Terms & Conditions

It is the policy of Stanford University to take every reasonable precaution to provide a work environment that is free from recognized hazards for its employees in accordance with the California Occupational Health and Safety Act (Cal/OSHA).  The University is also required to ensure that the necessary work practices, procedures, and policies are implemented to protect laboratory employees from all potential hazards in their work area. Cal/OSHA Title 8 Regulations require that laboratory employees be made aware of the Stanford University Chemical Hygiene Plan. Laboratory personnel are expected to have read and understand the Chemical Hygiene Plan before beginning work in the laboratory.

Laboratory Policies

Laboratory policies are subject to change, and it is the responsibility of all laboratory users to be aware of current rules and regulations. Personnel who have been granted access to the Ecosystems Shared Laboratory understand that the facility operates on a three strikes rule. Three repeated instances of laboratory policy or safety violations will result in loss of access. 

Sample Storage: Refrigerator, freezer, and desiccator sample storage space is available for the scheduled duration of the laboratory use only. All stored samples must be clearly labeled with the name of the laboratory user and the expected date of removal. Samples left in the storage spaces significantly beyond the labeled expected removal date are subject to disposal.

Sample Types: The Ecosystems Shared Laboratory is available for processing of natural abundance environmental samples only. Any samples with an elevated abundance of stable or radioisotopes (e.g., labeled with ¹³C, ¹⁴C, or ¹⁵N isotopic tracers) or hazardous concentrations of other elements are strictly forbidden.