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SAIL-SWP-GENERAL-001
General Operation and Access to SAIL Optical and Laser Laboratories
Status: Draft Version 1.0 Issued: February 2026 📄 Download PDF
Risk Assessment - General Lab Safety Fibre Optics Handling RA/SWP Chemical Handling RA/SWP Electrical Safety RA/SWP
SAFE WORK PROCEDURE

SWP Title

General Operation and Access to SAIL Optical and Laser Laboratories

Prepared by: Chris Betters Responsible supervisor/s: Chris Betters, Sergio Leon-Saval, Barnaby Norris, Julia Bryant

List the Hazards and Risk Controls as per Risk Assessment

Associated risk assessment reference: SAIL-RA-GENERAL-001

Hazards

Risk Controls

List Resources Required

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

General laboratory work (minimum):

Task-specific PPE (when required):

Prohibited items:

Equipment and Materials

Available in laboratories:

Required for safe operation:

Safety Equipment (must be present and accessible)

Fire safety:

First aid and emergency response:

Room-specific safety systems:

Ventilation/Environmental Controls

Step by Step Instructions for Undertaking the Task

BEFORE STARTING - CRITICAL ACCESS REQUIREMENTS

You MUST meet these requirements before accessing SAIL laboratories:

  1. Complete SAIL Lab General Local Induction
    • Delivered by authorised assessor (see list in Competency section)
    • Covers all hazards and controls in this SWP
    • Includes emergency procedures and location familiarisation
    • Sign-off required on competency sheet
  2. Swipe card access granted ONLY after:
    • Induction completed and signed off
    • Supervisor approval obtained
    • Access added to authorised users list
    • Your name appears on door signage (if applicable)
  3. Additional requirements for laser work:
    • Laser Operator Certificate completed
    • Certificate uploaded to Faculty “My Inductions Dashboard”
    • Equipment-specific laser RA/SWP reviewed and signed off
  4. Undergraduate students MUST:
    • Complete all above requirements PLUS
    • Have designated supervisor assigned
    • Never work unsupervised - supervisor must be physically present in laboratory
    • Sign in/out with supervisor for each session
  5. Equipment-specific requirements:
    • Read and understand equipment-specific RA/SWP before use
    • Complete equipment-specific training and competency assessment
    • Be listed on authorised users list for that equipment

1. PRE-ACCESS CHECKS (EVERY TIME YOU ENTER A LABORATORY)

  1. Check door signage before entering:
    • Read hazards listed on authorised entry sign
    • Note required PPE for the laboratory area
    • Check for laser warning signs or active laser indicators
    • If laser interlock system present, check status before opening door
  2. If laser interlock is active (laser in use inside):
    • Do NOT open door without permission from person operating laser
    • Knock or call to alert people inside
    • Wait for laser to be shut down or made safe before entering
    • Never bypass or defeat interlocks
  3. Don appropriate PPE before entering:
    • Safety glasses (as required by door signage)
    • Closed-toe shoes (verify before entering)
    • Laboratory coat if required
    • Any additional PPE indicated on door signage
  4. Enter laboratory and perform visual sweep:
    • Look for any obvious hazards (spills, damaged equipment, trip hazards)
    • Check for unusual smells (chemical leaks, burning, smoke)
    • Listen for unusual sounds (alarms, equipment malfunctions)
    • If anything unusual: report to supervisor before proceeding
  5. Room 116B specific checks (CRITICAL):
    • Check CO2 alarm is functional (green status light)
    • NEVER close door if you are working in the room
    • If door must be closed for temperature control: evacuate room
    • Only access briefly to check equipment if door closed
    • If alarm sounds: evacuate immediately
  6. For undergraduate students:
    • Locate your supervisor and sign in for the session
    • Supervisor must acknowledge your presence
    • Supervisor must remain in laboratory throughout your session
    • Never commence work until supervisor present

