Statement of Safety Policy / Code of Practice UCL Division of Medicine/Cruciform 2015 – 2016

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UCL DIVISION OF MEDICINE

UCL DIVISION OF MEDICINE

STATEMENT OF SAFETY POLICY

AND

CODE OF PRACTICE

2015 - 2016

(Cruciform Building)

(Created 04/2014- version 1.4, revised 02/16)

Statement of Safety Policy / Code of Practice UCL Division of Medicine/Cruciform 2015 – 2016

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CONTENTS Page Statement of Safety Policy …………………………………………………………….. 3 Safety Management Structure ………………………………………………..….. . 6

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………… 7 Summary of Lab Rules……………………………………………………………………… 8

Laboratory Safety …………………………………………………………………….... 9 -Hygiene……………………………………………………………………………………. 9 - PPE……………………………………………………………………………………….. 9 - Unsealed Radioactive Sources………………………………………………………… 10 - Human Material………………………………………………………………………….. 10 - Culturing Primary Cells…………………………………………………………………. 11 - Cryogenic Substances………………………………………………………………….. 11 - Sharps…………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 - Hazardous Chemicals………………………………………………………………….. 12 - Chemical Storage ………………………………………………………………………. 13 - Chemical Segregation…………………………………………………………………… 13 - Disposal of Chemical Waste……………………………………………………………. 15 - Spillages…………………………………………………………………………………… 15 - GHS hazard pictograms……………………………………………………………… . 16 - Safety info & procedures for vacating lab premises…………………………………. 17 - Gel Staining Compounds……………………………………………………………… 21 - Working with Lab Animals……………………………………………………………….. 21 - Manual Handling………………………………………………………………………….. 22 - Display Screen Equipment………………………………………………………………. 22 - Pregnant Workers……………………………………………………………………… 22 - Children in Labs………………………………………………………………………… 23 - Work Experience Persons…………………………………………………………….. 23 - Mobile Phone Use……………………………………………………………………… 25 - Personal Music Players………………………………………………………………….. 25 - Pets…………………….………………………………………………………………….. 25 - Footwear in Labs………………..……………………………………………………….. 25 - Safety training……………………….…………………………………………………….. 25 Equipment…………………………………………………………………………………… 26 - Centrifuges……………………………………………………………………………… 26 - Gas Cylinders…………………………………………………………………………… 28 - Autoclaves…………………………………………………………………………..…… 28 - Cold Rooms……………………………………………………………………………. 29 - Laboratories Fridges and Freezers………………………………………………….. 29 - Mercury thermometers…………………………………………………….………….. 29 - Microbiological Safety Cabinets……………………………………………..……….. 29 - X-Ray Machine…………………………………………………………….……………. 32 - UV Sources………………………………………………………………………………. 32 Fire Policy ………………………………………………………………………………. 34 Fieldwork ……………………………………………………………………………… 36 Accidents and Incidents ………………………………………………………………. 37 Waste Disposal ……………………………………………………………………………… 39 Risk Assessment ………………………………………………………………………….. 43 Working Out of Hours ……………………………………………………………………. 46

Statement of Safety Policy / Code of Practice UCL Division of Medicine/Cruciform 2015 – 2016

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UCL DIVISION OF MEDICINE

STATEMENT OF SAFETY POLICY UCL Division of Medicine

SUMMARY

This document sets out the commitment of the UCL Division of Medicine to ensure that its activities are carried out in a safe manner in accordance with the corporate Statement of Safety Policy of UCL and the requirements placed upon the Division by the UCL Approved Code of Practice entitled 'The Management of Health and Safety in Departments'.

In addition to the statement of policy, the document describes the organisational structure for health and safety management within the Division. The statement of policy contains an overview, in the form of a table, of the Division's arrangements to control the health and safety risks that arise from its work activities. This Policy document should be read in conjunction with the Division's written Arrangements for Safe Working appended to this document.

The Division of Medicine is a Division of UCL and is responsible to the Provost and President for the implementation of the arrangements in the UCL Statement of Safety Policy.

Professor R MacAllister, Head of Division

Signature .......................................................................................... Date .........................................

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POLICY COMMITMENT

General Policy

1 The policy of the Division is to promote, through active management of its hazards and activities, the safety, health and welfare of all its staff, students, visitors, contractors and members of the public on the Division's premises and to protect them elsewhere from any adverse effect on their health and safety arising from the activities of the Division.

2 The Division seeks continual improvement of its occupational health and safety systems through processes of measurement and review in order to achieve or maintain best practice standards.

Commitment and leadership by the Head of Division and senior management

3 The Division recognises the importance of establishing clear lines of management accountability for controlling the risks of its work activities and these are set out in the Organising for Safety section.

4 The Division recognises that commitment and involvement by senior managers plays a significant part in promoting health and safety in the Division.

5 The Division will allocate sufficient resources in terms of people, money and facilities to plan, implement, monitor and review its safety systems.

6 The Division will ensure that staff and students are kept informed of matters which may affect their health and safety including the dissemination of this Policy statement.

7 Senior management will take the lead in consulting with staff, safety representatives and students on matters of health and safety and will seek their involvement in the development and improvement of safety in the Division.

8 The Division will ensure that health and safety considerations are integrated into the planning of work activities.

9 The Division will consider its overall health and safety policy in parallel with other corporate policy that is designed to promote the well-being of staff and students such as policies on equal opportunity, harassment and bullying, disability, age and racial discrimination.

The duty to establish, maintain and develop systems for the management of health and safety

10 The Division is committed to planning and setting objectives for the management of safety commensurate with the nature and level of the risk created by its work activities and fully implementing those measures deemed necessary by the Division as indicated in the Index of Arrangements for Safe Working section.

11 The Division undertakes to monitor the operation of its systems and procedures for safety management and review them in the light of experience and in accordance with UCL corporate direction.

12 The Division is committed to ensuring that risk assessments are carried out as required by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and other regulations applicable to its work activities. These assessments will be made by the staff responsible for supervision of the work, set out in writing and signed by the person with responsibility for supervision of the relevant work.

No work is permitted to start unless it is covered by a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks involved in the work, without which the Division cannot be considered to have taken reasonably practicable steps to manage the risks of its work activities to staff, students, visitors and others who may be affected by its work (1).

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13 The Division is committed to ensuring that all work activities are carried out by persons competent to perform those activities (2). To this end, the Division will ensure that all members of the Division receive such training and instruction as required for them to be able to discharge their tasks and duties in a competent manner.

14 The Division arranges for work activities to be supervised by competent people.

15 The Division recognises that a person can only be fully competent to discharge a duty if they accept that duty, understand the nature of that duty and are allocated sufficient time to discharge that duty.

16 To give effect to this Policy, the organisation and procedures as described or cross-referenced to in this document have been approved and authorised by the Head of Division who is responsible to the Provost and President and Council for setting and maintaining the standards of safety in the Division.

17 The Division recognises its responsibilities with respect to fire safety and is committed to ensuring that its systems and procedures comply with UCL policies.

The duties of staff, students and visitors

18 It is a legal duty (3) of ALL staff, students and visitors to co-operate with the policy for safety set out in this document and all other systems and procedures designed to promote and ensure their health and safety.

19 Members of the Division shall not interfere with or misuse anything provided to ensure their safety. 20 Workers have a duty to take care of their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their actions at work. 21 Employees have a duty to report hazards and defects observed in the workplace.

(1) See also Section 3.3 of the UCL-Approved Code of Practice: "The Management of Health and Safety in Departments". (2) ie people who have the skills, knowledge and experience required to discharge safely a particular duty, who know the limits of their competence and seek advice when reaching those limits. (3) Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 Sections 7 and 8.

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SAFETY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE

Managers within the Division have responsibility for ensuring the management of health and safety. Safety Officers have responsibility for monitoring the implementation of the Health and Safety policy and reporting their findings to the Head of Division. The following have Health and Safety responsibilities in the Division:

UCL DIVISION OF MEDICINE

Head of Division Raymond MacAllister

Divisional Safety Advisor (DSA) Roberta Perelli

Deputy Safety Advisor (Bloomsbury) Dean Heathcote

Royal Free Safety Advisor Dave Brown

Genetic Modification Safety Officer Roberta Perelli/A Giangreco

(Bloomsbury)

Dave Brown (Royal Free)

Fieldwork Co-ordinator Roberta Perelli

Radiation Protection Supervisor (Rayne) Roberta Perelli

Justine Newson

Dean Heathcote

Radiation Protection Supervisor (Royal Free medical School) Dave Brown

Divisional Administrator Blathnaid Mahony

UCL Area Safety Advisor (ASA)

The following Safety Services representative is the primary Area Safety Advisor assigned to the Division. Steve Tidmarsh S. Tidmarsh @ucl.ac.uk 45660

The above personnel, together with the unit safety representatives constitute the members of the Health and Safety Committee. At the discretion of the DSA other employees of the Division or UCL may be invited to attend meetings. The committee meets on a quarterly basis and any items for the agenda should be brought to in advance to the attention of the DSA.

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Code of Practice and Safety Regulations

Introduction

The Head of Division (HOD) must take all reasonable steps to promote the safety, health and welfare of all the personnel, students and members of the public on Divisional premises. The HOD is responsible to the College Council for safety in connection with all work done in the Division. The Divisional Safety Advisor (Roberta Perelli), who liaises with Safety Services, must advise the HOD on the standards of safety within the department and should indicate where action needs to be taken. The DSA will maintain up-to-date records on safety matters, including codes of practice, etc. A formal Safety Inspection and Audit process will be carried out once a term. Members of the academic staff must ensure that all staff, students and visiting workers joining their group are introduced to the Safety Officer and must ensure that the Safety Policy and arrangements are strictly adhered to. A copy of this Code of Practice must be printed out and kept in the Safety Folder in the laboratory (or a designated office) and signed off by all the laboratory members and new starters. The record of signatures must be kept with the COP. All new starters and all Post-graduate students must undergo local induction prior to starting any work in the laboratory and they must enrol to the Principles of Lab Safety course available online (Free enrolment on Moodle – just search ‘Lab Safety’). Scientists engaged in work on sites not covered by this policy (e.g. Rockefeller building) have a duty to make themselves aware of the local Divisional safety rules and risk assessments relevant to their work.

Division of Medicine Health & Safety website can be found at: https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=5607869

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SUMMARY OF LABORATORY RULES

Eating, drinking, chewing gum, applying cosmetics, taking medications, or similar activities in

laboratories may result in the accidental ingestion of hazardous materials (chemical radiological,

biological); therefore these activities are strictly prohibited from all Medicine laboratory spaces.

Such activities are permitted in an area (defined as a room with floor to ceiling walls and a closed door)

separated from the laboratory space. If a separate area can only be accessed by going through the

laboratory, then only covered food or beverage items may be carried through the laboratory.

These requirements help to prevent the ingestion of hazardous materials, which can occur by touching

one’s month with contaminated hands, eating from a container that is contaminated, eating food that has

come into contact with hazardous materials accidentally. No food or drink is to be kept in laboratory

fridges and freezers or cold rooms.

Lab coats and gloves must be worn at all times while working at the bench. They should be

removed when leaving the lab and hands must be washed prior to leaving the lab. Lab coats and gloves

must never be worn in communal areas, coffee rooms or seminar rooms.

You must ensure that you are fully trained in the operation of any equipment necessary for your

work, before you begin to use the equipment. Report all equipment faults immediately.

Label all chemicals and reagents with appropriate hazard notices, name and date.

Wear a visor, gloves and labcoat when using UV light. Do not expose your skin.

Do not run in the corridor or on stairs.

Do not lift heavy items if not trained to do so. If you are trained on manual handling do not lift heavy items

on your own; get help from trained personnel to avoid injuring your back. Use a trolley for transporting

heavy or hazardous loads.

Minimize working alone after hours (for further details please see Medicine out of Hours Policy).

If you are in any doubt over anything, ask someone responsible in your group, or the Divisional Safety

Advisor.

