Risk Assessment Procedure
Different types of risk assessment are performed within the School by the supervisor, research staff, or students undertaking a project or fieldwork. Risk assessments should also be carried out for day-to-day operations in any laboratory or instrument services facility. The assessment should include sample handling, storage, disposal of chemicals, spill procedures and use of machinery.
A risk assessment is required for all student research projects. Each project supervisor must ensure that this is carried out with a student prior to commencement of experimental work. This is to ensure that students consider the potential hazards they are likely to face. The assessment should enable students and supervisors to identify any special properties of the compounds they use or prepare, and the necessary precautions that are needed. Risk assessments must be reviewed every time a change is made to the experimental procedure or a new reagent is used.
Teaching and Instrument laboratory managers should also ensure risk assessments have been completed for the use of each instrument, machine or appliance.