Purpose

To protect human health and the environment, ensure regulatory compliance and preserve University interests and assets.

Applicability

All Oregon State University employees, students, and any other individuals conducting business on OSU property.

Background

Effective management of health and safety at Oregon State University is fundamental to delivering excellence in research and teaching. Health and safety should be a concern to everyone since our mutual efforts and vigilance are necessary to eliminate incidents that result in personal injury and loss of property. The majority of injuries and property loss are costly and preventable. Through the dedicated efforts of everyone involved, we can maintain a safe and healthy environment while accomplishing the mission of the University. 

Policy

Oregon State University will make reasonable efforts to provide a safe and healthful working environment for all employees, students and others who may utilize the University's facilities and grounds. All University departments/units will develop and implement safety policies and procedures that promote an injury free environment.

Anyone engaged in University related activities must exercise personal responsibility and care to prevent injury and illness to themselves and others who may be affected by their acts or omissions. No person shall intentionally interfere with or misuse anything provided by the University in the interests of health and safety.. Individuals are required to have the proper training for the safe operation and use of university facilities, equipment and supplies as well as animal handling. Faculty and staff administrators will be held accountable for fulfilling their safety responsibilities. Flagrant disregard of the University safety policies and procedures may result in  disciplinary action.

Priority should be given to safe working conditions and job safety practices in the planning, budgeting, direction and implementation of University activities.

The OSU Health and Safety Policy should be read in conjunction with SAF 103: OSU Safety Program and other safety policies contained in the OSU Safety (SAF) Policy and Procedure Manual.

Cross Reference

SAF 103: OSU Safety Program.

Purpose

To provide guidance for appropriate action during emergencies.

Policy

The first three items listed should be visibly displayed on every Oregon State University telephone.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

Procedure

In Case of Fire

1. Activate the building fire alarm by pulling the nearest wall "fire pull" to alert occupants.  The alarm does not always call fire fighters to the scene, but most alarms are connected to the campus notifier system that is monitored by the Public Safety Dispatch Center.
2. Call the Corvallis Fire Department (911), and give the exact location of the fire.
3. Evacuate occupants from the building.  Follow building evacuation procedures below.  Send someone outside the building to direct fire fighters to the scene.
4. For small fires, use the closest appropriate fire extinguisher.  Do not use water on electrical fires.

Building Evacuation

When the alarm sounds, walk to the nearest usable exit.  Use the stairways and NEVER use the elevator because it can quickly become filled with smoke and be a firetrap when electrical power is lost.  Be aware of alternate exits from the building.

Before leaving the workstation, take personal valuables and lock up any valuable materials or documents.  Do not, however, endanger life through delay.  Assist non-ambulatory persons leaving the building.  (For detailed instructions, see SAF 204: Building Evacuation Planning.)

Use fire escape ladders only when the stairways are closed by fire.  Before opening a door during a fire, feel each door with the back of your hands before opening it.  If it feels hot, use an alternate exit.  If caught in smoke, keep low where the air is better.  Take short breaths through the nose.

When outside the building, do not block doorways or driveways.  Stay a minimum of 100 feet from the building. Do not return to the building until advised to do so by personnel in charge.

Emergency Treatment

Determine the extent of a person’s injury by checking for breathing, pulse, bleeding, possible fracture, and pain.  Administer first aid appropriate for the injuries if you are properly trained.

If the injured person is:

• not conscious or ambulatory, dial 911 on any campus phone for the Corvallis Fire Department ambulance.  The ambulance crew will determine whether injured students should be transported to the Student Health Center or to the hospital.
• conscious and ambulatory STAFF, arrange for transportation by car or ambulance to the hospital or doctor’s office as desired by injured person.  If a supervisor or fellow employee is not available to provide transportation, contact Public Safety at 7-7000 because they are responsible for ensuring that appropriate transportation is obtained.
• conscious and ambulatory STUDENT, arrange transportation to the Student Health Center in Plageman Hall by calling Public Safety (7-7000) day or night.  Students may also go to their personal physicians if desired.

Accident Investigation

Staff
For accidents involving staff, the supervisor should immediately investigate the accident.  All accidents should be reported to the Office of Human Resources on the Report of Accident form.  Complete the SAIF 801 form and the Report of Accident form for all accidents resulting in lost time or off-campus medical attention.  See SAF 203: Accident Investigation for more information.

Student
A faculty member, supervisor, or other involved person should immediately investigate the accident.  File the Report of Accident form  with the Office of Human Resources, clearly indicating that the injured person is a student.  Student employees are covered by Workers’ Compensation, but students are not.  If the student employee receives medical attention or misses work, complete a SAIF 801 form in addition to the Report of Accident and send both forms to the Department of Human Resources.  See SAF 203: Accident Investigation for more information.

Purpose

To encourage all feasible means of achieving a safe and healthful working/learning environment that includes accident prevention for faculty, staff, students and campus visitors.

Policy

Compliance with Safety Regulations
Oregon State University will maintain, within reason, facilities and practices that are in compliance with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations.  In the absence of appropriate statutes or regulations, standards of nationally recognized professional health and safety organizations will serve as a guide.

Supervisor Responsibility
Although the President has the ultimate responsibility for the safety of staff, faculty, and students, a great deal of safety responsibility has been delegated to supervisors.  A supervisor may be a dean, department head, director, manager, administrator or any other faculty or staff person who is in charge of one or more employees.

Supervisors are directly responsible and accountable for the welfare of employees and students assigned to them and for the administration of health and safety regulations and University Safety Procedures within their areas of control.  One of the criteria for evaluation of administrative personnel shall be their administration of safety procedures and accident prevention efforts.

Employee Responsibility
Employees of the University must have a common goal of keeping accidents to a minimum.  Most accidental injuries in the work environment are caused by unsafe work habits.  Therefore, all employees should continuously strive to develop habits and procedures that will reduce exposure to potential injury.  Employees are urged to make safe performance an essential element of every task. 

University Safety Organizations
Certain administrative organizations have specific responsibilities that deal with the health and safety of faculty, staff, students, and visitors.  Individuals with health and safety concerns should contact the appropriate office.

Procedure

A supervisor's safety responsibilities relating to their work areas and the employees they control should include the following duties:

• Make every reasonable effort to ensure the safety of employees and students under your control and make their workplace free of recognized hazards.  For those hazards that are not within your ability to correct, notify your supervisor about the condition(s).
• Evaluate the physical capability of potential new employees to perform the tasks required.  This is not discrimination, but rather an expected responsibility to make a reasonable determination of a potential employee's skills and physical ability to perform the tasks required by the position.
• Provide job training in work area safety procedures for all your employees, especially for new and reassigned employees with new job activities.
• Conduct regular work area safety inspections with assistance from of Environmental Health and Safety, if needed, to discover and correct unsafe conditions and work practices.
• Investigate injury accidents, not to find fault, but to determine cause and to pursue the correction of any safety deficiencies.
• Report all injuries on a Report of Accident form and send it to Human Resources.  If an injury to an employee requires physician's treatment or will result in lost work, a SAIF 801 claim form should also be completed and sent with the Report of Accident form.
• Contact injured employees early and frequently, especially where lost work time is involved, to pursue avenues for early return to work.
• Promote safe practices and attitudes among employees and students.  If protective equipment must be used, promote its use by example.
• Consider safe work habits and attitude toward the job as a part of all performance ratings.
• Respond to employees' concerns for safety in a positive manner and take appropriate corrective action.

The acceptance of these duties, devotion to this task, and the safety attitude of supervisors will determine the success of the OSU safety program.

Employees, as part of their safety responsibilities, are expected to do the following:

• Conduct their work safely and try to maintain their work areas hazard-free.
• Wear personal protective equipment as prescribed by their supervisors; the university will provide this equipment.
• Report hazards or unsafe work practices to supervisors or to Environmental Health and Safety.
• Maintain reasonable physical body conditioning for the tasks of the work environment.
• Cooperate fully with supervisors in conducting investigations of accidents so that unsafe conditions or work procedures may be corrected.
• Participate in physical restoration or vocational programs following lost-time injuries to achieve an early return to work

Additional Information

Safety Committees
The University has established advisory committees to review and make recommendations on general safety matters or special areas of safety or health concerns.

The University Safety Committee is appointed by the Vice President for Finance and Administration.  The membership consists of faculty, staff, and students.  The Committee reviews campus safety policy and procedures as published in this Safety Policy & Procedure Manual and recommends needed changes.  The Committee serves as the forum for addressing issues affecting the safety and health of faculty, staff, students, and campus visitors.  The Committee encourages positive safety attitudes and performance among faculty, staff, and students; strives to identify and eliminate hazardous conditions; and supports and strengthens the OSU Safety Program.

The Radiation Safety Committee is appointed by the Vice President for Finance and Administration.  The membership consists of the Radiation Safety Officer and faculty members with expertise in radiation use and safety.  The Committee is responsible for recommending university policy with respect to radiation safety, establishing standards and regulations needed to implement this policy, reviewing operations and procedures of Radiation Safety, and acting as the statutory radiation use review committee required by the State radioactive materials license.

The Chemical Safety Committee is appointed by the Vice Provost for Research.  The membership consists of faculty members and a representative from Environmental Health and Safety.  The Committee is responsible for the development of policy regarding the use and disposal of hazardous chemicals.  The Committee reviews and approves the use of chemical carcinogens as required by the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Program.

The Institutional Review Board for the Protection of Human Subjects is appointed by the Vice Provost for Research.  This group, also known as the Human Subjects Committee, consists of faculty members and representatives from the general public.

The Vehicle Accident Review Board is appointed by the Vice President for Finance and Administration.  The membership consists of faculty, staff, and the Manager of Transportation Services.  As mandated by General Services Division Regulations, the committee is responsible for the review of accidents involving state-owned motor vehicles.  If the accident is deemed preventable, the Committee assigns appropriate repair costs to the responsible department according to the state's self-insurance program.

The Biosafety Committee is appointed by the Vice Provost for Research.  Membership consists of faculty and staff, and the Biological Safety Officer.  There are also two members who are not affiliated with the University.  The committee is responsible for recommending policy and procedures regarding biological safety.  The committee is also charged with reviewing recombinant DNA research. 

This review includes:

• assessment of the containment levels required by the NIGH Guidelines for the proposed research,
• assessment of the facilities, procedures, practices, and training and expertise of personnel involved in recombinant DNA research; and
• ensuring compliance with all surveillance, data reporting, and adverse event reporting requirements of the NIH Guidelines.

