Laboratory Startup and Safety Onboarding Resources

These resources provide guidance and support for all research laboratory personnel and stakeholders in planning, setting up, renovating, and operating laboratory spaces. They address engineering controls, safety and design reviews, emergency signage and procedures, and overall safety on-boarding, training, and reporting.

• Faculty Guide on Laboratory Safety Practices
• Lab Safety Review Checklist
• Laboratory and Workplace Safety Signs
• Laboratory Risk Assessment Tool
• Laboratory Service Provider Safety Guide
• NFPA Sign Instructions and Links
• On-boarding New Lab Personnel
• Safety Coordinators
• Safety Data Sheet
• Workplace Specific Safety Orientation

Safety on-boarding of lab personnel is also a critical component of ensuring a safe scientific journey in Caltech laboratories. When welcoming new lab members, regardless of their position, take the time to:

Introduce the EH&S Office
The Caltech EH&S Office is your primary resource to ensure a safe workplace. Watch here to learn about EH&S Programs and Services: Caltech EH&S for You.

Introduce All Hazards
Thoroughly familiarize new personnel with all potential hazards present in your laboratory, including Chemical, Biological, Radiation, Laser, and Physical Hazards.

Key Steps

1. Assist new members in identifying and completing all necessary additional safety training before they begin lab work.
2. Provide laboratory specific training on the tasks they will perform.
3. Document and maintain accessible records of all laboratory-specific training.
4. Have new personnel save the Caltech emergency number (626-395-5000) in their mobile phones on their first day.

In accordance with the Institute Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), all new laboratory personnel must be adequately on-boarded in all aspects of working at Caltech, including the unique hazards associated with laboratories.

By following these guidelines, you'll help create a culture of safety and ensure that all lab members, from undergraduate researchers to postdoctoral scholars, are well-prepared to conduct their work safely and responsibly.