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LABORATORY SAFETY HYGIENE In accordance with the guidelines issued by the Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens eating, drinking and smoking is expressly prohibited in all laboratory areas. Food must never be cooked or heated in or on any laboratory equipment (i.e. ovens or microwaves). Laboratory chemicals (e.g. sucrose, NaCl) must never be used as food substitutes. Food and drink should never be stored in laboratory refrigerators or freezers, even if stored in sealed containers. Additionally, laboratory materials must not be stored in “food and drink only” refrigerators. On leaving the laboratory, remove gloves, laboratory coat and leave in laboratory. Always wash hands thoroughly when leaving the laboratory environment using the hand wash basins provided. Laboratory coats or gloves must not be worn when visiting the toilets. Gloves (even unused) must be removed before touching door handles, telephones etc. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Laboratory coats should always be worn whenever any practical bench work is being performed in the laboratory areas. Additional personal protection (e.g. safety glasses, disposable gloves etc) should be worn whenever appropriate. It is the responsibility of the individual staff involved to ensure such protection is made available to visitors. All eye protection, UV visors, face masks, insulating gloves, first aid supplies and ear protection along with any other personal protection equipment or other safety equipment covered under other legislation is supplied free of charge by the department.

1. Lab coats and disposable nitrile gloves must be worn when handling RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL,

GM ORGANISMS, CULTURED CELLS, CARCINOGENS, CORROSIVE or TOXIC CHEMICALS,

HUMAN TISSUE and PATHOGENS. Gloves should be disposed of frequently and immediately after

completing a procedure. Remove gloves and coat before leaving the laboratory

2. NB: Gloves should never touch door handles, elevator buttons, telephones, card swipes, or any

surfaces outside of the laboratory. If you transport materials from labs through common areas, use

an ungloved hand to touch common surfaces and a gloved hand to carry the items. Best lab

safety practice is to package the material to allow handling the outer package without gloves and to

contain the material if it were dropped. When transporting things that could leak/expose clothing from

lab to lab keep on labcoats.

3. Wash your hands.

4. Latex gloves are not allowed in the laboratory unless risk assessment specifically indicates that there is

no suitable alternative. Allergic reactions to natural rubber latex (NRL) can occur as a result of exposure

to residues of accelerating agents used in the glove manufacturing process and/or extractable latex

protein residues present in the finished product. If latex gloves are found in the laboratory they should

be disposed of and replaced with nitrile gloves.

Further guidance can be found at:

http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/occ_health/policies/latex_policy.php

5. Wear eye protection for handling chemicals or radioactive isotopes.

6. Wear a UV visor and cover all exposed skin when using transilluminators and other UV

sources.

7. When handling liquid nitrogen, wear insulating gloves (never rubber gloves) and a protective

visor. Wear suitable shoes (not sandals). Do not pour liquid nitrogen into any container on your

own. Do not store it in an unventilated area. BOC staff will transport containers, do not attempt this

yourself. Treat cold burns like hot burns, ie: put under running water for fifteen minutes and seek

First Aid.

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8. Insulating gloves should be worn when handling hot objects from the microwave or autoclave.

9. Face masks must be worn by anyone suffering from allergies to animals or handling animals

outside of other means of containment and for weighing and handling toxic chemicals. All mask

wearers must be fact fit-tested (please see “Working with Animals” paragraph for details)

10. Wear ear protectors when you use an ultrasonicator.

11. Cuts and grazes should be covered with waterproof dressings.

UNSEALED RADIOACTIVE SOURCES Use of radioactive material is not allowed in any Medicine labs in the Cruciform Building. HUMAN MATERIAL If you are handling human material (including blood), before starting any work you must fill a Job Hazard Form (found at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/occ_health/forms/ ) and email it to the DSA prior of starting work. The DSA will forward this to Occupational Health to arrange vaccination against Hepatitis B virus. All staff working with blood, human tissue or cells or staff dealing with clinical waste should be protected against Hepatitis B. For the initial course, 3 injections are normally required spaced at 1st dose 2nd dose one month later 3rd dose 6 months from 1st dose Two months after the 3rd dose a blood test is required. If the result is satisfactory then you will be considered to have immunity to the hepatitis B virus. If it is unsatisfactory, then a booster dose is required and another blood test two months later. If still unsatisfactory, a further course of 3 injections may be required, followed by a blood test. A single booster dose is required at 5 years and current indications are that this will provide life-long immunity, but this should be checked following a sharp’s injury or other accidental exposure to blood or body fluids. Where health surveillance or immunisation programme is recommended at the start of employment, managers are responsible for ensuring that new employees have attended OHS for relevant immunisation or health surveillance within 4 weeks of starting work and before starting work with blood or animal allergens. ALL blood and human tissue should be TREATED AS CONSTITUTING A POTENTIAL HEPATITIS, TB AND HIV RISK i.e.

All work must be carried out in a Microbiological Safety Cabinet,

Lab coat and disposable gloves must be worn,

Use of sharps must be avoided wherever possible. Is strictly necessary then use of sharps must be justified as part of a prior written risk assessment. All users of sharps, sucha s needles and scalpels, must be instructed on safe handling practices to follow as part of on-the-job training and training MUST be recorded by the trainer.

Surfaces and tools must be disinfected prior and after use (with Trigene, freshly diluted Virkon or BioHit as a general cleaning agent).

Occupational Health guidelines on how to deal with an exposure can be found at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/occ_health/policies/accidental_exposure.php HSE guidelines on how to minimise the risk of exposure to blood products and any associated BBV can be found at: http://www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/blood-borne-viruses/safe-working-practices.htm

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Division of Medicine guidelines on Taking Blood Samples From Colleagues for research can be found at:

https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/Taking+Blood+Samples+from+Colleagues+for+Research.pdf?version=2&modificationDate=1392624836000 CULTURING PRIMARY CELLS One of the major concerns with primary cultures comes from the likelihood that they may undergo spontaneous transformation. Any cell that comes from a person's body is not recognised as anything other than a "friendly" cell and the immune system will not react against it, and this cell could form invasive i.e. cancerous colonies within the person's body. See Appendix 3.1 of the ACDP guidance www.hse.gov.uk/biosafety/biologagents.pdf

It is inadvisable to culture one's own or close colleagues' cells or tissues and unacceptable to use such cells in genetic modification experiments or if there is any risk of the cells becoming transformed in culture. The concern stems from the potential failure of the immune system to recognise as foreign a cell that has been deliberately or inadvertently transformed or modified in vitro if those cells are then accidentally re-introduced into the original donor. 1. Transformation of one's own cells is dangerous and must not be done.

2. When cells are put into culture and in particular when they are deliberately immortalised then the risk to the donor of those cells subsequently being recognised as "self" in the event of a needlestick accident should be recognised. Donors are therefore not permitted to handle their own immortalised cells or cells in long term culture where there is the risk of spontaneous transformation. 3. Workers are not allowed to work with a culture of cells derived from your body or from the body of a colleague who either works in the same TC suite or in the immediate vicinity. A donor must not be present in the laboratory at any time when their cells are being handled by others and preferably should not have any access to these laboratories. 4. A similar restriction applies to the use of host cells capable of colonising workers, for example the workers own cells or those from other workers having access to the laboratory, in genetic modification activities involving the use of eukaryotic viral vectors 5. Records of primary cell cultures and the individuals from whom they were isolated should be kept. CRYOGENIC SUBSTANCES Processes involving liquid nitrogen should only be carried out by trained workers. To arrange training please contact Dean Heathcote. Staff providing training for Liquid Nitrogen users MUST attend safety courses: Using Liquid Nitrogen Safely within Universities e-Learning Course and Safe Decanting of Liquid Nitrogen Practical Workshop. Everyone using Liquid Nitrogen must have read the document Risk Assessment “Use of Liquid Nitrogen Div. Medicine” which can be found at:

Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Liquid Nitrogen => SOP-Risk Assessment - Use of Liquid Nitrogen Div. Medicine.pdf https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/SOP-Risk+Assessment+-+Use+of+Liquid+Nitrogen+Div.+Medicine.pdf?version=3&modificationDate=1392986771000 And the relevant building SOP:

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Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Liquid Nitrogen =>Rayne building B01 SOP LN.pdf https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/B01+SOP+LN.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1395310050000

Please note that no work involving Liquid Nitrogen can be carried out alone as it is a two people operation. SHARPS A high degree of precaution must always be taken with any sharp items used in the laboratory, including needles, glass slides and cover slips, Pasteur pipettes, capillary tubes, and scalpels or other blades. Two of the most common causes of needle sticks are re-capping needles and improper disposal of needles. All needle sticks, and other sharps injuries, carry the risk of secondary infections as well as exposure to the needle's content and/or contamination on the outside of the needle or other sharp instrument.

Needles and syringes or other sharp instruments should be restricted for use only when there is no alternative, such as parenteral injection, phlebotomy, or aspiration of fluids from diaphragm bottles. Plastic ware should be substituted for glassware whenever possible.

Sharps usage must be reviewed annually. Can a procedure be modified so that a sharp is not needed? Is there a safety engineered sharp available?

Needle/syringe usage may also present a risk of exposure to infectious agents or other hazardous materials via sprays and aerosols – particularly from non needle-locking syringes. Use needle-locking syringes for all needle/syringe applications. This includes injections, filtration, transfer of liquids, and loading columns. Use of needle-locking syringes will also prevent the loss of valuable samples.

Do not pick up broken glass with hands, use mechanical means such as a brush and dustpan, tongs, or forceps.

Needles must not be bent, sheared, broken, recapped, removed from disposable syringes, or otherwise manipulated before disposal.

Do not re-sheath needles after use, this is the most common cause of needle stick injury.

All sharps must be disposed of in rigid yellow sharps-safe containers (also called Cinbins). NEVER place sharps in autoclave bags/yellow bags/Biobins or other containers other than approved sharps-safe bins.

HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

An inventory of the chemicals in the laboratory with safety information must be available either in paper or electronic form (or preferably both).

The typical biological research laboratory is home to a considerable range of chemicals requiring safe storage. Observations on a number of safety inspections within the department have revealed inappropriate storage of some chemicals within the laboratory. The following information intends to offer guidance on the basic principles of safe chemical storage and segregation in our laboratories. However, the guidance is certainly not intended to be exhaustive, and users of chemicals are reminded of the importance of consulting other sources (e.g. specific Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)) for more specific and detailed information. Chemicals should be clearly labelled and laboratories in which they are kept must be locked when not in use (this includes waste bottles). Flammable liquids MUST be stored in solvent cupboards and acids should be stored in separate acid cupboards. It is the user’s responsibility to know the hazards associated with any chemical that you are using and to take appropriate care. This includes:

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1. Knowing the correct method of storage, use and disposal

2. Knowing how to clear up accidental spillage. Keep the necessary items to hand so any spills can be dealt with immediately (see below).

3. Labelling the containers with appropriate warning or using biohazard tape so that people who are not familiar with the chemical will recognise any danger.

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF CHEMICAL STORAGE It is important to separate stored chemicals based on their chemical properties to avoid serious problems that can occur if certain combinations are accidentally mixed. This mixing is not from someone preparing a concoction in a beaker (which also could be disastrous), it refers to mishaps involving bottle breakage that can occur if a shelf collapses or a worker bangs one bottle into another while accessing the cabinet. Certain combinations can produce a violent reaction that could involve fire or explosion. It is essential to segregate incompatible substances to prevent dangerous interactions. All newly purchased chemicals should have a label on them identifying their hazard category (e.g. flammable, corrosive, oxidising, toxic etc.). A list of commonly used chemicals that should be segregated is listed below to assist storage. Store the minimum stock levels of hazardous chemicals in the laboratory Dispose of hazardous chemicals that are no longer required Store large breakable containers, particularly of liquids, below shoulder height Ensure containers and bottle tops are sealed properly to avoid unnecessary leakage of fumes / vapours Never carry a bottle containing chemicals by its top, for example always carry Winchester bottles (2.5 litres) in carriers or baskets that are capable of providing proper support, and support the base of the bottle in use. BASIC CHEMICAL SEGREGATION

CLASS OF CHEMICALS

RECOMMENDED STORAGE METHOD

EXAMPLES INCOMPATIBILITIES SEE MSDS IN ALL CASES

Corrosives – Acids

Store in separate acid storage cabinet

Mineral acids - Hydrochloric acid,sulfuric acid, nitric acid, perchloric acid,chromic acid, chromerge

Flammable liquids,

Corrosives - Bases

Store in separate storage cabinet

Ammonium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide

Flammable liquids, oxidizers, poisons, acids.

Shock Sensitive Materials

Store in secure location away from all other chemicals.

