Improving laboratory safety through mini-scale experiments: A case study of New Jersey City University

Promoting safety in teaching laboratories requires an integrated approach that recognizes the importance of stakeholders’ commitment, use of cost-effective and environmentally friendly experiments, and proper implementation management. This article presents the positive impacts of implementing mini-scale experiments on improving the laboratory safety program in the Chemistry Department at New Jersey City University. The mini-scale experiments were implemented for five years as part of a Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP). The results highlight the importance of stakeholders’ active involvement, organizational commitment, and the benefits and challenges of implementing the SEP. The SEP framework is presented to discuss the factors and indicators influencing the successful implementation of mini-scale experiments in improving the safety culture in a small teaching laboratory institution.