Chemical Emergencies
As a research institution, Brandeis University has a number of laboratories whose personnel actively engage in the handling of chemicals and other hazardous materials. Even with constant care and compliance with safety guidelines, accidents do happen. Should one occur while you are using a laboratory, please follow these basic guidelines:
- Evacuate the area.
- Call the University police at (781) 736-3333 or (781) 736-5000.
- Specify that an accident has occurred and what chemicals and hazardous materials have been involved.
- Advise of any injuries and their extent.
Remember to stay calm and prevent others from entering the area until the police and the University safety officer have arrived. To help in preventing needless accidents and injuries, all laboratory personnel should be aware of all safety regulations and procedures and know the locations of all emergency equipment (eyewashes, showers, ventilation hoods, and fire extinguishers) in the laboratory in which they are working.
The University safety officer is available at (781) 736-4262 to answer any of your questions or establish customized safety training programs for your departments.