Time for Spring Cleaning Your Lab Space?

It’s a Wonderful Time of Year to Spring Clean! 

Does your lab seem like its shrinking? Old equipment and electronics starting to collect dust? Chemicals from students long ago still on your shelves? These dated items may pose a hazard if they are obstructing safety equipment, adding to the combustible load in the room, or being stored improperly.

Electronicwastes- such as computer monitors, CPUs, fax machines and printers, can be recycled by sending them to UK Surplus. https://sharepoint.uky.edu/facilities/surplus/default.aspx

Some components of these materials are toxic to the environment, and many others are valuable and can be reclaimed. 

Laboratory Equipment -All laboratory equipment must be decontaminated if it is remaining in the laboratory after the lab moves out, being moved to a new laboratory or being disposed. EHS has a policy regarding lab equipment decontamination and decommissioning! Ask your EH&S Specialist for more details or check it out on line at  http://ehs.uky.edu/docs/pdf/ep_factsheet_surplus_0001.pdf 

Chemicals- Have you recently moved labs? Remodeled or need to readjust your space? Some types of chemicals may pose a hazard if stored for long periods of time. They may also pose a hazard if they are stored improperly or incompatible with these surroundings. Evaluate your chemical storage and inventory. 

General Items- Laboratories should not be storage areas. Items can hinder egress and access in emergency situations. Keep bikes locked up outside, not in hallways, labs or stairways! They can carry dirt and contaminates into the building as well out. Boxes, books, journals and old catalogues can stack up quickly and add to combustible materials in the lab. Keep them at least 18 inches away from sprinkler heads and remember to recycle when possible. 

Environmental Health & Safety http://ehs.uky.edu/