Chemical & physical safety
A page within Research & Sponsored Programs
A chemical is defined as any element, chemical compound or mixture of elements and/or compounds. These materials can pose a variety of hazards, including but not limited to: toxic to humans and/or environment, fire and explosion. Principal Investigators should be prepared to identify all chemicals that will be used. The chemical identity can be completed through provision of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
Physical hazards are defined as excessive levels of electromagnetic and ionizing radiations, noise, vibration, and extremes of temperature and pressure.
Those PI/PDs involved in research or use of chemicals or physical hazards should contact Dan Sweetman (608.785.6800, dsweetman@uwlax.edu) for assistance in obtaining all required reviews and approvals.
Hazardous Waste
UWL must adhere to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations which establish minimum requirements for documentation, storage, and shipment of hazardous waste. For questions regarding hazardous waste contact Dan Sweetman (608.785.6800, dsweetman@uwlax.edu).
Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act
The Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act (WEPA) requires each state agency to consider the environmental implications of its proposals and before proceeding with any major action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment, to prepare a detailed statement concerning the environmental effects of the proposed action.
Research activities must be considered on the basis of potential impacts in the conduct of research itself. When new technology or policy is proposed or recommended for implementation and such implementation will significantly affect the environment or restrict future alternatives, the implementing agency must comply with WEPA requirements.
Contact Dan Sweetman (608.785.6800, dsweetman@uwlax.edu) to assure that all required reviews and approvals of the research protocol have been met.
Radiation Materials Safety
Research and instruction which require purchase, possession or production of radioactive materials are subject to the provisions of the UWL license under the State of Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services as an agreement State. All investigators are responsible for adhering to the requirements for training, sign posting, reporting and good laboratory practice as specified in the license. Specific details are available from Dan Sweetman (608.785.6800, dsweetman@uwlax.edu).
Drug-free Workplace Act of 1988
Part of the omnibus drug legislation enacted by Congress on November 18, 1988 was the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 (Pub.L. 100-690, Title V, Subtitle D). This statute requires contractors and grantees of Federal agencies to certify that they will provide drug-free workplaces for performance of work under such Federal contracts and grants. UWL will make a good faith effort to maintain a drug-free workplace for all sponsored program activity.