Food/Drink Storage and Permissibility in Laboratory Spaces
Memorandum of Policy and SafetyNet Interpretation
This memorandum clarifies Environmental Health and Safety’s (EH&S) interpretation of Policy and SafetyNet guidance, concerning what constitutes food/drink storage in a laboratory space. This interpretation can be rescinded or revised at any time.
Consumption and storage of food/drink in a laboratory space is strictly prohibited!
However, if the following conditions are met, food/drink is temporarily permitted in a laboratory space:
- Concealed in a closed, personal bag
At all times, the food/drink must remain contained and concealed in the bag, and not observable from outside the bag. - Removed from lab when owner leaves the lab
Owners must remove their closed bag (if it’s concealing food/drink), when they leave the lab.
Background
This interpretation offers a practical approach to safely accommodate those carrying food/drink, while also keeping hallways clear of personal bags and water bottles. EH&S’ goal is ultimately to prevent the improper storage of food/drink in laboratory spaces, and all consumption of food/drink in laboratory spaces.