Laboratory safety

Laboratories are specialised work areas used for scientific research or teaching. There are over 600 laboratories at the University of Otago and these areas play a vital role in research and teaching activities.

Laboratories may contain a variety of hazards and some of these are not commonly encountered in other work environments and may be subject to very specific regulatory requirements.

Laboratory safety information

• Animal welfare
• Biological safety
• Hazardous substances
• Radiation

Departmental Laboratory Managers and Sector Managers

All departments with laboratories have a Departmental Laboratory Manager (DLM) who should be your first point of contact for queries or training in relation to the hazardous substances or general aspects of laboratory health and safety. Online laboratory health and safety training is also available through the Health and Safety Office – please contact the Laboratory Health and Safety Advisor to arrange access.

In addition, laboratory facilities where New Organisms (including genetically modified organisms) or imported risk goods (Uncleared Biologicals) are present will have a Sector Manager who should be contacted for queries in relation to these materials (including access to laboratories where such materials may be present).

Download the DLM list