The Farm Safety Committee is appointed by the Associate Dean for the College of Agricultural Sciences.  The committee is made up of members from the different departments within the College of Agricultural Sciences.  There is also a representative from Environmental Health and Safety and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  The primary responsibility of this committee is to discuss and advise the College of Agricultural Sciences on safety issues relevant to the operations of the different agricultural departments.

Purpose

To ensure the safety of University personnel, students and the general public during construction projects.

Policy

Construction and renovation activities on campus performed by either outside contractors or University workers will be performed in a manner that prevents injuries and protects the environment.

Construction Safety Program
The Construction Safety program has been established to ensure the safety of University personnel, students and the general public is an integral part of all construction projects on campus.

The Construction Safety program applies to all demolition and construction projects at the main campus.

The intent of the Construction Safety program is to establish minimum requirements for work site isolation and to perform a safety review of projects that may generate dust, noise, and odors or may encounter hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead.  The program includes notification and involvement of Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) by outside contractors prior to the start of any construction project.

Construction safety requirements have been established that relate specifically to work performed on campus.  EH&S will discuss these requirements with contractors along with a schedule of any necessary safety inspections.  The construction safety requirements that apply to construction on campus are as follows:

• All contractors and subcontractors shall come to the job trained in all Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) Standards applicable to the work process.  This information can be found in OR-OSHA document titled “Occupational Hazards Common to Construction and Remodeling in Oregon.”
• All demolition or renovation projects require an initial survey for asbestos or lead containing materials.  EH&S must be notified prior to the start of any demolition or construction activity so that they can perform any required survey.
• All construction and maintenance activities regardless of size and/or scope must be fenced, barricaded, or otherwise isolated to restrict entrance and to ensure the safety of those in the general area.  EH&S will set the standards for project isolation.
• Any excavation across or adjacent to sidewalks or pathways which must be left open overnight, must be identified with working, blinking construction lights in addition to solid barricades.
• Contractors are required to fill out the "Oregon State University Construction Project Safety Form."  Contact EH&S to obtained the form (541-737-2275).

Purpose

To protect nonlaboratory employees from hazardous chemicals in the workplace; to ensure employees and employers are adequately informed about hazardous chemicals in the workplace and how to protect themselves; and to prevent employee work-related injuries and illnesses from exposures to hazardous chemicals.

Background Information

The Hazard Communication and Training Act requires employers to inform workers about hazardous chemicals in their work areas and to provide training in safety procedures.  Oregon State University has designated Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) to administer a program to comply with this law.

Policy

Hazardous Chemicals Index

EH&S maintains a list of the hazardous chemicals or substances in the workplace.  Each department is responsible for providing EH&S with a copy of each material safety data sheet that they receive from manufacturers.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Departments may obtain computerized material safety data sheets for hazardous materials from EH&S by using one of the following procedures:

• MSDS Web Page = http://oregonstate.edu/ehs/msds
• In an emergency, personnel without access to computers may call OSU Public Safety at 7-7000.

If a necessary material safety data sheet is not on the computerized list, contact EH&S; they will obtain a copy of the MSDS from the manufacturer of the hazardous chemical.

Supervisor Responsibilities

Employee Training and Information
Each supervisor is required to train each employee on the presence and safe handling of hazardous chemicals in the employee's workplace.  This training shall be provided at the time of the employee's initial assignment and whenever a new hazardous chemical is introduced into the workplace.  This training should include at least the following:

• The physical and health hazards of the chemicals.
• The methods that may be used to detect the presence or release of the hazardous chemicals.
• The measures employees can take to protect themselves from these hazards.
• The details of the hazard communication program, labeling requirements, and how employees can obtain and use the chemical hazard information.

EH&S recommends that the supervisor keeps a record of the training.  EH&S has developed training outlines and may be contacted for assistance.  Each employee must also receive a copy of Working Safely with Hazardous Materials Handbook for Employees.  This booklet is given to new employees as part of the orientation program conducted by the Office of Human Resources.

Non-Routine Hazardous Tasks

When OSU employees are required to perform a hazardous non-routine task involving a chemical substance, the supervisor should inform each affected employee of:

• specific chemical hazards;
• protective safety measures that can be taken;
• measures taken by the university to lessen the hazard (such as ventilation, respirators, required presence of fellow workers); and
• established emergency procedures.

Examples of non-routine tasks are work in confined places, work with asbestos, and work with PCBs.

Container Labeling

Supervisor Responsibilities
Supervisors must verify that all containers in their area of responsibility are properly labeled.  If a proper label is not provided, the supervisor should contact EH&S for labels and instructions.  Supervisors must ensure that all secondary containers are labeled with either an extra copy of the original manufacturer's label or with other labels that contain at least the name of the chemical and the appropriate hazard warning.

Employee Responsibilities
Employees are responsible for clearly labeling all chemicals and chemical products that are in their original container, including the content, appropriate hazard warning, and name and address of the manufacturer.  EH&S is available to provide assistance in labeling.

Contractor Requirements & Responsibilities

All contractors are required to submit to EH&S a hazardous chemical list and material safety data sheets for those chemicals that fall within the scope of the Hazard Communication rules.  This list should be submitted five (5) working days before introduction of the chemical to the campus.  This gives EH&S time to provide safety information to OSU employees and other contractor employees who will be involved with the chemical.

Department Responsibilities

Departments are responsible for removing, if possible, all hazardous chemicals that contract employees may be exposed during their work.  If requested, employing departments are responsible for supplying contractors with a chemical list and/or material safety data sheets prior to the beginning of any job.  This information must include all hazardous chemicals that contract employees will be exposed to while at the job site and protective measures they may take to lessen the possibility of exposure.  The departments employing the contractors are responsible for notify the contractors of their right to the hazardous chemical safety information.

Purpose

To minimize the risk of exposure to asbestos.

Definitions

Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACM)

Any materials containing more than one percent asbestos.  A few common examples of ACM include: pipe and boiler insulation (TSI), sprayed on fire proofing, troweled or acoustical plaster, floor tiles and mastic, linoleum, transite shingles, transite lab bench tops, roofing materials, wall and ceiling plaster, joint compound, ceiling tiles, blackboards, mastics, and gasket materials.

Presumed Asbestos-Containing Materials (PACM)

Any surfacing material, TSI, or resilient floor coverings present in buildings constructed prior to 1980 are assumed to contain greater than one percent asbestos unless they have been sampled to negate the presence of asbestos.

Small Operations and Maintenance Activity

Any activity conducted by the University’s in-house trained asbestos workers that requires the abatement of less than 3 linear feet or 3 square feet of known or assumed asbestos containing materials.

Suspect Asbestos-Containing Materials

Any material that may contain more than one percent asbestos, but has not been sampled and tested to determine its asbestos content.

Asbestos-Containing Flooring Material (ACFM)

This group includes vinyl asbestos tile (VAT), linoleum and/or the mastic that adheres the VAT or linoleum to the sub-floor.

Policy

All asbestos-containing materials in University owned buildings and facilities should be managed to minimize the exposure of University personnel, students, guests, visitors, and contract employees to asbestos.  All activities that may impact, disturb or dislodge asbestos fibers are to be conducted and abated in a manner consistent with the procedures below and in compliance with applicable State and Federal asbestos abatement regulations.

Procedure

1. Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) shall write and maintain an Asbestos Management Plan which establishes asbestos operations, maintenance, and inspection procedures.
2. Prior to the start of any renovation and/or demolition project, excluding small operations and maintenance activities, EH&S must be contacted to coordinate a survey for suspect and known asbestos containing materials in the project area. Any suspect asbestos containing material identified in the project area, that may be impacted or disturbed, must be either sampled and tested to determine its asbestos content or assumed to contain asbestos and managed as an asbestos containing material. Small operations and maintenance activities do not need to be coordinated through EH&S.
3. Any materials known or identified to be ACM that will be impacted or disturbed as a result of renovation or demolition activity must be properly abated in accordance with Department of Environmental Quality Regulations, and Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration Asbestos Standards. EH&S will determine the proper abatement methods to be used.
4. Asbestos abatement projects, excluding small operations and maintenance activities, must be coordinated by EH&S and supervised and monitored by an Oregon Full-Scale Supervisor. Small operations and maintenance activities do not need to be supervised and monitored unless they are completed in public areas. Examples of public areas include, but are not limited to, offices, classrooms, auditoriums, conference rooms, hallways, bathrooms, living spaces, common building areas and laboratories.  Any exceptions to the supervision and monitoring requirement must be determined on a case by case basis by EH&S.
5. Any University employee who may disturb ACM or PACM as part of their job shall receive asbestos awareness training and annual refresher training thereafter.
6. University employees who are required to perform asbestos abatement activities must be certified by the State of Oregon as asbestos abatement supervisors or workers. All abatement activities need to be monitored by a State of Oregon asbestos abatement supervisor.
7. Any University employee or contractor that identifies any damaged, suspect or known asbestos containing materials shall notify EH&S immediately upon identification.  EH&S will assess the situation, arrange for the appropriate corrective actions, and notify the regulatory agencies as necessary.
8. Asbestos consultants that are contracted by the University to prepare asbestos abatement specifications, conduct facility surveys for ACM, monitor asbestos abatement projects and analyze bulk and air asbestos samples shall be pre-approved by OUS.
9. Asbestos abatement contractors that are contracted by the University to complete asbestos abatement projects shall be pre-approved by OUS.
10. Any ACFM adhered to a concrete sub-floor will be removed prior to the installation of new flooring materials.  Any ACFM adhered to a wood sub-floor will either be removed or a new underlayment will be secured to the wood sub-floor through the VAT or linoleum prior to the installation of new flooring materials.
11. As a general rule, the cost of required asbestos abatement is to be funded by the organization that has the maintenance responsibility for the building.  For example, Facilities Services is responsible for funding asbestos abatement in all education and general fund buildings, unless it is a departmental requested elective improvement.  Other organizations such as Housing, the Memorial Union, Agricultural Experiment Stations, etc. are responsible for funding asbestos abatement in their buildings.  However, the cost of any associated asbestos abatement will be incorporated into the cost of any renovation or remodeling project regardless of its size or funding source.

Purpose

To prevent injuries, loss of life, property damage, and interruption to University operations due to fires and fire related incidents. 

Policy

Oregon State University will pursue every reasonable effort to comply with the Oregon Amended International Fire Code and other applicable fire and life safety regulations.

Responsibilities

University Safety Committee (USC)

• The USC has overall responsibility for review and recommendation of policies pertaining to fire safety.

