It is a policy of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst to maintain, insofar as it is reasonable and within its control, an environment for its faculty, staff, students, and visitors that does not adversely affect their health and safety. In support of this policy the University will give high priority, appropriate support, and steady implementation to eliminate where possible, or to reduce to acceptable limits, environmental and occupational hazards that are a threat to the health and safety of personnel or to property.

The ultimate responsibility for the campus safety and environmental health rests with the Chancellor. The Chancellor has delegated to each dean, director, chairperson, and supervisor the responsibility for safety performance within their respective unit. Everyone with supervisory responsibility will be expected to take the initiative so that safe working conditions are maintained, and to request the assistance of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety to expedite action when necessary. Each supervisor must take the initiative to train the employees and students under his/her supervision in safe work practices. In particular, supervisors should ensure that employees and students know (a) all potentially hazardous conditions associated with the operation and the method established to control them, (b) all safety regulations for the area of operation. In addition, supervisors are expected to promote a safety attitude and awareness that will lead employees and students working under their supervision to take a safe course when faced with situations which are not covered by established regulations and practices.

It is incumbent upon each member of the faculty, staff, and student body to provide the constant vigilance necessary to avoid unsafe acts on his/her part. Faculty, staff, and students have an obligation to take all reasonable precautions to prevent injury to themselves or to their fellow employees or students. They are expected to learn and to follow approved standards and procedures which apply to their activities, and to check with their supervisors when they have any doubts concerning potential hazards.

The Chancellor has delegated to the Director of Environmental Health and Safety the responsibility and authority for assuming overall compliance with applicable* health and safety standards on campus. The Director shall adopt as guides applicable health and safety standards promulgated by Federal and State agencies in establishing campus regulations and policy. Published standards of nationally recognized professional health and safety groups may serve as guidelines in the absence of appropriate statutes and governmental regulations.

The Department of Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for working with and through academic and service units by identifying and assisting in resolving health and safety problems, recommending standards, evaluating and reporting on the status of compliance with standards, providing technical and support services, recommending necessary modifications, recording, analyzing and reporting accident experience, and developing training resources.

In emergency situations and when required to do so by code, regulation, or licensure agreement, the Director of Environmental Health and Safety or his/her representative, in consultation with the appropriate Dean or Director, may require the immediate halt or control of practices or conditions that have been determined to constitute an immediate and serious risk of death or serious harm to members of the campus community. Such actions may be appealed to the Chancellor who will make the final determination as to whether the practices may be reinstated.

The University Health Council serves as a referral board for all advisory and administrative committees related to the matters of environmental health and safety and shall review and recommend changes in University policies pertaining to Environmental Health and Safety issues.

Specific faculty committees on Radioisotope Use, Biosafety, Chemical Hygiene, and Animal Care which report administratively to the Vice Provost for Research shall be responsible for reviewing and recommending specific operational policies and practices within their area of expertise. In addition, they may advise the Director of Environmental Health and Safety regarding the application of relevant standards for hazards control.

*Applicability will be determined in consultation with the appropriate faculty committees.

John V. Lombardi, Chancellor
University of Massachusetts/Amherst

November 2003

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

1-2: Purpose of this Manual

This Environmental Health and Safety Policy Manual is designed to collect and describe, in brief, the Health and Safety policies in use at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. It will:

Provide a plain-English summary of key element of each EH&S program,
Serve as a practical guide to the UMA community in understanding how EH&S programs are managed
Clarify the roles and responsibilities of departments, employees, students and staff ;
Serve as an easy reference guide;
Provide a mechanism for the quick communication of standards; and
Be continually updated by The Division of Environmental Health and Safety

Each policy is described as follows:

Purpose and Applicability
Definitions and Scope
Roles and Responsibilities
Procedures
Key Reference and Resources

Hard copies of the Manual are available by calling EH&S at 545-2682. Full copies of the policies can be accessed by calling the appropriate program in EH&S.

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

2-1: Environmental Health and Safety Contact List

This section is being revamped in accordace with an organizational restructuring. Please refer to the staff listing on the home page.

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

2-2: EH&S Safety Committees

Fire Prevention and Campus Safety

Each department safety committee reviews safety concerns applicable to their own operations. EH&S personnel act as advisors and liaisons to assist the committees in their work.

- Campus Center Safety Committee

- Campus Center Fire Safety Committee

- Library Safety Committee

- Library Fire Safety Committee

- Campus Services Safety Committee

- Dining Services Safety Committee

- Physical Plant Safety Committee

- Housing Services Safety Committee

- Health Services Safety Committee

- University Health Council

- Campus Safety Summit - includes UMPD, EH&S, Facilities Planning, Physical

Plant, Parking Office, Student Affairs, and Students.

- Occupational Injury Management Team - This workgroup is implementing total case management initiatives for University employees. Includes representation from UHS, EH&S, Human Resources, and Targeted Departments.

- Pedestrian Safety Team - This is an ad hoc work group formed in response to fatalities on campus. The group is made up of representatives from Facilities

Planning, Physical Plant, EH&S and Campus Services to develop and implement improved campus pedestrian safety.

-Health Services Emergency Preparedness Committee – This committee works to ensure the provisions of a disaster plan for UHS would answer the facility

and University needs in the event of a disaster and/or health care crisis existed in the University community.

-University Emergency Preparedness Committee – This planning committee, made up of a cross section of University representatives, is charged with

developing and maintaining a comprehensive emergency response plan for disasters that may occur on campus.

Radiation

- Radiation Safety Committee - a complete list of Radiation Use Committee

Responsibilities can be found in the EH&S policy on Radiation Safety, Section

IV, Responsibilities.

Industrial Hygiene

-Infection Control - monitors infection control and makes infection control

policy for UHS

-Auxiliary Services Safety - addresses Health and safety concerns of staff of

Auxiliary Services

-Chemical Hazards Use - establishes policy on Chemical use

-Department Health and Safety Coordinators - meets to discuss present and

upcoming laboratory and safety issues and procedures

-Restroom Safety - discusses and implements policies to discourage restroom

vandalism

Biological Safety

-Infection Control - monitors infection control and makes infection control

policy for UHS

-Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) -establishes policy on use of biological

materials and reviews research

-Animal Care (IACUC )- establishes policy on animal use and reviews research

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

3-1: Program Descriptions

Purpose: This section is intended to provide the user with a general description of the roles and responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Health and Safety in the University Community.

Originally organized to handle safety and sanitary inspections, the Department has grown to include radiation safety, fire safety, hazardous waste management, campus safety, biological safety and general safety. These responsibilities require a staff of health physicists, environmental health specialists, fire safety personnel, safety engineers, and other environmental specialists.

Descriptions of the Departments specific programs follow. They are Hazardous Waste, Industrial Hygiene, Fire Prevention and Campus Safety, Radiation Safety, and Biological Safety.

Environmental Services:

The Environmental Services program provides comprehensive pollution control services to the University. These services include guidance, collection, storage and treatment of hazardous wastes as well as oversight of private off-site waste management contractors. Efficient compliance with federal and commonwealth regulations are its goals. Mandatory annual training for generators in hazardous waste management is also provided through our web site: http://ehstrain.admin.umass.edu. EH&S also provides emergency response to chemical leaks and spills, equipment decontamination and characterization of unknown chemical wastes. Excess chemicals are recycled through the UMass Reuse/Exchange bulletin which can be accessed at http://www.ehs.umass.edu/rex.html The program also assists in implementing the Environmental Management System at both Lederle Graduate Research Center and Fleet Services.