2. SETTING UP YOUR WORKSPACE

  1. Select appropriate work area:
    • Choose optical bench or workspace suitable for your task
    • Ensure adequate space for equipment and safe working
    • Check area is clean and clear of obstructions
    • Verify adequate lighting for your task
  2. Inspect work area:
    • Check optical bench surface is clean and undamaged
    • Verify mounting holes and slots are not blocked
    • Check for any existing equipment or experiments
    • If area occupied: coordinate with other users or select different area
  3. Gather required equipment and materials:
    • Collect only what you need for current task
    • Check equipment condition before use
    • Report any damaged equipment immediately
    • Keep work area organised and uncluttered
  4. Set up power and utilities:
    • Visually inspect power cords and plugs before connecting
    • Check for damage, exposed wires, or loose connections
    • If damaged: DO NOT USE - tag as defective and report
    • Do not overload power points
    • Use power strips/boards with overload protection
    • Route cables to avoid trip hazards (along walls, under benches, or use cable protectors)
  5. Prepare for optical/laser work:
    • Remove reflective items (watches, jewellery, lanyards, ID badges)
    • Ensure hair is tied back if working near moving equipment
    • Remove or secure loose clothing
    • Position yourself comfortably (adjust chair height, bench access)
  6. Chemical handling preparation (if applicable):
    • Consult Chemical Handling RA/SWP
    • Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for chemicals in use
    • Verify adequate ventilation or access to fume cupboard
    • Gather appropriate PPE (chemical-resistant gloves, face shield if needed)
    • Prepare spill kit location (know where it is)

3. SAFE WORKING PRACTICES DURING LABORATORY WORK

General Conduct:

  1. Maintain awareness:
    • Be conscious of others working nearby
    • Alert others before activating equipment that may affect them (bright lights, movement)
    • Respect active experiments and equipment in use
    • Ask before touching or adjusting others’ equipment
  2. Housekeeping throughout work:
    • Keep work area tidy and organised
    • Return tools and equipment to storage when finished
    • Clean up spills immediately
    • Dispose of waste properly (see Cleanup section)
    • Do not block walkways, exits, or emergency equipment
  3. Food and drink prohibition:
    • No food or drink in any laboratory area
    • No storage of food in laboratory refrigerators
    • Use designated eating areas (e.g., Room 121A breakout room)
    • Wash hands before eating after laboratory work
  4. Mobile phone and electronic device use:
    • Keep phone on silent or vibrate to avoid disturbing others
    • Minimise phone use during laboratory work (stay focused)
    • No photography of others without permission
    • Some areas may prohibit phones near sensitive equipment

Optical Work Safety:

  1. Before activating any light source or laser:
    • Ensure area is clear of unnecessary personnel
    • Check beam path will not expose others
    • Alert others in area that you are activating a light source
    • Use lowest intensity possible for alignment
    • Have beam blocks or shutters ready
  2. During optical alignment:
    • Never look directly into any beam or bright source
    • Use beam viewing cards, cameras, or power meters to visualize beams
    • Position work at or below sitting height where possible
    • Be aware of all potential specular reflection surfaces
    • Use beam dumps for unwanted beams
    • Work systematically to track all beam paths
  3. Laser-specific safety (in addition to equipment-specific RA/SWP):
    • Verify laser safety eyewear is appropriate for wavelength and class
    • Wear laser safety eyewear as specified by equipment RA/SWP
    • Never bypass laser interlocks
    • Never point laser at persons or reflective surfaces
    • Use lowest power setting possible for alignment
    • Block beam when not actively aligning
    • Respect laser warning signs and restricted areas
    • If laser interlock trips: investigate cause before resetting
  4. Managing specular reflections:
    • Remove watches, jewellery, and reflective accessories before optical work
    • Position mirrors and optical components carefully
    • Use anodised or black optical mounts to minimize stray reflections
    • Cover or remove unnecessary reflective surfaces from work area
    • Be conscious of beam path at eye level
    • Use protective barriers or curtains if reflections unavoidable
  5. Working in low-light conditions:
    • Maintain adequate lighting for safe movement
    • Use red lighting for dark-adapted work (less disruptive to night vision)
    • Use torch or headlamp to navigate if needed
    • Allow time for eyes to adjust when entering/leaving dark areas
    • Never work alone in darkened laboratories
    • Ensure emergency exits remain visible

Electrical Safety:

  1. Before using electrical equipment:
    • Visual inspection of equipment, cords, and plugs
    • Check for damage, fraying, exposed wires
    • Verify equipment is test and tagged (current date sticker)
    • If damaged or out of test date: DO NOT USE - tag as defective
  2. During electrical work:
    • Follow Electrical Safety RA/SWP for specific procedures
    • Never work on live circuits unless qualified and authorised
    • Turn off and unplug equipment before opening enclosures
    • Never use electrical equipment in wet conditions
    • Do not defeat interlocks or safety switches
    • Use RCD-protected circuits for high-risk equipment
    • Know location of emergency power shut-off
  3. High voltage equipment (if applicable):
    • Additional training and authorisation required
    • Follow equipment-specific RA/SWP
    • Warning signs must be displayed
    • Restricted access to qualified personnel only

Chemical Safety:

  1. Before using chemicals:
    • Follow Chemical Handling RA/SWP
    • Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
    • Verify adequate ventilation
    • Gather appropriate PPE
  2. During chemical work:
    • Use minimum quantities necessary
    • Label all containers clearly (contents, date, name)
    • Never store in unmarked containers
    • Use fume cupboard for volatile or hazardous chemicals
    • Wear chemical-resistant gloves and safety glasses
    • Avoid skin contact - wash hands after handling
    • No naked flames near flammable solvents
    • Clean up spills immediately
  3. Chemical storage:
    • Return chemicals to designated storage areas
    • Segregate incompatible chemicals
    • Store flammables in flammables cabinet
    • Keep containers closed when not in use
    • No storage on floor or blocking exits

Fibre Optics Work (Rooms 121D, 218G):

  1. Sharps hazard from cleaved fibres:
    • Follow Fibre Optics Handling RA/SWP
    • Wear safety glasses during cleaving
    • Dispose of fibre offcuts immediately in sharps container
    • Never leave cleaved fibres on bench
    • Inspect hands and work area for fibre fragments
    • Portable eyewash readily accessible

Manual Handling:

  1. Before lifting or moving heavy items:
    • Assess load (weight, size, balance, grip points)
    • If over 15 kg or awkward: use mechanical aid (trolley, hoist) or get assistance
    • Plan route before lifting
    • Clear pathway of obstacles
  2. Proper lifting technique:
    • Stand close to load
    • Bend knees, keep back straight
    • Grip firmly with whole hand
    • Lift smoothly using legs, not back
    • Keep load close to body
    • Do not twist - move feet to turn
    • Lower load carefully using same technique
  3. Two-person lifts:
    • Communicate clearly (“ready, lift on three…”)
    • One person coordinates
    • Lift and move in unison
    • Both persons must be comfortable with the lift
  4. Moving heavy optical tables or large equipment:
    • Steel-toe boots recommended
    • Minimum two persons
    • Use lifting equipment (jacks, trolleys)
    • Secure load before moving
    • Clear pathway completely
    • Move slowly and carefully
    • Watch for pinch points

Working Alone:

  1. If you must work alone (avoid for high-risk tasks):
    • Inform supervisor or colleague of your plans
    • Provide expected duration and location
    • Keep mobile phone accessible
    • Check in periodically (text/call when leaving)
    • Do NOT conduct high-risk activities alone:
      • Class 4 laser operation
      • Working at height
      • Handling large quantities of hazardous chemicals
      • Entering confined spaces
      • Any work with significant injury risk
  2. Buddy system encouraged:
    • Work with colleague when possible
    • Especially for after-hours or high-risk work
    • Mutual monitoring and assistance
    • Faster emergency response if needed

Attendance and Supervision:

  1. Equipment left running unattended:
    • Generally prohibited unless equipment RA/SWP specifically allows it
    • If equipment can be left unattended:
      • Door signage or warning sign must indicate equipment running
      • Emergency contact information displayed
      • Regular check-ins scheduled
      • Automatic shutdown or safety systems functional
    • Never leave Class 3B or 4 lasers running unattended
  2. Undergraduate supervision:
    • Supervisor must be physically present in laboratory at all times
    • Supervisor responsible for student safety and conduct
    • Student must sign in/out with supervisor for each session
    • Supervisor verifies safe practices and provides guidance

