Last Updated: July 11, 2014 1:37:17 PM PDT
Learn about hazard and caution signs you may see at UC San Diego and what they mean.
Hazard and caution signs identify facilities where work involves hazardous chemicals, infectious biological agents, radioactive materials, or equipment such as lasers, high voltage systems, or powerful magnets. These materials and equipment are generally controlled and contained, and their hazards minimized.
Do not enter an area with a sign that warns against unauthorized entry or says Keep Out, unless specifically authorized to do so. Hazardous materials and equipment must be secured or removed from UCSD facilities before service or construction work may begin.
Biohazard signs feature the biohazard symbol (black on orange is common) to indicate the use of infectious agents. Containment of biohazardous material is strictly regulated, and researchers are trained to disinfect work areas after use.
Biosafety Level Signs
BSL signs posted at a facility entrance specify the biosafety level (BSL) of containment and operational precautions observed within.
A facility may be BSL 1, 2, or 3, with 3 being the highest level of precautions. BSL 3 labs are rare at UCSD. Unauthorized entry into BSL 3 labs is prohibited.
Carcinogen signs indicate the use of known human carcinogens.
Carcinogens are strictly regulated and are generally well-contained. Researchers are trained to carefully identify where carcinogens are being used and to decontaminate work areas after their use.
Fall hazards exist when you see this sign declaring that fall protection is required to enter the work area.
- See UCSD's Fall Protection Program for more information.
Hazardous waste signs identify collection areas for hazardous wastes. Treat hazardous waste containers with the same caution used for other stored chemicals and hazardous materials.
High voltage signs signal a sustained voltage of more than 600 volts. High voltage systems may be accessed only by a qualified electrician.
Eating, drinking, food storage, application of cosmetics, and handling of contact lenses in research laboratories is permitted only in approved, posted Clean Areas.
Clean Areas are not permitted in rooms where Aerosol Transmissible Pathogens are manipulated or rooms approved at biosafety level 2+ or 3.
Laser signs indicate the presence of high energy laser equipment. Unauthorized entry is prohibited. Appropriate eye protection may be required.
Lockout/ tagout (LOTO) practices ensure that all energy sources are disengaged or blocked, and that electrical sources are de-energized and locked in the "off" position during work or repair.
This sign is posted by machines, systems, or equipment that require LOTO procedures.
Magnetic field signs designate facilities housing large research magnets that create a powerful static magnetic field.
Unauthorized entry is prohibited.
People with cardiac pacemakers or other implanted medical devices should keep out. Check with your physician if you have questions about working in the vicinity of powerful magnets.
Radiation signs indicate that the room contains certain quantities of radioactive material. Strict requirements govern use, storage, and disposal of radiatioactive materials and equipment. All labs are regularly checked by laboratory staff and Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) to make sure they are not contaminated.
Clearance tags communicate whether a vacated facility has or has not been cleared for entry. (When a research group vacates a laboratory, EH&S performs a clearance survey to ensure hazards are not left behind.)
- A red clearance tag indicates EH&S clearance procedures are in progress. It is safe for custodians to enter and empty regular trash, but not for trades employees to begin work.
- A green clearance tag, posted after hazards are removed, indicates the facility is safe for trades employees to enter and begin work. Green clearance tags are also used on decontaminated equipment.
Report hidden hazards discovered after work begins (such as broken glass, needles, or small amounts of mercury metal in drain traps) to your supervisor or the responsible Department Safety Coordinator (DSC). Do not resume work until the hazard has been corrected.