Fire Prevention and Campus Safety:

The Fire Prevention program insures that campus buildings and fire protection equipment are maintained in compliance with all appropriate state fire codes and safety policies of the University. The Fire Prevention staff inspects buildings, tests and recharges fire extinguishers, investigates fires and fire alarms, checks fire alarm systems, tests laboratory safety showers and insures that all fire hydrants, fire pumps, standpipes, and sprinkler systems are in good working order. Construction plans are reviewed for compliance with fire codes and ordinances. Fire drills are performed periodically in all campus buildings.

The primary goal of the Campus Safety program is to reduce incidents and injuries by instituting a formalized accident prevention program. The Campus Safety program compiles and analyzes statistical information on accidents and illnesses. This information is used to identify high-risk areas and to develop campus safety programs.

Personal protective equipment programs are established which make safety shoes and glasses available to employees at a reduced cost. The Campus Safety program also works with departmental campus safety coordinators to identify and address safety issues.

Radiation Protection:

The Radiation Protection program assures the safety of students and employees who work with radioactive material (RAM) or might be exposed to the University's sources of radiation in the course of their work. The major portion of the program works under the authority of the Faculty/Administration Radiation Use Committee. This program coordinates and maintains the University's state or Nuclear Regulatory Commission licenses to use radioactive materials on campus and assures compliance. The services include maintenance of inventory and control of all radioisotopes on campus, receipt and delivery of all radioactive material, and radioactive waste pickup and disposal. Additional services include survey instrument calibration, operation of the personnel dosimetry program, training in the safe use of radioisotopes for research, safety inspections, and safety training and guidance in the safe use of x-rays, lasers, and microwave devices.

Industrial Hygiene/Environmental Health

The aim of the Industrial Hygiene program is to reduce the risk to the University community of incurring adverse health effects. Work is directed at minimizing the hazards associated with improper ventilation and chemical handling, and excessive chemical noise and temperature exposures. Toward this end, laboratories and fume hoods are inspected annually, odor complaints are investigated and industrial hygiene surveys are made routinely and on request. The respirator fit tests programs is implemented after an investigation by the industrial hygienist of safety officer of the workers exposures and work conditions The environmental health function within IH provides services/inspections in food protection and sanitation, food safety training, housing , lead paint, water supply, swimming pools, solid waste disposal, , recreation camps, pesticides and child care facilities. Nuisance complaints are followed up.

Biological Safety

The Biological Safety program provides comprehensive biological safety services to the University community and assures the health and safety of students and employees who may be exposed to biological hazards in the course of their work. This program works under the authority of the University Institutional Biosafety Committee to review work with pathogenic microorganisms, human blood and body fluids, recombinant DNA, and select agents regulated by the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture. Services provided include review of research procedures, biohazard laboratory risk assessments and inspections, monitoring of biological safety cabinets, technical assistance with autoclaves and chemical disinfecting, review of safety equipment, and review of new construction/renovation of facilities. A registry of recombinant DNA research and research agents classified as Biosafety Level 2 or greater is maintained. Laboratory animal facilities and animal care practices are also monitored.

Training:

As part of the function of all of the programs described above, EH&S is committed to providing high quality training which assists the University to meet Federal, State and Regulatory agency standards. Each program provides pre-scheduled and on-request workshops in areas such as; fire safety, emergency preparedness, first aid, safe handling of radioactive materials, food protection and sanitation, asbestos safety, chemical and laboratory safety, food safety, Right to Know law, biological safety. Formats include lecture, hands-on experience, demonstrations and on-line training programs.

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

4-1: Emergency Preparedness

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy describes the University's response to a variety of emergencies or significant events which may occur here on campus and the

procedures to be taken to minimize disruption to University activities. It delineates the roles and responsibilities of on-campus personnel and off-

campus emergency responders.

1.2 This policy applies to all University Operations and activities.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 A Disaster is defined as a community-wide emergency which seriously impairs or halts the operations of UMA and puts in jeopardy the well-being of students,

visitors or employees or may cause extensive damage to property or the environment. Types of disasters include: earthquake, tornado, and fire,

chemical release, radiation exposure or hurricanes.

2.2 The Campus Emergency Management Team will evaluate information from various sources during the progress of the event and advise the Chancellor on appropriate actions requiring his decision. The Emergency Management Team for this contingency consists of the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance, the Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs.

2.3 The “Incident Commander” is the individual responsible for coordinating UMass' response to a disaster. The Disaster Chief has the authority to secure any resources necessary to safely and expediently respond to the incident in order to return the University to normal operations.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 The Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) participates in developing and maintaining the disaster response plans with other representatives from the campus community. EH&S will serve as technical resource and emergency responders during fires, chemical spills and radiation incidents

4.0 Procedure (in development)

Once a disaster has been declared on campus, the Campus Incident Commander activates the Emergency Operations Center. A pre-determined cast of campus personnel then staff the EOC to plan for and support the operations underway to deal with the situation.

The Campus Emergency Response Plan is based on a team response to generic scenarios that have been listed through the Campus Emergency Planning team in the Emergency Response Plan.

The scenarios listed in the Campus Plan include:

· Telecommunications failure

· Regional power outage

· Medical Emergency

Each Scenario Action Plan is divided into four sections. These are general description, description of the response, the response organization, and any other considerations.

The General Description is an overview paragraph that describes the emergency event. It should identify the primary cause, the community of facility systems affected, and any other descriptive information that helps fully define the event.

The next section of the scenario is the Description of the Response. This provides a general description of the typical actions to be taken in controlling, mitigating, and resolving the emergency event. These are baseline actions, which will likely require modification to provide the best response with the available resources and circumstances at hand during the actual event.

In the description of the event, problem areas and systems impacted have been identified. With a broad based planning committee these problem areas can then be addressed as the best possible means for alleviating those problems.

This description of response becomes a list of tactical objectives to best correct the situation. This section of the document becomes the action plan, those tasks that need to be accomplished in response to the incident.

Each scenario description also lists out an Incident Command chart. This chart lists who is in charge of the operation efforts. The “command chart” also identifies a number of “response teams” that have been identified through the planning prior to the incident happening. These response teams are in place to answer the response objectives identified in the description of response.

Response teams currently identified in the Campus Emergency Response Plan include:

· Public Information

· Safety Support

· Community Liaison

· Family Communications

· Planning Section Team

· Logistics Section Team

· Financial Section Team

· Building Search Team

· Building Repair and Recovery Team

· Food Services Team

· Medical Support Team

· OIT Team

· Police/Security Team

· Shelter Management Team

· Utilities Repair and Recovery Team

· Operations Support Team

· Hazmat Response Team

· Fire Response Team

· Families Contact Team

Included in these individual team descriptions are:

· Team purpose and responsibilities: An overview paragraph that describes the roles, functions and responsibilities of the team.

· Team activation procedure: Detailed and specific documentation on how the team is activated, notified and made fully functional.

· Team Capabilities: A descriptive paragraph that identifies the specific, individual functions of the team, and the specific output that can be expected from the team members as a whole.

· Team work location: The specific place [building(s) and room(s)], at which the team members will assemble and work for the duration of the emergency response event.

· Team make-up (People and positions): Actual people and positions that are assigned on the team that are needed to perform the team’s functions and to meet its expected purpose.

· Needed Equipment: The tools, vehicles, and machines used by the team during their response activities.

· Supplies: Materials consumed by the team during their emergency response activities.