4. COMPLETING WORK AND LEAVING THE LABORATORY

  1. Shutdown equipment:
    • Follow equipment-specific shutdown procedures
    • Turn off light sources and lasers
    • Power down electronics in proper sequence
    • Allow equipment to cool if necessary
    • Close protective covers or shutters
  2. Secure optical setups:
    • If leaving setup overnight or longer:
      • Block all beams with shutters or beam blocks
      • Label experiment with name, date, contact
      • Note any hazards on label
      • Cover sensitive components if needed (dust protection)
    • Do NOT leave Class 3B or 4 lasers unattended and powered
  3. Return equipment and tools to storage:
    • Clean tools before returning
    • Check items back into inventory if required
    • Report any damaged or missing items
    • Leave communal areas tidy for next user
  4. Clean work area:
    • Wipe down bench surface
    • Remove all personal items
    • Dispose of waste properly
    • Check floor area for dropped items or spills
    • Leave area as you found it (or better)
  5. Chemical cleanup:
    • Return chemicals to designated storage
    • Ensure containers properly sealed and labelled
    • Dispose of chemical waste properly (hazardous waste system)
    • Remove contaminated PPE and dispose/clean appropriately
    • Wash hands thoroughly
  6. Final checks before leaving:
    • Visual sweep of work area
    • All equipment powered off (unless specifically approved to run)
    • No trip hazards left in walkways
    • Lights appropriate for room status (on/off as per lab practice)
    • Emergency equipment accessible (not blocked)
  7. Sign out:
    • If using sign-in/sign-out log: record departure time
    • Undergraduate students: sign out with supervisor
    • Note any issues or equipment defects in log
  8. Exit laboratory:
    • Remove PPE (safety glasses can remain if worn in corridor)
    • Close door securely (do not prop open unless normal practice)
    • Wash hands before eating or leaving building
  9. If last person leaving laboratory:
    • Ensure all equipment powered off (except approved equipment)
    • Check all lights appropriate for unoccupied state
    • Verify door will lock when closed (swipe card access)
    • Room 116B: verify door closed and CO2 system active
    • Notify security if working very late (after hours sign-out)

5. VISITOR MANAGEMENT

  1. If you are hosting a visitor:
    • Visitor must be signed in (visitor log or your supervision)
    • You are responsible for visitor safety
    • Brief visitor on hazards and safety rules
    • Provide appropriate PPE (safety glasses, closed-toe shoes required)
    • Visitor must remain with you at all times (supervised)
    • Visitor must not operate equipment unless specifically trained and authorised
    • Explain emergency procedures and exit routes
  2. If you encounter an unknown visitor:
    • Politely ask if they need assistance
    • If unescorted: direct them to sign in or find their host
    • If suspicious or unwilling to identify: contact security or supervisor
    • Do not leave laboratory unattended with unknown visitors

Emergency Shutdown Procedures

GENERAL EMERGENCY - When to Stop Work Immediately:

Stop all work and initiate emergency procedures if:

BUILDING FIRE ALARM (EVACUATION):

  1. Upon hearing fire alarm:
    • STOP all work immediately
    • Do NOT shut down equipment (leave as is unless you caused fire)
    • Do NOT collect belongings
    • Assist anyone needing help (but do not endanger yourself)
  2. Exit building:
    • Use nearest emergency exit (never use lifts)
    • Follow exit signs
    • Close doors behind you (do not lock)
    • If smoke present: stay low, test doors for heat before opening
  3. If exit route blocked:
    • Use alternative exit
    • If trapped: close door, seal gaps with cloth, signal for help from window
  4. Proceed to assembly point:
    • Go directly to designated assembly point (as marked in building)
    • Report to fire warden
    • Account for all persons under your supervision (undergraduates, visitors)
    • Provide information to fire warden if you have knowledge of fire location
  5. Do NOT re-enter building:
    • Wait for all-clear from emergency services or fire warden
    • Do not go back for belongings
    • Remain at assembly point until accounted for

EQUIPMENT EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN:

