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Research Safety Onboarding

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Safety onboarding is 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 All Hazards
Thoroughly familiarize new personnel with all potential hazards present in your laboratory, including:

  • Chemical
  • Biological
  • Radiation
  • Laser
  • Physical

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 onboarded 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.