701.4 - Facilities Safety Policy
Purpose
The following policies, procedures and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are in place to assure safe and compliant research at The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith (UA Fort Smith) and to protect human health and the environment.
Environmental & Occupational Safety
Safety is the responsibility of each employee at the university. In addition, each person of authority at the university is responsible for those employees under his or her supervision. This responsibility begins with the Chancellor and flows down to each person within the structure of the university.
The personal and collective safety and health of students and employees are of primary importance. Cooperation among administration, faculty, staff, and students is necessary to maintain a strong safety record. Effective standards and proper attitudes are required for workplace safety.
UA Fort Smith follows regulations from the Arkansas Department of Labor and applies OSHA standards as found in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).
Responsibilities
Environmental & Occupational Safety
- Recommend university policy on environmental and safety issues
- Develop and communicate a clear safety program vision
- Establish safety goals
- Evaluate progress toward safety goals
Facilities Management and EOS
- Enforce compliance with safety regulations
- Investigate safety concerns
- Provide consultation to departments
- Report concerns to appropriate agencies
Department Heads / Directors
- Implement safe work practices
- Ensure compliance with safety regulations
- Report incidents and hazards
Employees
- Follow safety guidelines
- Report accidents and hazards
University
- Provide a safe workplace
Guidelines
Facilities Management and EOS develop rules specific to UAFS and rely on OSHA standards when needed. Additional guidance may come from organizations such as NIOSH, ANSI, ASHRAE, and NFPA.
These standards support a safe and healthy campus environment.
Hazardous Chemicals
The university maintains a Hazard Communication program and Chemical Hygiene Plan in compliance with OSHA regulations.
- Maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Ensure proper labeling of chemicals
- Maintain standard operating procedures
- Maintain departmental Chemical Hygiene Plans
Fire Protection
Fire protection services are provided in coordination with the Fort Smith Fire Department. Buildings include fire alarms, extinguishers, and sprinkler systems where applicable.
Emergency Response
The Department of Public Safety operates a 911 dispatch center and provides first response to emergencies. Facilities staff handle cleanup and hazardous waste management.
Environmental Management
Facilities Management and EOS oversee compliance with environmental regulations including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and related federal laws.
Research with Animals
UA Fort Smith ensures humane and compliant use of animals in research, following federal regulations including the Animal Welfare Act.
Biological Research
Research involving microbiological agents and recombinant DNA follows CDC/NIH biosafety guidelines. All research is conducted at Biosafety Level 1.
Facility Hazard Mitigation Equipment
Laboratories are equipped with appropriate safety equipment including fume hoods, safety cabinets, emergency showers, and protective gear.
Hazard Analysis
Hazard analysis is conducted case-by-case by researchers to minimize risk and ensure proper protective measures.
Environmental Health & Safety Committee
The EHSC coordinates campus safety activities, conducts inspections, and develops policies related to safety and compliance.
Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee
This committee oversees animal research protocols and ensures compliance with federal regulations.
University Radiation Safety Committee
This committee regulates the use of radioactive materials and ensures compliance with state licensing requirements.