Workplace Safety

The campuswide Workplace Safety Program serves as the university’s central program for creating a safe and healthful work environment. 

What should I know if workers or contractors are modifying or remodeling my space?

Proper evaluation of materials to be disturbed should be conducted by EH&S. Many hazards exist within building materials themselves or may be impacted with chemical or biological residue, depending on the space history, and must be disclosed to all workers who may disturb or work in the space.

Plumbing and piping also have a high potential for chemical residue, especially mercury. It is pertinent that EH&S assist in the evaluation of spaces before remodeling or utility work occurs.

Contact EH&S for more...

Questions about your hazard assessment or LHAT?

If you are a PI and have concerns about the activities that will be performed in your lab, please consult with your campus EH&S office. If you are a Lab Worker and have concerns about the activities that will be performed in your lab, please discuss with your PI directly, and consult with your campus EH&S office, as needed. If you have questions about the LHAT system, please contact the UC ERM Service Desk

COVID-19 Guidance for Cleaning & Disinfecting in the Workplace

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2020

COVID-19 Guidance: Routine Sanitizing in Labs

Office of Environment, Health & Safety

Laboratory Research Ramp-Up SOP Template

Office of Environment, Health & Safety

Laboratory Ramp-Up Phase 3 SOP Template

Office of Environment, Health & Safety

Laboratory Start-up Guidelines

Office of Environment, Health & Safety

Extension Cords and Surge Protectors

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2004

Extension Cords and Surge Protectors Fact Sheet

Extension cords are very useful in many applications on campus and in the field, but they do have limitations. Misused and damaged extension cords (see photos 1-6 below) have caused painful injuries, fires, equipment damage, and regulatory citations and penalties. Take the time to choose the proper extension cord for the equipment being used.

Bulletin Boards Information Sheet

Amy Chen
2019

Bulletin Boards in Corridors of Campus Buildings, UC Berkeley

To assist the campus community with the placement of existing and new bulletin/poster boards in the corridors of campus buildings, the Campus Fire Marshal has established guidelines. Bulletin/poster board use shall meet the criteria of this guideline.

Personal Protective Equipment for Lab and Shops

Office of Environment, Health & Safety
2020

Controlling a hazard at its source is the best way to protect employees. Engineering or administrative controls to manage or eliminate hazards to workers is the preferred option. When engineering or administrative controls are not feasible or do not provide sufficient protection, supervisors must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to their workers and ensure its use. Attire when occupying a laboratory or shop containing hazardous materials or equipment.