communication (GHS Standards)
  • Specialized Training: Required for those handling bloodborne pathogens, ionizing radiation, or highly toxic materials.

Submit a Service Request: Need a chemical waste pickup or a new spill kit? Submit a request to here.