Fume Hood checks and repairs

Published in the Research School of Physics Event Horizon
Vol45 Issue5 3–7 February 2020

Dear all,

Firstly, do not enter those labs that are still closed.

Many of our laboratories with fume hoods and extraction systems have now been opened but the hoods are not operational.  All but 2 of our 30 fume hoods are seriously damaged and cannot to be operated at the moment. 

We are expecting to have repairs to these hoods started in the near future so can you please ensure that all hoods (that are currently accessible) are completely clear of any hazardous materials.

A number of these hoods do have hazardous materials in them.  These are either in closed/sealed containers, squeeze bottles or waste containers. 

Please:

Relocate all containers to appropriate safe storage, ensure that all waste chemicals are moved to the store for disposal.  remove any chemicals from the cupboards under the hoods if this space is ventilated via the hoods. 

There should be nothing in, or under, the hoods except for equipment and empty containers while the repairs are being undertaken.

When items are relocated we need to ensure that our Chemical Management System is updated.  https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/health-safety/chemical-management-system-cms

Please note – all the hoods in Physics will have work undertaken (including the two that are still running – Cockcroft EU Chemistry Lab and Weigold Hot HF lab as these have minor damage).

Clean-up work should be completed by COB 4th Feb at the latest to allow for repairs. Priority for repair will be given to those hoods that have been cleared and made safe.

If you have any issues with these tasks please contact ohs.physics@anu.edu.au asap.

Kind regards

Graeme

Graeme Cornish

Manager, School Facilities & Services

Research School of Physics

ANU College of Science

58 Mills Road, Cockcroft Building

The Australian National University

Canberra ACT 2600