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Q: Michael, can you tell us about the ULS and your role in health and safety?
Michael: Sure. The ULS is one of the University Research Facilities (URFs) at PolyU. We provide access to advanced instruments for life sciences research, offer trainings and research support to staff and students, and facilitate collaborative and multidisciplinary research. My role as a DHSO is to ensure that every piece of equipment is used safely and effectively. This part of my job is both challenging and rewarding.

Q: Can you share a challenging yet rewarding experience in developing safety systems at ULS?
Michael: In the establishment of our new Cryo-Electron Microscopy Centre and Animal Imaging Centre, I worked closely with the HSO to establish a comprehensive safety management system. In particular, since radioactive substances are used in the Cryo-EM Centre, we had to tackle numerous challenges in maintaining radiation safety for our staff and users, as well as to ensure the storage and handling of the reagents fulfill the requirements of the Radiation Ordinance. We formulated a detailed risk management plan, covering everything from site preparation, equipment installation, personnel training to emergency procedures. It was a meticulous work, but it laid a solid foundation for the lab’s safe operation.

Q: How do you feel about the recognition and support you’ve received?
Michael: I’m grateful for the award and the support from HSO in setting up our first radiation lab, and the first animal imaging core facility in Hong Kong. This recognition reflects the collective effort of everyone involved, especially my supportive ULS colleagues, who are always willing to offer their assistance.

Henrietta Ho & Chan Tsz Lam: A Dynamic Duo in AP

Henrietta and Lam, both from AP, are the other two Safety Stars of 2024. Through regular inspections and proposing improvements, they maintained high safety standards in AP laboratories and achieved a win-win situation for both scientific research and laboratory safety.

Q: How do you ensure safety across over 30 laboratories in AP?
Henrietta: We oversee lab operations to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols. Communication with lab users is also important to make sure experiments are conducted safely.
Lam: I collaborate with Henrietta on regular lab inspections. When we identify potential hazards, we work together, often involving the HSO, to address them.

Q: Can you share some specific improvements you’ve implemented?

Henrietta: We’ve developed an enhanced safety interlock system for laser equipment to ensure that the laser shutter automatically closes if someone inadvertently enters the laser room.

Lam: In addition to the safety system, we’ve reorganized lab spaces to improve safety and operational efficiency, optimizing the work environment for everyone. We also make good use of everyday technology, like QR codes, for safety management. For example, Henrietta introduced QR codes for easy display and updating of equipment licenses, and this has made the management of information a lot easier.

Q: How do you feel about your work in safety management?
Lam: I’m grateful for the support from Henrietta and our colleagues. It makes the challenging work rewarding.
Henrietta: It’s encouraging to find solutions to H&S challenges. Our efforts truly pay off when we see the improvements. We hope that we can foster a robust safety culture in our department.

Congratulations again to our Safety Stars 2024! Your dedication, creativity, and teamwork are helping to build a safer, stronger PolyU.