Chemical threats on campus

What potential agents exist on campus that might be used in such an action? Are there stockpiles of chemicals or biologics that could constitute a potential threat?

We don't believe there are stockpiles of exotic chemicals or biologicals that would constitute a threat. But we do have many common chemicals, pesticides, and fuels which could be a threat. These materials must be inventoried as part of the OSHA standards and reported to EH&S per the chemcial inventory system.

EH&S provides training on this and requests the chemical inventories annually. We have received chemical inventories from most science and research areas, but have been unsuccessful with all department and institutes.

Upon completion of the chemical inventory a hazard assessment could be done for the campus. This assessment would pinpoint those areas with high concentrations of flammables, toxic chemicals, pesticides, etc., which may need to be isolated or to have additional security.

Recommended steps to lab security and safety

bulletproper securing of laboratories (keep locked - when not in use)
bulletCompile/update inventory of chemicals, radioactive materials, and biohazards (provide updated copy to EH&S)
bulletCheck emergency equipment, extinguishers, exit signs,
bulletKnow alarm locations & signal, extinguishers in place, 
bulletKeep emergency exits clear

Recommended steps to building security and safety 

bulletReview/update Emergency Action Plans (evacuation plans - departmental responsibility)
bulletProvide proper securing of rooms
bulletCheck emergency equipment, extinguishers, exit signs,
bulletKnow locations of alarm (& signal) emergency equipment (extinguishers) and exit (keep clear)
 

Contact Information 
 Environmental Health& Safety: MSC-3578, P.O. Box 30001, Academic Research Bldg. C, Rm. 109
    Street delivery address: NMSU, 1620 Standley Dr., Academic Research Bldg. C, Las Cruces, NM 88003
    Training Office: Academic Research Unit C, rm110 (see map ), 
    Telephone: 575-646-3327; FAX: 575-646-7898. Website - http://www.nmsu.edu/safety
    Send email to David Shearer, EH&S (click here) with questions or comments about this web site. 
    This page was last updated on 08/22/2008