Ammonium nitrate, Nitro Urea, Picric Acid (in dry state), Trinitroaniline,Trinitroanisole, Trinitrobenzene, Trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid,Trinitrobenzoic acid,Trinitrochlorobenzene,

Flammable liquids, oxidizers, poisons, acids, and bases.

Flammable Liquids

In grounded flammable storage cabinet.

Acetone, benzene, diethyl ether, methanol, ethanol, toluene, glacial acetic acid

Acids, bases, oxidizers, and poisons

Flammable Solids

Store in a separate dry, cool area away from oxidizers,corrosives, flammab leliquids.

Phosphorus Acids, bases, oxidizers, and poisons.

General Chemicals Non-reactive

Store on general laboratory benches or shelving preferably behind glass doors, or below eye level.

Agar, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and most non-reactive salts

See MSDS

Oxidizers Store in a spill tray Sodium hypochlorite, Separate from

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inside a Non-combustible cabinet, separate from flammable and combustible materials.

benzoyl peroxide, potassium permanganate, potassium chlorate, potassium dichromate. The following are generally considered oxidizing substances: peroxides, perchlorates, chlorates, nitrates, bromates, superoxides

reducing agents, flammables and combustibles.

Poisons * Store severe poisons in a dedicated poison cabinet.

Cyanides, cadmium, mercury, osmiumpounds, i.e. cadmium, mercury, osmium

Flammable liquids, acids, bases, and oxidizers.

Water Reactive Chemicals

Store in dry, cool, location

Sodium metal, potassium metal, lithium metal lithium aluminum hydride

Separate from all aqueous solutions, and oxidizers.

*Poisons – In the context of biology, poisons are substances that cause injury, illness, or death to

organisms, usually by chemical reaction or other activity on the molecular scale. Some poisons are also toxins, a very toxic organic chemical produced by a living organism. All hazard labels for poisons are “toxic”. Poisons which fall under Schedule 1 should be kept in a locked cabinet, specific for the purpose, in the laboratory. A designated responsible person should hold the key and a log book should be kept to record when a poison is used, how much and by whom. In addition it is recommended that certain alkaloids and their derivatives, e.g. aconitine, brucine, ecgonine and atropine, which do not appear on the Poisons List and digitoxin and digitonin, valinomycin and actinomycin D, are also kept locked away. It is also recommended that very toxic chemicals, i.e. those which have Lethal Dose Values LD 50 (30 days) of less than 10mg/kg, are also locked away at the end of each working day and are tightly managed/controlled. It is good laboratory practice to store other dangerous substances labelled toxic / highly toxic (includes substances that are also carcinogenic / mutagenic / toxic to reproduction) in a locked cupboard, even though they do not appear in Schedule 1. However, this decision can be made be the responsible person who would want to consider practicalities and local security. DOs AND DON'Ts OF CHEMICAL STORAGE

DO NOT

WHY

DO

Do not store waste in poorly labelled containers

Poor labelling can result in mixing incompatible materials and / the waste being handled inappropriately

Label all waste containers clearly and accurately with the contents, hazards and where they originated (name of producer)

Do not store strong acids and bases with solvents

Acids and bases react with solvents to release heat and evolve gas Nitric acid will react violently with solvents

Store strong acids and bases in a cabinet designed for corrosive substances

Do not store pyrophoric substances in flammable solvent cabinets or stores

One is a source of ignition the other is a fuel

Store pyrophoric materials in separate flame proof containers. Refer to the safety data sheet for specific conditions

Do not store peroxides with flammable solvents

Peroxides form explosive materials on contact with solvent

Peroxides can be stored in a laboratory refrigerator

Do not put cardice

The liberated CO2 will cause an explosive overpressure

Dry ice / solvent mixtures should be allowed to reach room

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DO NOT

WHY

DO

(solid carbon dioxide also known as dry ice) or cardice / solvent mixtures into sealed bottles or containers

temperature before putting the solvent into bottles alternatively use storage bottles fitted with venting lids

Do not overload storage shelves

The weight of the material may exceed the safe loading weight of the shelf

Store minimum quantities of solvents and chemicals and avoid duplication of common chemicals

Do not mix waste in the same containers

Mixing two or more waste chemicals can cause violent reactions (e.g. chloroform and acetone or methanol in the presence of sodium hydroxide will react violently)

Store waste flammable solvent separately from chlorinated solvents NB halogenated solvents are generally not flammable and do not need to be stored in a flammable solvent cabinet

DISPOSAL OF CHEMICAL WASTE To request a small/bulk chemical waste collection please complete the Chemicals Collection Excel sheet and send it to r.perelli@ucl.ac.uk. Chemicals must be clearly labelled, packaged in a cardboard box and a copy of the contents as detailed in the Excel Chemicals Collection Sheet (if you don’t have it, request a copy emailing Roberta) must be attached on the box. When ready for pickup from your Wing please contact r.perelli@ucl.ac.uk and d.heathcote@ucl.ac.uk in the first instance. Please note only up to 25 small chemicals can be picked up using this system, if you have more a special contractor collection will be organised and your group will be charged for the service. SPILLAGES OF HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS Before handling any chemicals, make sure you understand the risks involved and the procedures necessary for dealing with a spill. Have everything you may need to hand. Minimise the risk by working on trays, in fume cupboards, on benchcote etc. as appropriate. Where Benchcote is used, this should be changed at regular intervals (and immediately after any spillage of hazardous chemicals). Ensure that containers are supported in racks and cannot be accidentally knocked over. The danger of most water-soluble chemicals is reduced by dilution. Protect skin when mopping up. Industrial rubber gloves may be appropriate. For large spills of liquids we have a special kit. GET HELP. Ventilate the area and keep others away. Noxious gas escapes from fume cupboards, exploding mercury vapour lights, boiling solvents etc. Stop the source of the vapour and ventilate the room to the outside, IF THIS CAN BE ACHIEVED QUICKLY AND SAFELY. Get out of the area until it is clear, closing the door behind you. Put up a notice to warn others of the DSA. GHS HAZARD PICTOGRAMS

The existing legislation on classification, labelling and packaging has been agreed at European Union level and, from 2015, will be directly applied on all EU member states, including the UK. The rules they have to follow when they are classifying will change though, and a new set of hazard pictograms (quite similar to the old ones) are used:

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SAFETY INFORMATION & PROCEDURES FOR VACATING LABORATORY PREMISES / OCCUPATION OF NEW PREMISES This guidance should be read in conjunction with the UCL Approved Code of Practice for Vacating Areas (http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/vacating_areas/acop.pdf). The accompanying checklists must be used whenever a Division of Medicine laboratory is being vacated for any reason including renovation, relocation or halting of research activities. Vacating a laboratory and possibly relocating to another laboratory area within the Division/Department is inevitably a hectic period for all concerned. It is essential that everyone gives careful consideration to all relevant health and safety issues throughout the course of this process. In

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particular, all groups must ensure that accommodation is left free from hazards and risks as far as reasonably practicable, for either reoccupation or handover to building contractors. Laboratories which are left dirty and cluttered pose a danger to new tenants. It is equally important that the working activities of any group are only resumed after all safety issues have been adequately addressed. Unidentified hazardous material in laboratories is a violation of the Division Of Medicine Code of Practice and UCL policy. Responsibilities Principal Investigators whose labs are closed/moved must leave their laboratory in a state which is safe, clean, and suitable for re-occupation. All hazardous materials must be identified and removed or re-assigned; laboratory equipment must be properly cleaned and decontaminated. Principal Investigators/Group Leaders are responsible for ensuring that all chemical, biological, and radiological hazardous materials in their laboratory have been identified and either re-assigned to other personnel or removed for disposal prior to leaving the space occupied. They are responsible for ensuring completion of all activities on the close-out checklist, including cleaning lab surfaces and equipment. However, everybody must take some responsibility for their own safety and that of their colleagues at all stages of the moving process. Where circumstances allow, it may be appropriate to delegate some specific duties to an identified member (or members) of the group, but it is the PI’s ultimate responsibility to ensure compliance with the close-out procedure. Division/Departments are responsible for insuring that Principal Investigators comply with the requirements in the close-out checklist. The Divisional Safety Advisor and Local Safety Officers are responsible for providing guidance to the Principal Investigator for appropriate removal of hazardous material and proper cleaning of the lab. Enforcement If the Principal Investigator fails to complete the lab close-out, any additional costs for labour in reference to completion of the close-out checklist (e.g. hazardous material identification or laboratory cleaning) incurred by the Division/Department will be billed to the group. When you know the laboratory will be vacated, the PI should: 1. Assign a Lab Contact (this may be the P.I. or their designee): Someone who is familiar with the research and the hazards involved in the lab and who will be responsible for overseeing the lab decommissioning process. The Lab Contact name must be notified to the DSA. 2. Notify the DSA of the intended vacancy/move, planned approximate dates of completion and the name of the Lab Contact. 3. If necessary liaise with the DSA to provide guidance and assistance with the lab close-out and to develop a plan for completion and set target dates for critical steps of the decommissioning of the lab. 4. Carefully inspect shared use spaces, such as refrigerators, freezers, cold rooms and flammable liquid storage areas, for all items that are the responsibility of the lab. Note locations of these items, so they can be addressed during the decommissioning process. It is the responsibility of all Group Leaders to ensure the safety requirements contained in this document are implemented.

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Note: Packaging and handling of chemical, biological and radiologic agents must only be performed between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm, when staff will be available to respond to spills or releases. As You Pack and Begin Moving • Have boxes, plastic bags, and containers for broken glass, etc., ready and available before you begin. • Package and move lab items only during normal working hours (8:00 am – 5:00pm) so staff will be readily available to help if there is a spill or accident. • Never transport hazardous materials alone. • Never transport hazardous materials on public roads. • Wear appropriate personal protection for the materials being handled (safety glasses or goggles, gloves, lab coat, closed-toed shoes, etc.). • Make sure you remove all hazardous materials. DSA and building management will survey the vacated space to determine that it is free of hazards. Any costs incurred for the removal of abandoned materials from a vacated lab will be recharged to the group vacating the space. If you are unsure about anything, ask. Safety questions may be answered by your H&S Coordinator or Divisional Safety Advisor. Chemicals • Identify all chemicals for disposal, including investigation of unknown materials. • Label all containers with full chemical name(s). • Submit Small Chemicals Collection Request via maintenance at least 4 weeks prior to lab closeout ( https://www.ucl.ac.uk/maintenance-service-requests/index.php). • Clean and decontaminate benchtops, furniture, other surfaces, laboratory hoods, storage cabinets, and other fixed equipment. Attach UCL decontamination certificate to equipment (http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/vacating_areas/decon_equipment.pdf ). • Remove warning stickers after decontamination and attach UCL Laboratory Clearance Certificate on laboratory door. (http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/vacating_areas/lab_clearance.pdf ). • Inspect all lab spaces to verify the removal of all chemicals. Be sure to check all drawers, cabinets, cupboards, refrigerators, etc. • If transferring/redistributing usable chemicals to stockrooms and other laboratories to another lab, give DSA details of transfer or else confirm in writing to the DSA that all hazardous waste and surplus chemicals have been removed. • If controlled substances are to be moved, establish procedures to ensure secure transport and give details to the DSA so that the substances can be taken off the yearly returns. • Chemically preserved specimens of human or animal tissue for disposal have been drained of storage fluid, the fluid collected and identified as hazardous chemical waste, and the tissue collected, double-bagged and placed in a cardboard biohazard waste box.

Packing Chemicals to be Moved • Wear personal protection appropriate for the materials being handled (safety glasses, lab coat, gloves, closed-toed shoes, etc.).

