Chemical Safety

Ensuring the safe and compliant use of chemicals on campus.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Labs

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...

Dispose of Waste

Master list of waste types is displayed below. Note: If you cannot find the item that you are trying to get rid of in this list, please contact EH&S at ehs@berkeley.edu or (510) 642-3073. collapse all expand all Aerosol Cans

Please log into the...

Understanding Sharps Safety and Handling

June 25, 2025
What Are Sharps?

Sharps are any items with pointed edges or projections capable of cutting, puncturing, or piercing the skin. Common examples include:

Hypodermic needles

Syringes with attached needles or tubing

Razor blades, scalpels, and X-Acto® knives

Glass Pasteur pipettes

Broken glass items

Glass microscope slides and coverslips

Sharp instruments...

Self Closing Flammable Cabinets

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2025

California Fire Code (CFC) regulations establish the quantity and methods for flammable and combustible liquids storage in research and teaching laboratories.

Flammable Liquid Transfer Guidelines

Flammable Liquid Transfer Guidelines

Kendall Braun

Assistant Chemical Hygiene Officer / Lab Safety Specialist
Chemical Safety
Lab Safety
EH&S Inspections

Russ Blackmar

Chemical Inventory Specialist
Chemical Inventory
Chemical Safety
Hazardous Materials
Lab Safety

Kelsey Mesa

Chemical Hygiene Officer, Lab Safety Team Supervisor
Chemical Safety
Lab Safety
EH&S Inspections

Training

The EH&S training team creates, delivers, and tracks health, safety, and environmental training for all faculty, staff, and students.

Important Updates to Drain Disposal Restrictions

February 27, 2025
Office of Environment, Health, and Safety

The campus Drain Disposal Restrictions have been revised in an effort to simplify the guidelines and mitigate improper disposal practices. Discharge of hazardous chemical wastes into the municipal sanitary sewer system is prohibited by campus policy and is regulated by federal, state, and regional laws. UC Berkeley is committed to the protection of the local community and the environment.

Action Required

Review the revised ...