Lessons earned from implementation of a formal laboratory decommissioning program at Emory University

This article will discuss the proactive approach taken by EHSO to implement a formal decommissioning process for the research labs of Emory University. The steps included developing a working relationship between research administrators, researchers and EHS personnel. Other important steps included providing lab personnel with uniform decommissioning guidelines and redistribution of useable laboratory reagents, equipment and supplies to other laboratories on campus, and increasing customer service to researchers by providing hazardous waste pickup by EHS. These steps have led to decrease in the amount of laboratory cleanouts performed by EHS and a decrease in the amount of unknown or obsolete chemicals and reagents found in vacated labs. These steps have also encouraged University sustainability through the redistribution of useable laboratory supplies and equipment.