Appendix N - AUTHORIZATION FOR WORKING ALONE OR AFTER HOURS IN LABORATORIES

1. 1. Introduction

Students are expected to follow practices that keep the laboratory a safe environment for themselves as well as others. This is a particular consideration when students need to perform independent work in a science laboratory outside of the normal operating times.

1. 1. Guidelines for Independent Laboratory Work
      1. 1. Students shall not be alone in the laboratory section of the Science Center where hazardous chemical or physical (heat, cold, ionizing radiation) agents are present.
         2. Work may be performed by students in laboratory areas after hours (between 6 pm and 6 am on week days, and all weekend hours) only with the authorization of the supervising faculty member or laboratory manager. Any work with hazardous chemicals must be approved by the authorizing faculty member in advance.
         3. Students working after hours must not work alone – a buddy who has completed the annual laboratory safety training must be present in the room within sight and hearing distance. The buddy must abide by all laboratory safety rules, including proper dress and eye protection.
         4. Students who plan to work after hours will fill out the "Key Authorization Form" Appendix N(2) and obtain the signature of the supervising faculty member. This form is to be submitted to the Chemistry Office Coordinator who will obtain key card access for the student for the specified dates.
         5. Persons in laboratories after hours without appropriate approval and/or without a second person present will be asked to leave by faculty members or security.

[Proposed text for Key Authorization form]
By signing this form, I agree to the following expectations for after-hours use of labs in the Suter Science Center. (please initial)
1. I will follow all laboratory safety procedures as outlined on EMU's Laboratory Safety Agreement, including wearing appropriate clothing, footwear, and eye protection.______
2. I will not work alone after hours. I will have a second person (buddy) present at all times, within sight. The buddy will also have completed Laboratory Safety Training and will abide by all safety rules, including wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.______
3. I will only perform work that has been pre-authorized by my supervisor. I will not use equipment or chemicals for any other purpose.______
4. I understand that if I do not meet the above expectations, I will be asked to leave by faculty members or security.______