Safety in Research and Teaching

Safety Approval

The University of Newcastle Institutional Biosafety Committee and Technical Sub-Committees Safety Approval Process provides more detail.

Research

The Risk Assessment process begins with the completion of the Codes and Clearances Form, which is the first step in the processing of an application for an external grant.

For University grants, similar forms are available.

On these forms the Chief Investigator is asked to indicate if the project may introduce one or more specific hazards into a workplace. If they answer 'Yes' to these questions, an R2 form must be completed and submitted, along with the grant application, to the Health and Safety Team. The R2 Form asks for more detail about the hazards that have been identified, and how the risks associated with them are to be controlled.

Teaching

The E2 Form is an adaptation of the R2 Form specifically designed for use for undergraduate practical teaching activities.

On receipt of this information, the Health and Safety Team will arrange for the proposal / laboratory manual / practical notes and the risk assessment / hazard management forms to be considered by the relevant Committee.

The information is reviewed and assessed, which might involve discussions with the Responsible Academic and/or an inspection of the workplace. Where the risks are thought to be well controlled, safety approval is granted. The Responsible Academic and the Teaching and Learning Portfolio Committee are notified accordingly.

Where such hazards are present, research work and undergraduate practical teaching activities cannot commence until safety approval is given.