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• Make sure chemical containers are properly labelled, bottles are secure and containers are not likely to leak in transport. • Do not move unlabelled ("unknowns") or leaky containers. Unknowns cannot be disposed of until the contents are identified. • Separate chemicals into compatible groups and provide separate, labelled boxes for each group. This is extremely important to prevent serious mishaps should boxes be dropped or damaged in transport. (Separate acids, flammables, solid chemicals (non-toxic), solid chemicals (toxic)) • Do not stack crates containing different chemical hazard categories- this will avoid removal persons transporting incompatible substances (e.g. acids and flammables) together on the same load. • Leave enough room to completely close the box. Do not allow protruding bottle necks or stems. • Peroxide-forming materials should be disposed of and not moved to the new laboratory if the container has been opened and is more than six months old, or if it has not been opened and is more than one year old. Always dispose of these materials by the expiration date listed by the supplier. • Keep an inventory as you pack. Minimum information should include chemical name, date received, date opened and quantity. • Ensure contents of crates are secure to minimise the possibility of breakages during transit • Consider use of packing materials (e.g. ‘bubble wrap’) for particularly fragile or hazardous materials • Do not overload crates with materials- be sensible, somebody will have to lift them! If you are involved in the lifting and carrying of crates adopt the correct lifting technique and consider weight, contents and route to take before you begin. • Do not attempt to handle anything that you are unsure about- get somebody that is trained to do so. Microorganisms, Cultures, and Genetically Modified Material • Evaluate and sort biologicals into categories: material to move, research materials to donate to other groups and waste. • If GM material responsibility has been transferred to another researcher, you must inform the GM Safety Officer of this in writing. • If GM material (and therefore permit) will be moved to new lab location (internal or external to the Division) you must inform the GM Safety Officer of this in writing giving details of new location. • If GM material has been disposed of via procedures for on-site disposal of biological material and waste (e.g., disinfect, autoclave) give details to GM Safety Officer. • Clean and disinfect benchtops, furniture, other surfaces, biological safety cabinets, gloveboxes, storage cabinets, and other fixed equipment. Remove warning stickers. Attach a UCL clearance statement to equipment and spaces. Packing and Moving Biological Materials • Biological materials including all etiologic agents, human and animal tissues, blood, blood products, and other body fluids, excreta etc. must be packaged in both primary and secondary containers. • Primary containers must be tightly sealed to prevent leakages. Take care to avoid contamination of the container's exterior. Examples of primary containers are test tubes, vacutainers, IV bags, or culture flasks. Surround the primary container with absorbent packing material.

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• Use rigid, sealable and break-resistant containers, such as sealable pans, closed metal ice chests, or cardboard or plastic mailing tubes as secondary containers. • Label primary and secondary containers with the international Biohazard symbol, the type of material and the name and phone number of the PI. Labels should be legible and indelible. Radioactive Materials • Before packaging or moving any radioactive materials or radiation-generating equipment, contact your local Radiation Protection Supervisor or the Radiation Department for information and instructions. •Notify RPS of intention to transfer inventory to another researcher based in the building. • Return dosimeters to RPS. • To facilitate evaluation of your new installation and maintain an accurate inventory, compile and send a list of non-ionizing radiation producing equipment (lasers and x-ray generators) to the local RPS. •Decontaminate all laboratory equipment/work surfaces used in radiation areas. Gas Cylinders • Identify contents of cylinder(s) even if “empty”. Remove regulators and manifolds. Cap all cylinders and bottles. • Contact BOC for pick-up of returnable bottles. EQUIPMENT Tissue Culture Microbiological Safety Cabinets • If TC MSCs are to be moved/decommissioned VHP fumigation of HEPA filters done by a specialist company is necessary. If MSC cabinets are left in space and not shared equipment this might be still necessary – contact the DSA for advice • If TC MSC are moved to another location within the Division (for instance while decanting or internal moves) they MUST be re-commissioned and serviced prior to use. Contact DSA for advice on how to organise this. Moveable Laboratory Equipment • Clean and decontaminate movable lab equipment that is to be left in place, moved, sold as surplus, or disposed of. • Units that may contain refrigerants must be evaluated by DSA to remove refrigerant; if so, contact Maintenance to arrange for removal • For incubators that may be contaminated with biological materials: disconnect CO2 gas feed line, drain water jacket, clean, disinfect, remove warning stickers, and attach a UCL Equipment Decontamination Certificate. • For refrigerators, freezers, ultracentrifuges, UV boxes, transilluminators, imaging stations, and other movable equipment that may be contaminated with biological materials: clean, disinfect, remove warning stickers, and attach a UCL Equipment Decontamination Certificate. • Notify to DSA or building manager/maintenance the movement of autoclaves and other pressure equipment so that relevant building records can be updated. • To move fragile or vibration-sensitive equipment (e.g., confocal microscopes), contact specialized movers. • Request removal of lab equipment to be discarded via Maintenance request. • Reuse, Redistribute, Recycle, Empty Containers and Glassware. • Clean glassware if necessary. Redistribute usable glassware to stockrooms and other laboratories.

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Lab Sharps • Sharps include needles, syringes with or without needles, Pasteur pipettes, pipette tips, and broken glass – dispose of them in yellow rigid bins • Keep separate sharps that are radioactive, biologically, and chemically contaminated. Other • For moves internal to the Division update SOPs and Risk Assessments to reflect changes in location. • Pack all files, documentation, books, and publications. Follow organizational procedures for archiving research notebooks and supporting documentation. • Contact Maintenance for disposal of confidential papers. • Update emergency information, including external door posting, contact lists, plans, etc. Laser Equipment • Notify laser safety officer if laser equipment is being transferred to another PI, relocated outside the University (name/location) or disposed of. LABORATORY MOVE CHECKLIST This can be downloaded at https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/display/Med/Moving+Laboratories+Checklist UCL Equipment Decontamination Checklist and UCL Clearance Certificate can be downloaded at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/vacating_areas/

GEL STAINING COMPOUNDS Ethidium Bromide and its alternatives e.g. SYBR Green etc are used extensively in UCL. They should be handled with care and only used in designated areas whilst wearing correct PPE, any spillages and/or accidents should be reported immediately as these compounds are known mutagens. Further information can be located as published at: Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Guidelines for the use of Ethidium Bromide and Alternatives https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/Guidelines+for+the+use+of+Ethidium+Bromide+and+Alternatives.pdf?version=2&modificationDate=1396550498000

WORKING WITH LAB ANIMALS Personnel in contact/working with laboratory animals will be exposed to laboratory animal allergens (LAAS). If you are going to handle animals, you must fill a Job Hazard Form (found at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/occ_health/forms/) and return it to the DSA who will monitor allergy screening in conjunction with the Occupational Health team. If further information regarding LAA screening is required, please contact Occupational Health. • Face masks must be worn when directed by animal house staff or if you are advised to do so as an additional personal precaution by an Occupational Health Adviser. • If working in your own laboratory you should wear a face-mask during all animal work unless your work is contained with a safety cabinet or equivalent. All mask wearers (either for animal work or work with chemicals) must be face-fit tested. More on this, along with specific conditions for the appointments is explained on the webpage here: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/ppe/face_fit_testing/how/index.htm For booking, you can click to see available days and times here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/UCLTrainingBookingSystem/index/results?searchType=&Model_Page-QUERY=face

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The use of ANIMALS is strictly regulated by the Home Office - Contact Biological Services for information about Home Office licences, ordering, and animal house safety, allergy screening and general procedures. MANUAL HANDLING This is potentially one of the most hazardous activities in a laboratory department. Many normal working manual handling injuries may be cumulative rather than attributable to any one specific event. Staff who regularly carry out manual handling and lifting activities at work must attend the Manual Handling & Lifting Practical course. Please seek expert advice from your DSA before attempting to lift or move any heavy item. Further information can be located as published at: Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Manual Handling Information https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/mh.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1396550869000 DISPLAY SCREEN EQUIPMENT Offices and laboratory areas are covered by The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations, 1992, revised 2005. Any person who uses a display screen for more than one hour per day every day may be defined as a “user”. A risk assessment (by a trained assessor) is then required of workstations that are used by the user to assess the health and safety risks to which they may be exposed to as a consequence of the use of display screen equipment. DSE users must report health problems or workstation faults to their manager, carry out a DSE self – assessment when requested to do so and follow the advice and guidance provided by the DSE assessor Further information can be located as published at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/dse/index.htm Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety=> Display Screen Equipment => DSE information https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/dse.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1396551004000 PREGNANT WORKERS The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require that potential risks to women of child bearing age, new and expectant mothers which arise from work processes be assessed and controlled. New or expectant mothers are defined as those women who are either pregnant, have given birth within the previous six months or are breast-feeding. When a member of staff has notified her manager in writing that they are pregnant or a new mother, then the manager is responsible to ensure that risk assessment for the work she does includes and identifies any specific risks to females of childbearing age. Further information for managers and pregnant workers can be located as published at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/pregnant_workers/ http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/pregnant_workers/guidance/index.htm Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety=>Pregnant Workers =>Pregnant workers – hazards https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/new.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1396551144000 CHILDREN IN LABORATORIES Children (under 16 years) are not allowed into any laboratory area. Young persons (minimum school leaving age to 18 years) are also not permitted into any laboratory area, unless the young person is registered as a work experience personnel (refer to WEP link). Visiting children of members of staff should remain in non-laboratory areas with their parent or a responsible adult. Young persons who are visiting with their parents and wish to enter laboratory areas must first obtain permission from the

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institute’s Safety Advisor and the unit head. They must be escorted at all times by a responsible laboratory worker. WORK EXPERIENCE PERSONS Young persons (anyone between the minimum school leaving age (MSLA) and 18 years) are also not permitted in to any laboratory area, unless the young person is registered to be in the Division as a work experience person (WEP). The Divisional policy for WEPs is published at: Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety=>Work Experience Placements (WEP)=> https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=42009919 Work experience allows students (usually in sixth form or at college) to observe and carry out tasks alongside research scientists. This helps the student to develop the skills and attitudes which they will need for the world of work, and provides opportunities to learn directly about working in a research laboratory and to nurture their interest in science. Placements should be of benefit to the student and allow them to be engaged in a range of tasks they would normally not gain experience of while in full time education Areas that a WEP must NOT enter

Radioactive areas o Controlled radioactive room o Areas of the labs which act as a supervised radioactive area

Where a WEP is placed with a group where a supervised area is situated in their lab, each case will be assessed individually. A WEP must NOT undertake

Any radioactive work Any work which exposes them to toxic or carcinogenic substances Any work which exposes them to extreme heat, noise or vibration Work that can not be adapted to allow for a physical or mental limitations Working completely unsupervised, lone or out of hours working

Young Person Young persons wishing to gain work experience are permitted in laboratories only if the requirements laid out in this policy are in place. Please read the UCL Young Person Guidance Document: YP UCL guidance.pdf NOTE: Individuals less than 16 years are considered in health and safety law as children and are not permitted in the DoM laboratories. UCL Child Protection (Safeguarding) Policy The DoM is committed to ensuring the well being and safety of young persons (and vulnerable adults) involved in UCL activities. Under normal WEP placements, DoM staff have limited contact with the young person and always in the presence of other staff, additional requirements under this policy are then not required. Further information can be obtained from http://www.ucl.ac.uk/registry/ucl-staff/safeguarding/ Work Experience Person This is an individual from outside UCL, usually from a school or a college who wishes to gain work experience. Individuals wishing to gain work experience are permitted in laboratories only if the requirements laid out in this policy are in place. A WEP is often a young person. A WEP is not permitted to work more than a standard 8-hour day and more than 5 days in any consecutive 7-day period.

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Work Organiser (WO) This is the organisation that contacts the Manager to arrange the placement of the work experience person. If the WEP has contacted the Manager directly then information should be sent to the parent of the WEP. The WO is to be provided with the following information:

UCL Statement of Safety Policy, available at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/efd/safety_services_www/policy/ssp.pdf

UCL insurance arrangements (employers liability and occupiers liability) , available at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/finace/secure/fin_acc/laibility_polices.pdf

The Divisional Statement of Safety Policy, available here: https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=42009488

Name and contact details of the supervisors who will be responsible for the WEP Description of the work the WEP will be performing and a copy of the signed risk assessment as

completed by the supervisor of the WEP ( WEP Risk Assessment template to be used for lab work, see duties below).

Duties Group Leader While on work experience the WEP is to be regarded as a member of that group. However, it must be remembered that the WEP may be particularly at risk from:

Their possible immaturity (physical and mental) and inexperience of a laboratory environment Being unaware of the potential risks to their health and safety Being eager to impress or please their supervisors

They must ensure before the work experience person arrives that they have: Informed Medicine HR and completed the work experience agreement, stating date of birth of proposed

WEP. Put arrangements in place to ensure the health, safety and welfare of persons on work experience Appointed a first and second supervisor for the WEP Supplied information to the placement organisation of techniques the WEP will be involved with and any

risks they may be exposed to. This will usually be in the format of a form supplied by the placement organisation and completed by the group leader and/or Safety Advisor.