Each College and Operating Unit

• Require that all persons evacuate buildings in an orderly manner when the fire alarm is activated and verify evacuation.
• Correct deficiencies noted in fire and life safety inspections.
• Notify EH&S of major changes in the use of space (e.g. office becomes storage room for chemicals).

Environmental Health & Safety

• Designate an individual to develop, coordinate and administer a fire safety program.
• Assist in developing emergency evacuation plans and assist with evacuation drills for all occupied University buildings.
• Conduct periodic audits of University buildings to determine whether they provide adequate protection to occupants in the event of a fire, and report audit findings in writing to the responsible party for action to address concerns.
• Develop fire safety training and awareness programs aimed at providing University staff with information on fire prevention and proper response to any fires that may arise.
• Consult with Facilities Services, colleges and units on the design and testing of fire protection systems and other building design features that impact fire and life safety.
• Develop programs to reduce the potential for fires and/or false alarms.
• Review all building and construction plans for renovation and construction projects for adherence to current fire and life safety codes.
• Function as the University's liaison with the Corvallis Fire Department.

OSU Facilities Groups (Facilities Services, University Housing and Dinning Services, Memorial Union, etc.)

• Ensure renovation and construction projects are designed and constructed in accordance with applicable fire and life safety codes.
• Maintain all fire protection systems to be operational and functioning properly.
• Resolve issues related to fire safety identified in periodic inspections.
• Coordinate with the Office of Risk Management (ORM) for the restoration of damaged property by fire or fire related incidents.

Department of Public Safety / Oregon State Police

• Provide assistance and guidance during building evacuations and fire emergencies.
• Function as the lead agency in any fire investigation if criminal activities are suspected.
• Assist the Risk Officer in preparation of insurance claim related paperwork for any property damage or third party liability claims resulting from a fire or fire related incidents.

OSU Office of Risk Management

• Function as the liaison with the DAS Risk Management Division for all property damage or third party liability claims resulting from fire or fire related incidents.

Purpose

To provide guidelines for emergency medical plans and the provisioning and placement of first aid kits. 

Policy

Emergency Medical Plan
Oregon Safety Codes state that every place of employment having more than one employee must have an emergency medical plan.  If a physician or an ambulance with an emergency medical technician is available within 30 minutes of the place of employment, the "emergency medical plan" is the posting of the emergency 911 number on or adjacent to operating telephones.  If the place of employment is not within 30 minutes of a physician or equipped ambulance, the emergency medical plan shall consist of:

1. Communication: a two-way radio, telephone, or provision for emergency communication to contact an ambulance, physician, or hospital.
2. Transportation: the availability of transportation to a point where an ambulance can be met or to the nearest suitable medical facility.
3. A qualified first aid person (Red Cross training within the past three years). Supervisors are to inform employees of the first aid person’s identity.  The name can also be posted by first aid kits and updated as necessary.

First Aid Supplies
The Oregon State Safety code requires that first aid supplies be available in close proximity to all employees.  The required supplies are based upon the intended use and types of injuries that could occur in the work environment.  Each department is responsible for determining how many first aid kits are needed for its work areas and the development of a program for maintaining these kits.  First aid kits and replacement supplies are available through the Facilities Services stores.  See Safety Instruction 6 "First Aid Kits and Supplies."

Cross Reference

See SAF 102: Emergency Response.

Additional Information

First Aid Training
Individual first aid training is available through the local Red Cross office, and through the OSU Dixon Recreation Center.

Purpose

To protect University employees who work in areas where physical hazards or the potential for physical hazards exist.

Background Information

The Occupational & Safety Health Administration (OSHA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards require protection for the head, eyes, ears, skin, feet, hands, respiratory system, and/or body under certain hazardous working conditions.

Policy

A general rule to follow is "use of personal protective equipment is required when there is a reasonable probability that injury or illness can be prevented by such equipment."

Reasonable engineering controls, such as increased ventilation, are preferable to personal protective equipment.   When employees are required to wear personal protective equipment, the cost of the equipment should be considered a departmental expense.  

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors or instructors should consult with Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) (7-2273) or another qualified person to assess hazards in areas where their employees work.  A determination will be made as to which areas require the use of personal protective equipment and the type and quality of the necessary equipment.  Supervisors and instructors are responsible for ensuring that workers, students, and visitors wear the protective equipment as specified.

An effort has been made to make the more common personal protective equipment readily available, either through the Chemistry Stores (7-2271), the Facilities Services Tool Room (7-3390), or EH&S.  See SAF-Ex1: Personal Protective Equipment Locations for a list of specific locations where Personal Protective Equipment may be obtained.  The cost of this equipment may be charged against any approved departmental account.  Supervisors who do not have ready access to these campus facilities may obtain personal protective equipment through any approved commercial safety equipment supplier.  However, supervisors should consult EH&S to ensure that the type of equipment selected is appropriate.

Supervisors are responsible for training their employees so they are able to identify situations that require the use of personal protective equipment and know how to properly use, care for and maintain the equipment.

Employee Responsibilities
Employees are required to wear personal protective equipment when determined necessary.  Please see SAF-Ex4:List of Personal Protective Equipment.

Purpose

To determine how and why failures occurred and to prevent similar or more serious additional accidents.

Background Information

Most accidents are caused by the failure of people, equipment, materials, or environments to behave or react as expected.  Accident investigations are an important part of the University’s accident prevention program.

An important aspect of the entire accident prevention effort is the University's ability to record and track the complete accident experience.  This includes not only accidents to employees, but also to students, visitors, and volunteers.  The Report of Accident form has been developed to provide the accident related information in a uniform manner.  The information is then sent to University organizations that oversee loss control and employee benefit programs, such as the Office of Human Resources (OHR) and Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S).  These organizations can then direct their efforts and resources to the areas of greatest concern.

Policy

All accidents that occur on the job and result in injury must be investigated and reported in a timely manner.  Late reports result in unnecessary fines and delayed claims. 

Incidents (accidents involving no medical claims or time lost) must be reported on a Report of Accident form. Accidents involving medical claims or time lost must be reported on the SAIF 801 form (State of Oregon Worker’s and Employer’s Report of Occupational Injury and Disease) and the Report of Accident form.

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors are responsible for performing an accident investigation of all injury related accidents.  Accident investigations are to be conducted with prevention in mind and should not be done to place blame. 

Employees or Volunteers
The supervisor must discuss the incident with the employee or volunteer and any witnesses before completing the reports.  The supervisor must also make any necessary changes in procedures or conditions to prevent similar accidents.

Students or Visitors
All injuries incurred by students and visitors at the University should be investigated and reported.  The responsibility for reporting has been assigned to the instructor or department administrator who was in charge of the area, class, or function during which the student or visitor was injured.  The injury is reported on a Report of Accident form and it is important to include all pertinent information about the accident and the names of any witnesses.

Procedure

Report of Accident Form
The Report of Accident form should be completed as soon as possible after the accident.  Forms are available from OHR.  The form's purpose is to gather facts on how the accident happened, names of witnesses, and what medical treatment was required.  A copy of the completed Report of Accident form must be sent to Human Resources Staff Benefits.  If an accident involving an employee eventually requires medical treatment or involves time lost, the original Report of Accident form is sent to OHR with the SAIF 801 form.

The Office of Human Resources is responsible for sending a copy of the Report of Accident and SAIF 801 forms to EH&S who may decide to investigate the accident further.  Supervisors should assist EH&S in this investigation because of the lag time associated with the written reports.  All serious accidents should also be reported by telephone to EH&S as soon as possible.

SAIF 801 Form
The SAIF 801 Form must be completed in addition to the Report of Accident for all on-the-job injuries that cause lost work time and/or require off-campus medical attention. This form is used to claim payment of benefits for an occupational injury or illness.  Forms are available from OHR and completed forms must be filed with OHR within 48 hours of the accident. 

Questions regarding Workers' Compensation claims, Report of Accident forms, or SAIF 801 forms may be addressed to the Office of Human Resources, at 7-2916.

Purpose

To expedite emergency building evacuations in case of fire, bomb threat, or other emergency condition.  

Policy

Each major building should have a standing committee responsible for emergency building evacuation. 

Building Manager Responsibility
The Building Manager is responsible for establishing this committee and acts as its chair.  The Building Evacuation Committee is made up of at least one evacuation monitor for each floor of the building.  For large buildings, monitors should be designated for each wing or sub-unit of the floor.

When the evacuation alarm (fire alarm) is sounded, monitors will report to their assigned areas and assist people in finding the exits.  They will see that all occupants evacuate the building and facilitate the movement of those individuals requiring assistance.  The evacuation plan should include a description of where to meet outside the building.

Employee Responsibility
Each building occupant should learn the location and operation of fire alarms and fire extinguishers in the work area.  Employees are authorized and have the responsibility to use them in an actual emergency.  Each employee should know the location of at least two exits in the building location and be able to find exits in total darkness.  Fire doors should never be blocked open.  Each building occupant must learn to recognize the evacuation alarm and know how to call the fire department from campus (911).

Persons Needing Assistance
During both evacuation drills and actual emergency evacuations, persons needing assistance should be helped to the nearest fire escape window or stairway door, for their increased protection and to make rescue easier for trained emergency personnel.  In no case should such action obstruct the exit ways for others or subject the participants to injury.  Monitors should inform emergency responders where (which fire rescue area) persons needing assistance are located.

Fire Alarm Tests
Facilities Services Maintenance is responsible for coordinating annual tests of the fire alarms in buildings.  These tests may be combined with building evacuation drills discussed below.

Emergency Evacuation Drill
Evacuation drills train personnel for the actual event, and the regular scheduling of such drills is encouraged.  The Building Evacuation Committee plans and monitors evacuation drills in cooperation with EH&S (7-2273).

Purpose

To provide guidelines for safe work practice. 

Background Information

The Safety Rules are intended to serve as guidelines for safe work practice.  They were developed to provide basic safety information for the different work environments found at OSU, based on prudent safety procedures and state safety codes.  These Safety Rules do establish a minimum level of safety behavior that, if followed, can reduce accidents.

Policy

The Safety Rules should be one of the tools used for initial safety training, however, they should not be considered as complete and may not include all necessary precautionary measures.  Departments and supervisors are encouraged to establish added safety rules that are specific to their individual work situations. 

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors are responsible for providing and documenting the initial and continuing safety training necessary to allow employees to perform their work safely.  This must be a joint effort between the supervisor and employee and must include frequent work observations by the supervisor and prompt correction of observed unsafe work habits.

New employees experience a high number of injuries, primarily because they may be unfamiliar with proper safe work procedures.  To reduce this vulnerability, supervisors must ensure that new employees receive the appropriate initial safety training. (See Safety Training Documentation.)  The Office of Environmental Health and Safety can provide additional safety training information.