· Necessary Training: The minimum training required by each team member to perform and support the team’s overall function.

· Other Considerations: Miscellaneous and unique information that can potentially impact the team or that needs to be considered in the team’s operation.

This concept of response objective driven operations, supported by individual teams, gives the emergency management team the information needed on what resources are capable of fulfilling the identified objectives. It also gives them the procedures for activating the response team(s) as well.

5.0 Key References and Resources:

University Health Services Emergency Preparedness Plan

University Emergency Preparedness Plan

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

4-2: Building Compliance and Inspection

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.0 This policy describes the EH&S internal program for conducting regular life safety evaluations of all University Buildings and insuring compliance with

applicable state codes in new construction.

1.2 This policy is applicable to all University owned buildings and new

construction.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 An Inspection is intended to reveal building deficiencies as they relate to regulations mandated by the State Building, Electric, Fire Prevention, Gas and

Plumbing codes and other recommended standards.

2.2 A Life Safety Evaluation consists of a full building evaluation and typically includes: exits, means of egress, office, mechanical rooms, roofs, and storage

areas. Conditions of housekeeping, storage, building exterior, and grounds shall be noted. In addition, visual conditions of fire protection equipment and

systems shall be observed.

2.3 Shop Safety Inspections will be conducted on all art, craft, and maintenance areas annually. General safety concerns such as machine guarding,

housekeeping, electrical safety, slip and fall hazards, ergonomics, personal protective equipment, chemical handling and hazardous waste management, and overall conditions will be reviewed.

2.4 Playground Area Safety Inspections will be conducted annually for hazardous conditions. Safety concerns such as pinch points, fall hazards, hard surfaced

landing areas and equipment in deteriorating conditions will be reviewed.

2.5 New Construction is any building project which results in a major renovation of an existing building or in a new building built under the auspices of facilities

planning.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 EH&S personnel will conduct building inspections according to the schedule in

Appendix A. Any deficiencies noted during an inspection shall be forwarded

to the responsible person of record for correction. Work orders to correct more

serious deficiencies will be forwarded to Physical Plant on an approved work

order. EH&S will follow through with Physical Plant to confirm completion

of work orders.

3.2 The responsible party of record is asked to return these forms within three

weeks to indicate corrective action taken or planned.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 All Life Safety Inspections, Shop Inspections and Playground Safety

inspections will be held according to the schedules maintained in the program

guidelines.

4.2 During an inspection, an inspector will categorize each deficiency as, Serious Hazard, Technical Violation or a Recommended Safe Practice.

4.3 Inspection Reports will be provided to the responsible parties in a timely

manner.

4.4 For new construction, EH&S will review construction plans to assure

compliance with applicable life safety codes.

5.0 Key References and Resources:

EH&S Inspection Schedule

Operating Order: Facility Evaluation Reports

Operating Order: Work Order Procedures

Operating Order: Building and Area Evaluation Program

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

4-3: Fire Safety Guidelines

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 These guidelines and supporting policies have been designed to ensure

a fire-safe Environment for students, staff, faculty and visitors.

1.2 These policies apply to all property owned or operated by the University.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 "Fire protection and life safety systems" include fire alarms, sprinklers,

extinguisher systems, smoke detectors, extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire

pumps and emergency generators.

2.2 "Assembly area" is defined by 780 CMR Massachusetts State Building Code

to be a room or space capable of holding more than 49 persons at one time.

2.3 "National Fire Prevention Association" is a private, non-profit agency which

has promulgated national standards for fire-safety. Most States have adopted

these standards and incorporated them as part of their State Building Code.

3.0 Roles and Responsibility

3.1 Physical Plant and Facilities Planning are responsible for constructing and maintaining all fire protection and life safety systems is accordance with applicable federal, state and local codes either through the use of their own staffs or qualified contractors.

3.2 EH&S is responsible for conducting basic fire prevention and life safety training, for maintaining extinguishers, for conducting fire drills and for testing fire suppression systems, emergency lighting, smoke detectors, fire pumps, and generators.

3.3 Each department is responsible for maintaining fire-safe conditions within

their areas and for promptly responding to any deficiencies found during a

life safety inspection. In addition, departments will report any unsafe

condition to EH&S that they believe may be in violation of any applicable

fire regulation or standard.

3.4 The State Building Inspector conducts inspections to ensure compliance with

State Building Codes and State Fire Code referenced within. Reports

generated by the State Building Inspector are filed with EH&S, Physical

Plant and Facilities Planning as applicable.

3.5 EH&S schedules and conducts fire drills in all student dormitories and academic buildings.

3.6 The "Fire and First Aid Unit" is an EH&S sponsored student group who have received training as a brigade of student fire marshals and Emergency Medical Technicians. They are present in these roles at all large public events on campus.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Fire Safety Regulations and Inspections - The University is committed to

providing a fire-safe environment for all users of its facilities. This is

accomplished through adherence to fire safety codes and a comprehensive

inspection of fire safety systems. Each building is inspected at least

annually for compliance with Fire Prevention codes. New construction or

substantial renovations are also reviewed for compliance.

4.2 Fire Extinguishers - The fire extinguisher is the first line of defense against a fire, after prevention. All automatic fire extinguisher systems are routinely inspected by EH&S. All portable fire extinguishers are inspected annually, receive preventive maintenance and are tested according to NFPA standards.

4.3 Fire Drills - Fire drills are designed to test the knowledge of the staff and to ensure the operability of fire protection and life safety systems. Fire drills are regularly conducted in all University buildings.

4.4 Holiday Fire Safety - Holiday Safety Guidelines require that any garland, trees, wreaths, tinsel or streamers must be labeled as "fire-proof". All decorative lighting must bear a testing lab seal of approval. The use of candles is prohibited in residence halls and restricted in all other buildings. Exit signs and corridors cannot be obstructed.

4.5 Fire Safety for Barbecues - Permission to conduct an outdoor barbecue must be sought from both EH&S and Physical Plant. All cooking fires must be contained within a cooking unit and must be located away from combustible materials. Charcoal lighter fluid is the only starter fluid permitted. Charcoal should not be extinguished following an event but should be allowed to cool for 24 hours prior to disposal.

4.6 Fire Safety for Persons with Disabilities - Persons with Disabilities are encouraged to develop an individual emergency action plan for fire or evacuation purposes. The following agencies are available to assist in planning for emergency action; Disability Services, EH&S and Housing Services. Mobility impaired persons do not have to evacuate unless directly threatened by smoke or fire.

4.7 Fire Protection at Public Events - The Fire and First Aid Unit is available to assist with fire and life safety needs at public events. The presence of an EH&S Fire and Safety Officer is required for public events attended by more than 600 persons at the Mullins Center and at large public events on campus such as sporting events.

4.8 Fire Safety Education - EH&S regularly conducts fire safety training for staff and as part of the Laboratory Safety Program. Each person is responsible for knowing the location of fire extinguishers in their work areas and for reporting a suspected fire.

4.9 Fire Reporting - In the event of a fire or suspected fire, EH&S, UMPD and the Amherst Fire Department will respond. All fires or suspected fires should be reported immediately by calling 9-1-1.

4.10 Evacuating from Buildings during Fire Emergencies - Employees, students and faculty are not expected to take any heroic action in a fire. All personnel are asked to evacuate the building immediately if a fire is suspected. A detailed description of evacuation procedures is available by calling EH&S.