Completed a laboratory risk assessment form for the work to be undertaken by the WEP. This is to be completed with the supervisor of the WEP.

Supervisor The supervisor is responsible for

Completing a risk assessment form for the activities that the WEP will carry out. Informing the WEP of the contents of the risk assessment, noting any risks and control measures that

are in place. Completing a work schedule for the duration of time the WEP is in their group. Arranging with the Safety Advisor or Local Safety Officer for the WEP to have a safety induction before

work experience commences. Assessing the level of supervision that is required. This will be at a minimum level of ensuring one of

the supervisors is present in the laboratory at the same time or maximum level of direct supervision of the WEP.

Providing a laboratory coat (and ensuring it is worn buttoned up), gloves and safety glasses (as required) for practical laboratory work. To include storage and disposal of protective equipment.

At -the-bench training e.g. how to use equipment, carry out specific techniques. Local/Centre Safety Officer The Safety Officer is responsible for:

Inducting the WEP before commencing work experience. Induction to include o Safety rules for laboratories o First aid arrangements

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o Fire policy of building o Security arrangements o Personal protective equipment o Any other relevant identified safety or training issues

Handing over the WEP to the delegated supervisor after the safety induction is completed. Informing, in writing, to the group leader and DSA any concerns regarding the WEP ability to work

safely in the Division. This is both concerning the safety of the divisional staff and the WEP.

Documents needed: o Insurance Policy: public_professional_policy.pdf o UCL Statement of Safety Policy http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/policy/ssp.pdf o UCL Information Security Policy http://www.ucl.ac.uk/informationsecurity/policy => http://www.ucl.ac.uk/informationsecurity/policy/public-policy/InfSec_Policy_ISGC_20130717 o UCL Child Protection (Safeguarding) Policy Appendix 1 see also: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/srs/staff-support/child-protection Additional information is published by UCL at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/hr/docs/work_experience.php.

Mobile phone use should be avoided in the laboratory environment. This is because usage of mobile phones while wearing gloves is not good practice because of the risk of contamination between the work and the person. There is also the tendency for phones to be left on benches. Personal music players e.g. MP3 players in the laboratory environment is not allowed for the above reasons and as they limit the ability to hear alarms (such as O2/CO2/fire alarms) and also they are known to reduce the persons response to communication when in use e.g. if a colleague was calling for help or just asking a question of the user of an MP3 player. Pets are not permitted under any circumstances and with no exception in the work place. Footwear in laboratories: all staff, students and visitors wear appropriate footwear while working in the laboratories. This will be related to the task that you will need to perform during your working day. The general advisory policy is closed toe shoes, low heels and no fabric shoes. Safety Training: The UCL Safety Training Unit offers a full range of safety courses. These are free to UCL members of staff and can be booked via WIBR Safety. The full range of courses is displayed as published at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/efd/safety_services_www/training/.

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EQUIPMENT

Never use equipment you are unfamiliar with; get training first. All faults must be reported without delay to the Group Head or Laboratory Manager and the equipment must be taken out of service until repairs can take place. Users of electrical equipment should check that there are no signs of damage or interference with that equipment before it is used and when it is moved to a new location. A simple visual check can detect the majority of potential problems. Check that the equipment is installed and operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Notwithstanding the manufacturer’s instructions, the following are examples of items that should be checked: • Cables sheath are not damaged and are not located where they may be trodden on or snagged; • Plug casing and casing of electrical equipment must be checked for damage; • Sockets must not be overloaded and use of extension leads must be avoided; • Means of disconnection/isolation from the mains supply are readily accessible; • Space around the equipment is adequate for ventilation and cooling and equipment ventilation openings are not blocked by documents, media etc; • Liquids and dust/solids are not placed where they may spill into the equipment; • Equipment is not positioned so close to walls and partitions that the cord is forced into a tight bend as it exits the equipment (this may also indicate inadequate spacing ventilation and cooling);

Electricity can kill. Do not take unnecessary chances. If you are unsure whether any electrical equipment is unsafe or if there are signs that could indicate the equipment is faulty or damaged, DO NOT USE IT and REPORT IT

IMMEDIATELY. Switch off all non-essential equipment after use. Equipment left running overnight must be labelled with your name and contact number. This is a good policy to adopt for on-going experiments during the working day as it makes it easy for people to contact you if a problem arises. Avoid touching any electrical plugs or mains switches with wet hands. Immediately report any damaged or malfunctioning equipment to your wing representative (refer to responsibilities list). Prior to using ALL equipment, whether it is a bench top centrifuge or a highly complex piece of machinery, always get training first and make yourselves familiar with its safe working. CENTRIFUGES Centrifuges must not be used without prior instruction. Before running, check that the buckets and interior are clean and free of corrosion or damage. Make sure all buckets and adapters are in place and balanced. To avoid producing aerosols, use sealed buckets for all biological materials and hazardous chemicals. In the event of abnormal noise, vibration or a tube breakage, switch off immediately, disconnect from power supply, place on it a sign stating “DO NOT OPEN” and leave shut for at least 30 minutes after rotor has stopped to allow aerosols to disperse. Clean thoroughly after use and inform DSA of any problems. CENTRIFUGE USER CHECKLIST – PLEASE READ AND PAY ATTENTION! 1- Hazards

Mechanical failure of rotating parts: rotor, tube and bucket (often destructive)

Contact with rotating parts

Sample leaks causing aerosols, stress corrosion, contamination

Sample imbalance causing machine movement/walking (or stress failure of component parts)

Contact with contaminated components/vapours

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2- Pre-run safety checks

Make sure each tube compartment is clean and corrosion free

Check O rings

Ensure the rotor itself is clean, corrosion and crack free and there are no scratches or burrs around its rim

The centrifuge bowl should be dry and the spindle clean before operating

Check centrifuge chamber, drive spindle and tapered mounting surface of the rotor are clean and free of scratches or burrs

Wipe drive surface prior to installing rotor 3- Precautions

Always balance buckets and tubes rotors properly before centrifugation. High speed/Ultra centrifuges: Tubes in rotor spinning at 12,000 x g cannot be balanced by eye alone must be balanced by weighing the tubes on an accurate balance and adjusting their weights to within 0.1g.

Use sealed tubes and safety buckets that seal with O-ring

Do not use harsh detergents to clean rotors (especially aluminium rotors). Use a mild detergent and rinse with de-ionized water

Since corrosion is the main cause of rotor failure, it’s crucial to remove all the liquid spilt after any spillage.

Do not leave the centrifuge until full operating speed is attained and machine appears to be running safety without vibration

Never attempt to open the lid of a centrifuge or slow the rotor by hand while rotor is in motion as serious injuries may be incurred

Do not use aluminium foil to cap a centrifuge tube. Foil may rupture or detach

Do not overfill a centrifuge tube to the point where the rim, cap or cotton plug becomes wet

Do not operate the centrifuge without the appropriate rotor cover securely fitted and its seals in place (no more than 2/3 full)

In case of Centrifuge Failure: Any failure of the centrifuge run or if a spill or leak is suspected, the centrifuge will be switched off/disconnect from the power supply, and left closed for 1 hour before opening to assess, to allow any aerosol to settle. During this time a note must be placed on the centrifuge to inform other users of the situation, to prevent anyone else from opening it. Any sign of a leak/spill the inside of the centrifuge will be sprayed liberally with Virkon 2% and left for a further 30mins to inactivate the leak/spill. The spill/leak will then be contained in absorbent material (e.g. blue roll/paper towels) which will then be disposed of as solid waste after use.

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The inside of the centrifuge will then be washed with 2% Virkon and rinsed with water and then detergent as Virkon is corrosive to stainless steel. If a leak/spill occurs it is likely be contained within a bucket due to use of sealed lids. Any sign of leak/spill within the bucket, the bucket will be transferred to the safety cabinet, and the entire bucket will be immersed in 2% Virkon, where the lid will be released and the contents soaked for a further 30 min to inactivate any leak/spill. The bucket will then be washed with water and detergent. In any case the Safety Officer must be informed and a near miss/accident form will be completed as appropriate. GAS CYLINDERS Make sure they are secured and supported at all times. BOC staff are responsible for transporting cylinders and will change them over for you. Gas regulators need to be changed when 5 years old, contact BOC if you notice any regulator out of date.

Everyone at UCL who uses and handles cylinder gases needs to understand the hazards and risks associated with their use and be able to correctly and safely connect gas control equipment, therefore must complete the e-learning course Using Gas Cylinders Safely Within Universities. See link for details: www.ucl.ac.uk/efd/safety_services_www/training/publicity/general/elearning_gas_cylinders.pdf Staff who connects regulators and set-up cylinders must attend the practical Connecting Regulators and Safe Cylinder Set-Up Practical Workshop:

http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/training/gas_regulators.pdf Compressed gas cylinders are in all laboratory areas and pose a hazard to inexperienced personnel. The contents at high pressure constitute a large amount of stored energy, sudden release of which can be highly dangerous; fracture at the neck can convert a cylinder into a missile. Further information can be located as published at: Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Compressed Gases (part 1 and 2) https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/gas%281%29.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1396550725000 https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/gases12.doc?version=1&modificationDate=1351006179000 AUTOCLAVES Only trained personnel can operate the autoclaves and pressure cookers. Any faults must be reported immediately. Even small bench top units are very dangerous if misused. NEVER leave this equipment running unattended. Autoclaves used for inactivation of certain types of biological waste must meet specific operating standards. Departments involved in work of this type must ensure that a competent engineer carries out a twelve-point thermocouple test. This test should be carried out on an annual basis as a minimum requirement. All pressure vessels (such as autoclaves) which either contain steam at any pressure, or exert a pressure in excess of 0.5 bar above atmospheric pressure and contain gas or fluids (or some mixture of them), require maintenance in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions, testing to ensure that standards are met, and inspection to ensure that the vessel body, pipework and valves and parts are in good condition. If any new autoclave is brought in the Division the DSA needs to be informed so this can be registered

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with Estates to arrange for the annual Insurance Inspection visit (Ideally testing should be arranged to coincide with the service visit).

COLD ROOMS To avoid asphyxiation these rooms must NOT be used to store solid carbon dioxide, liquid nitrogen Dewars and gas cylinders. LABORATORY FRIDGES AND FREEZERS Refrigerators and freezers that are used for the storage of hazardous or notorious substances must be spark proof, labelled as to the type of hazard the contents are and preferably fitted with locks. Fridges and freezers should be de-frosted and cleaned every 6 months. They must not be used to store any food or drink. MERCURY TERMOMETERS These should not be used and any remaining should be replaced with either alcohol or electronic alternatives. The only exceptions may be very high or low range thermometers where non-mercury types are not available.

MICROBIOLOGICAL SAFETY CABINETS Microbiological Safety Cabinets are designed to protect users and the environment (which includes other people in the laboratory) from aerosol risks arising from the handling of hazardous biological material. Some types of cabinet (Class II) are also designed to protect the materials being handled within them from environmental contamination. Air discharged from the exhaust of the cabinet is filtered to remove microbial contamination and is either ducted to outside or recirculated into the laboratory. Microbiological safety cabinets are not designed to protect the user from all hazards, e.g. radioactive, toxic or corrosive hazards, and the exhaust HEPA filters will not remove these types of contaminants from the exhaust air. Particular care must be taken when using materials with such additional hazards to ensure these are not discharged into the laboratory environment from cabinets that are not externally ducted. The most common cabinets are Class I and II cabinets, Class II cabinets are the main type present in the Division. The three basic types of cabinets are: Class I cabinet An open fronted cabinet designed to protect the operator by continuously drawing air into the front of the cabinet.

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Class II cabinet An open fronted cabinet designed to protect the operator from exposure and the work from external contamination. Inward air is directed downwards into a plenum below the work surface and is filtered before being redirected into the work area as a laminar down flow of clean air. The balance of this laminar down flow with the incoming air provides an air curtain at the open front which provides the operator protection. The split between exhausted and recycled HEPA filtered air on each cycle is normally in the range 20/80 to 30/70.

