Emergency Response Guide for Laboratories

Each lab should consider the types of incidents that could have an adverse effect on people, research efforts, property, and/or the environment. Planning efforts should be aimed at mitigating the impact of the emergency (for example, arranging for critical laboratory equipment to be maintained on emergency power) and should consider the necessary response for each situation. See Appendix I for UNT Laboratories Emergency Readiness for a guide on power outages, loss of heat, and long breaks or temporary lab closures. It is best to be trained in all types of situations. See Emergency Preparedness for the types of emergency preparedness trainings that UNT offers. ALL laboratories and teaching laboratories should have written designated response procedures for all possible emergencies.

In the laboratory, chemical-related incidents require local emergency response that may involve requesting assistance, local clean up, and incident reporting. For guidance on proper response to various emergencies, see below.

Life Threatening Emergencies

Life Threatening Emergencies - fire, explosion, serious injury/exposure.

If fire

• CALL 911
• Alert people in the vicinity, activate local alarm systems.
• Evacuate the area.
• Remain nearby to advise emergency responders.
• Once personal safety is established, call RMS at 940-565-2109 and notify the PI or Laboratory Supervisor.

If Personnel Exposed

• Remove exposed/contaminated individual from area, unless unsafe to do so because of (a) medical condition of victim, or (b) potential hazard to rescuer.
• In all instances, immediately notify Police 911 if immediate medical attention is required.
• Administer First Aid as appropriate.
• Flush contamination from eyes/skin using the nearest emergency eyewash /shower for a minimum of 15 minutes. Remove any contaminated clothing.
• Take copy of SDS of chemical to hospital with victim.
• Notify RMS to report the incident and notify the PI or Laboratory Supervisor.

Non-life-Threatening Emergencies

• Non-life-threatening injuries to personnel (small cut, burns, etc)
  • Notify PI or supervisor and if able to and comfortable with it, perform first aid.
  • Seek medical attention afterwards.
  • Notify RMS at 940-565-2109.
• Non-life-threatening incidents (i.e., no injury only property damage) or near misses.