Key Changes to EHS Chemical Fume Hood Certification:
· Elimination of Bi-Annual Requirement:
There is no longer a need for bi-annual fume hood certification. Annual certifications will begin in January 2025. Each building or facility manager receives notice prior to certification testing.
· Board of Regents (BOR) Requirements:
Institutions must comply with the annual verification standards outlined below.
Annual Hood Verification Requirement:
According to the USG Design Criteria for Laboratories, Fifth Edition, all USG institutions must conduct annual verification of chemical fume hoods in use. This process must include both:
1. Quantitative Testing – Measurement of airflow performance.
2. Qualitative Testing – Visual challenges to assess effectiveness.
These tests should be conducted under the “as used” (AU) condition and adhere to the latest ASHRAE 110 testing method. Adaptations may be necessary to account for specific lab configurations, setbacks, and sensing methods.
Institutions are encouraged to engage qualified third-party testing firms for this process. Testing firms must demonstrate their expertise and competency, as determined by the institution. The current annual EHS contract utilizes Safety Plus LLC.
Chemical Inventory Requirement for USG Institutions
The University System of Georgia (USG) Board of Regents (BOR) mandates that each USG institution submit a chemical inventory to the BOR Environmental Health and Safety Program Manager twice a year—in January and July. This fulfills the chemical inventory requirement set by the BOR.
Key Details:
· Submission Frequency: Semi-annual, in January (Submission deadline: December 13th, 2024) and July (Submission deadline: June 13th, 2025).
· Recipient: BOR Environmental Health and Safety Program Manager.
· Legal Compliance: This requirement aligns with the Georgia Public Employees Hazardous Chemical Protection and Right-to-Know Rules Law.
The Emotional Dimension of a Safety Professional's Role
Responding to emergencies or conducting laboratory inspections can be an intense experience for safety professionals, particularly when quick decision-making is required. For some, this urgency may trigger an adrenaline rush as they work to address the situation. Safety professionals often experience a range of emotions, from frustration and curiosity to concern and skepticism. However, it is crucial to maintain a calm and composed demeanor in such situations.
A calm presence by the safety professional sets the tone for composure among others involved, fostering clarity and focus. It helps identify the right questions to ask and the appropriate individuals to approach, laying the groundwork for effective problem-solving. Additionally, a composed approach creates a sense of emotional safety, encouraging others to share information openly or contribute their own questions to facilitate a resolution.
In our teams’ experience, maintaining calmness combined with confidence and assertiveness has often led to smoother resolutions. This approach helps others relax, even in high-pressure scenarios. During emergencies, safety professionals prioritize immediate hazards to life and health, victim safety and first aid, effective communication and coordination, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and thorough documentation and incident reporting. In laboratory inspections, our focus is on ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, while providing necessary guidance to meet these standards.
Beyond technical expertise, emotional intelligence plays a pivotal role in fostering a “safe” environment. By balancing technical knowledge with emotional awareness, safety professionals can facilitate smooth and efficient solutions, ensuring the well-being of everyone involved.