4.11 Smoking on Campus - In the interest of fire-safety on campus the University

has adopted a smoke-free policy. All work sites, offices, classrooms,

stairwells, rest rooms, public areas, food service areas, food preparation areas,

waiting rooms, visitor reception areas, lobbies, entrance ways and auditoriums

or similar large assembly areas. In addition, the University Health Services

building will be entirely smoke-free consistent with the appropriate

accreditation standards for health-care facilities.

5.0 Key References and Resources:

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101 - Life Safety Code

NFPA 13 - Installation of Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm Code

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Building Code

Commonwealth Fire Prevention Regulations

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 266, Sections 1-10 (arson), Section 5

(attempt to burn, or aid in burning), Section 32 (damaging fire alarm signaling

equipment), Section 13 (false alarms), Section 21 (smoking in public elevators),

Section 32A (hindering a fire fighter).

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Regulations

UMA Smoke-Free Policy

EH&S Fire Safety Manual

EH&S - New Employee Fire Safety Guide

EH&S - The A B C's of Portable Fire Extinguishers

EH&S - Halloween Decorating Guidelines

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-1: Accident Prevention and Reporting

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy is designed to ensure that employee, students, contractors and

visitors follow safe work practices, promptly report unsafe working conditions and accidents , and work to prevent reoccurrence.

1.2 This policy applies to all University employees, students, contractors and

visitors when engaged in a University-sponsored activity taking place on or off campus.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 “Accidents” include all sudden and or non-sudden events that cause injury to a person. Even "minor" injuries such as cuts or sprains are considered accidents and should be reported as such.

2.2 "Incidents" include situations that have the potential to cause personal injury. Any event that causes damage to University property is also considered an incident.

2.3 "Serious Accidents" are events leading to or causing serious bodily injury to a person. Serious accidents include heart attack, loss of consciousness, amputation, toxic gas exposure, obvious fracture, or profuse bleeding.

2.4 "Occupational Injury" is any injury, regardless of seriousness, occurring to an employee while they conduct normal University business.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Employees, contractors and students are responsible for following safe practices, for reporting any conditions they feel may be unsafe to their supervisor or to EH&S, and for promptly reporting all accidents and incidents to their supervisor or EH&S.

3.2 Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that the proper officials (UMPD,

EH&S and/or Human Resources) are notified of serious injury or accident. The Supervisor is responsible for the timely filing of notification reports including; Notice of Injury Report or Accident Report.

3.3 EH&S is responsible for providing instruction and training on safe work practices, for conducting routine inspections of work areas and for investigating all serious accidents and incidents to determine cause and recommended corrective action.

3.4 EH&S and the Division of Human Resources are responsible for investigating all accidents that have the potential to result in a worker compensation or insurance claim.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Reporting Accidents Requiring Medical Care

In the event of serious injury or incident, immediately contact UMPD (by dialing 9-1-1) who will respond and provide immediate assistance.

4.2 Reporting Non-emergency Employee Accidents or Incidents

Employees injured in accidents not considered emergencies but for whom medical care becomes necessary, must notify their supervisor within 24 hours of the accident. The supervisor will file the necessary forms.

4.3 Reporting Student Accidents or Incidents

Students injured in emergencies should immediately contact UMPD for assistance.

4.4 Accident Reporting Forms

For Employee accidents, supervisors must file a Notice of Injury Report within 24 hours of the accident and submit same to the Division of Human Resources. For student accidents, an Accident/Incident form should be filed with EH&S as soon as the accidents becomes known.

4.5 Corrective Action

EH&S will conduct periodic review of all Accident/Incident reports to identify trends, cause and potential corrective actions. For serious accidents, UMPD and EH&S will jointly conduct investigation into the cause.

5.0 Key References and Resources

DLI, Notice of Injury Report

UMA, Accident/Incident Report

UMA, Occupation Injury Program (in draft)

UMA, Restricted Duty Policy (in draft)

UMA, Temporary Reassignment Policy (in draft)

UMA, Light Duty Policy (in draft)

UMA, Work Restriction Form (in draft)

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-2: Lockout/Tag-out Program (a.k.a.: Hazardous Energy Control)

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy is designed to ensure that Contractors, University Employees and students follow the "Lockout/Tag-out" program. This program establishes procedures for using energy isolating devices to disable machines or equipment to prevent unexpected start up or release of stored energy that may cause injury.

1.2 This policy applies to all Contractors, University Employees and students who may perform service and maintenance on machines and equipment

capable of "unexpected" start up or release of stored energy.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 "Affected Person": A person whose job requires that they operate or use a machine or equipment on which maintenance or service is being performed;

or whose job requires that they work in an area in which maintenance or service is being performed

2.2 "Authorized Person": A knowledgeable individual to whom authority and

responsibility to perform a specific assignment has been given by the

employer or designee.

2.3 ..."capable of being locked out": an energy isolating device which has,

either by design or other attachment or integral part through which a lock

can be affixed. Lock-out should be possible without dismantling, rebuilding or replacing the energy isolating device or permanently alter the energy control capacity.

2.4 "Energized": Connected to an energy source that does or may contain

residual or stored energy.

2.5 "Energy Isolating Device": A physical device that prevents the

transmission or release of energy, including but not limited to; circuit

breakers, disconnect switches, manually operated switches, slide gates,

slip blinds, line valves, blocks and similar devices used to block or isolate

energy. Push buttons, light & selector switches, timers and similar are not

energy isolating devices.

2.6 "Energy Isolation Verification": The operation or testing of the equipment,

machine or process (push buttons, switches, timers etc.) that will determine whether or not the energy isolation was effective. This process will detect, relieve, disconnect, or restrain any residual or stored energy.

2.7 "Energy Source": Any source of chemical, electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, nuclear, pneumatic, radioactive (laser or x-ray), thermal, or other type of energy.

2.8 "Hot Tap": A procedure used in the repair, maintenance and service activities which involves welding on a piece of equipment (pipelines, vessels, tanks etc.) under pressure in order to install connections or appurtenances. It is commonly used to replace or add sections of pipeline without interruption of air, chemical, gas, steam or water distribution systems. This may include an electrical tap to an existing live electrical feeder, using piercing connectors.

2.9 "Lock-Out": Placement of a lock on an energy isolating device,

which insures that the energy isolating device and the equipment, machine

and/or process being controlled can not be operated until the lock has been

removed by the qualified person who initially installed it.

2.10 "Lock-Out Device": An approved device which may or may not include a

hasp capable of withstanding the environment it shall be exposed to, and

that incorporates a lock and a key that will hold an energy isolating device

in the safe position, to protect all affected personnel.

2.11 "Maintenance and Servicing: Activities including but not limited to;

adjusting constructing, inspecting, installing, maintaining, modifying or

setting up equipment, machines or processes. This can include adjusting,

cleaning, lubricating or unjamming of equipment or machines, where the

employee may be exposed to unexpected energization or start-up of the

equipment, machines or processes, or the release of any type of hazardous

energy.

2.12 "Qualified Person": An individual who has the appropriate education,

experience and training to work in and around the equipment, machinery

or process, and knows the effect of operating the controls or equipment.

2.13 "Substantial": Lock-out devices shall be strong enough to prevent removal

without the use of excessive force or unusual techniques, such as with the

use of bolt cutters or other metal cutting tool. Tag-out devices shall be

strong enough to prevent inadvertent or accidental removal. The attachment of these devices shall be of a non-reusable type, attachable by hand, self-locking, and non-releasable with a minimum unlocking strength of 50 lb. force.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 The Facilities Planning Division at the University of Massachusetts

Amherst will verify at the pre-construction meetings that contractors working at the university and its affiliated satellites have the necessary health and safety policies, procedures and site rules for the protection of the campus

community.

