The Peer Safety Committee would like to remind all students of the department’s safety star and near-miss reporting (and a chance to win a prize!).
Safety star reporting allows students in the department to nominate themselves or others who are fostering an optimal and safe lab environment. Near-miss reporting tracks any unplanned event that did not cause severe injury or damage but had the potential to do so. Near-miss reports can be submitted anonymously or with contact information for follow-up discussion. Please submit safety star information here and near-miss reports here to highlight members of the department who are making safety a top priority.
Win a $25 Gift Card!!! One safety star submission will be randomly selected for a $25 Amazon gift card. If the winning submission is a self-nomination, that person will receive the gift card prize. If a student nominates another peer, both the person who submitted the safety star comment and the subject of the comment will win. One near-miss report will also be randomly selected for a $25 Amazon gift card if contact information is provided.
Peer led-Lab Reviews
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our peer-led lab reviews, a fully student-driven and engaging initiative focused on reviewing lab safety standards. This program aims to foster inter- lab safety discussions among students and facilitate the communication of their safety concerns to the PSC. In addition to familiarizing participants with the official EH&S lab inspection process, we’ll cap off the session with a fun gathering featuring delicious food! Fill this short survey if you are interested in participating: SURVEY
Mental Health Awareness
As we reach the middle of October, it’s essential to prioritize self-care and develop healthy coping strategies. You can start by incorporating regular physical activity into your routine, as exercise can boost your mood and reduce anxiety. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help ground you in the moment and promote relaxation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends or family for support. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it!
Here’s a link to WashU Mental Health Resources.
Safety Minute
Strong acids and bases are essential components of our laboratory work. Additionally, hazardous organic solvents play a critical role in chemical synthesis and characterization. Such chemicals pose significant dangers to our eyes if direct contact occurs, and spills can happen unexpectedly. It is our duty to adhere to safety protocols to prevent such incidents. It is awesome that goggles are included in our PPE. Never forget to wear them while working in the laboratory to protect your eyes and also to look cool as a scientist