Employee Responsibility
All employees are required to perform work in a safe manner.  Knowledge of appropriate safe work procedures and safety rules is essential.  Employees must comply with established safety rules and keep their work areas free of hazards by correcting unsafe conditions or by reporting them to supervisors in a timely manner.

Safety Training Documentation
Supervisors must perform a safety orientation with new employees as soon as possible after hire date.  This initial safety orientation is a good time to provide safety information to the new employee regarding hazardous chemicals in the work area, as required by the Hazard Communication and Training Program.

All new employees, with the exception of student workers, receive the Acknowledgment of Safety Rules, Emergency Procedures and Hazard Communication Training form as a part of their benefits package issued by the Office of Human Resources.  Supervisors are responsible for providing the new employee with a copy of the Safety Rules that apply to the work assignment, and to provide a copy of the acknowledgement form to student employees.  Supervisors are also responsible for reviewing the Safety Rules and emergency procedures with the new employee and jointly completing and signing the form.

Signing the form shows only that the employee has been instructed in safety procedures.  The signature does not exclude the employee from any compensation by SAIF for disease or injuries received on the job, regardless of cause.  Supervisors are to return the completed form to Environmental Health & Safety.  A copy should be retained in the employee's departmental personnel file.

Safety Rules

Purpose

To provide safe and economical operation of all vehicles used for OSU purposes.

Applicability

This policy applies to all vehicles used for official state business, whether owned by or loaned to OSU, and to private vehicles owned or used by the employees, students, and volunteers, if carrying passengers who are also on official state business. 

Background Information

This policy applies to all vehicles used for official state business, whether owned by or loaned to OSU, and to private vehicles owned or used by the employees, students, and volunteers, if carrying passengers who are also on official state business. 

Policy

All vehicles used for OSU business shall be used legally, courteously, and safely.  Drivers that have a valid driver license and are acting at the direction and under the control of a department, unit, or officially sanctioned program of OSU, may drive any way or for any purpose that is lawful and necessary to carry out the official business of the University.  Whenever a drivers drive otherwise, they are personally liable for all driving costs and related risks.

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors are responsible for being aware of, adhering to, and assuring their employees comply with all policies and regulations covering use of OSU vehicles and private vehicles on official state business.

Vehicle Usage
Oregon State University vehicles may be used only for official state business.  The use charge for the vehicle must be paid from an appropriate state account.  “Official state business” means any activity conducted in conformance with these regulations and directed and controlled by OSU to advance the lawful purposes of the University.  Any vehicle use contrary to the law or these regulations shall mean the driver is acting outside the definition of official state business and the driver shall be personally liable for any damage to the vehicle or harm to other parties or property.

Authorized Drivers
All vehicles used for official state business must be driven by a driver authorized by a Dean, Director, or Department Chair.  Regular employees, contract employees, students, and volunteer workers engaged in the performance of official state business may be authorized to drive OSU vehicles as long as they meet the driver qualifications listed below.  An “Oregon State University Drivers Authorization” form must be completed for every authorized driver and a copy sent to Transportation Services.  The form must be updated annually for students and volunteers.

Driver Qualifications

1. Driver has a valid U.S. driver's license. International drivers' licenses are not acceptable.
2. Driver has not been convicted of a major traffic offense in the last three years.
3. Driver has had satisfactory driving experience with the type of vehicle being checked out.  Motor Pool Transportation Services may require performance tests for certain vehicles.

Traffic Conviction
No person convicted within the past three years of a major traffic offense shall be permitted to drive vehicles owned by or loaned to OSU for official state business, or to drive a private vehicle if carrying passengers on official state business.

Major traffic offense includes the following:

• Reckless driving as defined in ORS 487.550.
• Driving while under the influence of intoxicants, as defined in ORS 487.540.
• Failure to perform the duties of a driver involved in an accident or collision, as defined in ORS 483.602(1) and (2) and 483.604.
• Driving while license is suspended or revoked, as defined in ORS 487.560.
• Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, as defined in ORS 487.555.
• Driving after being declared to be a habitual offender, as set forth in ORS 484.740.

Passengers
Passengers, unless performing official state business, may not ride in an OSU vehicle.  The employee's spouse may accompany a full-time employee as a passenger with prior approval of the employee's department chairman.

Travel in Private Vehicles
Travel for official state business in private vehicles owned or used by employees, students, and volunteers shall be authorized only in accordance with these regulations. Authorized drivers of private vehicles used for official state business are to comply with the vehicular safety, operation, and maintenance rules included herein.  Drivers authorized to operate private vehicles must be advised of their responsibility to carry liability insurance.

Student Driver Permits
Department heads or their designated alternates must complete an Oregon State University Drivers Authorization form for student drivers before the time of vehicle use.  The requester is responsible for checking to see that the student driver meets the driver qualifications listed herein.  Authorization forms are available from the Motor Pool Transportation Services department.

Vehicle Accidents
All accidents involving OSU-owned vehicles and private vehicles used for official state business must be reported to Transportation Services within 24 hours from the time of the accident.  Serious accidents should be reported immediately if possible.

Accident Review Board
Members of the Accident Review Board are appointed by the Vice President of Finance and Administration.  The board is charged with the review of each accident/incident involving OSU-owned vehicles engaged in OSU business to determine whether or not the accident/incident was preventable.  In the case of a preventable accident, the board may recommend appropriate disciplinary action to the responsible administrative office.  The board’s responsibility extends only to accidents involving OSU-owned vehicles.

Vehicle Safety
An annual safety inspection is required for all OSU-owned vehicles.  Operable seat belts are required for every person to be transported.

For passenger-carrying vehicles, the following equipment is also required:

• Tire chains
• Flares
• Ice scraper
• Flashlight
• Service station credit cards
• Fire extinguisher
• First Aid kits
• Accident report blanks
• Instructions for handling emergencies
• Trauma kits are available at the Motor Pool Transportation Services for use by groups traveling long distances and involving travel in remote or isolated sections of the country.
• Vehicles that are placed on line for dispatch from Transportation Services will have been checked for fuel, oil, tire condition, items listed above as appropriate, and any other problem that may be visible to trained personnel.

Travel Conditions
Prior to the trip, drivers should evaluate the route, weather conditions and other circumstances to determine if additional safety equipment is necessary.  No OSU vehicle will be driven when weather conditions create an unacceptable risk to the health and safety of passengers.  Vehicles traveling continuously for over four hours and carrying passengers must have provisioned for a relief driver.  Rest stops are to be made every two hours where practical.  Drivers should file itineraries describing destinations and anticipated departure and return times.

Purpose

To provide emergency guidance to the University community prior to, during and after an earthquake.

Background Information

An earthquake is one of the few disasters where assistance from cities, such as Salem or Eugene, and the American Red Cross may not be immediately available.  If a major earthquake hits the area, OSU must be prepared to provide its own resources for an unlimited period of time.  Evacuation from the campus is not recommended, unless in the aftermath of an earthquake there is the additional threat of fire or other serious hazard.

Policy

Before an Earthquake
University departments are encouraged to reduce or eliminate seismic hazards related to building contents because non-structural items (such as unsecured building contents) usually cause problems during earthquakes.

Manager Responsibilities:

• Ensure that employees know emergency procedures and the location of emergency exits, fire alarms and fire extinguishers.
• Hold staff meetings periodically to discuss emergency procedures and the course of action to be taken during emergencies.
• Establish an emergency plan for the departmental area.
• Encourage employees to take the following actions listed below, on the job and at home, to reduce potential earthquake hazards.

Office Buildings and Libraries

1. Heavy overhead objects that could fall and cause injury during an earthquake should be secured or moved lower.
2. Secure heavy or tall objects that can potentially block exits. Examples are computer terminals, tall bookcases, file cabinets, and lockers.
3. Equipment on low standing furniture (desktop computers, terminals, printers, typewriters, etc.) should be secured in place with velcro-to-velcro patches.  Use theft-resistant locks whenever possible.
4. Take special precautions to secure computer equipment, as many activities and operations are dependent on computer systems. Consider the need for an emergency power supply.
5. Be ready to move away from windows and glass partitions.  They can break during an earthquake.
6. Cross-brace and secure all bookshelves. Rear canted shelves are also advantageous.

Laboratories and Shops

1. Secure items that could present a hazard during an earthquake, such as heavy equipment, furnishings, chemicals, gas cylinders, and experimental apparatus.
2. Properly store all chemicals on shelves equipped with seismic restraining strips or with cabinets closed with positive latching doors. “Bungee” cords stretched across the front of chemical shelves are an inexpensive yet effective means of restraining chemical bottles from flipping over.
3. Move all heavy overhead storage to floor level.
4. Brace and secure specialized heavy and expensive analytical instruments and computers.
5. Anchor heavy and large laboratory or shop equipment to the floor.

At Home

1. Bolt down or otherwise secure fixtures and appliances, particularly water heaters and other gas-fired appliances.
2. Use flexible connections wherever possible. Fasten shelves to walls.
3. Brace or anchor high-standing or top-heavy objects.
4. Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity.  Contact local utilities companies with any questions.
5. When constructing or remodeling a home, observe building codes that are designed to minimize earthquake hazards.
6. Plan emergency procedures.  Keep basic emergency supplies on hand.  Conduct drills, particularly with children.

Emergency Supplies

• Basic first-aid kit and Red Cross first aid handbook. (Take training now in first aid and CPR.)
• Flashlight and portable battery operated radio; check batteries frequently.
• Extra batteries
• Emergency items can be kept in the trunk of a car as well as at home and office (extra clothing, comfortable shoes, water container, freeze-dried foods, blanket, first-aid kit, flashlight, etc.).

During an Earthquake
What occurs in high-rise buildings varies from building to building and from floor to floor.  Lower floors will shake rapidly, much like smaller buildings.  Unsecured books, plants, chemical bottles, etc., will fall from shelves.  Top-heavy furnishings will fall over. Unsecured light fixtures and ceiling panels may fall.  On upper floors, movement will be slower, but the building will move farther from side to side.  Unsecured furniture will slide across the floor.  Objects will topple from shelves.  Windows will break.  Whether you are at home, in a low building, or a high-rise building, there are steps you can take to lessen the threat of a major earthquake.

