Research Personnel and Student Assistants are appointed by Principal Investigators (PIs) to perform research-related activities. The appointment of research personnel and student assistants shall be endorsed by the Departmental Research Committee or the Faculty Research Committee.
Research Personnel and Student Assistants may be exposed to hazardous materials or conditions during their research activities. Before starting a research project or working in a high-risk laboratory, Research Personnel and Student Assistants shall receive proper training, including the Health and Safety Office (HSO) Online Safety Training, departmental safety briefings and laboratory-specific safety training based on the nature of their research activities.
Health and Safety Responsibilities
- Conduct research activities in compliance with relevant local regulations and PolyU Health and Safety Guidelines.
- Perform risk assessments, consult with PIs, departmental technical staff, or HSO, and take appropriate precautions before beginning any new operation involving potential hazards (including, but not limited to, chemical, biological, radiation, high-powered laser, extreme temperature and pressure hazards).
- Familiarize themselves with emergency response procedures, alarm systems, building evacuation routes and the locations of the emergency equipment.
- Minimize exposure by using appropriate ventilated enclosures or exhaust systems (e.g., biosafety cabinets and fume cupboards), proper tools and personal protective equipment.
- Report unsafe conditions to the supervisor (i.e., PI), Lab-in-charge and the Departmental Health and Safety Officer.
- Follow established Standard Operating Procedures.
