Faculty of Science, KKU, Drives Safety Culture with Two Intensive Training Programmes to Elevate Laboratory Safety Standards

24 November 2025
15:10

The Faculty of Science, Khon Kaen University (KKU), continues its systematic effort to foster a comprehensive safety culture within its scientific operating areas. This commitment is demonstrated through the organisation of two specialised workshops on 17–18 November 2025. These programmes are designed to strengthen knowledge, awareness, and safety skills among all target audiences, including staff and personnel, in alignment with the University’s ESPReL safety standards.

On 17 November 2025, the Faculty hosted the workshop “Clean Lab – Clear Mind: Systematically and Safely Segregating Used Chemicals” from 09.00 to 16.00 hrs. in the Wittayawipas 1 Meeting Room, Wittayawipas Building. The goal was to enhance laboratory safety standards and address the issue of inconsistent chemical waste segregation systems observed in some operational units. Associate Professor Rojjana Burakham, Ph.D., Associate Dean for Research, presided over the opening.

The training included a lecture on chemical management principles, the segregation of hazardous waste categories according to legal requirements and ESPReL standards, and full-day practical workshop activities. Participants presented their work and engaged in a Q&A session for knowledge exchange. The project aims for 100 per cent of laboratory users within the Faculty of Science to correctly and safely segregate used chemicals, thereby mitigating accident risks and ensuring continuous, sustainable reduction of environmental impact.

The training continued on 18 November 2025 with a laboratory safety workshop specifically for cleaning staff. The session took place from 13.00 to 16.00 hrs. in room 8512, SC.08 Building. This programme focused on reducing risks associated with working in laboratory environments, areas which present multiple hazards including chemicals and pathogens. The curriculum covered various types of chemicals and hazardous substances, hazard warning symbols, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency response procedures, and included practical test exercises.

This specific project is expected to enhance the safety knowledge of cleaning staff, reduce workplace accidents, and support compliance with ESPReL standards.

The delivery of these programmes reflects the Faculty of Science’s unwavering dedication to creating a safe working environment for all stakeholders, from researchers and students to cleaning personnel. Furthermore, the Faculty is developing globally standardised management systems, aiming to serve as a model for other educational institutions in the effective and environmentally responsible management of hazardous waste.