Review formic acid storage requirements to determine whether periodic venting is needed.
Higher concentrations of formic acid may require periodic venting to prevent pressure from building up inside the container. Review the product-specific safety data sheet (SDS) for the formic acid in your laboratory, including the manufacturer’s storage requirements in Section 7, to determine whether venting is required.
The University of California strongly recommends that all employees receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines by Dec. 15. Only healthcare workers need to report or decline their vaccination status.
A potential dimethylmercury incident at MIT led to the temporary closure of its chemistry building and medical monitoring for a graduate student and nearby lab members. The incident highlights the importance of understanding chemical hazards, reviewing synthesis plans before beginning work and seeking help whenever health or safety may be at risk.
A graduate student at Hokkaido University died following severe exposure to hydrofluoric acid, while two students who attempted a rescue suffered minor injuries. The incident highlights the importance of proper training, emergency preparation and strict safety procedures when handling HF or HF-producing materials.
As the new academic year begins, Lab Managers, Safety Delegates and PIs should review and update their laboratory safety programs. Start the year by updating group rosters and confirming that all new and returning lab members have completed their required safety training.
The Electrical Safety Policy is being updated to strengthen safety practices across campus and align with the latest NFPA standards. The changes will provide clearer guidance for selecting, maintaining and approving electrical equipment while establishing updated safety roles and responsibilities.
The annual ShakeOut Earthquake Drill will take place on October 15, with a WarnMe test message sent at 10:15 a.m. Campus community members are encouraged to practice “Drop, Cover and Hold On” and learn how to adapt these safety steps to their individual needs.
A strong El Niño is expected this winter, bringing the potential for significant weather impacts. UC Davis encourages event planners to prepare ahead, monitor conditions and have weather contingency plans in place.
This month's Safety Star recognizes Randi Famula for her outstanding contributions to research safety and regulatory compliance. Through her leadership and collaborative approach, she helps foster a safe and successful research community at UC Davis.
Long before she led emergency preparedness, managed risk or helped guide the university through the COVID-19 pandemic, Gaby was a UC Davis student with a clipboard standing at the corner of Hutchison Drive and California Avenue counting cyclists wearing helmets as part of a campus safety survey.