Class III cabinet A totally enclosed cabinet in which operations are conducted through gloves attached to glove ports. Air enters the cabinet through a HEPA filter at the side or rear of the cabinet and is exhausted in a similar way to a class I cabinet. Laminar flow hoods Laminar flow hoods should not be confused with MSCs. These hoods provide a filtered air-flow which is intended for product protection only. The cabinets must not be confused with Class II cabinets as they have no inflow, indeed the air passes over the product being worked on [e.g. cell culture] and so they offer no operator protection. Therefore, laminar flow hoods must not be used with any biological material of human origin. Other animal-derived material or tissue may only be used after a full risk assessment that confirms the total non-pathogenic and non-allergenic status of the material. They also must not be used when handling biological agents [pathogenic organisms].

Positioning MSCs should be sited so as to minimise disturbance of the airflow at the front of the cabinet. Part 2 of BS 5726 (which is still operational) gives recommendations on positioning. Particular care must be taken in locating recirculating cabinets where the exhausted air may cause air disturbance at the front of the cabinet, adversely affecting containment performance. The key requirements are: a) that the cabinet has sufficient clearance from walls, corners and doorways b) that no obstacles are placed where they may interfere with the airflow c) that sufficient room is provided for the operator to avoid interference with other workers. Once the key requirements are met, the location is fixed and the cabinet passes the in situ tests, the position of the cabinet must not be changed unless full repeat tests are carried out. Contact the DSA when purchasing a new MSC or for further questions. Gas

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Bunsen burners or other naked flames should not be used in microbiological safety cabinets for the following reasons: • Disturbance of air-flow • Fire risk • Potential damage to the filters With open-fronted cabinets the use of Bunsen burners may reduce the operator protection by disturbing the air-flows. They should never be used in Class II cabinets. Exceptionally, they may be provided for Class I cabinets, but they should be low profile microburners equipped with a lever control to give full flame only as required, in order to minimise disturbance. To minimise the risk of fire and heat damage, gas provision must be controlled via a solenoid valve, interlocked positively with the operation of the cabinet fan(s). UV light UV light is generally ineffective for the disinfection of safety cabinets. Radiation is directional and therefore for it to have any effect, the cabinet must be totally empty. UV lamps are active microbicidally for a relatively short part of their working life, which is a fraction of their total lifetime as a source of visible (blue) light. If its installation is insisted upon by the purchaser, the following conditions should be met: • UV lighting must be installed in a manner that cannot affect the performance or durability of the cabinet. Thus, only materials that are unaffected by UV rays should be used for the construction and coating of the cabinet • Electrical interlocking must be fitted and operational to prevent direct operator exposure to UV light • The efficacy of the microbicidal activity of the light must be monitored regularly • The lamp must be changed whenever its efficacy is reduced (or regularly at a pre-determined frequency that ensures the light is still effective).

Use of cabinets Whilst working at the cabinet the following precautions should be taken: • A laboratory coat must always be worn when working at a Class II cabinet. • Do not overcrowd the cabinet • For open-fronted cabinets, always work as near to the centre of the work area as possible, but at least 15 cm from its front • For Class II cabinets, never obstruct the air in-flow grille or any exhaust grilles. Obstructions will adversely affect performance, in particular operator protection. Large equipment (e.g. centrifuges, especially air-cooled models) should not be used within an open fronted cabinet unless appropriate testing has been done to establish that containment performance is maintained • Do not mix sterile with infected materials and avoid passing potentially infected material over clean material • Dispose of equipment and contaminated material appropriately after use. Wherever practicable at containment level 2, this means disposal into appropriate containers or disinfectants within the safety cabinet. • Do not allow any casual visitors. Other authorised users of the facility should be discouraged from making movements that may affect the performance of the cabinet • Never use a cabinet if its operational safety is in doubt. If the alarm sounds, make the work secure, for open-fronted cabinets place the front on the cabinet, and inform the appropriate people according to local arrangements • Interior of cabinets must be kept clean & tidy. Spray surfaces with 1% Trigene ADVANCE Laboratory Disinfectant and 70% alcohol before and after use. All cabinets must be on a service contract and regularly maintained. • In case of significant spillage of biological, infectious or GM material seek advice from the DSA as fumigation might be needed. • Do not rely upon a safety cabinet to cover up for poor work.

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A GOOD CABINET CAN NEVER BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR GOOD PRACTICE OR GOOD MICROBIOLOGICAL TECHNIQUE.

Training and competence No person should be allowed to work at a microbiological safety cabinet unless proper training has been given and the person is competent to do the work. Where a supervisor has identified a requirement for training this should be provided before work can commence. The requirements for competence to use a MSC should include full instruction in the following, • Classification of cabinets • Appropriate and inappropriate use of cabinets • Mode of operation and function of all controls and indicators • Limitations of performance • How to work at cabinets safely • How to decontaminate after use • Principles of airflow and operator protection tests. Maintenance and testing All microbiological safety cabinets must be regularly serviced and tested to ensure their continued safe performance and thereby to satisfy legislative requirements for risk control equipment with a minimum annual frequency for filter integrity, mechanical and electrical function, mechanical integrity (including visible ductwork) and operator protection. X-RAY MACHINE You must be registered to use the X-ray machine and be trained in its use. All users must have a personal dosimeter to be worn at all times in the X-ray room. Report any faults as soon as possible. ULTRA_VIOLET SOURCES UV radiation is dangerous; there are serious long-term effects from burns. All workers must be trained in the proper use of UV sources. Trans-illuminators should ideally be used in closed cabinets. If this is not practical, you must wear a UV visor and cover all exposed skin. Make sure others cannot be accidentally exposed. Appointed Person (Statutory Testing)

For Lifting Equipment, Pressure Systems and Local Exhaust Ventilation

Appointed persons are responsible for ensuring the relevant equipment is on the UCL register and that

the central register is accurate for their department. They will add as a point of contact for Estates and

will facilitate access to equipment for testing/examination.

The role holders are entered in the Departmental Responsible Persons Register on RiskNET by the DSA.

Control of Legionella Bacteria in Departmental Equipment

The responsibility for control rests largely with Facilities Management (FM) as the primary risk is from hot

and cold water services and associated plant. However, certain items of Departmental equipment may

also present a risk.

In addition, management and control of specific water fittings such as plumbed-in eyewash stations and

safety showers are deemed the responsibility of Departments

Departments should inform building manager/DSA/FM of any damaged/old taps, unused outlets, eg

showers or sluices no longer required, or when any water system is taken out of use eg a laboratory is to

be used as office space while retaining laboratory sinks. Some equipment may contain water but

because it is enclosed, it does not present a risk of exposure unless the water system requires

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maintenance or repair. This should be identified in the risk assessment associated with the use of such

equipment.

Advice should be taken on chlorination and other precautions against legionella in such circumstances.

If you have any equipment, either permanent or temporary (eg experimental rigs, humidifiers, misting

devices, showers/eye baths, sprinklers, irrigation systems) that uses water, you need to decide whether

Legionella bacteria is likely to be present in the water/conditions are suitable for them to grow (Is the

water temperature between 20 and 45 Degrees Celsius? Is the water stored or recirculated? Is there a

nutrient source for Legionella bacteria present either as a contaminant or from the process - rust, sludge,

scale, algae, organic matter and biofilm all provide “food” - Are breathable water droplets created and

spread (aerosolised)? Are susceptible people exposed - people who are immunocompromised, smokers,

heavy drinkers, people with chronic respiratory or kidney conditions and people over 45 are at greater

risk)

You should take steps to prevent the release of water spray eg by enclosing the process avoid water

temperatures and conditions that favour the growth of legionella and other microorganisms; make sure

that water cannot stagnate anywhere in the equipment by keeping any pipework as short as possible,

ensuring good flow through the equipment, and draining the equipment when not in use.

Keep the equipment and the water in it clean – this could include treating the water to either kill legionella

(and other micro-organisms) or limit their ability to grow.

Safety showers and plumbed-in eye wash stations should be flushed through and purged on a

monthly basis. It is recommended that this is carried out on a rota and recorded on the log.

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FIRE POLICY A fire document specific for the building is available online: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/maintenance/fire/risk-assessments/ . The main points are summarized below. Prevention All electrical equipment not in use should be switched off at the wall each evening and gas taps checked to ensure they are securely turned off. Doors should be closed at night and whenever a room is left empty for long periods. Fire doors should not be left wedged open, their role is to prevent the rapid spread of the fire and compartmentalise corridors and large open areas. Plugs that heat up, frayed cables, a slight smell of gas etc. are all early warning signs and should be reported to the DSA and Estates immediately, stating precise location. Corridors should always be kept clear of combustible materials and other clutter. Fire Evacuation Plan The fire alarm signal is an audible electronic wailing siren. When the alarm sounds all personnel must

Stop work immediately

Remove your gloves and make safe any equipment you have been using (should take less than 30 seconds).

Leave the building immediately by the nearest fire exit, preferably the exit at the end of each wing and proceed to the fire assembly area in the corner of University and Huntley Street or at the back of the building in Mortimer Market.

Do not collect your personal belongings.

Do not use the lifts. Emergency procedures in the event of a fire are prominently displayed on each floor. Fire evacuation drills will be conducted at least once a year.

Discovering a Fire

If you discover a fire, smash the nearest ‘break glass alarm’, telephone 222 and inform the operator of the building name and the fire zone number. Upon leaving make sure you shut the fire doors. Leave the building as per evacuation procedure. Fire fighting equipment is available on every floor, but these have been installed for the use of the fire brigade. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TACKLE A FIRE UNLESS SPECIFICALLY TRAINED TO DO SO.

All Fire extinguishers are Red and the LABEL is colour coded as designated by EEC regulations.

RED LABEL Water, for use on paper, wood etc fires. Not to be used for electrical or solvent fires.

BLACK LABEL Carbon dioxide for electrical fires. (Noisy when discharged).

CREAM LABEL Foam, for smothering solvent fires or to contain the spread of burning liquid with a wall of

foam. Not for electrical fires.

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Fire Blankets are available in side rooms e.g. tissue culture laboratories and are to be used for small fires. If any fire fighting equipment is used ALWAYS notify the DSA immediately.

Fire Wardens For each floor of the building there are at least two trained fire wardens. Fire wardens are trained to evacuate areas in the event of the fire alarm. You can find the Rayne Institute Emergency plan at: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/maintenance/fire/risk-assessments/PDF/202-EP.pdf

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FIELDWORK

Fieldwork is defined as any work where the collection of samples or data, or making observations is carried out in a location or premises not owned or managed by UCL, i.e. not UCL premises. It includes any external teaching, research or other sanctioned activity carried out by UCL staff, students or visiting research workers on behalf of the College in places or premises which are not rented or owned by UCL and over which the College does not exert direct control. It includes visits to overseas universities and other academic institutions, attendance at scholarly conferences and research meetings, acting as a visiting examiner to educational bodies outside the UK, visits to laboratories and industrial plant in connection with UCL research projects or teaching duties, field trips, expeditions and sporting visits as representatives of the College. It does not include purely private holidays or private consultancy work for which a fee is receivable by the employee / students. Field courses and field trips should be regarded as sub-sections of fieldwork. Before you embark on fieldwork it is essential to assess the hazards associated with the work and the location and reduce to a minimum the associated risks. Everyone embarking on fieldwork must read the UCL Fieldwork Approved COP: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/fieldwork/acop.pdf Before any work starts, you must provide the following to the Fieldwork Co-ordinator: • Fieldwork risk assessments (template can be found at http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/fieldwork/index.htm); • A copy of the itinerary; • Names and details of individuals involved in fieldwork; • Names and contact details of persons to be contacted in an emergency. The Fieldwork Co-ordinator will store the information and also: • Act as point of contact in the event of an emergency; • Ensure any reports of accidents during fieldwork are processed in line with UCL procedure. Personal safety of staff visiting patients in their homes When travelling to home sites, you may visit areas you do not know and experience new situations. It is important that you apply common sense during your placement to minimise any risk of attack. It is always important that someone knows where you are and when to expect you back and this is particularly important if you are visiting a patient in their home. Know where you are going and plan your journey to ensure you avoid any ‘risky’ areas. Do not take shortcuts, stick to main roads and the directions you have been given. If you are worried speak to someone who has been to the place you are visiting to clarify the instructions. If travelling on public transport don’t wait at deserted stations or stops, and know the times of your trains or buses to avoid waiting. Sit in a compartment with other people or near the driver. Remember to carry some form of identity — other people are entitled to know you are a genuine medical student, especially if you are visiting a patient at home. Personal alarms are available from the Union Shop. For any further information, please contact the Fieldwork Co-ordinator.

