“Principles of Biosafety” Training Now Available in Trojan Learn

The Principles of Biosafety training course (BIO) covers safe practices for handling and containment of biological materials including human blood, human pathogens, recombinant DNA, and biological toxins. It is now offered as a self-paced module in Trojan Learn – click on BIO to access the training. The live Zoom version is still available and participants…

2023 Cal-OSHA Log Memo to HR Partners & OSHA Form 300A

Each year, a memo is issued to HR Partners at USC to summarize the Cal OSHA log of work-related injuries and illnesses (OSHA Form 300A). These forms are available for download at EH&S’ OSHA Recordkeeping web page….

2023 Asbestos Containing Materials Building Inventory Memo

USC is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe environment. In compliance with California regulations (Connelly Act), USC Environmental Health & Safety is required to identify areas at USC where asbestos may be present in building materials. The annual inventory was recently updated on February 13, 2023. If there are any questions regarding asbestos-containing materials,…

Now Available! New “Indoor Air Pollution from Gas Stoves” Fact Sheet

Use of either natural gas or electricity to cook food can create indoor air pollution. Natural gas and propane stoves can release carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful pollutants into the air, which may be hazardous upon inhalation. Read more about gas stoves and indoor air pollution in this latest fact sheet….

Safety Gathering Tips for Holiday Parties

This is a friendly reminder from EH&S to follow best practices outlined in “Tips for Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 at USC Holiday Parties” when hosting or attending holiday parties….

Emergency Eyewash & Shower Activation Guide Sheet – Now Available

Emergency eyewash and shower stations are required at all work areas where eye and/or skin may come in contact with substances that cause severe irritation, corrosion, permanent tissue damage, or are toxic by absorption. It is essential to know how to activate this equipment in advance of an emergency. Read the guide sheet for more…

October 2022 Researcher Spotlight

October celebrates both ABSA International Biosafety Month and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In recognition of these preeminent campaigns, EH&S is highlighting the outstanding contributions of USC biomedical researchers working on breast cancer research. This year’s notable researcher is Evanthia Roussos-Torres, MD, PhD at the Department of Medical Oncology in the Keck School of Medicine….

“How to Use a Biosafety Cabinet (BSC)” Video – Now Available

This recently published video demonstrates how to properly use a Biosafety Cabinet (BSC) at the University of Southern California (USC). EHS covers established lab safety protocols that reduce bio research contamination risks and protect you while working inside a BSC. SUBSCRIBE to the USC EH&S channel for more tips and information on health & safety….

2022 Food Safety Program & Manual – Now Available

The USC Food Safety Program was developed under local, state, and federal regulations and guidelines to: (1) protect the health and well-being of the USC community and its guests and (2) ensure that food served by on-campus vendors and in-house caterers is safe, unadulterated, and honestly presented. The manual is now available for download….

Get Vaccinated for Influenza!

Fall is here, and everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated against influenza. Flu and COVID-19 often can present similar respiratory symptoms; receiving a flu vaccine will help with an accurate and timely diagnosis if you become ill. September and October are ideal months to get vaccinated for influenza….