Standard Operating Procedures

SOP may also be required when laboratory work involves the use of certain types of hazardous chemicals or physical hazards or when more specific language is required to safely perform a procedure. Examples may include working with a pyrophoric or reactive chemical, changing a pyrophoric gas cylinder, work with a particularly hazardous material, etc.

• When a laboratory engages in an activity or procedure not covered by the chemical hygiene plan.
• Laboratory work involves the use of certain types of hazardous chemicals or physical hazards. Examples may include working with a pyrophoric or reactive chemical, changing a pyrophoric gas cylinder, work with a particularly hazardous material, etc.
• More specific language is required to safely perform a procedure.

Once a SOP is written it must be reviewed and approved by Environment, Health & Safety. After approval, all lab workers using that SOP must be trained on its content and the training must be documented. A copy of the training record must be attached to the SOP when placed in the lab copy of the chemical hygiene plan.

• The PI or Lab Supervisor is responsible for developing written SOPs.
• The PI or Lab Supervisor is responsible for providing training to lab personnel on the SOP.
• Laboratory personnel working autonomously or performing independent research are responsible for developing SOPs appropriate for their own work.