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ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS All accidents, however minor, including those that do not require treatment or result in injury, must be reported to the DSA and an accident/incident form completed online at http://www.oshens.com/ucl/AIR2/Incbook/incbook_tab_begin.aspx . The First Aider for the wing must be notified of all accidents/incidents ASAP. Any person involved in an accident that affects the eyes, or involves a needle stick injury with human blood or other possibly infected substances must report immediately to the UCH Accident and Emergency Department in Euston Road. Incidents or near misses are considered to be potential accidents and should be always reported using the accident/incident form. Emergency First Aid Procedures

In case of injury in working hours, contact a first aider. The Division always needs new first aiders; if you

would like to be trained, please contact the DSA.

For minor injury, they will escort you, if necessary, to UCH Casualty Department. For major injury, dial

222 and request an ambulance.

Reporting of accidents/incidents: All incidents resulting in injury, or the potential to cause injury must

be reported. This must be done via http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/. Inform the DSA at your

earliest convenience.

Ingestion Seek medical advice immediately, DO NOT induce vomiting Inhalation Remove to fresh air Seek medical advice immediately. Splashes If splashed in the eye irrigate immediately with excess eye wash solution or tap water if none immediately available. If known harmful substance e.g. chemicals, microbes report to casualty department of UCH immediately. If chemical splash to hand or arm soak in water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical advice. If severe chemical or microbiological spillage on outer garments, remove immediately and seek medical advice.

Needle-stick Bleed thoroughly under cold running water. If needle contaminated with human blood/blood products or suspected harmful substances contact Occupational Health immediately (ext 37721). If any major incident occurs resulting in personal injury out of normal institute hours ALWAYS report to UCH casualty department

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Spillage of micro-organisms The following disinfectants (diluted in water) are recommended for use in laboratories: Sodium hypochlorite 1000ppm* (0.1%), 2,500ppm (0.25%), 10,000ppm(1%) Chlorine releasing tablets and granules Alcohol 70% Tristel (chlorine dioxide) 280ppm Distel High Level Laboratory Disinfectant (Formerly Trigene) Virkon 1% Contact the DSA if you need advice on what disinfectant to select and to obtain details of efficacy data. Using appropriate disinfectant for the spillage to clear up spillage with absorbent material e.g. wadding, paper towels, wearing gloves, remove to biohazard bag for autoclaving. For large spills isolate area and notify DSA. Hypochlorites Hypochlorites are highly effective against vegetative bacteria, viruses and fungi. They have limited activity against bacterial spores and are not very effective against mycobacterium spp. They are compatible with anionic and non-ionic detergents, but are inactivated by organic matter and may corrode metals and damage rubber. Hypochlorites are commonly available as solutions of sodium hypochlorite and as powdered or tableted sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) which are also recommended for spillages. Sodium hypochlorite stock solutions will decay with time, light and temperature and should be stored in cool and dark conditions. Working solutions of any hypochlorite need to be changed frequently (at least daily) because of deterioration caused by the addition of organic matter. Commonly used dilutions are: 1000 ppm (0.1%) for general wiping of equipment and benches (not spillages) 2500 ppm (0.25%) for discard containers (if required) 10,000 ppm (1%) for spillages 20,000 ppm (2%) for work involving prions/TSE agents (NADCC not effective) (for more information on prions see HSE guidelines: http://www.doh.gov.uk/cjd/tseguidance) Note: hypochlorites should not be mixed with acids as gaseous chlorine is released at low pH, nor with formalin or formaldehyde as a bis chloromethyl 3 ether (a lung carcinogen) is released. Virkon is a multi-component peroxygen based oxidising agent. It is effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Please Note Contact Times A minimum contact time of 1 hour is recommended for complete disinfection of virus, yeasts and bacteria with Virkon. When Virkon comes into contact with protein, chlorine is produced which will cause corrosion of metals.

Prolonged exposure of metal can also cause corrosion. Do not expose metal parts in excess of 10 min.

Distel [formerly known as Trigene] is a halogenated tertiary amine compound with a blend of surface active disinfectants and detergents. It is of low toxicity and less irritant than Virkon but has not been shown to be effective against as many organisms as Virkon. It is effective against bacteria, viruses, fungi,

mycobacteria and denatures DNA/RNA in a short contact time. It is effective in the presence of blood

borne diseases (HIV/Hepatitis B). A working concentration of 2% is recommended for disinfection of surfaces, and discard jars. For inactivation of body fluids [blood/urine] and for wiping up spillages use 10% Distel.

Alcohols are effective against many bacteria including Mycobacerium spp. and fungi. They have variable activity against viruses (less effective against non enveloped viruses) and have no activity against

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bacterial spores. Alcohols poorly penetrate organic matter, particularly proteinaceous material therefore cleaning beforehand is essential. Due to their flammability they should not be used near flames or equipment likely to generate sparks. Alcohol sprays must not be use on electrical equipment whilst connected to the mains. When used to decontaminate centrifuges, allow time for the alcohol to safely evaporate before turning the equipment on. A surface wipe is a convenient method of disinfection, but due to evaporation has a limited effect and therefore should be confined to surfaces with no visible contamination. Alcohols should not be used undiluted. The most effective strength for alcohol disinfection is a 70-80% (v/v) solution of isopropanol or ethanol in water. IMS (Industrial methylated spirits, which comprises 95% ethanol and 5% methanol) is also suitable when diluted. Chlorine dioxide (Tristel) is an aqueous solution of chlorine dioxide. It has an activity that differs from hypochlorite as it does not produce free chlorine. It is active against bacteria, including Mycobacterium spp., viruses, fungi and spores. Chlorine dioxide is not a skin or respiratory sensitizer or irritant, in low concentrations it has a history of safe use and has been used to sanitize drinking water and swimming pools since the 1950s. At higher concentrations (280 ppm) it has rapid bactericidal activity against Mycobacterium spp. and is a more effective sporocide than hypochlorite. It may affect some metals.

LABORATORY CLEANING

Laboratory Rooms/Areas:

• Sweeping, vacuum cleaning, mopping and general cleaning will be restricted to floors and floor covings

unless otherwise stated.

• The cleaners will not move or touch any laboratory equipment or materials. In order to facilitate floor

cleaning the only objects, which will be moved, are chairs.

• Hand wash sinks (white ceramic type) and the defined adjacent area will be maintained and cleaned on

a daily basis. Including provision of soap and paper hand towels.

• No waste will be removed from laboratories with the exception of the designated Jarvis labelled flip-top

bins. Uncontaminated cardboard boxes can be left at agreed locations for removal by the cleaners.

• Side rooms will be cleaned as per instructed by signage on the entrance door or as agreed with the

building managers.

Laboratory Offices and Write-Up Areas:

• Laboratory offices will be cleaned in accordance with general office specification.

• Write Up Areas - will be cleaned as above laboratory areas, but in addition waste paper from defined

bins will be collected for disposal.

Note: Any non-compliance on the cleaner’s part with the above schedules should be reported by the

wing representative or an appropriate person to the helpdesk (ext 48666).

Any changes to the above schedules must be made through the building managers

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WASTE DISPOSAL

A copy of this must be displayed in all labs where waste is stored for collection by the building services

GLASS WARE

FOR WASHING

Scrape tape and labels off bottles and place in lab containers WHITE CONTAINER

BROKEN LAB GLASS (will be autoclaved) BLUE CONTAINER

CHEMICAL/SOLVENT BOTTLES/METAL TINS

and any NON AUTOCLAVABLE ITEMS RED CONTAINER

CONTAMINATED GLASSWARE which needs

sterilizing in an autoclave CONTACT JON CALVER

(ext 46622)

CLINICAL WASTE

DOUBLE-BAGGED BIOHAZARD BAG, TIED-UP WITH WING COLOUR CODED TAG, THEN INTO

WHEELY “WASTE TROLLEY”

SHARPS

All sharps must be discarded into a “Cinbin”/ Yellow sharps container. They should only be filled to 2/3

capacity.

All sharps bins must be signed and dated when assembled and signed, dated and producer information

filled in clearly when closed for disposal.

Please seal, tag with colour coded tag assigned to Wing and place in lab waste trolley for collection.

EMPTY WINCHESTERS

RECYCLING (Fisher)

RINSE OR VOID IN FUME HOOD, TAKE DOWN TO BUILDING SERVICES FOR RETURN

NON-RECYCLING

RED CHEMICAL/SOLVENT GLASS CONTAINER

AUTOCLAVABLE WASTE

Must be double bagged (only use approved transparent autoclavable bags), tied-up with laboratory

colour coded tag and placed in autoclave bin inside Wing for collection. Do not place glass in autoclave

bags. No pipettes tips/serological pipettes should be placed loosely inside plastic bags as these might

pierce the bags (even if not proper sharps).

SOLVENTS

CHLORINATED

LABELLED WHITE SOLVENT HAZARDOUS WASTE CONTAINERS

NON-CHLORINATED

LABELLED WHITE SOLVENT HAZARDOUS WASTE CONTAINERS

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CHEMICALS CONTACT Dean Heathcote and Roberta Perelli for hazardous chemicals

disposal

PACKAGING AND RECYCLABLE CARDBOARD waste needs to be flat-packed and placed outside

the laboratory in assigned recycling bins for collection. Polystyrene boxes must be empty (no

refrigerants, ice packs, items inside).

Autoclave bags – clear plastic Yes · Patient samples · Microbiological and Cell cultures. · Potentially infected or contaminated material. · Genetically modified material No · Sharps, (This includes loose pipette tips – see footnote). · Chemicals classified as toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic to reproduction, corrosive etc. (e.g. Ethidium bromide).

Note: Pipette tips must be packed in a robust container.

Sharps Boxes Yes · Needles. · Scalpels. · Razor blades. · Pipette tips. (If not microbiologically contaminated). · Glass vials.

Yellow Bags Yes. · Gloves. · Contaminated material e.g. packaging. · Low hazard chemicals in small amounts. · Clinical waste e.g. patient samples. No · Sharps. · Chemicals classified as toxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic to reproduction,corrosive etc. · Microbiological waste (unless previously inactivated). E.g. cell cultures containing ACDP hazard group 2 or greater. Patient samples known or likely to contain hazard group 3 or 4 biological agents. · Genetically modified material unless inactivated using a verified route.

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No · Liquids in general. · Chemicals in general. · Gloves. · Packaging

Sink

Yes · Dilute solutions not containing heavy metal salts. · Low quantities of water-soluble / miscible organic chemicals (e.g. alcohol). · Neutral pH. No · Heavy metals. · Flammable substances. · Solvents. · Organic chemicals in general (see above for exception). · Strong acids or alkalis. · Oxidising agents e.g. Histoclear. · Alkaline metals e.g. sodium and potassium. · Microbiological material (unless disinfected). · Genetically modified material (unless de-activated by means of a verified route).

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RISK ASSESSMENTS

Under English health and safety statute law (Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, Management of Health and Safety Regulations, 2002, regulation 3) it is a legal duty that all employers assess the risks to workers and any others who may be affected by their work or business. This will enable them to identify the measures they need to take to comply with health and safety law. This process is termed risk assessment. A risk assessment is carried out to identify the risks to health and safety to any person arising out of, or in connection with, work or the conduct of their undertaking. It should identify how the risks arise and how they impact on those affected. This information is needed to make a decision on how to manage those risks, so that the decisions which are made are informed, rational and structured. The action taken is then proportionate to the risks identified. A risk assessment should be “suitable and sufficient” and involves identifying the hazards present in any working environment and evaluating the extent of the risks involved, taking into account existing precautions and their effectiveness. Definitions A hazard is something which has the potential to cause harm. This can be the material which is handled, equipment used, method of work employed or the working environment. The risk is the likelihood that a hazard will actually cause its adverse effects. The extent of risk will depend on:

1. The likelihood of that harm occurring. 2. The potential severity of that harm i.e. of any resultant injury or adverse health effects. 3. The population which might be affected by the hazard i.e. the number of people who might be

exposed. The controls: These are the preventative and protective measures put in place to control the risks identified. These must be appropriate, sufficient and workable. Risk assessments must be reviewed if the nature of the work changes or if at least on an annual basis. A risk assessment is simply a careful examination of what, in your work, could cause harm to people, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm. Workers and others have a right to be protected from harm caused by a failure to take reasonable control measures. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, 2002 (amended 2005) - COSHH The Secretary of State for Employment under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAW), 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety Regulations, 1999, have made these Regulations. They have been accepted by Parliament and are therefore part of the ‘Law of the Land. Failure to comply with these regulations can be a criminal offence under the HASAW. Duties The Regulations lay certain duties upon employers in respect to his employees, these are:

1) He, the employer, shall not carry on any work which is liable to expose any employees to any substance hazardous to health unless he has made a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks created by that work to the health of those employees.

