Major SafetyNet Revisions and Safety Updates

SafetyNet 114: Confined Space Safety

To all departments that may have confined spaces in their facilities, operations, or field work.

Safety Services has officially revised SafetyNet #114 – Confined Space Safety. While the main topic remains the same,  confined spaces, this updated version is focused on helping departments understand how to identify spaces, where to look for hazards, and outlines different types of rescue. 

Confined space requirements are complex and can create real challenges for departments, operations, and researchers. Our goal with these changes is to help departments identify confined spaces so we can assist them with meeting the requirements and keeping their personnel safe.  The prior SafetyNet provided information specific to older versions of the policy and program. The new version reflects some of the changes to the 2024 policy update and the expected changes to the program which is currently being rewritten. The revised SafetyNet #114 addresses these changes with:

• Reintroducing standard confined space language and simplifying entry documentation requirements: Prior to the policy change in 2024, the policy and program used a complex risk assessment system that required the use of three different documents each with their own requirements for entry removing standard language related to confined spaces. The new policy and program will require one document with standard language that matches Cal/OSHA language, LMS language and external training language.
• Visual Aids: The new version provides more clear and concise information using visual aids. This includes diagrams of the three criteria that must be met for a space to be considered a confined space. Additionally, images of common types of confined spaces found on campus and in field research have been added to assist departments with identifying confined spaces within their own operations.
• Rescue information has been added: One of the greatest risks associated with confined spaces is unplanned or under planned attempted rescue.  Studies show that 60 percent of fatalities involved would be rescuers that enter the space attempting to save their coworkers. This update provides basic information on the four different types of rescue to help departments better prepare. 

SafetyNet 145: Safe Operation of Livestock Squeeze Chutes 

While the core mission remains the same—preventing injury to personnel and livestock—this updated version introduces critical clarifications and resources that all operators must review. Squeeze chutes contain four primary hazard areas (Head Gate, Side Squeeze, Side Exit, and Rear Gate) that pose significant crushing and pinching risks. The revised SafetyNet #145 addresses these with:

• Visual Aids: A detailed diagram of the chute components (e.g., Priefert Model S04) has been added to help operators identify levers and release points quickly.
• Emergency Preparedness: New protocols explicitly require knowledge of manual release mechanisms in case of power failure, as well as the location of the nearest first-aid kit.
• Operational Staffing: The document now formally recommends a minimum of two trained operators to ensure safe coordination during loading and unloading.
• Simplified Documentation: The training authorization process has been consolidated into a single, easy-to-use form that tracks both the manual review and the hands-on proficiency demonstration.

All supervisors and operators of squeeze chutes are encouraged to read SafetyNet #145, the revised version. Familiarizing your team with best practices and procedures for operating and maintaining squeeze chutes can help mitigate risks and reduce injuries not only for operators and associate team members but also for the animal in the chute.

SafetyNet 146: Microtome Use Hazards and Precautions

To all departments that have and use microtomes.

Safety Services has officially revised SafetyNet #146 - Microtome Use Hazards and Precautions. While the core mission remains the same—preventing injury in microtomy —this updated version includes the SOP template, provides resources to assist lab managers in the creation of equipment-specific SOPs, and provides elements to include in the microtome authorized operator training. 

The prior SafetyNet provided general guidelines to follow when operating a microtome. The new version outlines the need to have equipment-specific SOPs and expands the information on the hazards associated with microtomes. The revised SafetyNet #146 addresses these with:

• SOPs: In 2022 the microtome SOP template was published and in 2023 the SOP requirement for microtomes was added to the lab safety inspection.  This document provides a link to the template and details on information that should be included.
• Visual Aids: A detailed diagram of microtome components (for a manual microtome) has been added to help operators identify components of the microtome that are important for safely operating, cleaning and maintaining a microtome. Even powered microtome operations can use the components listed in the diagram in combination with their equipment manual to include in their operator training and SOPs.
• Expanded hazard identification: The SafetyNet expands information provided related to hazards associated with the use of microtomes and cryotomes. Across the UC we have seen a number of incidents related to microtome use that involve hazards beyond lacerations.  

Lab Managers and microtome operators are encouraged to read SafetyNet #146, the revised version. It provides useful information to assist labs in the creation and training on hazards associated with microtomy and equipment specific SOPs.