1. You will experience momentary panic when your plane of reference begins to dance.  This should pass in a few moments.  If the shaking is severe—enough to cause damage—you will find it difficult to walk.
2. Do not rush outdoors, since most injuries occur from falling glass, fixtures, plaster, bricks, debris, and electrical lines as people are leaving buildings.  STAY PUT!
3. Sit or stand against an inside wall or doorway or take cover under a desk, table, or bench (in case a wall, ceiling, or furnishings should fall).  In high-rise buildings, doorways may not necessarily be the safest place to stand; taking cover under a heavy desk or table is preferred.
4. Stay away from all glass surfaces (windows, mirrors, etc.)
5. Do not attempt to restrain falling objects unless they endanger your life.
6. If you are outdoors, remain there.  Move into the open.  Do not stand under overhangs on the outside of buildings.  Move away from power lines, and stay in the open areas away from all structures.
7. If on or near the beach, leave immediately and get to high ground. A seismic sea wave (tsunami) could occur.

After an Earthquake

1. Aftershocks may occur at any moment with nearly the same force as the original quake. BE PREPARED.
2. Move cautiously and observe your surroundings for hazardous situations.
3. Check for injuries and provide first aid and CPR where necessary.
4. Seek help by phone, if necessary, for emergency aid.  Do not tie up phone lines with unnecessary calls to home, relatives, or friends.
5. If you detect gas or any foreign odors, do not use any matches or candles.  Open windows, shut off power, leave the building immediately, and report the problem to authorities.
6. Do not touch downed power lines or objects touched by downed lines.
7. If your building has obviously suffered damage, wait until the initial shake is over and then evacuate the building using proper evacuation procedures.  DO NOT USE ELEVATORS!  Go immediately to open areas, such as parking lots.  Wait until authorities announce that it is safe to enter the building.
8. Do not spread rumors.  They often do great harm following disasters.
9. Tune in to local radio stations for information and damage reports.
10. Above all—remain calm! Think before you act and resist the urge to panic!

Purpose

The OSU energy control program outlines clearly defined procedures for the control of hazardous energy. 

Applicability

These procedures cover the servicing and maintenance of equipment that could cause serious injury to employees when an unexpected energizing, start up, or release of stored energy occurs. 

Definitions

Authorized employees

Employees trained in lockout/tagout procedures.

Affected employees

Employees working on or around this equipment, but not trained in the lockout/tagout procedures.

Policy

The primary method used to control hazardous energy is the utilization of lockout/tagout procedures.  All sources of energy, including electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, gravitational, and thermal, need to be considered.

Lockout versus Tagout
Lockout shall be the exclusive method used for the isolation of all energy sources that are designed to accept a locking device.  Tagout devices, such as tags or signs, must be used if a locking device cannot be attached to the control switch or valve.  Tags and their means of attachment are to be substantial enough to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal.  Nylon cable ties are the recommended method of tag attachment.  Whenever major replacement, repair, renovation, or modification of equipment is performed, and whenever new equipment is installed, the energy control switch or valve for that equipment shall be able to accept a locking device.

Procedure

Responsibilities

Training and Communication
Training will be provided to ensure that employees understand the purpose and procedures of the energy control program and that the knowledge and skill required for the safe application, usage, and removal of lockout/tagout devices are conveyed to employees.

NOTE: Employee Retraining will be conducted whenever a periodic inspection reveals, or whenever there is reason to believe, that there are deviations from or inadequacies in the employee’s knowledge or use of an energy control device.

Documentation of Training

Purpose

To protect employees from the hazards associated with entering and conducting operations in confined spaces.

Definitions

Confined Space

A space defined by the existence of ALL of the following conditions:

1. Large enough and so configured that an employee can physically enter and perform assigned work; and
2. Limited OR restricted means for entry or exit; and
3. Not designed for continuous employee occupancy.

Permit-Required Confined Space

A confined space that has, in addition to the three conditions that define a confined space, ONE OR MORE of the following characteristics:

1. Contains or has a known potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere;
2. Contains a material with the potential for engulfment of an entrant;
3. Has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a small cross-section; OR
4. Contains recognized serious safety or health hazards.

Background Information

Certain environmental conditions within a confined space pose special dangers to workers because the space configurations hamper efforts to protect themselves from serious hazards. 

Policy

Employees shall not enter a Permit Required confined space until appropriate safety measures have been taken to ensure a safe environment.

Responsibilities
Safe entry into a confined space is the joint responsibility of the supervisor, the attendant and the employee who enter the space.  Each entry into a confined space must be evaluated by the supervisor of the employee entering the space to determine the hazards involved and the appropriate safety measures, procedures, and controls.  Supervisors must ensure that confined space entry procedures are followed and that personnel understand and comply with all safety requirements.  Employees must inform their supervisor of any departure from required procedures.

Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) is responsible for assisting supervisors in the identification, evaluation and labeling of all confined spaces in facilities controlled by OSU.

Identification
EH&S will maintain a list of all known confined spaces.  Supervisors must report to EH&S all locations in their work space that may be considered confined spaces so these areas can be evaluated and labeled with a sign if required.  The configurations of some confined spaces do not readily allow for the installation of a sign.  For example, all sewer and storm drains that are entered through a manhole are to be considered permit required confined spaces, whether labeled as such or not.  Employees must not rely solely on the existence of a warning sign.  Employees must be trained by their supervisor to recognize areas that may be confined spaces and not enter these areas until a determination is made.

Written Procedures
To protect employees, OSHA standards require employers to institute a “permit system” for entering certain confined spaces.  All Oregon State University locations must develop written site-specific procedures on how to evaluate and enter permit-required confined spaces.  The entry permit system must include written permits.  Copies of completed permits should be kept as part of the departmental operating records.  OSU Safety Bulletin Instruction Number 2 describes and establishes the written procedures for the Corvallis campus.

Training
Every employee who participates in a confined space entry project must have the understanding, knowledge, and skill necessary for the safe performance of duties assigned for the confined space entry, as part of the employee’s safety training. Supervisors are responsible to see that each of their employees has been provided the appropriate safety training.

Contractors
When a contractor is expected to perform work in a confined space, the University’s contractor liaison will inform the contractor that the space is considered a permit-required confined space.  The contractor will be advised of the elements that establish the permit-required confined space and the associated hazards.  The contractor will also be advised of the facility’s written confined space procedures.  The contractor will be required to contact an OSU representative at the completion of the entry to discuss any hazards confronted or created during the entry.  When both a contractor and OSU employee will be making a joint entry, the OSU employee’s supervisor will coordinate the entry.

Purpose

To identify available safety training and record keeping requirements.

Background Information

Many OR-OSHA, DEQ, and DOT regulations require safety training for employees who perform certain functions, or work in certain environments.  These regulations also require that this training be documented and a training file be maintained.

Policy

Required Safety Training
Supervisors are responsible for:

1. identifying the types of safety training required for each of their employees
2. ensuring that such training is provided to employees, and
3. documenting all safety training.

Required safety training can be included in the initial employee training at the time of hire, and job-specific training throughout the period of employment.

Procedures

Safety Training Sources
Supervisors can provide initial safety training for their new employees by using the Safety Rules located in SAF 205: Safety Rules of this manual.  Supervisors should use SAF-Ex2: Safety Training Identification Worksheet to identifying the required job-specific safety training.  The Safety Training Identification Worksheet has been developed by Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) helps a supervisor decide whether an employee needs any of the required job-specific training.  Safety training can be provided by the supervisor, by EH&S or other OSU personnel, or by an outside training provider.  OSU Safety Instruction Number 35 further describes the safety training requirements and provides information on specific training programs available through EH&S and outside training providers.

Record Keeping
Documentation and record keeping are important elements of the training process.  EH&S provides a service to keep track of all employee safety training.  This tracking system should be used to record safety training.  A Safety Training Completion form has been developed by EH&S to aid in this process.  Supervisors are responsible for documenting all safety training, and it is important to capture all the information requested on the form for each training session.  Supervisors must send a copy of the form to EH&S.

Purpose

To establish standards for to the safe operation and use of Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles at Oregon State University.

Background Information

Departments at Oregon State University provide Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles to employees so they may fulfill their job related duties.  Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles are used to transport equipment and people, patrol the campus grounds, and for campus maintenance activities.  This policy establishes consistent standards regarding:

• Vehicle Operating Standards,
• Department & Driver Responsibilities,
• Operator Requirements & Standards
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle Condition and Standard Safety Features, and
• Accident Reporting Procedures.

Compliance with these standards will ensure the safe operation of these vehicles for the campus community; including Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle drivers, vehicle operators, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Policy

Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles owned by Departments at Oregon State University may only be used for official department/University business by university employees, student employees, and university approved volunteers who are associated with a university department. Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles may not be used for personal business such as unauthorized home-to-office travel, which will be considered vehicle misuse.

Knowledge of and compliance with applicable state laws, rules, regulations and policies are the responsibility of the driver and noncompliance may result in suspension of user privileges.

Procedures

Vehicle Operating Standards

• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operation is governed under Oregon Revised Statutes and operators are subject to the rules of the road, including stopping, turning and safe operation.  Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operators observed in violation of these rules can be cited by the police. Oregon State Police on campus are responsible for enforcing these statutes.
• Drivers must have a valid Oregon drivers’ license with a satisfactory driving record, an updated drivers’ authorization on file with the OSU Motor Pool and their administrative unit, and no major traffic offenses.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles are to be operated at speeds no greater than 15 MPH or as safety concerns demand.  Operators should always consider the terrain, weather conditions, and existing pedestrian and vehicular traffic, which may affect the ability to operate the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle safely.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operators will stop at all “blind intersections” and then proceed with caution.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will be operated only within the confines of University property.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles may only cross
• 35th street at Jefferson and Campus Way (No Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle will be driven on 35th Street).
• Western Blvd. at 26th Street. Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles may only travel on Western Blvd. between Reser Stadium and 17th Street.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles are not to be driven on any landscaped area unless it is the only available way to gain access to the specific area where work is being performed.  If the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle must be on a landscaped area in order to allow a pedestrian(s) the proper right-of-way, it should be brought to a full stop, then immediately returned to the designated driving surface as soon as the area is clear.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will be operated in such a manner that they do not impede or interfere with normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic flow on sidewalks, ramps or roadways.  In that respect, Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will be operated on service drives and roadways whenever possible, rather than on sidewalks designed primarily for pedestrian use.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will be operated with the utmost courtesy, care, and consideration for the safety of pedestrians. 
• Pedestrians will be given the right-of-way at all times.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will not be parked:
• in Fire Lanes
• in metered parking spaces
• in DMV Disabled Parking
• in Reserved Parking
• within 20 feet of the main entrance/exit of any building in any manner that would impede the normal flow of pedestrian traffic

University Department Administrative Responsibilities

Supervisor Responsibilities                                                                          

• Supervisors will assure that each employee in their department, who operates a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle, is properly advised of this policy.
• Supervisors are responsible for obtaining a signed copy of the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle Safety Guidelines Acknowledgement form from each employee in their department who operates a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle, attesting to the employee’s knowledge and understanding of, and agreement to abide by, the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle policy.  This signed Acknowledgement must be completed and placed in the employees personnel file, prior to the employee driving a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle.
• Drivers must have a valid Oregon drivers’ license with a satisfactory driving record, an updated drivers’ authorization on file with the OSU Motor Pool (and in the administrative unit), and no major traffic offenses.
• Departments should provide a minimal amount of hands on training prior to an employee driving a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle.
• Departments will implement procedures for the control of Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles registered to them.  Such procedures may include the use of a “sign-out log” for keys.

