EH&S Resources
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Hurricane Preparedness for Laboratories
As you are preparing to leave your laboratory in the event of a hurricane or other natural disaster, USF Environmental Health and Safety recommends the following minimum guidelines:
Chemical Safety
- Label and cap all chemical containers including waste containers.
- Move all chemicals to appropriate storage locations.
- Store water reactives in tightly sealed, waterproof containers.
- Place flammable materials in approved flammable cabinets.
- Remove chemicals from upper shelves and limit storage on bench tops.
- Cap gas cylinders and secure to a permanent fixture using a cylinder strap or chain.
- Ensure refrigerators containing critical temperature-sensitive research materials are plugged into outlets with emergency generator back up.
Fume Hoods
- Close fume hood sashes completely. If the building experiences a complete loss of power, fume hoods may become inoperable.
- Remove all chemicals from fume hood and secure in appropriate storage area.
Equipment
- Unplug all non-essential equipment (ie. hotplates, heat mantles, vacuum pumps, magnetic stirrers, etc.)
- Turn refrigerators/freezers to coldest setting.
- Ensure that all bench-mounted gas fixtures are in the off position.
Security
- Close and lock all laboratory doors.
- Avoid blocking exits and hallways.
- Update and post emergency contact information for laboratory personnel.
Please protect your laboratory and research equipment. During hurricane season, it is imperative that employees and departments protect and secure their areas. This will minimize damage and loss of research should a hurricane strike the area.
For assistance or additional information, please contact the Division of Environmental Health and Safety at 974-4036. |
