Specialized Research Safety Training

Hazards encountered by students, staff, faculty, and researchers in each laboratory space are often unique based on the nature of the work performed. Specialized trainings are required to help individuals prepare for these unique hazards and many are offered by our office.

Lab-Specific Training

After your biosafety manual has been approved: Print a copy of the approved manual to keep in the lab. All personnel must review the biosafety manual, complete a training record, and sign the signature page of the biosafety manual. The training should include specific procedures, PPE and equipment used in the lab, to conduct the work described in the IBC protocol and biosafety manual, as well as the proper handling and containment of the specific biohazards present in the lab.

Field Biosafety & Bloodborne Pathogens Training

This training is required for research staff that participates in fieldwork. If you are participating in fieldwork, consideration should be given to establishing a set of biosafety guidelines based on the potential exposure that you may face. The Principal Investigator and members of the research team should consider any biosafety risks (and occupational risks) with the entire project. OSHA requires that all individuals who anticipate coming in contact with materials that could potentially be contaminated with bloodborne pathogens to be trained accordingly. This training should only be completed between 9 am-5 pm Monday through Friday, to ensure that we are available to answer any questions you may have regarding the training. It is required both at the time of initial work assignment and at least every 12 months thereafter.

To complete the training: Contact the Office of Research Safety at [email protected] to receive the training links. Upon successful completion of the training a certificate will be generated. Please keep a copy for your records.

Gross Anatomy Laboratory Safety Training

This training provides information on identifying significant hazards in the Gross Anatomy Lab and suggests safety guidelines for the protection of all workers in the Gross Anatomy Lab. It is required both at the time of initial work assignment and at least every 12 months thereafter.

Viral Vector Risk Assessment & Lentiviral Vector Training

This training is required for individuals assigned to projects involving lentiviral vectors. Before an IBC protocol can be approved, PIs and authorized personnel must complete this training. It is required once at the time of initial work assignment..

To complete the training: Contact the Office of Research Safety at [email protected] to receive the training link. Upon successful completion of the training a certificate will be generated. Please keep a copy for your records.

Shipping of Biohazardous Materials

This online training provides information on the shipment of biohazard materials and helps the user identify if the materials within the package are regulated and what steps are required to comply. Training certificates for this course are valid for 2 years.

To complete the training: Contact the Office of Research Safety at [email protected] to request training and complete the IATA Training request form for access.

Disposable Dust/N95 Respiratory Protection Training and In-Person Fitting (“N95 Online Training & In-person Fitting”) (Provided by EHS)

This training is required when the IBC risk assessment determines that an N95 is required for personnel working with infectious agents outside of a biosafety cabinet. Both the training and in-person fitting are required annually.

This training is available through the Office of Environmental Health & Safety.

To complete the training: Contact EHS at [email protected] or 4-4347 to request training.

Initial Radiation Safety Training

This training provides fundamental knowledge necessary to protect yourself and others while working with radioactive materials. This training is required for all individuals who will use/possess radioactive materials. It is required both at the time of initial work assignment and at least every 12 months thereafter.

To complete the training: Contact the Office of Research Safety at [email protected] to complete the New User Application. Once the application is received you will receive the training link and exam. Upon successful completion of the training a certificate will be generated. Please keep a copy for your records.

Radiation Safety Refresher Training

This training provides an annual update and is required for all active radiation workers.

To complete the training: Contact the Office of Research Safety at [email protected] to receive the training link and exam.

Irradiator Safety Training

This training is designed specifically for individuals utilizing irradiators containing radioactive materials. The course covers items related to basic radiation safety as well as aspects of the enhanced security involved with the gamma irradiators. It is required both at the time of initial work assignment and at least every 12 months thereafter.

Laser Safety Training

This training is required for personnel who work with Class 3B & Class 4 lasers. In addition, the principal investigator is responsible for providing instruction in the safe and appropriate use of the laser related to the specific research project. It is required before initial laser use and every 3 years after.