2) Every employer shall ensure that the exposure of his employees to substances hazardous to health is

either prevented or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled. 3) So far as is reasonably practicably, the prevention or adequate control of exposure of employees to a

substance hazardous to health shall be secured by measures other than the provision of personal protective equipment.

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4) Every employer who provides any control measure to meet the requirements of the Regulations shall

ensure that it is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order and in good repair.

In relation to the above the Heads of Centre and Head of Division is considered to act as the employer. UCL Policy In general workers in universities are not exposed to substances hazardous to health because of the way in which we work. This forms the basis of College policy which depends on departments having a set of codes of practice and standard operating procedures that set out procedures for the processes carried out in the department which include how substances hazardous to health are to be handled so that exposure to employees, research workers, maintenance workers and students, both post- and undergraduate is prevented. Division of Medicine The Division requires that before the start of any research project, the risks involved must be assessed in a written Risk Assessment (using RiskNET) and a standard operating procedure (SOP) drawn up by which the work will be carried out in order to minimise such risk. Any necessary training must be provided. The research work must follow that agreed code throughout the duration of the project, and the Supervisor is responsible for ensuring that this regulation is complied with. Prior to the commencement of a project, a risk assessment must then be carried out whereby the hazards of the work process are examined (i.e. substances involved), the potential risks to health arising from the work activity and the measures in place to control these risks. Risk Assessment and Supervision The group leader is responsible for ensuring:

That adequate and sufficient assessments of the risks created by the work conducted in his/her department are carried out before the work is started.

That Research Group Supervisors make such assessments. The research group supervisor is responsible for:

Making risk assessments. Refraining from conducting work that has not been assessed. Ensuring that the Departmental Safety Officer is given a copy of each assessment.

The divisional safety advisor is responsible for:

Collating risk assessments produced within the Division. Advising the unit head on the state of compliance with Institute Policy in his/her department. Keeping the HoD informed of safety matters.

It is not the responsibility of the DSA to produce risk assessments for other members of staff.

Performing a Risk Assessment Note Legal Obligations: Responsibility of group leader:

To require all research supervisors to carry out risk assessments before starting any work with substances hazardous to health.

Responsibility of individual Research Group Supervisors:-

To refrain from carrying out any work with substances hazardous to health without having first carried out a risk assessment in compliance with the regulations

Responsibility of DSA:

To advice the unit head about the progress of compliance with the above.

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How to carry out a risk assessment: Step 1 - Identify the hazards. Consider the proposed work in relation to the handling of particularly hazardous substances e.g. aerosols, skin adsorption, high concentrations of vapour in the atmosphere etc. Step 2 - Decide who might be harmed and how For each hazard think about who might be harmed (eg students, visitors or specific groups of staff) and how (eg back injury from repeatedly lifting boxes). This will help you identify the best way of managing the risk. Some workers have particular requirements, eg new and young workers, new or expectant mothers and people with disabilities may be at particular risk. Extra thought will be needed for some hazards.

Step 3 - Evaluate the risks and decide on precautions

Before concluding that a “no exposure” assessment can be made, consideration must also be given to the disposal of hazardous waste and to reasonably foreseeable accidents, to decide what containment measures are necessary to avoid serious consequences in the event of for example spillage. Step 4 - Record your findings and implement them Where it is not possible to create procedures which will ensure that there is no exposure, then it is necessary to state what measures will be taken to control the level of exposure, what monitoring will be carried out to ensure that this level of exposure is not exceeded and what health checks will be made on those persons who are exposed to ensure that they are not adversely affected. This is likely to apply particularly to work with animals. Step 5 - Review your assessment and update if necessary Finally, the implications must be considered, of adopting various codes etc. as a basis for claiming that there is no exposure. Where codes offer protection by means of fume cupboards, biological safety cabinets etc., to claim that these codes will be followed implies that these facilities are available whenever required and that their performance will be monitored. It would be unwise, legally, to refer to the standards of a particular code if the Departmental provisions of the protective measures, which the code states, are either inadequate in performance or insufficient to ensure that they are always used. RECOMBINANT DNA (GM) experiments are subject to special regulations and require clearance from the Advisory Committee on Genetic Manipulation (ACGM). You MUST consult the Genetic Manipulation Safety Officer BEFORE undertaking any new project using recombinant DNA. The handling of viruses, oncogenes and transforming DNA sequences is strictly limited to specified laboratories. There is a Divisional Code of Practice for GM work. All staff involved in these experiments must be registered. If you are about to undertake any new area of work you must first discuss it with the DSA.

Risk assessments must be completed online using RiskNet, see guidelines: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/tools/guides/risk_assessment/creating.pdf,

or for GM assessments http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/tools/guides/risk_assessment/GM/submitting.pdf

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LONE /OUT OF HOURS WORKING

Lone working is defined as staff working by themselves without close or direct supervision or contact with others, for example: • One person is working in an area and there is no one to provide immediate assistance in the event of an emergency. • Staff working by themselves away from their fixed base. • Working with a patient, student or client in a segregated area. Lone working is dictated by the type of work undertaken e.g. time courses or length of experiments or availability of samples or equipment. It can also occur because of deadlines for papers, conferences or thesis submission. Lone working almost always occurs out of hours, so for the purpose of the policy out of hours working is considered equivalent to lone working in both risk and procedural requirements. For lab users, tasks that are particularly hazardous out of hours/working alone include: Topping up and transporting liquid nitrogen – two person operation, forbidden to carry out alone. Working with toxic or carcinogenic compounds including phenol - forbidden to carry out alone. Working with hazardous pathogens (hazard group 2 and ACGM class 2 projects). Not only is there the immediate danger to the worker but there is also the risk of spread to the environment if a spill or release is not dealt with effectively, which may require more than one person. All lone workers should be able to contact someone (a buddy) who can give advice and be able help within a reasonable time (security will not necessarily be able to help, they do not have access to some areas, and cannot act as buddies to lab/CBS staff). Outside of normal working hours, building users need to be more aware of their own personal safety, and not allow people they do not know into any of the buildings on site, no matter how good their excuse for forgetting their cards etc; all users must report any suspicious persons to security.

Working after hours Lone working outside normal working hours carries a greater risk because core services are not available. The Cruciform building is normally open between the hours of 0700-2100 Monday to Friday, and 0900-1230 on Saturday (except during statutory holidays). The security front desk is manned 24 hours. Staff must sign in and out with security at weekends or when working outside normal building hours. Outside of the normal building hours access may only be possible by using the cardax system.

For the Division of Medicine Out of Hours is defined as: 19.00 hours to 07.00 hours Monday to Friday

19.00 hours Friday to 07.00 hours Monday and all statutory holidays

Outside the normal working hours, members of staff are at liberty to use the office or library facilities within the building to do written work or operate PCs or computer terminals. During the above times all personnel must sign in and out at reception, noting their working location.

Bloomsbury Campus emergency number: 222 (from building phones) or 0207 679 2222 (from mobile phones).

Cruciform Building (specific): 46888 or 48666

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With all laboratory work there are hazards and risks and these are increased out of hours by the fact that there are fewer personnel in the building to help in the event of an emergency. If working alone and out of hours the following conditions must be adhered to: Part A - Employees 1. The work has previously been risk assessed with regards to hazard, and likelihood of risk and the appropriate control measures are in place. The Supervisor/Group Leader must sign the authorisation form and a copy given to the DSA and group safety officer. 2. The work complies with the “Divisional Statement of Safety Policy”. These documents are available from the Divisional Safety Advisor. Part B – Postgraduate Research Students and Academic Visitors Postgraduate research students and academic visitors only have access to the building out of normal working hours with the permission of The Supervisor/Group Leader. It is advised that whenever possible work in these areas should only be conducted during normal hours. If this is unavoidable then part A applies as for employees together with the additional condition: 3. If the individual is a newly appointed post graduate or not fully competent to use the facilities then they must be accompanied at all times by a senior member of the group. They themselves must be authorized and competent to work in that particular containment level 2 laboratory and be aware of what action is to be taken in the event of an emergency. The Supervisor/Group Leader must make this decision. Part C - Undergraduate and Postgraduate Students Currently on Taught Courses

Part B applies as detailed above. Students must never work out of hours without their supervisor’s express agreement, and should never work alone and/or unsupervised. Undergraduate students and Postgraduate Students Currently on Taught Courses should not be allowed to work alone in containment level 2 laboratories out of normal working hours. It’s the Supervisor/Group Leader’s responsibility to ensure this does not occur.

If students are working out of hours there should be at least one other person in the department.

Do not perform potentially hazardous procedures if you are alone. If you leave equipment running overnight, make sure it is safe, clearly marked and identified with your

name. If experimental work is to be performed outside the normal working hours of the building (0700-19.00) then approval by the supervisor or unit head is required and an authorisation form must be completed (available online or via the DSA, see Appendix 1). Additional information relating to supervision of students and visitors can be located as published at: Division of Medicine => Intranet => Safety => Supervision Required within the Division of Medicine https://wiki.ucl.ac.uk/download/attachments/5607869/Supervision++required+within+the+Disivion+of+Medicine.pdf?version=1&modificationDate=1396545161000 http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/lone_working/lone_working.pdf

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Appendix 1.

DIVISION OF MEDICINE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON WORKING OUT OF HOURS APPROVAL FORM This form is to be completed, signed and submitted to the Local Safety Coordinator and the Medicine Safety Advisor. TO BE COMPLETED BY THE LINE MANAGER The following individual: Dr/Mr/Mrs/Miss………..…………….……………………… (Name) ……………………………………………..………………………………. (Centre/Department) Has requested access to their place of work: ……………..……………………….…………. (Insert building name/room number/floor)

on a regular basis outside the normal working hours. I confirm that a risk assessment has been carried out.…………………………………………. (Insert name) and has been classed as ‘Low Risk’. (If work is classed as higher than ‘Low Risk’, approval to work must first be obtained from the Head of Centre or Head of Division) Risk Assessment has been completed and a copy is attached I confirm that the employee/student is competent to work alone out of normal working hours and has been briefed on all procedures. They have been issued with a copy of the policy for lone working. Should the nature of the employee’s work change during this period, a further risk assessment will be carried out. SIGNATURE OF THE LINE MANAGER: Name: …..………………………………..……… Signature: ………………….…………………… Title:……………………………………………… Date: ………………………….…………… TO BE COMPLETED BY THE EMPLOYEE I have been issued with and have read the lone working policy, Risk Assessment and associated documentation. I agree to comply with the arrangements set out in the risk assessment and acknowledge that my access will be withdrawn if I am found in to be working outside the agreed boundaries. According to a buddy system, I will notify my line manager or a colleague when the work is completed and I am safely out of the Building. My University telephone number is:………………………….….. and alternative number is: ……………………………………. (insert mobile number if applicable) Name:……………………….. Signature…………………………………. Date…………………

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DIVISION OF MEDICINE

Safety Policy

All members of the Division are given a copy of the Divisional Statement of Safety Policy and COP. Relevant sections applicable to your work have been discussed at your safety induction. These must be read and understood before any practical work commences. It is advised that the COP is kept in an accessible place for future reference. Please keep a log of staff members reading the COP in your laboratory folder – Name, Signature and Date must be recorded and kept with a copy of the COP.

I have read and understood the advice and instructions as set out in the Departmental Statement of Safety Policy. I agree to abide by, and implement, all appropriate procedures as described in the document. I understand that failure to follow this code could result in hazards to myself or my colleagues, and a breach may lead to disciplinary action being taken.

NAME (print)

SIGNATURE

DATE

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NAME (print) SIGNATURE DATE