In addition to the DPHYMS and ESMP safety training, each person with access to the ESMP labs must have read each of the following documents and have signed the ESMP laboratory safety awareness form. This form is given to Jan and is your confirmation and agreement that you have read and understood all documents and that you agree to abide by the rules of the laboratory.
Because we work in chemistry laboratories, even if you yourself will not be doing synthesis work, it is essential that you are familiar with general safety protocols for working in a chemistry laboratory. We recommend you read this document from the American Chemical Society outlining basic rules and safety protocols in chemistry laboratories.
Basic Safety Rules
Prior to accessing the labs, all ESMP members must have a safety training performed by the lab safety coordinator. This is acknowledged by the completion of a safety awareness confirmation form, affirming that you are aware of the ESMP group safety rules and have read the above documents, and this signed form should be given to Jan as soon as possible after starting.
The University of Luxembourg additionally has monthly safety training sessions given by the Campus Limpertsberg safety coordinator (Dr. Matej Janeček). You should attend this within the first two months of starting at the University. The University also offers additional safety training (fire safety, first aid...) that are highly recommended.
Be aware that ESMP is, in addition to a physics laboratory, a laboratory where chemistry happens as well. For your safety, as well as the safety of those around you, you must follow all posted signage at the entrances to each laboratory regarding required protective equipment and safety protocols for each lab. In general, this means in all laboratories:
Legs must be covered to the ankles.
Closed-toe shoes are required, preferably water-tight (mesh sneakers are strongly discouraged).
Long hair should be secured.
Appropriate eye protection is required in almost all laboratories, and contact lenses are not allowed in wet laboratories.
At least one ear should be uncovered at all times. (Definitely don't wear noise-canceling headphones!)
Lab coats are required in almost all labs; please check the door of each lab for the required safety equipment
Whenever equipment is in use, clearly indicate that the equipment is in use, preferably with both a contact number for you an indication of what chemicals and materials are being used along with the experiment.
Clearly label all samples with your name, the sample identity, and the date prepared.
Prior to using new equipment, please contact the responsible person for the equipment.
Safety Protocols and Standard Operating Procedures
Prior to beginning a new experiment, you must...
Ordering Chemicals and Materials
The University of Luxembourg is transitioning to the Quarks platform to manage inventories of chemicals and consumables as well as for ordering. In the meantime, information can be found both in Quarks (for chemicals and consumables) and Quartzy (for equipment). Please contact Zory if you need access to the Quartzy database.
Ordering of Chemicals is done through the Quarks system as much as possible. Contact Zory and/or Ida Ienna ([email protected]) if you need any help with ordering.
For your safety and the safety of the group, please read the chemical Safety Data Sheets for any chemicals you order or use. If you are ordering a new chemical that has not yet been purchased, please complete the pre-purchase chemical safety assessment form, sign it, and attach it to your order. If any special hazards are applicable, you must also get Jan's signature.
What to do in the event of an accident
Do not panic.
Immediately alert the University security staff by calling either 5555 (from an internal University phone) or +352 46 66 44 5555 (from a mobile/external phone).
If the emergency threatens life or limb or is significant (especially a fire), call 112 (this is the general emergency number in Europe).
When safe to do so, contact Jan, Zory, and/or Matej Janeček.
Report the accident/incident through the University of Luxembourg ServiceNow portal.