Employee/Operator Requirements & Standards

• No one under the age of eighteen (18) will operate a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operators are responsible for the security of ignition keys during the time that a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is assigned to them.  Any time a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is unattended, the ignition will be turned off, and the key will be removed from the ignition and kept in the possession of the authorized operator.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operators are not permitted to drive while wearing devices that impede hearing, e.g., stereo headsets, earplugs, etc.
• All passengers must be in seats designed for such use.  No passengers are allowed to be transported in the truck beds or on the sides of Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles with the exception of the transport of an injured person secured on a backboard.
• Cell phone usage while driving a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is prohibited.
• Employees will not operate Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles registered to other departments unless the supervisor of the department to which the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is registered has granted prior approval.

 Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle Condition and Standard Safety Features

• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles owned by OSU Departments will be equipped and maintained with working headlights, and taillights (two red lights, one each located on the opposite sides at the rear of the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle that stay on during night operations).
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles’ physical condition should appear to be new condition (no dents, dings, cracked fenders, etc.)
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles purchased prior to 8/1/2005 or Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles donated for events without headlights and/or taillights are to be used only during day time operations.
• Electric turn signals are required for night time operation; hand signals suffice for day time operation.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will be equipped with a working horn or bell and a “Slow Moving Vehicle” sign.
• Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles will not be modified in any manner that affects the recommended mode of operation, speed or safety of the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle.

Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle Maintenance Responsibility

• Each Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle operator is responsible for providing timely notification of safety and maintenance concerns to the supervisor of the department to which the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is registered.
• Supervisors will be responsible for seeing to the timely repair of such concerns and, if the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle cannot be operated safely without said repairs taking place, the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle will be taken “out of service” until the repairs are completed.
• The department of ownership is responsible for the cost of maintenance of the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles. 
• The department of ownership is responsible for the cost of repairing damage to the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle caused by regular use or an unpreventable accident. 
• The department of ownership is responsible for the cost of repairing damage to the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle caused by misuse, abuse or a preventable accident.
• The department of ownership is responsible for maintaining the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicles’ condition so that the cart/vehicle’s appearance looks to be in new condition (no dents, dings, cracked fenders, etc.)

Accident Reporting Process

• All accidents involving a Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle will be reported immediately to the supervisor of the department to which the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is registered and to the Department of Public Safety/Oregon State Police, regardless of whether property damage or personal injury occurred.

Policy Variance Procedure

• If a department administrator believes that a variant of a portion of the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle is warranted, she or he should submit their request for a variance to the Director of Public Safety.  If the Director of Public Safety determines that the requested variance is in line with the spirit of this policy, a variance may be granted.  If such a variance is granted, the Director of Public Safety will inform the Safety Committee that such a variance has been granted and provide the Committee with the rationale for the variance. The Safety Committee shall take into consideration the Director of Public Safety’s comments as to whether future similar variances are appropriate as an impetus to revise the Golf Cart/Utility Vehicle Policy.

Purpose

The primary goal of the OSU Animal Handler Occupational Health and Safety Program is to evaluate and, if necessary, address potential risks that may be associated with the use of animals in the workplace. Enrollment in this program is mandatory for all OSU personnel who have substantial animal contact, including faculty, classified staff, faculty research assistants, research associates, technicians, graduate students, post-doctoral students, undergraduate students, visiting faculty, and others involved with animals.

Definitions

Animal

Any live, vertebrate animal.

Animal Facility

Any and all buildings, rooms, areas, enclosures, or vehicles including satellite facilities, used for animal confinement, transport, maintenance, breeding, or experiments inclusive of surgical manipulation. A satellite facility is any containment outside of a core facility or centrally designated or managed area in which animals are housed for more than 24 hours.

Risk Assessment

The process by which risks associated with working with animals (such as hazardous biological, chemical, or physical agents; allergens; or zoonoses) are identified.

Risk Management

The process by which identified risks are managed through such actions as education, training, personal protective equipment, zoonoses surveillance, or immunization.

Risk Training and Education

A program of training and education about areas of risk when working with animals in general or with specific species.

Supervisors

Department chairs, faculty, and other OSU employees or affiliates who have oversight of University employees, students, or other individuals and who are involved with animals; those individuals who are not OSU employees but are affiliated through courtesy or adjunct appointments may serve as supervisors.

Policy

It is the policy of Oregon State University to comply with all pertinent Federal, State, and local regulations regarding the provision of personnel health programs for individuals who have animal contact.An occupational health and safety program must be a part of the overall animal care and use program and should focus on maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. The program should be based on risk assessment, risk management, training, preventive medicine, and medical treatment.

All persons involved in animal research, care, and handling (including animal fluids and unfixed tissues) as defined by this policy, shall participate in the university animal handler occupational health and safety program. Supervisors (department chairs, faculty and other OSU employees or affiliates who have oversight of University employees, students, or other individuals) are responsible for implementing this policy with individuals under their supervision.

General

A risk-based assessment of all persons involved in animal contact is performed to determine the level of participation in the OSU program. This assessment is initiated by a review of information provided on the completed Animal Contact Review and Initial Health Surveillance Questionnaire (ACRIHSIQ). This assessment considers hazards:

• Posed by the animals
• From biological, chemical, or physical agents used in the animal activity
• Arising from susceptibility of personnel.

Preventative Medicine

Participants are enrolled in the program prior to contact with animals. Each participant completes an ACRIHSIQ, which requires input from both the participant and their supervisor. The completed form is sent to the OSU Student Health Services (SHS) for risk assessment. A copy of the first section of the form, which outlines safety training and use of hazardous biological, chemical and physical agents, is forwarded to Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S). No medical information is included in the first section of the questionnaire.

If screening identifies potential health risks, SHS providers will further evaluate participants, provide immunizations, order titers, give occupational medicine recommendations, and refer as appropriate. Additional consultation is available through the Corvallis Clinic or Oregon Health Sciences University, and technical assistance is available from the OSU Laboratory Animal Resources Center (LARC) and EH&S. Individuals who decline participation in the medical evaluation portion of the program may do so by signing appropriate waivers acknowledging their awareness of risks.

Medical care of OSU personnel for work related injuries or illness will be provided by the employee's primary health care provider.

Allergies

Employees will be asked about allergies associated with animal handling. Employees with a history of preexisting animal allergies or asthma will be provided with information and training as appropriate, and if needed will be referred to other medical providers.

Immunizations

All participants will have the following vaccinations documented through their ACRIHSIQ:

• Immunization with tetanus and diphtheria toxoids adsorbed (Td) will be updated according to recommendations of the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP) of the Center for Disease Control. Booster doses will be recommended as needed.
• Other vaccination recommendations will be determined on an individual basis after the risk assessment that reviews animal species, risk exposure, and personal health issues. SHS, with added consultation as needed from the Biosafety Officer, LARC or the Principal Investigator of the project, will make this determination.

Animal-Related Illness, Injury, or Unsafe Condition

• Individuals must notify their supervisor of suspected zoonoses or suspected work-related illness or work-related injury.
• Supervisors must report work-related illness or injury as defined in the OSU Safety Manual.
• Bites and scratches should be flushed immediately with water and then scrubbed with soap and water prior to reporting for treatment. Injured personnel should report for medical attention unless the injury is very minor.
• During clinic hours, it is highly recommended that students go to SHS for treatment or referral.
• Employees (faculty and staff) should report to the Corvallis Clinic Occupational Health department for treatment or referral during clinic hours.
• In the event of clinic closure, all injured personnel should go to a local health care facility or the emergency department, depending on the nature of the need.
• Employees, students, volunteers, and visitors should report all unsafe conditions, practices, or equipment to the supervisor, instructor, the University Safety Committee or EH&S whenever deficiencies are noted.
• Non-OSU affiliated individuals should see their normal health provider.

Training

Training will include personal hygiene, occupational hazards (including injuries that might be incurred while working with specific species and allergies), zoonoses, and other safety/health risks related to animal contact. Initial training is documented on the ACRIHSIQ and signed by both the supervisor and the participant. Training topics presented will include, but not be limited to:

• Description of the OSU policy on animal handler occupational health and safety
• General safety procedures in use/handling of animals
• Animal Biosafety Levels
• Facility entry/exit procedures and general safety features
• Specific safety topics, including:
  • Zoonoses of animals
  • Animal-induced allergies and their prevention or control.
• How to handle and report injuries, illness, or exposures, including:
  • Medical assistance and health care providers
  • OSU Report of Accident Form and SAIF 801-Notice of Occupational Injury/Illness Form
• Points of contact for additional information
• Specialized training will be provided as needed based on evaluation of the ACRIHSIQ (e.g. training on respirator fitting and use, or Hantavirus protection for rodent field studies). Continuing occupational health and safety education will be provided as needed based on risk assessment.

Personal Hygiene

For Animal Biosafety Level II or higher, the department will provide animal handlers with suitable clothing, laundry arrangements and storage for street clothing as determined by the supervisor. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited in all animal rooms.

Personal hygiene for biosafety is discussed in the OSU Biosafety Manual

Serum Banking

The OSU Biosafety Officer will assess which program participants, if any, should submit a serum sample for storage based on risk assessment. Storage and maintenance of sera will be the responsibility of SHS.

Individuals Covered Under Policy

OSU Employees

• Enrollment in this program is mandatory for all personnel for which OSU has responsibility and who have substantial animal contact. This includes but is not limited to faculty (including courtesy and adjunct faculty), classified staff, faculty research assistants, research associates, technicians, graduate students, post-doctoral students, student employees, visiting faculty, professional degree students, and any others involved with animals as defined under this policy. Volunteers or visiting clients should be apprised of health and safety issues by the appropriate OSU contact person at the animal site.

