Personnel working in research laboratories, teaching laboratories, field research sites, art studios, performance art spaces, machine shops, and farms, have the right to a safe working environment. Maintaining this safe academic environment requires collaboration among faculty, staff, students, and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS). Through training, risk assessment, clear procedures, and responsible laboratory practices, the university works to ensure that research and teaching activities are conducted in a way that protects the health and safety of the campus community, the public, and the environment.
The Academic and Research Safety Program provide guidance, resources, and oversight to support compliance with applicable regulations and university policies while fostering a culture of safety in research and education. For more information, see our Academic and Research Health and Safety Roles and Responsibilities page.
Did you know that UVM has...
- 700+ Labs
- 33 Lab Buildings
- 14 Campuses
Safety Programs
Laboratory Safety
These are typical laboratory workplaces where chemical, biological, radiological, and physical hazards are used. Within these spaces, the hazards can often be well controlled using ventilation such as a chemical fume hood, biosafety cabinet, glove box, isolation chamber, snorkel funnel, or fume extractor.
Visit Laboratory Safety.
Safety in the Arts and Theater
The art and theater departments have many hazards that need to be controlled. Studio spaces and classes, such as painting, printmaking, pottery/ceramics, and photography, and theater-specific areas, such as costume design and creation, have not only chemical hazards but many physical hazards as well.
Visit Arts and Theater Safety.
Safety in Makerspaces
Examples of makerspaces include machine shops, metal working shops, wood shops, labs with 3D printers, and glass blowing shops. There are many hazards assocciated with these spaces, and many are very unique. Depending on the equipment, chemicals, etc. that are used, different controls will be needed.
Visit Makerspaces.
Field Research
Field research hazards are numerous and varied. Water safety, field trip preparations, first aid/emergency planning, and communications planning are a few of the concerns to consider before going into the field.
Visit Field Research.
Safety at UVM's Farms
There are many farms associated with UVM: Miller Education and Research Center, Hardacre Equine Center, Horticulture Education and Research Center, Morgan Horse Farm, and Proctor Maple Research Center.
Visit Farms.