A written safety policy is the cornerstone of a good safety program. It's a statement endorsed and supported by the administration that speaks to the fundamental responsibilities for health and safety in the academic institution or company.

For example: "It is the responsibility of our company/ institution and its employees to insure that our business activities/educational programs and other activities protect and promote the health and safety of our customers/students, our employees, and the environment."

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Your department may want to draft a sample policy statement for recommendation to your administration or board of education. It is virtually impossible to have an excellent safety program without their support. Your written safety policy will provide the foundation of your safety program.

Policy statements of this type need to be signed by the highest ranking official of the organization, dated, laminated, and mounted in the entrance of every building.

This safety tip is courtesy of The Laboratory Safety Institute at www.labsafety.org and Lab Manager Magazine®.