Author: Paige Diane Pittman

Waste Collection

Science With Compliance Purdue is an R1 research institution with over 1000 labs on campus. The Hazardous Materials Management (HMM) unit supports the university in facilitating safe and compliant research activities. A primary focus for HMM is collecting and disposing...
Read More

Waste Definitions

What is Chemical or Biological Waste? Chemical or Hazardous Waste Used Chemicals or mixtures: Solvents, salts, reagents, test kits, oils, fuels, cylinders, etc. Contaminated solid materials: Gloves, paper towels, filters, glass, syringes, needles, silica gel, etc. All chemicals that came...
Read More

Dangerous Goods Shipping

eShipGlobal and Shipment Approvals All domestic, international and dangerous goods shipments related to university business must be requested online using eShipGlobal. EHS review and approval is required for all dangerous goods shipments which includes hazardous chemicals, biological materials and dry...
Read More

Universal Waste

Batteries, Light Bulbs and Electronics Universal waste refers to items that qualify as hazardous waste but are very common and easily recyclable. Purdue recycles or disposes of the following items as universal waste: Batteries Lead-acid (Pb), nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd, Cd), nickel-metal...
Read More

Container Safety

Proper Containers Prevent Spills and Injuries Routinely Inspect Look for the following indicators that a container is compromised: Leaks: Puddles or crystals around the bottle or lid. Cracks: Small cracks may be difficult to see, be sure to inspect closely....
Read More

Laboratory Safety

Personal Protective Equipment Requirements Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting against chemical, biological, radiological and mechanical hazards. PPE must be provided, properly used and maintained in a clean and reliable condition. Minimum PPE The following are required in...
Read More

Radioactive Materials

Inventory of Radioactive Materials and Devices Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date inventory of radioactive materials and devices is essential for regulatory compliance, safe laboratory operations and the protection of personnel and the environment. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires all radioactive...
Read More

Hearing Conservation

How Purdue Supports Safe Hearing Practices What Is the Hearing Conservation Program? Purdue University's Hearing Conservation Program helps protect faculty, staff and students from noise-induced hearing loss caused by workplace sound exposure. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead...
Read More

Chemical Fume Hoods

Proper Use, Maintenance and Guidelines Chemical fume hoods help protect researchers by capturing and exhausting hazardous vapors, gases and particulates. To ensure proper ventilation and safe operation: Keep the sash fully closed when the hood is not in use. Perform...
Read More

Needle Safety in the Lab

Preventing Needle-Related Injuries Needles are essential tools in research, but they also pose serious risks. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself, your colleagues and others. General Handling Guidelines: Use blunt-tip needles whenever possible. Plan ahead and organize your workspace before...
Read More