Laboratory Safety Program Overview
The Lab Safety Program is implemented to ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, and other regulatory requirements, as well as to foster a strong culture of safety across all research and teaching laboratories. This program is designed to minimize risks associated with chemical exposure, spills, ensure proper handling and storage of chemicals, and promote safe laboratory practices.
As part of the Lab Safety Program, OEHS conducts or oversees the following inspections:
1. Annual Laboratory Safety Inspection
Conducted by OEHS, these inspections assess compliance with safety regulations and ensure that laboratories meet the required safety standards. Key areas of evaluation include:
- Lab-Specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Lab-specific SOPs must be available and current. For guidance, refer to the SOP Guidelines, which include frequently asked questions and an SOP template. - Chemical Inventory
Ensure the chemical inventory is up-to-date. Refer to the SciShield Guide for instructions on reconciling the inventory and other related tasks. - Chemical Labeling
All chemicals must be properly labeled. For additional information and label templates, click here. - Laboratory Door Signs
Door signs must reflect accurate and up-to-date information, including after-hours contact information for individuals who need to be notified in case of an emergency in the lab. Office phone numbers are not acceptable as emergency contact information. These signs are generated through SciShield. Learn how to create one using the How to Create a Door Sign Demo or consult the SciShield Guide. - Hazardous Waste Storage
Hazardous waste must be stored in compliance with regulations. Click here for more information. - Chemical Storage
Chemicals must be stored in a safe and organized manner. For guidance, refer to the Chemical Compatibility and Storage Guide or click here. - Training Compliance
Verify that all lab members have completed the required training. For information on training requirements, see the Training for Lab Employees Fact Sheet or click here. - General Housekeeping and Fire Safety
Ensure there are no safety hazards present and that fire safety measures are in place.
To help prepare for your inspection, OEHS has developed a Lab Inspection Preparation Checklist.
Documents to Upload in SciShield
As part of the Annual Laboratory Safety Inspection, the following documents must be reviewed, signed, and uploaded to the "Documents" tab in SciShield:
Laboratory Safety Compliance Verification Form 2025
PPE Hazard Assessment Form. For more information, please see Form Instructions.
For instructions on how to upload documents in SciShield, refer to the SciShield Guide.
2. Quarterly Safety Inspections
These self-inspections focus on specific safety topics identified by OEHS.
- Can be completed by the lab or the Department Safety Representative (DSR).
- OEHS provides a designated form for each quarterly inspection.
- Completed forms must be submitted to OEHS by the specified deadline.
3. Controlled Substance Inspections
Labs working with controlled substances must follow the requirements outlined in our Controlled Substances Program. A separate inspection will be conducted as part of this program to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
4. Research with Animals
Tulane's Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee (IACUC) Office, which is not part of OEHS, conducts inspections for the humane care and use of animals in research.
For labs conducting research involving animals, please refer to our Animal Safety Program for additional information and requirements.
