Quick Reference Guide

Working in the LSSL is a potentially hazardous experience. With the right precautions, it is possible to manage hazards and avoid injuries. It is the responsibility of the user to:

Inform coworkers/staff when performing hazardous tasks and assist them in gathering the necessary protective equipment if they are to remain in the work area;
Secure the work area to prevent any injury to visitors, observers or tour groups; and
Keep visitors a safe distance from the work area.

Upon your arrival to your jobsite in the LSSL:

STOP: assess your surroundings;
LOOK: for hazards and hazard conditions;
LISTEN: investigate sounds that are not typical to your jobsite.

Always ask: “Where are the danger zones?” and “Is this the safest way to do this?”

We often create unique and often one-of-a-kind situations, therefore, the dangers we are exposed to are not uniform. Always question your assumptions.

Try to eliminate risk/hazard
Use safeguarding applications
Use signage to warn others
Perform safety training
Use personal protection

A. In Case of an Injury

A primary purpose of this plan is to provide information on how to avoid injuries. However, if an injury should occur in the Large‐Scale Structures Laboratory (LSSL):

1) First Aid kits are available just outside the LSSL Control Room.

2) An emergency eye wash kit is available just outside the LSSL Control Room.

3) Utilize the following Emergency Response

If an employee is injured or ill from a work‐related accident and the employee or the active supervisor in the LSSL believes that the condition needs emergency medical treatment, immediately call 911. Always err on the side of caution. If there is any question about the severity of an injury, call 911. If an employee wants 911 called even though the injury may not appear serious, make the call.

If immediate or urgent care is needed, it is suggested that the injured person go to the Specialty Health Clinic. It is located at 350 West Sixth Street, Suite 2D in Reno, which is across the street from St. Mary’s Hospital. They do not need an appointment to access medical care at the Specialty Health Clinic. The injured person should tell that they are an employee of the university system. They will have the injured person complete a form necessary to initiate the workers’ compensation claim. The Specialty Health Clinic is open from Monday through Friday from 8-5. If care is needed after hours or it is an emergency, the injured person can go to any hospital including Renown, St. Mary’s or Northern Nevada Regional

4) Urgent Care

If the employee needs immediate medical treatment, but it is not a medical emergency, arrange to transport the employee to the nearest urgent care facility. If the injury is minor and only requires first aid treatment, provide first aid. The employee has a right to seek medical treatment if they wish. If the employee declines medical treatment, and the active supervisor in the LSSL strongly feels that medical treatment is necessary, the supervisor may direct the employee to obtain medical treatment.

5) Reporting

Report the injury to acting LSSL supervisor as soon as possible and complete a C-1 form (Notice of Injury or Occupational Disease). The form is available in Lab Manager’s office. Have the acting supervisor review and sign the C-1 form and fax it to the BCN Workers' Compensation Office. The form DOES NOT need to be filled out before seeking medical attention.

B. In Case of Chemical Spill

Small spills that do not immediately threaten waterways, wildlife, or humans, should be contained by EERC staff. A spill of a known substance that can be wiped up with one rag or paper towel is ok to handle on your own. For anything bigger call your supervisor. No chemical waste (including oily rags) can go in the trash or sink.
Larger spills should be viewed with caution. Take care to warn others in the immediate area of the danger. Contain the spill, if possible, using spill absorbent pads, booms and granular oil absorbent particulates stored in a blue bin down stairs and call the appropriate number listed above.

For further information refer to the "Spill prevention & emergency provision plan" Specific guidance on chemical and radiological hazards can be found in the UNR Chemical Hygiene Plan and UNR Radiation Safety Manual, respectively. Copies of these manuals are available in the LSSL Control Room.

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