New PI Quick Start-Up Guide

  1. Fill out the USC PI Onboarding Form
  2. Acquire appropriate safety training and establish standard operating procedures
  3. Consult with EH&S to set up your chemical inventory
  4. Post lab signage
  5. Purchase essential laboratory safety equipment

Training & SOPs

  • Complete the PI Safety Management Training on Trojan Learn More info >>
  • Ensure all lab personnel participates in General Lab Safety Training (GLS) and GLS Meet & Greet.
    • Personnel may register for the required General Lab Safety courses at the EH&S Training Registration Website. NOTE: Other safety training may be required depending on the field of research. Consult the Training Catalog for details.
    • Ensure all lab personnel complete the GLS training as lab personnel are not permitted to work in the lab until this is completed. GLS training is offered in the following venues:
      • A self-directed online training module at Trojan Learn, available 24/7. It is a practical and convenient alternative to the in-person (Zoom) training.
      • In-person (Zoom) training, offered monthly. To register, go to the Training Registration web page and click the General Lab Safety (GLS) checkbox. Then click the down arrow of the GLS Course Date/Time list box to select a convenient date/time. Complete the remaining fields and click Submit.
  • Conduct Annual Refresher Training for research personnel annually.
  • Provide lab-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for all hazardous materials and equipment.
    • SOP templates are available at the SOP web page.
    • All lab personnel must:
      • Read the SOPs initially before beginning laboratory work and annually, thereafter.
      • Sign the acknowledgment pages to document their review.
  • It is highly recommended and beneficial to review the General Laboratory Safety Inspections web page for detailed information on EH&S’ routine safety audits.

Chemical Inventory

Initial chemical inventory of your lab space(s) will be conducted by EH&S and entered into Risk and Safety Solutions (RSS), USC’s new go-to application helping users manage chemical inventory, conduct hazard assessments, dispose of hazardous waste, and more!

In addition to managing your chemical inventory, RSS will be used to:

  • Manage a roster of laboratory personnel,
  • View inspection reports and findings,
  • Identify potential hazards using the Lab Hazard Assessment Tool (LHAT), and
  • Request Hazardous Waste pickup and supply requests.

Once, you’ve completed the USC PI Onboarding Form, an EH&S chemical inventory specialist will reach out to schedule a visit.


Laboratory Signage

Post the following in your laboratory:


Lab Safety Equipment

Ensure the following kits are easily accessible in your lab:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)


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