Gin Gin SHS Science Audit

Information

Fire Safety and Emergency Response

Safety rules and evacuation routes are prominently displayed.
The area has an audible evacuation alarm.
Doorways, walkways and evacuation exits are kept clear and at least 600mm wide.
External exit doors can be opened from the inside without a key and emergency fire exits signed.
Fire control equipment is easily accessible, signed, regularly tested and of the appropriate type.
Fire blankets are available as required and checked.

Safe operating procedures are displayed with all potentially hazardous equipment and chemicals.
Required personal protective equipment is available and in good condition.

The room clean and tidy.
There is sufficient space for each person to work safely.
Floor surfaces are maintained in a safe condition and are they suitable for the type of activities conducted.
Walls and ceilings are safe and in good condition.
Steps/stairs/ramps are in a safe condition with non-slip surface, and secure handrails where needed.
Doors, windows, locks and latches are in good condition and working order.
Guarding (mesh) is fitted or signage in place for fragile roof area/s.
There is adequate ventilation. (Also check ventilation equipment ie. fume cupboards etc).
There is adequate lighting to work safely.

All furniture is safe and in good condition.
Light fittings/fixtures and ceiling fans are in good condition and working order.
Hanging displays are not hazardous.
All water and gas taps are in good working order.

Flammable material is stored and handled in a safe manner.
Required resources and equipment are stored safely.
Free standing shelves/cupboards are secured to ensure stability.
Storage areas are labeled appropriately.
Storage methods are used which that will eliminate or minimise accidents (heavy objects stored between mid-thigh and shoulder height).

Current (within 5 years) material safety data sheets are readily available for hazardous substances.
Are hazardous substances stored and labeled appropriately?<br>
Highly flammable, reducing agents or easily oxidised materials are kept apart from powerful oxidising agents.
Concentrated acids and alkalis are stored in glass, at floor level and suitable trays.
Concentrated hydrochloric acid is stored in the chemistry storeroom and formalin solution in the biology storeroom.
Is Phosphorus stored in glass, under water and in a sand bath?
Is Sodium stored in glass, under kerosene and in a sand bath?
Is Mercury stored in glass, standing on a tray (not aluminium)?
Bromine is a strong oxidising agent - is it stored in a cool cupboard?
Di-ethyl Ether is highly flammable - is it stored in a cool place?
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidising agent - is it stored in a cool place?
Perchloric acid is a strong oxidant, to be stored away from combustible materials, dehydrating agents and heat. Is it stored in glass on a ceramic, plastic or glass tray?
Excess chemical supplies are disposed of correctly.
Chemicals have been transferred to glass containers where appropriate.

Staff and students are aware of no eating, drinking or chewing gum requirements.
Lab coats are worn when required.
Correct hygiene practices are followed (ie. hand washing).
Cuts and abrasions are covered adequately.
Microbial cultures exposed to the atmosphere are no more than 15cm from the Bunsen flame.
All precautions are taken in relation to bacterial cleansing of equipment.
All contaminated waste is disposed of appropriately.

Hazards such as sharps, glare, fumes, noise or vermin have been identified and managed.
Animal cages are clean and in good condition.
Sink areas are clean and in good working order (ie. no leaks).