Edith Cowan University
Faculty of Health, Engineering and Science
PROCEDURES
Title:
PROCEDURES - HOUSEKEEPING IN LABORATORIES
Descriptors: 1)
2)
3)
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Category: OS&H
Purpose
Organisational Scope
Policy Statement
Definitions
Principles
Content
References
Contact Information
1. Title
Procedures - Housekeeping in Laboratories
2. Purpose
3. Organisational Scope
These procedures are for the use of all staff and students who perform activities in laboratories
and other facilities.
4. Content
These procedures detail guidelines on Housekeeping in laboratories and other facilities within the
Faculty of Health Engineering and Science.
A clean and tidy workplace can contribute to the maintenance of a safe work environment,
and can considerably reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.
1. All work areas and storage facilities should be kept clean, neat and tidy.
2. All aisles, stairways, passageways, means of exit, and entrances should be kept free from
obstructions at all times.
3. In teaching laboratories, all student bags must be stored in the designated area. Bags are not to
be left in aisles, as this represents a trip hazard.
4. Tools, equipment, machinery, laboratories, lecture rooms, tutorial rooms, offices and other work
areas are to be maintained in a clean and safe manner.
Housekeeping in Laboratories Procedures
Document Owner: Chair HES WHS Committee
Date 23/07/03
Edith Cowan University
Faculty of Health, Engineering and Science
5. Return tools and equipment to their proper places when not in use.
6. Non-hazardous materials must be cleaned up immediately.
7. For spills of hazardous materials, immediately report the incident to the laboratory technician
and consult the University’s Hazardous Substances Policy and Guidelines.
8. Extension cords should be secured so that they do not cause a trip hazard. If extension cords
need to be placed along floors, then they should be taped to the floor, and appropriate signs
positioned.
9. Adequate lighting should be provided for all activities.
10. Access points to emergency cut-off switches, valves, taps and alarms should be kept free of
obstructions at all times.
11. Tables, benches and chairs in lecture, tutorial and laboratory rooms should be returned to
their correct position at the completion of each session.
5. References
6. Contact Information
Contact Person: Mrs Doreen Mackie Chair – Faculty of Health, Engineering and science
Work Health and Safety Committee.
Telephone: 5556
Facsimile: 5717
Email: d.mackie@ecu.edu.au
Housekeeping in Laboratories Procedures
Document Owner: Chair HES WHS Committee
Date 23/07/03