Occupational health and safety

Laboratory signage for microbiology: Is it mandatory for school science laboratories to have a biological hazard sign on laboratory doors and equipment such as incubators and fridges where microorganisms are being used, incubated and stored? What does the term biological hazard actually mean?

Blood Typing—Use of Animal Blood: Hi, I know that if we use human blood for blood typing it has to be screened. A teacher attended a PD session and they used blood from the bottom of a bag of meat that was bought from the shops for human consumption. I'd like to know if it is OK to use this blood in a school laboratory?

Ammonium Nitrate: Hi. Wondering if anyone uses ammonium nitrate for senior chemistry? Have a teacher who has requested some ammonium nitrate for making rockets? Not sure if it is a banned substance for schools, or if limitations are in place for having it. Any info on this would be useful. Thanks.

Banned chemicals/materials list NSW & ACT: Hi there, I have heard that schools in NSW & ACT have updated their list of banned chemicals and materials for use in Science. Is anyone able to please supply me with a copy of this list? Thanks.

Dust at workplace: Good afternoon Science ASSIST.

There is construction(renovation) going on adjacent to my lab. A hole has been knocked down to create an entrance to the new student's lab and the renovation of two additional classes for the Science area. While the construction is going on, we are still expected to carry out our duties.

Bacteria (Micrococcus luteus): Is there any reason Micrococcus luteus can not be used in non-government schools in WA?

Chemical use in junior laboratories: Our science faculty is moving to a new, purpose-built facility next year. Senior labs have access to a safety shower and eyewash station. Junior labs, on a lower floor, have only an eyewash station.

I have been asked to find out if there are any OH&S restrictions on the strength of acids and bases and the use of flammable chemicals in the junior labs, given there is no safety shower available.

Our school is an independent coed school.

Lead and lead salts. On your List of Recommended Chemicals for Science in Australian Schools, you say that lead nitrate can be used in Years 7–12. They are classed as 'high risk' substances with uncertain or unpredictable risk levels in Education QLD’s guidelines. I don’t, therefore, understand why lead and lead salts are included on your list?

Hazardous waste: Could you do an SOP on the disposal of hazardous substances?