3.2 EH&S shall be responsible for the proper training of Supervisory staff who

oversee those functions which may require lockout/tag-out procedures. Each

department is responsible for identifying those Supervisors in need of

training.

3.2 Physical Plant Employees, through the customer service desk, shall be

notified in advance to perform lockout/tag-out after the first circuit breaker,

disconnect switch, valve, etc.

3.3 Supervisors in the respective applicable departments shall be responsible for

the effective implementation of this policy, and shall when necessary for

safety reasons enforce the provisions of this policy as outlined in collective

bargaining agreements.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 The University has establish Standard Operating Guidelines for the

implementation of a logout/tag-out program on campus which includes

energy control procedures, employee training and periodic inspection.

4.2 Lockout/Tag-out shall be incorporated and will apply to both the maintenance

and service of equipment of machines.

4.3 A survey shall be conducted to identify all energy isolation sources

to determine if equipment, machines, processes and systems can be isolated

as part of the pre-planning for lockout/tag-out.

4.4 When replacement, repair or modification of equipment or machines is

performed, and when new equipment is installed, energy isolating devices

must also be installed.

4.5 All affected and authorized persons shall be notified of the requirements of

the Hazardous Energy Control Policy and the Standard Operating

Guidelines.

5.0 Key References and Resources

University of Massachusetts, Amherst Lockout/Tag-out Policy

OSHA Hazardous Energy Control Standard - 29 CRF 1910.147

Hazardous Energy Control Policy SOP

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-3: Confined Space Program

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This program shall provide minimum safety requirements to be followed

while entering, exiting and working in confined spaces at the University of

Massachusetts at Amherst and other locations to which this campus has

Responsibilities.

1.2 This policy applies to all University Employees and students who may need to enter, exit or work in a confines space. In addition, outside contractors are responsible for complying with OSHA confined space regulations and training requirements through their own Confined Space Entry Program that meets or exceeds the requirements of OSHA 29CFR1910.146.

1.3 This program has been developed to identify confined space, implement an entry permit system, require testing for hazardous atmospheres, provide safety equipment and ventilation guidelines and establish a required training program for confined space entry.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 Attendant is defined as that person who is assigned and responsible for

monitoring and overseeing a confined space process or operation. The attendant is also required to provide support services for the confined space activity, provided he/she does not leave the site. The attendant must be able to react to any situation, including an emergency, as required. An attendant is required for both permit & non - permit required confined spaces

2.2 Confined Space is an area which has the following (3) characteristics:

its primary function is something other than human occupancy; has restricted entry and exit and, may contain potential or known hazards including, but not limited to hazardous gases and materials, active electrical and steam supplies, oxygen deficiencies, flammable atmospheres or any other introduced hazards like welding

operations that may adversely affect the occupants/workers

health and safety.

2.2 Non-Permit Required Confined Space (NPRCS) is defined as a space which by configuration, meets the definition of a confined space

2.3 but which after evaluation is found to have no potential for creation of a hazardous atmosphere or has had such hazardous conditions eliminated by engineering controls.

2.4 Permit Required Confined Space (PRCS) is a confined space which as

been evaluated and found to have actual or potential hazards that pose a threat to the health and safety of the workers and requires a written

authorization to enter.

2.5 A Permit Required Confined Space (PRCS) is one that has

one or more of the following characteristics; contains or has a known potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere, contains a material with the potential for engulfment or drowning of an entrant. has 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 smaller cross section, contains any other recognized serious safety and health hazard, including but not limited to: high water level or steam leak that cannot be isolated from another point.

2.6 Entry is whenever a person places any portion of their head, face or

any portion of the body into the opening of a confined space,

it is considered to be entry.

2.7 Hazard Evaluation is the assessment of a confined space to determine the

potential hazards within. These hazards could be known

hazards, real or potential, or a combination of all three (3).

2.8 Qualified Person is a person who has appropriate education, training and experience to work in and around confined spaces, and is experienced and knowledgeable in the various operations of confined space work. This includes the ability to properly evaluate the hazards that may or may not be involved, and the ability to act/rectify any problem/hazard found.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Attendant Responsibility: Attendant(s) shall be stationed outside any Confined Space (permit/non-permit required). Attendants and the occupants within the confined space, shall remain in constant two-way communication (i.e., Person to Person, radio, cellular phone). Attendants shall also: assist the occupants entering the confined space, but shall not themselves, at any point, enter the confined space, direct occupants to exit the confined space when any irregularities are observed, initiate evacuation and emergency procedures/

3.2 Occupant/Entrant(s) Responsibility: The occupant/entrant who will be entering the confined space shall make sure that the "qualified person" has evaluated/inspected the confined space, and that it was determined to be safe for entry. The occupant shall make sure, before entry that all potential hazards have been identified and that serious hazards have been isolated. The occupant shall also make sure, before entry, that all appropriate Rescue Equipment has been made available, at the site. The occupant/attendant/qualified person shall make sure that the appropriate forced air ventilation equipment and tubing has been positioned properly to provide continuous, forced air to the work area, in any confined space. The occupant/entrant shall make sure they have the necessary communication equipment for the type of work. The occupant/entrant should be familiar with the use and warnings of all monitoring equipment.

3.3 Supervisor/Project Manager(s) Responsibility: The Supervisor/Project

Manager for any confined space work shall ensure that the following criterion has been satisfied before work in the confined space is started. The Supervisor/Project Manager shall make sure that all shops involved, or having responsibility for the confined space being worked on, have been notified at least 24 hours in advance. The Supervisor/Project Manager shall ensure that the necessary equipment has been made available and placed on site before work has begun. The Supervisor/Project Manager must ensure that each confined space to be entered shall have been properly assessed by a "qualified" person before entry is permitted. The Supervisor/Project Manager shall make sure that the attendants, occupants/entrants have monitoring equipment in the confined space at all times, when necessary and that the occupant/entrants know what to do in case of alarm(s). The Supervisor/Project Manager shall also make sure that the appropriate two-way communication equipment has been made available to the occupant/entrants at all times. The Attendant shall be equipped with communication equipment, in case of emergency. The Supervisor/Project Monitor shall enforce all appropriate provisions of this program with the assistance of the Physical Plant Safety Officer, EH&S Fire and Safety Staff and their respective department heads. Safety Officers from EH&S and Physical Plant will be monitoring work sites for compliance.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Selection of Respirators will be made by EH&S

4.2 Prior to entry, the PRCS permit should be prepared by a “qualified person” and signed by the entrant and supervisor/project manager. In case of emergency, a “qualified person” can sign the permit. The completed permit shall be made available to all entrants; occupants and attendants by posting near the entrance of the confined space.

4.3 (a). Prior to entry of a confined space, the attendant or entrant shall notify his/her central office of the planned entry. Notification to the central office can be accomplished via two-way radio or cellular phone. Notification to the central office shall include exact location of the space, name of the caller and estimated duration of entry.

(b). Upon completion of the work, the attendant or entrant shall notify the central office of completion of the work in the confined space.

(c). A copy of the actual permits must then be sent to the appropriate departments for record-keeping purposes. The departments are listed at the bottom of the actual permit.

4.4 If, During Any Entry, A Hazardous Atmosphere Is Detected:

· All Employees Shall Leave the Confined Space IMMEDIATELY.

· Then notify the Physical Plant Safety Officer or Environmental Health and Safety.

