Safety

The Chemistry Department is committed to the safety of our students, staff, and faculty. We work closely with Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) to maintain safe laboratory environments, ensure proper disposal of chemical waste, and report any accidents.

Accident Reporting

If the accident involves an injury that requires immediate medical help, call 911 and arrange for an ambulance. Do not transport the individual yourself. If the individual is paid by W&M and is injured on the job, workers compensation is the appropriate route for covering the medical costs. Accidents need to be reported according to the workers compensation website. A different form needs to be submitted for student injuries [doc].

Accidents should be reported to the Department Chair, the Director of Laboratories & Instrumentation and to EH&S, they will initiate a formal accident investigation. The results of the investigation will be used to update safety protocols, as necessary.

Chemical Waste Disposal

Environmental, Health & Safety lists procedures for waste disposal at the W&M.

Standard Operating Procedures

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for chemical safety in the laboratory start with the University Chemical Hygiene Plan. Individual laboratory SOPs can be more specific in identifying safety requirements unique to the lab.