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Frequently Asked Questions
How often does the chemical fume hood or biosafety cabinet in my laboratory need to be certified?
All chemical fume hoods must be tested annually. Biosafety cabinets must be certified at least annually, although some grants specify that certifications must be completed more frequently. Contact OLS at (703) 993-8448 if your chemical fume hood is in need of testing or certification.
Can I use my chemical fume hood that is not operating properly?
Laboratory personnel who use a chemical fume hood that operates outside the allowable range of 80 to 120 fpm at a sash height of 18 inches (marked by maximum sash height sticker) may be exposed to harmful chemical vapors. Submit a work order with Facilities Management at (703) 993-2525 and do not use the chemical fume hoods until it has been repaired.
How often is the safety shower and the eyewash in my laboratory tested?
OLS tests showers and eyewashes every 6 months to certify that water pressure and flow rate are within acceptable parameters. In addition, departments should flush safety showers and eyewashes every two weeks to verify that they are operating correctly and the effluent is clear. Contact your department’s Laboratory Safety Liaison for more information.
What kind of gloves should I purchase for my laboratory?
The type of gloves appropriate for a laboratory activity depends on the chemicals to be used. Consult the Glove Selection Chart in Appendix C of the Laboratory Safety Manual to select the best type of gloves for your activity. If you have additional questions, contact OLS at (703) 993-8448.
How do I obtain a respirator to use in the laboratory or art studio?
If you believe a respirator is required to conduct work in the laboratory or art studio, contact the OLS Industrial Hygienist at (703) 993-8281. All personnel using respiratory protection must be enrolled in the Respiratory Protection Program and receive required medical evaluations and annual training and fit testing. Respiratory protection must be provided at no cost to the employee.
How do I know if I need hearing protection?
As a rule of thumb, if you have to raise your voice to be heard when speaking with someone a meter away, the action level may be exceeded. If you are concerned about potential noise exposure, contact the OLS Industrial Hygienist at (703) 993-8281.
What is the Hearing Conservation Program?
Employees issued hearing protection must be enrolled in the George Mason University Hearing Conservation Program. Enrollees are required to participate in annual audiometric testing, training, and fitting for hearing protection devices.
What do I do if I experience signs or symptoms of chemical exposure?
Employees should contact OHO at (703) 993-2595 if an employee experiences signs or symptoms of chemical exposure.
How can an employee obtain information on reproductive and developmental health hazards in my workplace?
Employees are encouraged to complete a Reproductive and Developmental Health Hazard Form and discuss its contents with their personal physician. An employee may also request OLS conduct a Reproductive and Developmental Health Hazard Assessment to identify administrative and engineering controls and PPE to further reduce employee exposure to reproductive and developmental health hazards. |