4.5 Every contractor performing permit-required confined space entry operations shall ensure they:

(a). Obtain any available information regarding permit-required confined space hazards and entry operations from the University department responsible for the space;

(b). Co-ordinate entry operations with University personnel, when both University personnel and contractor personnel will be working in or near permit-required confined spaces;

(c). Inform the University personnel responsible for administering the contract of any hazards confronted or created in permit-required confined spaces, either through a debriefing or during the entry operation.

5.0 Key References and Resources

Confined Space Entry Permit (General)

Confined Space Entry Permit (Elevator & HVAC)

Confined Space Plan

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146 General Industry

1910.268 Telecommunication Manholes

1926.61 Training and Education

See also: Lock/out, Tag-out, Hot Works

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-4: Respiratory Protection

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy is designed to ensure that University personnel and students who are required to wear respiratory protection due to the nature of their work at the University are provided appropriate equipment and training.

1.2 This policy applies to all University employees and students who may need to wear respiratory protection due the nature of their work at the University.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 “Respiratory Protection" is defined as any device that can be worn by the user to eliminate or reduce exposure to harmful contaminants through inhalation. These devices include, but are not limited to: dust masks, gas masks, half or full-face masks, air-purifying respirators, supplied-air respirators, and self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA).

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Each department, office, laboratory, and contractor is responsible for purchasing and maintaining respirators as needed and assuring their proper use.

3.2 EH&S - will assist with recommendations on specific types and uses of respirators.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Selection of Respirators will be made by EH&S.

4.2 Any and all University employees and students who wear respiratory protection will be required to complete a respiratory medical examination at UHS.

4.3 Only persons who receive clearance from the UHS Occupational Health physician or public health nurse will be allowed to wear respirators.

4.4 EH&S will provide training on the use, maintenance, and care of respirators for all University employees required to wear respiratory protection.

4.5 Fit testing will be conducted by the Division of Environmental Health and Safety prior to the use of any respirator.

4.6 EH&S will conduct a "workplace evaluation for respiratory hazards" at the request of the Supervisor/Department Respirator Administrator. Who is the Department Respirator Administrator Safety Officer (Rich Kula) for the Physical Plant and Manager of Industrial Hygiene and Environmental Health (Al Sorensen )f or the rest of the campus.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass Standard Operating Procedures for the Selection and Use of

Respirators

OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard (29 CFR 1910.134)

OSHA Asbestos Construction Standard (29 CFR 1926.1101)

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-5: Hot Works

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy is designed to assure the use of sound fire prevention guidelines by University employees and students using hot works. It is the intention of this policy to prevent injury to persons and loss of property from fire. Bench top soldering of small electrical equipment is exempt from this permitting process.

1.3 This policy applies to all University departments, employees and students who may engage in brazing, cutting, glass blowing, torch use, welding and other similar hot works. Hot works shall be permitted only in areas that are or have been approved by EH&S.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 A Hot Works permit will be issued annually to academic and non-physical plant departments. This permit will be a standard single color of red on white.

2.2 The following are exceptions which need no permits; soldering with an electric soldering gun; soldering in non-combustible pipe chase or not in area of combustible construction or furnishings; torch use for removal of broken glass from windows providing the Fire Alarm Shop disables smoke detectors in area of work while work is being performed.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 EH&S will be responsible for inspecting the proposed hot works area and

issuing the permit if approved.

3.2 A "fire watcher" may be required by EH&S. This fire watcher shall have a fire extinguisher available and be trained in its use.

3.3 Departments holding hot works permits are responsible for assuring that the permit is up to date.

3.4 EH&S will issue job permits for Hot Works to Physical Plant and outside contractors. It is the responsibility of Physical Plant and the outside contractor to notify F-1 of the need for a permit.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Before Hot Works are permitted, the area shall be inspected by EH&S to assure safety.

4.2 Areas protected by fire detection and suppression systems may need to be modified to avoid accidental alarms.

4.3 Hot Works shall not be performed in high hazard areas.

5.0 Key References and Resources

Hot Works Fire Prevention Precautions

Hot Works Permit

General Safety Information

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-6: Scaffold Safety with Fall Protection

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 The scaffold program will establish performance objectives for University employees working with scaffolding. This program will provide the necessary information and training to protect the health and safety of our employees.

1.2 The program will apply to every University employee that will be constructing, maintaining, operating or using scaffolds.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 A controlled access zone (CAZ) is an area in which certain may take place

without the use of guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or safety net systems and access to the zone is controlled.

2.2 Dangerous Equipment is defined as machinery, electrical equipment and other units which may be hazardous to employees who fall onto/into such devices.

2.3 Leading Edge is the edge of a roof or formwork for a floor or other walking/working surface which changes location as additional floors, roof decking or formwork sections are placed, formed or constructed. An unprotected side and edge during periods when it is not actively and continuously under construction.

2.4 Outrigger scaffold is a scaffold supported by outriggers or thrustouts projecting beyond the wall or face of the building or structure, the inboard ends of which are secured inside of such building and structures.

2.5 A Personal Fall Arrest System is a system used to arrest an employees in a fall from a working level. It consists of anchorage, connectors, a body belt or body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline or suitable combination of these.

2.6 A Qualified Person is a person who, by recognized degree, certificate or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience has the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the scaffolding or related work.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Outside contractors shall have their own policy on Fall Protection and scaffolding which can not be less stringent than the University program. If not, they shall comply with the provisions of the program for the safety of our faculty, staff and students.

3.2 Physical Plant, Facilities Planning and EH&S will have responsibility for administering, inspecting and monitoring scaffold use on campus.

3.3 Training in proper scaffold and safety system use will be provided by EH&S for all employees engaged in scaffold use.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Scaffolds will be furnished, erected and used when persons are engaged in

work that can not be performed safely from the ground or from solid construction.

4.2 Load scaffolds will be designed and erected to safely support the design load.

4.3 Footing, anchorage, platforms and guardrails will be installed and maintained according to the standard of this program.

4.4 Each worker shall be provided with fall protection that meets or exceeds the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. When using a harness and lifeline for Fall Protection, the lifeline will be securely attached to substantial members of the structure, NOT THE SCAFFOLD.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass Scaffold Safety Program

OSHA Safety Requirements for Scaffolding (29 CFR 1910.28)

ANSI Scaffolding Safety Requirements (A10.8-1988)

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

5-7: Powered Industrial Truck Operators Program

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 The Powered Industrial Truck Operators Program will provide training and monitoring of all University employees engaged in operation of applicable equipment.

1.2 The program is applicable to all University employees engage in the operation of powered industrial trucks meeting the intent of this program.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 The Powered Industrial Truck Training Program will consist of five parts;

Formal Instruction, Practical Training, Initial Evaluation, Documentation, and On-the-Job Evaluation.

2.2 An evaluator is any person who regularly performs supervisory responsibilities and has been deemed qualified to evaluate operator by the department manager, director, or EH&S training/safety officer.

2.3 Powered Industrial Trucks includes forklifts, transtackers, tow tractors, and pallet trucks. If there is any question whether a particular vehicle is covered by this policy, please contact EH&S.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 It is the responsibility of the department using the forklift to; identify operators, identify types of powered industrial trucks used, identify employees that will operate those specific industrial trucks, evaluate employees using powered industrial trucks in their job and, to refer employees to refresher training when appropriate.

3.2 EH&S or the department (if appropriate) will administer the written test. EH&S will issue a forklift truck operator's certificate to the employee upon receipt of the appropriate paperwork.

