The Research Laboratory Safety Office (RLS), in Occupational & Environmental Safety supports research laboratories by providing expert guidance to identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential hazards associated with experimental activities, biomedical research materials, and equipment. The RLS team provides laboratory design and construction, planning, and workflow consultations to minimize exposure, contamination, and support the safety of the Hopkins Community at large.
The RLS team performs site-specific risk assessments on behalf of the Johns Hopkins Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) as well as the Johns Hopkins Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Laboratories designated for work in registrations of biological pathogens or for animal work are evaluated for compliance with Johns Hopkins policy, federal, state, local regulations, and relevant industry best-practices. The RLS group consults on physical plant compliance, provision of safety signage commensurate with the assigned hazards [biosafety levels, chemical concerns, and radioactivity], engineering controls employed, and the selection of sustainable personal protective equipment (PPE).
The RLS team collaborates directly with faculty, staff, and students to develop practical, research-specific solutions, laboratory manuals, and standard operating procedures that align with institutional and regulatory requirements as well as best practices. Whether setting up a new laboratory, modifying an existing research plan, or introducing new materials, the RLS team helps assess risks, recommend appropriate controls, and ensure that all safety considerations are proactively addressed. This personalized approach fosters a collaborative culture of safety, reduces the likelihood of incidents, and allows researchers to focus on their experiments with confidence and peace of mind.
Laboratory Safety Refresh
The Research Lab Safety team is here to help Principal Investigators maintain a safe workplace. If your department has new PIs setting up lab spaces, we would like to encourage them to contact us to schedule an initial consultation/ orientation with our Research Safety Specialists. At that time, we can:
- Provide Caution signage and stickers
- Discuss IBC registration of pathogens
- Explain the SciShield chemical inventory database, Satellite Accumulation Area (SAA) and chem waste disposal
- Discuss PI-specific JHU safety policies (i.e., eyewash logs)
- And recommend training for both the PI and laboratory staff
Pre-Inspection Walkthrough Program
Over the years, we have had PIs reach out to the RSS team requesting a pre-inspection walkthrough of their lab spaces. We are always happy to meet with the PI or lab staff prior to the annual inspection. At this time, we can:
- Conduct a stress-free pre-inspection of all lab spaces
- Point out possible safety violations and help the lab make on-the-spot corrections
- And explain/ train on relevant JHU policies
To request an orientation, please contact [email protected].
Prepare to Move Action Plan
So, You’re Going to Move? Whether relocating temporarily (internally) or permanently leaving the Hopkins Community, contact ResearchSafetySpecialists@whatever to help you and your department safely prepare for your relocation or departure.
For consultation of New Laboratory Design & Construction, existing Renovations and Planning related to biological safety, basic science laboratories, and those shared by clinical and biomedical research, please email [email protected].