Hazardous Materials Preparedness
Hazardous materials are substances that can pose a risk to human health, safety, or the environment if they are released unexpectedly or handled improperly. On a university campus, hazardous materials may be used or stored in laboratories, maintenance and custodial operations, medical settings, construction areas, or during routine facility operations.
Most hazardous materials incidents on campus are small and contained, but knowing how to recognize potential hazards and respond appropriately can help protect people, property, and the environment.
Types of Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials may include, but are not limited to:
- Chemical materials such as laboratory chemicals, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, pesticides, acids, or mercury
- Biohazardous or medical waste such as blood, body fluids, or other potentially infectious materials
- Universal waste such as batteries, fluorescent lamps, or mercury-containing items
- Paint, oil, and solvent waste generated during maintenance or construction activities
Only trained and authorized personnel should handle, clean up, or dispose of hazardous materials.
If You Encounter a Hazardous Materials Spill or Release
If you see a chemical spill, a leaking container, a strong chemical odor, visible fumes, or an unknown substance:
- Do not touch, move, or attempt to clean up the material.
- Move away from the area immediately and keep others at a safe distance.
- Call 911 immediately if there is any immediate danger, injury, fire risk, or strong odor.
- Notify BYU–Hawaii Campus Security at (808) 675-3503 and follow their instructions.
- Evacuate the area if directed by emergency responders or campus officials.
Hazardous materials incidents can occur quickly and with little or no warning. Prompt reporting and following official instructions are critical to safety.
Stay Informed and Follow Official Instructions
During a hazardous materials incident, stay alert for instructions from:
- BYUH Alerts
- Campus Security
- Local emergency responders
You may be instructed to evacuate, shelter in place, or avoid certain areas depending on the situation. Always follow official guidance and do not rely on rumors or unverified information.
If You Work With Hazardous Materials
Students and employees who regularly work with hazardous materials are required to:
- Complete applicable safety training
- Follow established handling, storage, and disposal procedures
- Report spills, releases, or unsafe conditions immediately to their supervisor
Detailed guidance on hazardous materials handling, spill response, waste disposal, and required training is available on a login-required Hazardous Materials Safety & Disposal page for students and employees.
Reporting and Assistance
If you encounter hazardous materials or need assistance:
- Emergency (immediate danger): Call 911
- After hours: Contact BYU–Hawaii Campus Security (808) 675-3503
- Non-emergency questions or disposal guidance: Contact BYU–Hawaii Safety & Risk Management at (808) 675-3281 or contact the safety and risk manager at (808) 675-3411.
Always report concerns promptly and allow trained personnel to manage the situation.