Why might you vacate a lab? While the reasons vary from temporary renovations to permanent relocation, health and safety needs remain the same. This safety note will help you safely vacate a laboratory, whether you are a principal investigator (PI) or another lab researcher, and help you leave the lab in a safe state for the next occupant.
What do I do?
- Before vacating the lab space, you (or alternately your department administrator) must contact Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) staff to arrange an inspection of the area.
- Clean-out can be lengthy. Provide notice as early as possible.
- Contact HSE at 410-516-8798.
- HSE will inventory the hazardous materials in the lab and will provide an action list for the PI. The list covers:
- Safely removing all hazardous materials from the lab;
- Disposing of these materials safely; and
- Decontaminating all laboratory surfaces that may have biological, chemical, and/or radioactive materials on them, including equipment.
- The PI must address the noted issues note unless HSE gives other instructions.
- HSE may involve an outside contractor for special issues. Have a representative present so as to guarantee disposal of only unwanted materials.
- After addressing the checklist, contact HSE for a final inspection and a release certificate.