A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of instructions for performing experiments or processes that involve hazards (chemical, physical, biological, radiation). SOPs are lab-specific and include documentation of the people who have received training for that procedure.
New students and employees working in your lab should be provided with hands-on training for hazardous materials and operations that are covered by the SOPs for your lab.
SOPs by Hazard Type
Chemicals & General Lab Safety
Written SOPs are required for all hazardous operations/activities. A library of SOP templates for common hazardous chemicals and operations is available in the SOP tab on Labs @ Berkeley (L@B). Chemical SOPs are generally organized by the hazard class (e.g. flammables, carcinogens and oxidizers).
Contact ucbcho@berkeley.edu if you have any questions about lab safety SOPs.
Biological Hazards
SOPs for biological research are also available for download from the SOP tab in Labs @ Berkeley (L@B).
Radioactive Materials and Radiation Producing Machines
SOPs for radioactive materials and radiation producing machines are specific to each radiation use authorization (RUA). EH&S has a library of finalized SOPs for common experiments on campus that can be tailored to your planned work. Contact radsafety@berkeley.edu to collaborate on the development of SOPs for your research with radioactive materials or radiation producing machines.
Laser Safety
SOPs are required for all active Class 3B and 4 lasers. SOPs are to be reviewed and approved by principal investigators and then the campus laser safety officer (LSO). A copy of the SOP should be available for review at all times.
Download the SOP template or learn more laser safety page.