Laboratory Closeout Procedure

WVU Environmental Health and Safety has released a Laboratory Closeout Procedure to assist Principal Investigators, Chemical Hygiene Officers, and departments in instances when a Principal Investigator leaves the institution, a laboratory is relocated, research activities are terminated, or a laboratory is being renovated.  The guide includes a timeline and checklist that addresses handling materials such as biohazards/infectious materials, chemicals, controlled substances, hazardous materials, laboratory animals, microorganisms, and radionuclides and the proper procedures for decontamination of laboratory spaces and equipment.  Addressing these hazards prior to vacating the space is necessary for preventing incidents and exposures for those who must enter.  Abandoning such hazards can cause a financial burden in identification, disposal costs, and potential fines to WVU departments.