  1. If equipment malfunctions or operates abnormally:
    • Press emergency stop button if available
    • Turn off power switch/circuit breaker if safe to do so
    • Unplug equipment if necessary and safe
    • Do NOT attempt to fix or troubleshoot while powered
  2. Secure the area:
    • Move people away from immediate hazard
    • Block access to equipment if needed
    • Post warning sign if leaving area unattended
  3. Report and document:
    • Report to supervisor immediately
    • Tag equipment as defective (lockout/tagout)
    • Complete incident report if safety-related
    • Do NOT use equipment until inspected and cleared by supervisor

ROOM 116B CO2 ALARM:

  1. If CO2 alarm sounds:
    • Evacuate room immediately
    • Do NOT delay to shut down equipment
    • Close door behind you
    • Restrict access to room
  2. Alert supervisor:
    • Contact Chris Betters, Sergio Leon-Saval, Barnaby Norris, or Julia Bryant immediately
    • Notify building manager
    • Await confirmation that CO2 levels normal before re-entry
  3. If someone shows CO2 exposure symptoms (headache, dizziness, confusion, rapid breathing):
    • Remove person from room to fresh air immediately
    • If unconscious: call 000 immediately
    • Monitor breathing and consciousness
    • Keep person calm and still
    • Seek medical attention for moderate/severe symptoms
  4. After alarm clears:
    • Supervisor or building manager must verify system operational
    • Investigate cause (door closed, sensor malfunction, ventilation failure)
    • Complete RiskWare incident report

Emergency Procedures for Fires, Spills or Exposure to Hazardous Substances

FIRE EMERGENCY:

Small, contained fire (waste bin, small electrical):

  1. Alert others and assess:
    • Shout “Fire!” to alert others in area
    • Assess: Can it be safely extinguished?
    • Is appropriate extinguisher available?
    • Do you have clear escape route?
  2. If safe to fight fire:
    • Send someone to activate fire alarm and call 000
    • Locate appropriate fire extinguisher:
      • Dry powder (ABE): General purpose, most fires
      • CO2: Electrical fires, electronics
      • Water: Paper/wood only (NEVER on electrical or chemical fires)
    • Check pressure gauge in green zone
    • PASS method:
      • Pull pin
      • Aim at base of flames (not flames themselves)
      • Squeeze handle
      • Sweep side to side
  3. If fire does NOT extinguish immediately:
    • EVACUATE - do not continue fighting
    • Close door behind you (do not lock)
    • Activate fire alarm if not already done
    • Proceed to assembly point

Large fire or spreading fire:

  1. Evacuate immediately
  2. Close doors (do not lock)
  3. Activate fire alarm (break glass at pull point)
  4. Call 000 (Emergency Services)
  5. Notify fire warden
  6. Proceed to assembly point
  7. Do not re-enter building

CHEMICAL SPILL:

Small spill (<500 mL, non-hazardous):

  1. Alert others in area
  2. Ventilate if safe (open doors/windows, turn on extraction)
  3. Don appropriate PPE (gloves, safety glasses, lab coat)
  4. Use spill kit to absorb and contain:
    • Surround spill with absorbent material
    • Work from outside toward centre
    • Pick up saturated absorbent carefully
  5. Place contaminated materials in chemical waste bag
  6. Clean area with appropriate cleaning agent
  7. Dispose of waste via hazardous waste system
  8. Report spill to supervisor

Large spill or hazardous chemical:

  1. Evacuate area immediately
  2. Alert supervisor: Chris Betters, Sergio Leon-Saval, Barnaby Norris, or Julia Bryant
  3. Call University Security: [Insert number]
  4. Close doors to contain vapours (do not lock)
  5. Restrict access - post warning signs
  6. Provide SDS to emergency responders
  7. Do NOT attempt cleanup unless trained and equipped
  8. Complete RiskWare incident report

CHEMICAL EXPOSURE:

Eye contact:

  1. Immediately flush eyes with water for 15-20 minutes
  2. Use portable eyewash (fibre labs) or emergency eyewash station
  3. Hold eyelids open during flushing - ensure water flows over entire eye surface
  4. Remove contact lenses if possible during flushing
  5. Continue flushing while someone calls for medical assistance
  6. Seek medical attention (emergency department for corrosive chemicals)
  7. Bring SDS to medical facility

Skin contact:

  1. Remove contaminated clothing immediately (cut off if necessary)
  2. Flush affected area with water for 15-20 minutes
  3. Use safety shower for large area contamination
  4. Do NOT apply creams, ointments, or neutralizing agents
  5. Seek medical attention for:
    • Large contaminated area
    • Persistent pain or redness
    • Corrosive or highly toxic chemicals
    • Any burns or blistering
  6. Bring SDS to medical facility

Inhalation:

  1. Move person to fresh air immediately
  2. Loosen tight clothing
  3. Keep person calm, still, and warm
  4. If breathing difficulty: call 000 immediately
  5. If breathing stops and you are trained: begin CPR
  6. Provide SDS to emergency services
  7. Seek medical attention for significant exposure

Ingestion:

  1. Call 000 or Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26 immediately
  2. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by medical professional
  3. Rinse mouth with water (do not swallow)
  4. Do NOT give anything to drink unless directed
  5. Keep person calm and monitor
  6. Provide SDS to emergency services

ELECTRICAL SHOCK:

Person in contact with electrical source:

  1. DO NOT TOUCH the person - you may be shocked
  2. Turn off power at source if safe to do so:
    • Switch off equipment
    • Pull plug if accessible
    • Shut off circuit breaker
  3. If cannot turn off: use non-conductive object (dry wood, plastic) to separate person from source
  4. Call 000 immediately

After person separated from electricity:

  1. Check responsiveness and breathing
  2. If unconscious but breathing: place in recovery position, monitor
  3. If not breathing and you are trained: begin CPR immediately
  4. Continue CPR until help arrives or person recovers
  5. Treat any burns (cool with water, cover with clean dressing)
  6. Keep person still and warm
  7. All electrical shocks require medical evaluation (delayed effects possible)

Equipment isolation:

  1. Tag equipment as defective
  2. Lockout equipment to prevent use
  3. Report to supervisor and facilities immediately
  4. Complete incident report
  5. Do NOT use until inspected by qualified electrician

THERMAL BURNS:

  1. Remove from heat source immediately
  2. Cool affected area with running cool (not ice-cold) water for 20 minutes
  3. Remove jewellery or tight clothing near burn (unless stuck to skin)
  4. Do NOT burst blisters or apply creams/ointments
  5. Cover burn with clean, non-fluffy material (cling film ideal)
  6. Seek immediate medical attention if:
    • Burn larger than 20p coin (≥5 cm)
    • Burn on face, hands, feet, joints, or genitals
    • Full thickness burn (white or charred skin)
    • Extensive blistering
    • Victim is child or elderly
    • Chemical or electrical burn
    • Unsure of severity

LASER EYE EXPOSURE (SUSPECTED):

  1. Stop laser operation immediately
  2. Move person away from laser area
  3. Do NOT rub eyes
  4. Record details:
    • Laser wavelength, class, power
    • Estimated exposure duration
    • Beam characteristics (direct, reflection, diffuse)
  5. Seek immediate medical attention (even if no pain - retinal damage may not be immediately apparent)
  6. For Class 3B or 4 lasers: go to hospital emergency department immediately
  7. For Class 2 or 3R: arrange ophthalmological examination within 24 hours
  8. Provide laser safety information to medical staff
  9. Call supervisor immediately
  10. Complete RiskWare incident report
  11. Do NOT resume laser operation until incident reviewed

INJURY REQUIRING FIRST AID:

  1. Assess situation - ensure area safe
  2. Call for first aider or trained personnel
  3. First aid kit location: Same level as laboratories, near parents room (outside laboratory areas)
  4. For serious injuries: Call 000 immediately
  5. Provide comfort and reassurance
  6. Do NOT move injured person unless necessary for safety
  7. After first aid treatment:
    • Complete first aid documentation
    • Report to supervisor immediately
    • Complete RiskWare incident report
    • Accompany to hospital or arrange transport if medical treatment required
    • Notify next of kin if serious injury

EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTION:

  1. Press emergency stop (if available)
  2. Isolate power if safe to do so
  3. Move people away from hazard
  4. Do NOT attempt repairs
  5. Tag equipment as defective (lockout/tagout)
  6. Restrict access
  7. Report to supervisor immediately
  8. Complete incident report if safety-related
  9. Equipment NOT used until inspected and cleared