Non-OSU Individuals

• Non-OSU individuals are those who are non-employees working on non-OSU projects, but using animals on OSU facilities. This group of individuals will comply with this program. Cost for compliance (i.e. vaccinations) will be the responsibility of the non-OSU individual or their employer.
• Non-OSU individuals who are affiliated with OSU through courtesy or adjunct appointments are required to follow this policy as if they were OSU employees, due to their affiliation appointment with the university. Cost for compliance will be the responsibility of the affiliated individual or their employer.

Students

• OSU students will not normally be required to enroll in the animal occupational health and safety program if their only exposure to animals is limited to structured, or centrally scheduled credit-courses. However, the class instructor should provide them with information about any health considerations relative to the species with which they will be working.
• Veterinary students and veterinary technicians receive additional services, such as rabies vaccination, under the direction of the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Enrollment Process

• Participants will be formally enrolled using the OSU ACRIHSIQ for each individual who is listed on an IACUC Animal Care and Use Proposal (ACUP) or employee position description as working directly with animals. The questionnaire is completed at the time a new ACUP is submitted for review, when new personnel are added to the ACUP, or when requested during the hiring or employee review process. The principal investigator and the participant must complete this form.
• The LARC will enroll animal care personnel covered by the scope of this policy.
• Instructors of classes using animals will be responsible for providing the class students with information about
  • species specific information
  • personal hygiene information
  • risk issues to humans

Cost

Services delivered by SHS will be subject to user-fee charges. Charges will be applied for any risk assessment when health issues are identified, as well as all required inoculations. The referring supervisor will provide information to SHS about the university account to charge for the services.

Responsibility for Program Components

1. Risk Assessment

• Managed and evaluated through review of a two-part form (ACRIHSIQ):
  • initial screening to identify potential health risks and proper training;
  • review of pertinent medical information by SHS
• Complemented by:
  • a review by specific oversight committees for hazardous biological, chemical, and physical agents.
  • a review of an activity by the IACUC.
• Assessments are based on information collected on the OSU ACRIHSIQ and on other forms used by oversight committees for animal use and hazardous biological, chemical, and physical agents. The individual employee's job description may also be used to assess risk as necessary.

2. Risk Management

• Managed by the supervisor of animal handlers.
• Managed by class instructors.
• Managed by department chairs and unit heads in ensuring awareness and accountability by members of the department or unit on this policy.
• Managed by the SHS, EH&S, and the LARC.
• Managed by the review processes for specific OSU oversight committees for hazardous biological, chemical and physical agents.

Enforcement

Research or teaching activities which involve individuals who are not enrolled in the occupational health and safety program, but are working with animals, will be interrupted or terminated at the discretion of the IACUC.

The Laboratory Animal Resources Center (LARC) will ensure compliance to this policy for all employees hired through LARC.

Additional Resources

Animal Contact Review and Initial Health Surveillance Questionnaire

Annual Health Surveillance Questionnaire

Zoonoses

Communicable Diseases Center (CDC)

Purpose

To ensure proper management and disposal of hazardous waste.

Applicability

Academic, research, and facility operations that use hazardous materials and subsequently generate hazardous waste.

Background

A comprehensive hazardous materials program is in place at OSU that provides guidelines for the use of materials that generate hazardous waste.  This program is designed to minimize the possibility of a threat to human health or the environment caused by fire, explosion, or any unplanned release of hazardous materials into the air, soil, or surface water.

Waste Categories
Hazardous waste can be broadly grouped into four categories: chemical, radioactive, biohazardous, and material that is sharp.  Each category has hazards that have an effect on safe handling and disposal practices, and a specific waste may have properties associated with two or more categories.  See SAF-Ex3: Waste Categories for an explanation of the different types of waste categories.

Policy

University faculty, staff, and students who generate hazardous waste must cooperate with OSU Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) to ensure the safe and proper identification, collection, accumulation, packaging, and disposal of hazardous wastes.  EH&S does not accept unknown or radiological wastes.

Procedure

Hazardous waste disposal procedures are maintained on the EH&S website at http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ehs/hwpages/index.html

Online Hazardous Waste Pickup Request: http://oregonstate.edu/ehs/waste

Hazardous waste labels: http://oregonstate.edu/ehs/waste

Additional Information

Environmental Health & Safety provides technical assistance as well as emergency incident response services in the event of a chemical fire, explosion, and/or release.  For hazardous waste management consultation services, call EH&S at 541-737- 2273 or Radiation Safety (RS) at 541-737- 2227.

Purpose

To protect employees and the university community by providing guidance and instruction on how to effectively manage a chemical spill.

Applicability

Faculty, staff, and students who discover or are involved in a chemical emergency.

Definition

Hazardous Chemicals

A chemical or material is considered hazardous if:

• It is flammable, highly reactive, or explosive
• It generates harmful vapors or dust particles that affect eyes or lungs.
• It is corrosive and attacks skin, clothing, equipment, furniture or facilities.
• It is poisonous by ingestion or absorption.
• It is radioactive.  (For spills of radioactive material, immediately call Radiation Safety, 7-2227, and follow their instructions.)

Policy

Faculty, staff, or students who discover or are involved in a hazardous chemical spill are responsible for notifying the appropriate authorities and following established protocol. This protocol is outlined in OSU Safety Instruction #19 and found on the EH&S Web site.

Spilled chemicals should be effectively and quickly contained and cleaned up.  Such spills should be handled correctly to avoid extensive property damage and personal injury.

EH&S Responsibility
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) is responsible for maintaining a Hazardous Material Spill Response Program that is in compliance with applicable policies, rules and regulations.  The EH&S Hazardous Material Spill Response Program provides access to Material Safety Data Sheets that provide guidance and/or assistance with spill cleanup, the maintenance of hazardous chemical spill response equipment and materials, and procedures for notifying authorities (e.g. DEQ) in case of major spills

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors working with hazardous materials are responsible for being familiar with the hazardous properties of the materials, establishing appropriate spill procedures, being familiar with the EH&S Hazardous Chemical program, and for ensuring that all employees are aware of spill policies and procedures.

Employee Responsibility
All employees working in areas where hazardous materials are used or stored are responsible for knowing proper procedures to deal with spills and the requirement that large spills (more than one gallon liquid or one pound solid) must be immediately reported to EH&S.

Procedure

General Guidelines

1. The first step in dealing with any chemical spill is assessment of the magnitude of spilled material and the associated level of hazard.  No one should attempt to deal with a spill until properly equipped with adequate personal protective equipment and spill treatment materials.
2. Risk assessment is successful only if personnel are familiar with the hazardous properties of the material they are handling and have developed methods to follow in the event of a spill.   Information of this type is available from safety data sheets and from Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S).  The basic philosophy of chemical spill control at OSU is to contain and absorb first, treat second.
3. EH&S has the responsibility to respond to chemical spills and oversee cleanup activities.  EH&S also has the authority to ensure that appropriate cleanup steps are taken in accordance with applicable environmental regulations.  EH&S maintains a chemical spill response vehicle that is equipped to handle typical chemical spills.  Contact EH&S for assistance when dealing with a chemical spill by calling 7-2273, or by contacting Public Safety, 7-3010. 
4. The capability of EH&S to deal with chemical spills does not lessen the responsibility of laboratories to develop their own plans on how to safely deal with small spills.  Several chemical spill kits are commercially available for small spills and their use is encouraged.  For assistance in kit selection, contact EH&S.
5. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has established regulations that require the submission of reports for spills that are above certain amounts.  All large spills of a hazardous chemical (more than one gallon liquid or one pound solid) must be reported promptly to EH&S, who will then make the report to DEQ if necessary.

Contacts
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) - (541) 737-2273
Radiation Safety (RS) - (541) 737-2227

Purpose

To ensure a safe and healthy work environment by establishing guidelines for exhaust systems.

Policy

Oregon State University requires the use of adequate local exhaust systems when required by federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to human exposures to hazardous materials in the air. 

Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) and Radiation Safety (RS)

Responsibility
Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for establishing and facilitating a program covering local exhaust inspection, approval, and posting, in compliance with applicable policies, rules and regulations.  Radiation Safety is responsible for assessment and monitoring compliance for exhaust systems where radioactive materials are used or stored. 

Supervisor and Employee Responsibility
All persons conducting work or storing hazardous materials in a local exhaust system shall ensure compliance with all postings and will use the system only as designed and for which it is approved.

Requirements

1. Each local exhaust system used to control the exposure of humans to hazardous chemicals or other detrimental materials in the air must be approved by Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S).  If radioactive materials are to be involved, approval by Radiation Safety (RS) is also required.  Local exhaust systems include chemical fume hoods, biological safety cabinets, close capture vents, glove boxes, and similar devices, but not building ventilation systems or other multi-area systems.
2. Any concerns regarding the need for a local exhaust system for control of human exposure to radioactive materials shall be sent to and resolved by RS, and EH&S for exposures to other materials.
3. For new systems, approval requires the following:

1. The system must be of a design suitable for its intended use (i.e., suitable dimensions, no use of chemical fume hood where glove box is needed, suitable location, etc.).
2. The system shall be easily decontaminated (i.e., smooth surfaces, non-absorbent and non-reactive with respect to intended materials to be contained, surfaces reasonably accessible, etc.).
3. The system shall provide a reasonably uniform airflow rate, of suitable velocity, to capture or control the hazardous materials present under all expected working conditions.

• Chemical fume hoods to be used with regulated carcinogens must have minimum average face velocity of 150 linear feet per minute (lfm), with no point less than 120 lfm, for any working opening.
• Chemical fume hoods to be used for radioactive materials and other hazardous material, but no regulated carcinogens, must have minimum average face velocity of 100 lfm, with no point less than 80 lfm, for any working opening.
• Minimum sash height for chemical fume hoods will be fifteen inches except where otherwise approved by EH&S.
• For biological safety cabinets, close capture hoods, etc., EH&S shall approve minimum face velocity and opening size on a case-by-case basis.  Where applicable, EH&S will specify maximum face velocity and/or minimum sash opening.

1. For existing systems that do not meet the requirements for a new system, EH&S may approve variances provided that adequate safety is insured.  Any such variance must be documented, with a copy sent to the using department.
2. Any content or use restrictions will be posted conspicuously on each local exhaust system. For vertical sash fume hoods, minimum sash height will be posted.  Filter change needs, power switching needs, requirements for physical entry into or work on the system, etc., shall be posted if requested by EH&S or RS.
3. Systems having substandard airflow rates may be used only for storage, and not for active work with hazardous chemicals.  Such systems will be conspicuously posted "For Storage Only" and approved by EH&S.  Any restrictions on permissible materials for storage will be prescribed by EH&S and conspicuously posted.
4. For each local exhaust system, a routine inspection program will be conducted by EH&S or persons approved by EH&S.  A report of each inspection shall be given to the operating department, with a copy retained by EH&S.  The report shall include recommendations for any needed corrective actions.
5. The operating department will insure that each required local exhaust system is properly maintained and not misused.

