Relocating or Closing Laboratory

The purpose of the  Laboratory Close-Out Policy  is to alleviate problems associated with the accumulation of waste in laboratories that may contribute to non-compliance with regulatory agencies including, but not limited to, those governing the use of radionuclides, biohazards, laboratory animals, and toxic materials.

All chemical and biological materials that will not be relocated shall be disposed of properly. Procedures for disposal can be found on the  Laboratory Safety page. The disposal of all waste shall be completed before the principal investigator relinquishes possession of the vacated laboratory. Disposition of all chemical and biological waste is the responsibility of the principal investigator.

The principal investigator is responsible for ensuring that surfaces and equipment potentially contaminated with hazardous chemicals or biological agents are decontaminated before the laboratory is vacated. Accessible surfaces (fume hoods, sinks, and bench tops) should be cleaned by the principal investigator and staff. See Appendix A of the Laboratory Close-Out Policy for the proper procedure for decontamination. If this is not possible, see Appendix B of the of the policy for cost that will be endured. The principal investigator shall provide the safety department with thorough and accurate information pertaining to the past uses of the equipment.

To confirm that a vacated lab is properly emptied of hazardous materials, decontaminated, and ready for new occupants, the principal investigator or laboratory supervisor shall prepare the  Laboratory Closeout Checklist . This checklist shall be signed by the principle investigator, the department chairperson and a safety representative.

The HSC Safety Department offers a laboratory survey to any principal investigator vacating a laboratory to assist in identifying the tasks that must be finished for clearance of the space. View the Laboratory Close-Out Policy.