EMERGENCY CONTACTS:

Clean Up and Waste Disposal Requirements

DAILY HOUSEKEEPING:

Work area:

Laboratory general:

WASTE DISPOSAL:

General waste:

Optical waste:

Fibre optic waste (Rooms 121D, 218G):

Chemical waste:

Electrical/electronic waste:

Metal and hardware:

SPILL CLEANUP:

Water or non-hazardous liquids:

Chemical spills:

LABORATORY CLEANLINESS STANDARDS:

Acceptable:

Unacceptable (report to supervisor):

References Used in the Development of This SWP

Competency Required

MANDATORY TRAINING (Must be completed before laboratory access):

1. SAIL Lab General Local Induction

This induction covers:

Hazard awareness:

Laboratory access and conduct:

Emergency procedures:

Safe work practices:

Laboratory tour:

Documentation and reporting:

Duration: Approximately 1.5-2 hours (presentation + laboratory tour)

Assessment method:

2. Laser Operator Certificate (for laser work)

Required for:

Content:

Provider:

Documentation:

Note: Laser Operator Certificate is GENERAL laser safety awareness. Equipment-specific laser systems require ADDITIONAL training via equipment-specific RA/SWP.

3. Equipment-Specific Training

Required before using any equipment:

Examples:

4. Specialist Activity Training (as applicable)

Fibre Optics Handling:

Chemical Handling:

Electrical Work:

COMPETENCY ASSESSMENT FOR GENERAL LAB INDUCTION:

Theory Component:

Assessor conducts Q&A session or discussion covering:

Practical Component:

Trainee demonstrates:

Pass Criteria:

If not yet competent:

ONGOING REQUIREMENTS:

Refresher Training:

Equipment-Specific Refreshers:

Laser Operator Certificate:

Continuous Improvement:

RECORD KEEPING:

Training records maintained by supervisors:

Records retention:

Staff Approved to Assess Competence for This SWP

Authorised Assessors for SAIL Lab General Local Induction:

The following staff members are authorised to conduct the SAIL Lab General Local Induction and assess competency:

Assessor Requirements:

To be authorised as an induction assessor, staff must:

Assessment Process:

  1. Schedule induction session:
    • Coordinate with trainee to schedule induction
    • Allow 1.5-2 hours for full session
    • Ensure laboratory areas accessible for tour
  2. Deliver induction content:
    • Present all required topics (see Competency section)
    • Conduct laboratory tour
    • Demonstrate emergency equipment locations
    • Discuss room-specific hazards relevant to trainee’s work
    • Allow time for questions and discussion
  3. Assess competency:
    • Q&A session covering safety-critical topics
    • Practical demonstration of knowledge (locate emergency equipment)
    • Verify trainee understanding
    • Identify any gaps requiring additional training
  4. If competent:
    • Sign trainee off on sign-off sheet (below)
    • Add trainee to authorised users list
    • Arrange swipe card access activation
    • Provide trainee with copy of SAIL-RA-GENERAL-001 and SAIL-SWP-GENERAL-001
    • Inform trainee of additional requirements (Laser Operator Certificate, equipment-specific training)
  5. If not yet competent:
    • Provide additional training and clarification
    • Schedule reassessment
    • Do NOT grant access until competent
  6. Record keeping:
    • Maintain training record (name, date, assessor, outcome)
    • Update authorised users list
    • File signed competency sheet
    • Track refresher training due dates

Authorised Users List Maintenance:

SWP Sign Off Sheet

SWP name and version: General Operation and Access to SAIL Optical and Laser Laboratories Version: 1.0 - February 2026

In signing this section the assessor agrees that the following persons are competent in following this SWP and may be granted access to SAIL laboratories.

Name Signature Date Competent Name of Assessor/Authoriser Assessor/Authoriser Signature Notes (Laser Cert, Equipment Access)
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           

Notes Column: Record if Laser Operator Certificate verified, which equipment trainee will access, or any special conditions.

Document Review Schedule

This SWP must be reviewed:

Review Process:

End of Safe Work Procedure

Related Documents

Document Control

Version Date Author Changes
1.0 February 2026 Chris Betters Initial release