Security and inventory
Hazardous materials must be stored so as to prevent accidental or intentional misuse. Guidelines for storing specific classes of hazardous materials are contained in Oakland University’s Chemical Hygiene Plan. Additional information regarding proper storage of hazardous materials is available by consulting the product Material Safety Data Sheet as outlined in Michigan Right to Know Law and/or by contacting the Office of Environmental Health and Safety at (248) 370-4196.

Hazardous materials theft (confirmed or suspected) should be reported to the OUPD by dialing 3331 from campus phones or (248) 370-3331 from cell phones).

Hazardous material spills
In the event of any spill or release of a hazardous material, the following steps should be taken by employees who witness or discover the release:

• Evacuate the room or immediate area in which the material was released, close door(s) upon exit if possible, and solicit the assistance of others to keep unauthorized personnel at least 25 feet from the room/area.
• Call OUPD by dialing 911 from campus phones or (248) 370-3333 from cell phones. Be prepared to provide the police dispatcher with the following information if/when it is available without re-entering the immediate area (i.e., within 25 feet) of the release.
• Location of the release (be as specific as possible).
• Description of any injuries, illnesses or negative health symptoms resulting from the release.
• Approximate amount of release.
• If the release is due to a leak: (1) whether the material continues to “flow”; (2) if so, at what “rate” (e.g., dribbling, streaming, gushing); and (3) approximate size of container from which the material is leaking.
• Identity of material spilled (if known).
• If the material is known to be flammable or ignitable, whether any open flames or other significant ignition sources exist in the area.
• Physical characteristics of the release (e.g., color, odor, liquid/solid/gas), particularly for the release of “unknown” materials.
• Whether release of a liquid has been “contained” (to prevent its spread) and whether it entered a sewer or drain.
• Reporting personnel should remain on the scene to answer any further questions by OUPD.

Hazardous material fires

• At the first indication of a fire make sure fire alarms are activated and evacuate the area. Any further access to the area should be restricted.
• Notify the OUPD. Dial 911 from campus phones or (248) 370-3333 from cell phones.
• OUPD will call the fire department.
• Do not re-enter the area until authorized by OUPD.