An autoclave (or steam sterilizer) uses steam heat under pressure to sterilize/decontaminate medical/lab items contaminated with microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. Autoclaves are mostly used in laboratory settings to sterilize surgical instruments and glassware for example. This SOP offers the end user guidelines on the safe operation of the autoclave….
Category: Announcements
Attention EHSA Users! Access now requires USC Secure Network (e.g., VPN) connection
In our ongoing efforts to enhance data security and privacy, a secured USC internet connection is now required to access the EHSA application. Secure internet connections at USC: Questions? If you have any questions or encounter difficulties setting up VPN access, contact your local IT team which may be able to assist with your specific…
**Now Available** X-ray Safety Training Online (via TrojanLearn)
USC EH&S is pleased to announce the release of the X-ray Safety Online Training via TrojanLearn. A wide variety of radiation-producing sources are used on campus. This safety course is designed for faculty, staff, students, and volunteers working with X-ray and other radiation-producing devices at USC. The course broadly covers X-ray production and its hazards, USC policies,…
**Radiation Safety Refresher and Viral Vector Training Now on Trojan Learn**
Radiation Safety Refresher and Viral Vector Training (VVT) courses are now offered as self-paced modules in Trojan Learn – see the Training Catalog for details….
**New Arrival** USC Public Health Web Page
Visit our newly published Public Health web page to keep up to date on the latest health alerts, news, and health and safety guidelines. While browsing, also note our featured resources and links on other important health topics such as food safety and heat illness. Stay tuned for the upcoming USC Public Health Manual which…
Top 10 Cal/OSHA Violations
All workplaces in California must adhere to the workplace safety rules as defined in Cal/OSHA’s Title 8 regulations. Of those, here are the top 10 standards most cited (Source) in the last reporting year, along with information about USC-specific programs: As we look back at the top 10 Cal/OSHA violations from the past year, it’s…
Holiday Safety
As the holiday season approaches, we extend warm wishes to our cherished campus family. While this time brings joy and festivities, safety remains our top priority. To ensure a safe and happy holiday season for everyone, please take note of the following tips: 1. Mindful Decorating: Adorn your spaces with approved and properly functioning electrical…
Happy National Biosafety Month!
Happy National Biosafety Month (and Halloween, too)! Both highlight scary things and are celebrated during the month of October. Stay tuned all month for: Download the EH&S flyer for more information. Download your complimentary USC Biosafety Month Zoom background….
October 2023 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 in breast cancer research and pathogen research, in general. Suhn K. Rhie, PhD – Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck…
**New Arrival** Pathogen Safety Data Sheets Web Page
The newly published Pathogen Safety Data Sheets (PSDS) web page features safety data sheets (PDF) for a variety of pathogens. Each PSDS provides detailed information that includes pathogen characteristics, health hazards, and medical precautions/treatment. Bookmark the PSDS web page for easy access….