3.3 The department where the employee is assigned has the responsibility to continually evaluate the forklift operator's performance and to refer the employee for refresher training if appropriate.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 Once it has been determined that an employee will be operating a powered industrial truck, that operator will be referred to EH&S for training. If the department chooses to offer its own training program, it will adhere to the guidelines outlined in this policy.

4.2 The operating environment will be evaluated by a EH&S safety professional or a qualified evaluator to determine if the operation of such a vehicle can be accomplished safely.

4.3 The operator will undergo training as outlined above. An evaluation of each operator’s performance is required as part of the initial and refresher training, and at least once every three years.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass Powered Industrial Truck Operators Program

OSHA Powered Industrial Truck Operators Training Standard

(29 CFR 1920.178(l)

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

6-1: Laboratory Safety

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy is designed to ensure that laboratory personnel use safe work practices and procedures when working with or near hazardous chemicals.

1.2 This policy applies to any individual who works in a laboratory in any University owned facility.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 Laboratory means a facility that uses hazardous chemicals in the course of business. Dry laboratories, including computer labs, are not covered by this policy.

2.2 Hazardous Chemical is any chemical whose presence or use is a physical or health hazard. Some examples include chemicals that are toxic, corrosive, flammable, highly reactive or explosive, or emit ionizing radiation.

2.3 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) is the "safe" airborne concentration of

substance which has been established by OSHA. This may be expressed as a time-weighted average (TWA) limit (8 Hour exposure) or a ceiling exposure limit (C). OSHA PEL's have the force of law.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Administrative Responsibilities: Each individual faculty member is responsible for implementing all University health and safety policies in his/her laboratory. The department head will assure compliance with existing health and safety policies and will designate a Departmental Health and Safety Coordinator (HSC) to be a liaison with EH&S.

3.2 The Departmental (HSC) is responsible for assisting each faculty member in implementing University safety and health policies. The HSC may assist by conducting inspections, reviewing laboratory operations that involve particularly hazardous chemicals that require prior approval, and reporting all accidents and potential safety problems to EH&S.

3.3 Each Faculty Member is responsible for implementing all health and safety policies in the laboratory. The faculty member is responsible for developing written safety procedures applicable to their research, mandating lab practices and engineering controls that reduce the potential for exposure to hazards, informing lab staff and students of potential hazards, assuring employee and student training, supervising the lab, instructing lab staff on the location and use of all safety equipment in the facility, reporting accidents, and maintaining MSDS forms in the laboratory.

3.4 Employees and Students must follow all safety and health procedures

specified in the Laboratory Health and Safety Manual and by the faculty supervisor in the laboratory. Employees and students must also attend required health and safety training sessions, report accidents and unsafe conditions, and notify the faculty supervisor of any pre-existing health conditions that could lead to serious health situations in the laboratory.

3.5 EH&S is responsible for providing technical guidance on matters of Laboratory safety. EH&S is also responsible for inspecting labs, investigating accidents, making recommendations for remediation of problems, coordinating clean-up operations in the event of a chemical spill, developing and conducting training programs, working with state and local officials on matters of code and enforcement, and overseeing the adoption of all University health and safety policies.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 All Faculty, employees and students will abide by the procedures outlined in the Laboratory Health and Safety Manual. Copies of this manual are available by calling EH&S at (413) 545-2682 or visiting http://www.ehs.umass.edu/lhs.html.

4.2 All laboratories on campus will manage their chemical waste in accordance with the University's Laboratory Chemical Waste Management Plan.

4.3 All spills and emergencies will be reported to EH&S for response and investigation.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass, Amherst Laboratory Health and Safety Manual including;

Laboratory Safety Inspection Checklist

Laboratory Accident Report Form

Incompatible Chemicals

High Energy Oxidizers

Common Compounds that form Peroxides during Storage

Carcinogens

Threshold Limit Values and Flammability of Some Commonly Used

Hazardous Gases

Chemical Disinfectants

UMass, Amherst, Policy and Procedures for Laboratory Clean-out of Hazardous Materials

UMass, Amherst, Policy on Prior Notification for Hazardous Chemical Operations

UMass, Amherst, Policy on Hazardous Lecture Bottle Purchase and Use

UMass, Amherst, Maintenance and Use of Laboratory Fume Hoods

OSHA, Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories

(29 CFR 1910.1450)

American Chemical Society, Safety in Academic Chemistry Laboratories

Chemsyn Science Laboratory, Handling Chemical Carcinogens: A Safety Guide for the Laboratory Researcher

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

6-2: Biological Safety

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

This policy is designed to ensure that employees, students, and visitors follow safe work practices when working with biohazard

This policy applies to all employees, students and visitors who engage in work with biohazards.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 Biological safety, promotes safe laboratory practices, procedures and proper use of containment equipment and facilities when laboratory workers handle biological materials.

2.2 Biohazard or biohazardous agent is one of biological origin with the capacity to produce deleterious effects on humans. Biohazards include pathogenic microorganisms, human blood/body fluids and tissues, recombinant DNA, and Select Agents as designated by US Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Agriculture (USDA)

2.3 Biohazardous waste includes blood or blood products, pathological waste, cultures and stocks of infectious agents, toxins, and other associated biologicals, animal carcasses, body parts, and bedding contaminated with infectious agents, sharps, biotechnological by-product effluents , and laboratory waste containing blood, or other potentially infectious material.

2.4 Biosafety levels (BSL) are defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Biosafety guidelines which specify microbiological practices, laboratory facilities, and safety equipment. Work with infectious agents is assigned to one of four Biosafety levels based on the potential hazard of the agent to people. Four Biosafety levels (ABSL) are used to specify procedures, lab facilities, and safety equipment for work with laboratory animals.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 The Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) is responsible to the Chancellor through the Vice Chancellor for Research and determines policies and procedures for use of biohazardous materials on campus, registers use of biohazards, and reviews protocols which specify use of biohazardous materials. The Biological/Chemical Safety Officer is a member of this committee.

3.2 Each Faculty Member is responsible for completing the appropriate

registrations for work with biohazards and implementing all

biosafety procedures in his/her laboratory.

3.3 The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) is responsible

to approving all research with animals.3.4EH&S is responsible for

reviewing proposals using biohazards, conducting a biohazard evaluation

of each laboratory in which biohazards have been identified, providing

training in biosafety, and, maintaining a list of biohazard laboratories

4.0 Procedures

4.1 All work with biohazardous materials will be conducted using appropriate microbiological practices, laboratory facilities, and safety equipment specified by “Biosafety in Microbiological and biomedical Laboratories” and the UMass Laboratory Health and Safety Manual and in accordance with appropriate regulations.

4.2 All projects proposing recombinant DNA methodologies, work with biohazards at Biosafety Level 2 and above, or work with select agents or toxins must be approved by the IBC. All research with animals must be approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) before initiation.

4.3 Faculty members will complete a registration for work with Select agents as defined by US DHHS and USDA and recombinant DNA, and with animals, submit this to the Office of Research, and notify EH&S.

4.4 Faculty members will complete a registration form for work with pathogenic microorganisms, toxins, and human blood/body fluids and tissues and submit this to EH&S.

4.5 EH&S will review projects proposing recombinant DNA methodologies and/or use of biohazards and/or select agents and toxins and will refer these projects to the IBC for review and approval when appropriate.

