SOP Guidance

Manual
For the purposes of research safety, an SOP is a written set of
procedures that explains how to utilize and manage hazardous
materials, processes, and procedures to prevent or minimize health
and safety concerns. The development and use of SOPs are integral
parts of a successful safety program and are required by state and
federal regulatory agencies. Safety SOPs are intended to inform and
educate laboratory personnel about hazards in their workplace and
how to prevent exposure. Reviewing SOPs is an essential element of
lab-specific training and all staff must be trained on the SOPs
applicable to their work.

THE ROLE OF A RISK ASSESSMENT

Identify the
A risk assessment is the foundation of a good SOP. It is
the process of evaluating the potential risks that may be
associated with an activity. It is important to note the
difference between a hazard and a risk. For example, a
hazard associated with concentrated hydrochloric acid is Hazards
skin corrosion. If one procedure calls for the use of 100-mL
of concentrated hydrochloric acid, and another procedure
calls for the use of 1-mL of concentrated hydrochloric
acid, and both will be used in similar ways, which poses Determine Set
the greater risk during handling? The hazard cannot be
reduced, it can only be eliminated. However, the Risks Control
Measures
the risk associated with the hazard can be reduced.
Once the hazards have been identified, and the risks
associated with them have been determined, you can start
finding ways to control exposure.

SOPS IN RESEARCH
SOPs pose a unique challenge in the research
environment. Often, research labs will not have a set
EHS Required
of instructions to work with and may use a variety of
techniques during an experiment. However, SOPs can
Templates element of
still be used (and must be used) during research by
setting your limitations. the CHP
If the materials used are known, then the hazards are
SOP FORMAT
The level of detail of an SOP is dictated by the
also known. The exact quantities and conditions
complexity of the procedure as well as the hazardous
between experiments may vary, but limits can be
nature of the material or equipment involved. An SOP
placed based on the estimated needs. These limits will
may cover:
help identify the associated risks. Can you set an
operating temperature range? If different agents
1) A specific procedure or experiment
within a chemical class are needed for your reaction,
2) A generic procedure covering several hazards
can you list the possible agents that may be used? Do
3) A generic use of a chemical or class of chemicals
you have a lower or upper volume limit for your
with similar hazards
experiment? What is the allowable mixing/heating
time frame? Incorporating as much step-by-step detail
It is highly recommended to use EHS's SOP templates.
as possible based on your experimental limits is
If using your own template, the following elements
essential for determining the risks of an experiment.
must be included:
Once the research expands beyond the set scope, the Principal Investigator, location where the
SOP should be reevaluated and a new risk assessment experiment will occur and last review date
should be performed. Description of scope of work
Risk/hazard identification
Engineering controls and PPE

Set your Procedural steps in as much detail as

possible - include circumstances that

If the design require prior approval, designated work

areas, etc. (see examples)

materials and limits.

Transport, receiving and storage
requirements

equipment are ...then the Waste determination and disposal procedure

Emergency procedures

known... hazards SOPs are a required element of the chemical hygiene

are known.
plan and must be easily accessible to all lab
personnel. Please include a note in your LATCH Risk
Assessment that identifies where SOPs can be found.

RESPONSIBILITIES RESOURCES

SOP templates and examples can be found on our

SOPs should be written by someone who has website at:
sound knowledge and experience with the
material, equipment, and related procedures. The https://www.ehs.ufl.edu/departments/research-
Principal Investigator (PI) or Area Supervisor is safety-services/chemical-and-lab-safety/chemical-
ultimately responsible for the implementation of safety/standard-operating-procedures/
SOPs and should review the information to
determine if it is accurate and adequate. If additional assistance is needed, please contact
Mark Yanchisin (mark@ehs.ufl.edu) to schedule
PIs are also responsible for ensuring that all lab an appointment.
staff are appropriately trained on the application of
an SOP. A means for documenting training on the It is our goal to help you progress research in a safe
SOP must be developed. This can be either a paper- and healthy manner!
based or electronic method of record-keeping.

The lab staff is responsible for attending necessary

training, reviewing all applicable SOPs and
ensuring that requirements outlined within an SOP
are being followed. Questions or concerns must be
shared with the PI prior to commencing an
experiment.