Laboratory Preparations - Inclement Weather

To All Research Laboratories

In preparation and response to the approaching storm, please take all the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of personnel, research materials and equipment. Be advised the following could occur during the storm:

  • Extended power loss or fluctuation of normal power
  • Loss of building utilities such as chilled water, water, air conditioning or the building exhaust system
  • Water infiltration or flooding (this can happen on all floors if overhead pipes break)
  • Personnel being unable to get to the lab due to flooded roadways

It is advisable to review the follow procedures and take any additional actions to secure your laboratory:

Office Safety

  • Move items which can be easily moved such as computers and personal items away from exterior windows.
  • Shut down all computers and unplug all electrical devices such as coffee pots, microwaves, printers and copiers where possible.
  • Elevate all equipment, computers, power supplies and any other electrical devices 2-3 inches from the floor.

Lab Safety

  • Cap all chemicals and seal all open containers. Best practice is to use a container with a water tight sealable lid.
  • Please ensure that all chemical and materials are labeled or marked with a waterproof marker.
  • Shut down all non-essential laboratory equipment such as ovens, stills, stir plates, biohazards hoods, etc…
  • Double check that essential equipment is plugged into the RED or ORANGE emergency circuit outlets.
  • Stop all experiments, reactions or anything that may still be running.
  • Always put away flammable or combustible chemicals in safety cabinets.
  • Shut off the Natural gas manifold in the laboratory where available.
  • Move all electronic equipment away from windows.
  • Elevate all equipment, chemicals and cardboard boxes 2-3 inches from the floor.
  • Close the sash on all chemical fume hoods.
  • Check the accuracy of emergency contacts and telephone numbers on the lab door.

Personal Preparedness

Your laboratory/office is NOT designated as an emergency shelter, so please make personal preparations to ride out any severe weather at your own home or another location of your choosing.

Updated campus information will be posted https://emergency.rice.edu/.