Environmental Safety

The Department of Sustainability and Environmental Safety assists the University in its education, research and public service mission by promoting a safe and healthful environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors.

Emergency Preparation Is Key

SU is prepared for emergencies and we encourage our community to also be prepared. If there’s a fire or building evacuation, do you know your nearest exit or where to assemble?

Online training module for fire emergency evacuation including sheltering in place procedures for persons with a temporary or permanent disability which prevents descending stairs.
Floorplans of most SU academic and residential buildings and directions to emergency assembly points are available.
The Fire Emergency Action Plan provides guidance for fire emergencies.
Personalized Fire Emergency Evacuation Assistance Plans may be developed for persons with a disability who requests one through DRC (students) or Human Resources (faculty/staff).

For more information about specific emergencies, as well as tips for responding during those situations, see the SU Police Emergency Procedures page.

Safety Data Sheets

Workplace Injury and Illness Reporting

All work-related incidents resulting in an injury or illness must be reported as soon as possible. Our office also tracks all non-employee incidents that additional information about reporting injuries and illness available.

Safety Training

Our office offers training for new staff, as well as sessions on bloodborne pathogens; adult and child CPR and AED use; adult and child first aid; asbestos, biohazard and radiation awareness; laboratory safety for students and instructors; respirator training; and spill prevention control and countermeasures. Learn more about each training and to schedule a session.

Laboratory Safety

Always exercise extra caution when working with chemicals, biological material, open flames and other potential hazards in the laboratory. Learn more about Laboratory Safety and Waste Management. To request an evaluation of your lab for compliance or for assistance in developing special procedures, please contact Environmental Safety at 410-546-6485.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I dispose of old batteries?

Small quantities of batteries may be placed in battery collection containers distributed across campus or larger batteries or quantities please contact the visit the Battery Recycling page at 410-543-6283 or call our office at 410-546-6485 to schedule a pickup for larger batteries or quantities.
How should I dispose of old chemicals or paints?
Are there any special requirements for using chemicals on the campus?

If you use chemicals as a part of your employment, you must be trained on hazard communication (haz-com). This right-to-know training is a mandatory introduction to the University’s hazard communication program, labeling requirements, personal protection equipment, material safety data sheets and more. Call the Environmental Safety Office at 410-546-6485 to discuss whether this is appropriate for your activities.
What are SU’s chemical storage requirements?

All chemical storage containers need to be properly stored, labeled and managed. Labeling information is available on our Lab Safety page. Chemicals must be stored with compatible materials and properly disposed of when considered waste. Some chemicals present exposure hazards and require the use of ventilation, hoods or special protective equipment to reduce the hazard. The Environmental Safety Office provides training, disposal and consultation services.