Research Involving Biohazardous and Radioactive Materials Policy

On this page:

• Background
• Policy Statements
• Monitoring
• Policy Revision Date
• Attachments
• Specific Links

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Background

To date, Mohawk College staff have not engaged in research that involves biohazardous and/or radioactive materials. In addition, there are no plans to engage in research involving these materials in the foreseeable future. However, should this situation change, the College will commit itself to protecting employees, students, the community and the environment from potential hazards that may arise in the handling and management of biohazardous and/or radioactive materials.

Definitions

Biohazards: Infectious agents or biological materials that present a direct or indirect risk or potential risk to the health of humans, animals or the environment.

Radioactive materials: Materials that emit ionizing radiation in the form of alpha or beta particles or gamma rays and may present a risk to humans, animals or the environment.

Purpose

This policy outlines the College’s official position on research involving biohazardous and/or radioactive materials.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the Mohawk community engaged in research.

 

Policy Statements

1. Although Mohawk College staff have never engaged in college-sanctioned research involving biohazardous and/or radioactive materials, the College subscribes in principle to responsible handling and management of these materials to ensure the protection of humans, animals and the environment.
2. Should the decision be made at a future date to engage in research involving biohazardous or radioactive materials, Mohawk College staff and students will implement care and management practices consistent with all legislative and regulatory requirements, including Health Canada’s Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s regulations, the Hazardous Products Act, the Hazardous Materials Information Review Act, and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Standards. In addition, individuals responsible for supervising, conducting or working in areas where such research is conducted will be expected to adhere to appropriate Occupational Health and Safety Act requirements, policies and procedures.

 

Monitoring

The Vice President – Technology, Apprenticeship & Corporate Training is responsible for monitoring this policy according to the schedule established by the Director, Corporate Services or more frequently as determined by feedback from members of the college community.

 

Policy Revision Date

Intentionally left blank.

 

Attachments

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Specific Links

• Procedure ERP807 – Handling of Hazardous Materials and Materials Spills
• Procedure ERP806 – Emergencies involving Radioactive Materials