About DRS About DRS

Commitment

The Division of Research Safety (DRS) is committed to assisting campus units in identifying and managing biological, chemical, and radiological hazards in order to reduce the risk of harm to the campus community and the environment.

Responsibilities

Develop campus safety policies
Develop campus safety and training programs
Monitor emerging regulations
Identify campus compliance requirements
Maintain liaison with regulatory agencies

To help accomplish these tasks, DRS has been organized into three sections: Biological, Chemical, and Radiation Safety. DRS responsibilities include developing campus safety policies and training programs in these areas, monitoring emerging regulations, identifying campus compliance requirements, and maintaining a liaison with regulatory agencies.

Although DRS develops and implements comprehensive safety programs, each campus unit remains responsible for its own safety and day-to-day compliance activities.

Organization

DRS reports to the Vice Chancellor for Research. Internally, DRS has been organized into three sections to administer specific programs: Biological, Chemical, and Radiation Safety.

Vision

DRS partners with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, unit heads, and the campus community to promote an effective, world-class safety culture on campus. DRS supports the safe use of biological, chemical, and radiological materials on campus and facilitates the campus community's understanding of and compliance with required regulations.

Mission

DRS develops, implements, and oversees comprehensive safety programs and facilitates the safe use of biological, chemical and radiological materials through key services and partnerships.

Services

DRS provides advice and technical assistance in using biological, chemical and radiological materials safely. In addition, DRS helps campus units understand and comply with applicable regulations. Key services include:

Registration for use of biohazards and recombinant DNA
Arranging certification of biological safety cabinets
Oversight and administration of the Bloodborne Pathogen Program, including training
Programs and assistance for chemical management, including training
Annual surveys of laboratory chemical hoods
Issuing permits for use of radioactive materials
Registration of lasers and x-ray equipment
Free collection and disposal of most hazardous waste
Consultation for spill cleanup procedures
Providing general safety training