4.6 EH&S will maintain a list of biohazard laboratories.

4.7 EH&S will inspect biohazard laboratories initially before work begins and annually thereafter.

4.8 All Biosafety level 2 and 3 laboratories will be labeled with the international biological warning symbol on the entrance doors. Equipment used to store biohazardous materials and biohazardous waste will also be labeled.

4.9 Biohazardous waste will be stored, labeled, treated, and disposed of in accordance with Massachusetts regulations. Refer to the “Requirements for the Storage and Treatment of Biohazardous Waste” and “Waste Management at UMass”.(EH&S web site)

4.10 All biohazardous waste must be decontaminated by autoclaving, chemical disinfection, or incineration. Once the material has been properly decontaminated by autoclaving or chemical disinfection, it is no longer biohazardous and can be disposed of in the sewer system or in regular trash.

4.11 All dead animals (or animal tissues) that have been used for teaching and/or research purposes are to be disposed of by incineration. The carcasses must be packed in a leak-proof container, labeled appropriately, and refrigerated or frozen until disposal.

4.12 Departments will keep records of biohazardous waste that is decontaminated by autoclave or by chemical disinfection. These records are to be retained for at least three years and be available for DPH review at all times.

4.13All dead animals (or animal tissues) that have been used for teaching and/or research purposes are to be disposed of by incineration. The carcasses must be packed in a leak-proof container, labeled appropriately, and refrigerated or frozen until disposal.

4.14 EH&S will dispose of all biohazardous waste that can not be decontaminated in the laboratory.

4.15 EH&S will monitor use of autoclaves on campus to make sure they are properly maintained and procedures are adequate for the decontamination of biohazardous waste

4.16 Transfer of biological materials including importation, Interstate shipment and export of will be done in accordance with appropriate regulations from U.S. Postal Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), US DHHSUS Department of Commerce, International Air Transport Association (IATA), OSHA, and U.S .Department of Transportation.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass, Amherst, Laboratory Health and Safety Manual

UMass, Amherst, Waste Disposal at UMass

UMass, Amherst, Requirements for the Storage and Treatment of Biohazardous Waste

UMass/Amherst, Sharps Fact Sheet

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services(DHHS)

(Federal Register July 5, Separate Part IV)

DHHS 42 CFR 73 Select Biological Agents and Toxins

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 7 CFR 331 Possession, Use, and Transfer of Biological Agents and Toxins

USDA 9 CFR 121 Agricultural Bioterrorism Protection Act of 2002

OSHA - Bloodborne Pathogen Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030)

OSHA - Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories,

(29 CFR 1910.1450)

NIH/CDC DHHS Guidelines Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories,

Commonwealth of Mass Department of Public Health 105 CMR 480. Storage and Disposal of Infectious or Physically Dangerous Medical or Biological Waste

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

6-3: Radiation Safety

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy sets forth the University of Massachusetts, Amherst campus, program for personnel protection from unwarranted radiation exposure while using radioactive material.

1.2 This policy is applicable to all Employees, students and visitors to the University campus who will be engaged in the use of radioactive material.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 ALARA means making every reasonable effort to maintain exposures to radiation as far below the dose limits as is practical and consistent with the purpose for which the licensed activity is undertaken.

2.2 Absorbed Does is the energy imparted by ionizing radiation per unit mass of irradiated material. The units of absorbed does are the red and the gray (Gy).

2.3 Annual limit on Intake (ALI) is the derived limit for the amount of radioactive material taken into the body of an adult worker by inhalation or ingestion in a year. ALI is the smaller value of intake of a given radionuclide in a year by the reference man that would result in a committed effective dose equivalent of 5 rems (0.05 Sv) or a committed dose equivalent of 50 rems (0.5 Sv) to any individual organ or tissue.

2.4 Background Radiation is ionizing radiation arising from radioactive

radiation due to cosmic rays and natural radioactivity is always present. There may also be background radiation due to the presence of radioactive substances in other parts of the building, in the building material itself, etc.

2.5 Contamination, Radioactive is the deposition of radioactive material in

any place where its presence may be harmful. The harm may be in vitiating the validity of an experiment or a procedure, or in actually being a source of excessive exposure to personnel.

2.6 Half-Life, Radioactive is defined as the time required for a radioactive substance to lose 50 percent of its activity by decay. Each radionuclide has a unique half-life.

2.7 Radiation

2.7.1 The emission and propagation of energy through space or through

material medium in the form of waves; for instance, the emission

and propagation of electromagnetic waves, or of sound and elastic

waves.

2.7.2 The energy propagated through a material medium as waves; for

example, energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or of elastic

waves. The term "radiation" or "radiant energy," when unqualified,

usually refers to electromagnetic radiation. Such radiation

commonly is classified according to frequency as Hertzian,

infrared, visible (light), ultraviolet, x-ray and gamma ray.

2.7.3 By extension, corpuscular emissions, such as alpha and beta

radiation, or rays of mixed or unknown type, or as cosmic

radiation.

3.0 Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 The Radiation Use Committee is responsible to the Chancellor through Vice Chancellor for Research for ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials on campus. All departments engaged in the use of radioactive materials and radiation producing equipment are entitled to representation on the committee.

3.2 The Radiation Protection Officer (EH&S) will perform as an integral part of the overall UMass radiation use program acting to establish and maintain required preventive measures to safeguard personnel from harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

3.3 Authorized users of radioactive materials or radiation producing equipment are responsible to the Radiation Use Committee for assuring the safe use of radioactive material in his/her lab.

3.4 The individual user is responsible for using only prescribed or approved techniques and facilities in operations involving the use of radioactive material.

4.0 Procedures

4.1 All individuals who wish to use radionuclides or use radiation producing equipment must first register with the RSO and receive appropriate instruction and safety training.

4.2 All operations involving the use of radionuclides in any chemical or physical form, will be conducted in such a manner as to ensure that exposure to radiation is ALARA, As Low As Reasonable Achievable. Operations involving the use of radioactive materials shall be planned so that the limits established by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission or Massachusetts Radiation Control Program for personnel exposure and radioactive material effluent releases are not exceeded.

4.3 Proposals to utilize radionuclides will be submitted to the Radiation Use Committee through the Radiation Protection Officer (as required by license) on approved forms.

4.4 The applicant may be requested to be present at the Radiation use Committee meeting in which his/her application will be reviewed for more detailing of his/her proposal prior to Committee Review.

4.5 When an application has been approved, one copy will be given to the applicant to serve as his authorization. A second copy will be retained by EH&S for compliance records.

4.6 Ordering, disposition, inventory and disposal of all radioactive materials will be done in accordance with the University license as indicated in the University Radiation Safety Manual.

5.0 Key References and Resources

UMass, Amherst, Radiation Safety Manual

Notices, Instructions and Reports to Workers: Inspections

(MRCP 105 CMR 120.750)

Standards for Protection Against Radiation (MRCP 105 CMR 120.200)

Department of Transportation Regulations (DOT 49 CFR 172)

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University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Environmental Health and Safety

Policy Manual

6-4: Maintenance and Use of Fume Hoods

1.0 Purpose and Applicability

1.1 This policy will set a standard for the design, construction, maintenance, and use of laboratory ventilation in order to maintain acceptable air quality in the laboratory building and surrounding areas.

1.2 This policy will apply to all those charged with the responsibility for designing, constructing, maintaining, and using laboratory ventilation. These requirements will be included in contact specifications for all future contracts submitted by the University.

2.0 Definitions and Scope

2.1 Building envelope: the three-dimensional space surrounding a building

containing the building's makeup air.