Contacts
Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) - (541) 737-2273
Radiation Safety (RS) - (541) 737-2227

Purpose

To protect employees and the University community by providing procedures and instruction on how to effectively contain chemical carcinogens.

Policy

Oregon State University will maintain, within reasonable control of the University, an environment that will not adversely affect:

• The health, safety, and well-being of students, staff, visitors, and neighboring human populations; and
• The wild and domestic animals maintained on the campus of the University or in the contiguous area.

All research and teaching activities in facilities controlled by Oregon State University and involving the use of chemical carcinogens, as defined in the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Manual, shall be conducted in compliance with National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines, with the provisions of the Chemical Carcinogen Manual, and as approved by the Chemical Safety Committee.

Supervisor Responsibility
Supervisors are responsible for:

1. being familiar with, adhering to, and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and policies regarding chemical carcinogens as used in their program;
2. using the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Program as a guide in developing a carcinogen safety program;
3. obtaining, requiring and providing appropriate training;
4. having the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Manual available;
5. being aware of the characteristics of the chemicals with which they work;
6. registering the use of Class B carcinogens; and
7. obtaining authorization from the Chemical Safety Committee for Class C carcinogens.

Employee Responsibility
Employees are responsible for:

1. familiarity and compliance with all applicable laws, rules, and policies regarding the chemical carcinogens they use;
2. being aware of hazards associated with the chemicals; obtaining the appropriate training; and
3. knowing about the additional resources (EH&S, Chemical Safety Committee, etc.).

Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) Responsibility
EH&S (in concert with the University Chemical Safety Committee) is responsible for:

1. the development and maintenance of a chemical carcinogen safety program;
2. providing appropriate training;
3. maintaining access to an up-to-date Guide for Chemical Carcinogen Classification;
4. updating the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Manual as needed;
5. providing liaisons with the Chemical Safety Committee;
6. keeping current with NIH guidelines; and
7. providing consultation to faculty, staff, and students.

Control of the Use of Chemical Carcinogens
The purpose of the Chemical Carcinogen Safety Program is to:

• establish procedures and criteria for physical facilities to protect against occupationally acquired cancers and for protection of the general environment; and
• contain all known or suspected chemical carcinogens within prescribed limits in accordance with nationally recognized safe standards of operation.

The program attempts to do this by:

• identifying all users of chemical carcinogens on campus;
• defining acceptable levels of exposure, as those permitted by federal and state regulations or recommended by authoritative sources such as the National Cancer Institute;
• limiting projects and activities involving the use of chemical carcinogens to those authorized by the provisions of this manual.
• developing and approving specific procedures for the use of chemical carcinogens to limit the exposure of, and the degree of hazard to, personnel and the environment; and
• identifying and categorizing chemicals whose carcinogenic potential has recently been determined.

Chemical Carcinogen Manual
All campus personnel working with chemical carcinogens are required to have an understanding of the contents of the Chemical Carcinogen Manual.  This manual is intended to provide a system for assuring safety in the use of known or suspected chemical carcinogens.  The Chemical Carcinogen Safety Manual is available on-line, maintained by EH&S and should be accessible in campus facilities where chemical carcinogens are stored or used. 

Categorization of Chemical Carcinogens
The hazard categorization scheme is intended to reflect the net potential hazard associated with the conditions for use of each carcinogen.  Specifically, it considers not only the apparent biological potency of a compound, but the total quantity or concentration in use.  Thus, dilution of a Class C carcinogen may reduce its hazard to the Class B category.  Scientific evidence pertaining to the carcinogenic properties of chemicals change frequently.  See the Guide for Chemical Carcinogen Classification. EH&S will update the list when necessary.

Categories:

1. Class C (Highly Hazardous) Chemical Carcinogens.

1. Chemicals regulated by law.
2. Chemicals not regulated by law but considered highly hazardous by the Chemical Safety Committee.

1. Class B (Hazardous) Chemical Carcinogens.

1. Class C chemical carcinogens diluted to defined concentration ranges.
2. Chemicals identified in OSHA and other guidelines that do not exceed the hazardous category in any concentration.
3. Other chemicals when used in research and teaching activities that could, on the basis of new information, require the restrictions listed for this category.

1. Class A (Low Hazard) Chemical Carcinogens
   
   Those chemicals that, when used in research and teaching activities, could, in the opinion of the Chemical Safety Committee, require the restrictions listed for this category.

Purpose

To protect personnel and comply with applicable regulations.

Policy

The University shall pursue biological safety through every reasonable effort to protect personnel from exposure to infectious agents, prevent environmental contamination, and comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Biological Safety Program
The Biological Safety program applies to all locations and activities under University control in which rDNA and/or infectious agents (including bloodborne pathogens) are used or stored.

The Biological Safety Committee (BSC) must approve all activities involving the use of agents classified Biosafety Level 2 or 3. No research involving Biosafety Levels 4 will be permitted on campus.

All recombinant DNA (rDNA) activities shall meet the requirements of the most recent edition of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Guidelines for Recombinant DNA and Gene Transfer:

1. Projects involving rDNA that are “Exempt” by NIH guidelines need not apply for approval by the BSC, but must be registered with EH&S.
2. Projects that are not exempt must be approved by the BSC.

Biological Safety Committee (BSC)
The BSC, appointed by Vice Provost for Research, is responsible for recommending University policy with respect to biological safety in research activities, establishing standards and regulations needed to implement this policy, reviewing operations and procedures of biological safety, and acting as the review committee required by NIH.

Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S)
EH&S is responsible for the development and coordination of the Biological Safety Program. This includes reviewing the requests for using infectious materials and/or rDNA and presenting them to the BSC if needed.

EH&S is also responsible for coordinating biological waste disposal, workplace surveillance programs, maintaining the Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan, and for providing consultation and advice on matters associated with biological safety.

Biological Safety Manual
The Biological Safety Manual contains University policies, regulations, and procedures pertaining to biological safety and the Biological Safety Program. The current manual is produced by EH&S and issued by the BSC.

Purpose

To protect personnel and comply with applicable regulations.

Policy

Recognizing that ionizing radiation is useful in the teaching and research missions of OSU, university policy directs that radioisotopes and radiation-emitting machines be used as effectively as possible by OSU personnel at university facilities.  This is to be accomplished while ensuring that applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations are not violated; that risk from ionizing radiation is not incurred except when justified by the benefits from the activity; and that radiation exposure is maintained at a level that is as low as reasonably achievable.

Radiation Safety Program
The Vice President for Finance and Administration has been given the responsibility for maintaining a radiation safety program that adequately ensures compliance with university policy. The radiation safety program applies to all locations under university control in which radioisotopes or radiation-producing machines are used or stored. It applies to all persons who work in or visit these locations, and to all radioisotope and radiation-producing machines at these locations, regardless of ownership. The program applies to a limited extent to university personnel and equipment at locations not controlled by OSU.

Radiation Safety Committee
The Radiation Safety Committee, appointed by the Vice President for Finance and Administration, is responsible for recommending university policy with respect to radiation safety, establishing standards and regulations needed to implement this policy, reviewing operations and procedures of Radiation Safety, and acting as the statutory radiation use review committee required by State and Federal radioactive materials license.

Radiation Safety
Radiation Safety is the administrative unit responsible for processing requests for authorization to use radioisotopes or radiation machines, for providing personnel dosimeters, radioactive waste disposal, package inspection, work place surveillance programs, and for providing consultation and advice on matters associated with radiation safety.

Supervisor Responsibility
Generally, Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that all radioactive materials and/or radiation-producing machines are used in compliance with all applicable rules and regulations, ensuring adequate employee training, keeping up to date on radiation safety practices and requirements, and maintaining a good radiation safety program in their lab.  Detailed responsibilities may be found in the OSU Radiation Safety Manual.

Employee Responsibility
Employees are responsible for receiving adequate training for the work they will perform, adhering to applicable rules and regulations, and being familiar with available resources (e.g. Radiation Safety, RS web page, Radiation Safety Manual).

Radiation Safety Manual
The Radiation Safety Manual contains university policies, regulations, and procedures pertaining to radiation safety. The manual also contains required personnel training information and additional useful information. The current manual is produced by Radiation Safety and issued by the Radiation Safety Committee after approval by the Vice President for Finance and Administration.

Purpose

To protect employees and students from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in laboratories.

Background Information

There are a variety of physical and chemical hazards associated with work in a laboratory.  The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division has established safety regulations to guide employers in controlling these hazards.  The primary regulation is titled "Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories." This standard mandates that OSU develop a written program that sets forth procedures, equipment, and work practices that are capable of protecting employees from the health hazards presented by hazardous chemicals used in laboratories.  The OSU Chemical Hygiene Plan has been established to meet this requirement and the procedures apply to all OSU laboratories where hazardous chemicals are used.

There are hazards found in laboratories that are not directly related to chemical exposures.  The safety guidelines and requirements established to reduce these hazards are found in University documents such as the Radiation Safety Manual, the Biosafety Manual, and the Laboratory Safety Rules.  Hard copies of these documents along with the OSU Chemical Hygiene Plan can be obtained from Environmental Health & Safety or by accessing the EH&S web page.

Policy

Oregon State University requires that all work occurring in an OSU laboratory be conducted in a safe and healthful manner.  Although students are not considered employees under Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OR-OSHA) regulations, OSU policy applies the requirements of the OSU Chemical Hygiene Plan to teaching laboratories.

Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) Responsibilities
The University’s Chemical Hygiene Officer and members of Environmental Health & Safety are responsible for reviewing and updating the Chemical Hygiene Plan, monitoring compliance with the Plan requirements, and assisting employees in understanding the application of the Plan.

Supervisor and Lab Manager Responsibilities
Department heads, principal investigators, and laboratory managers must understand the requirements of the OSU Chemical Hygiene Plan and incorporate these safety procedures into the laboratory operations.  They are also responsible for evaluating the hazards related to their laboratory and establishing appropriate access rules that ensure visitors to the lab are provided with the appropriate guidance and personal protective equipment.

Employee and Student Responsibilities
Faculty, staff, students and volunteer workers in labs are required to follow the laboratory safety procedures established in the OSU Chemical Hygiene Plan, and any additional safety procedures required by the lab manager or supervisor.