By authority delegated from the University President, the Vice President for Finance and Administration is responsible for the safety of all University facilities. Under this authority, policies are developed to provide a safe teaching, research, service, housing and recreational environment.

The Environmental Health and Safety Division was established in 1974 and given the responsibility for the management of all safety practices and the effective administration of the program.

The mission of the Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) Division is to minimize injury to faculty, staff, students and visitors and to minimize damage to University property. Inherent in this mission is the charge to provide a safe and healthy environment in which the University's activities can be pursued.

All applicable federal and state safety laws, rules and regulations are adopted by the University. In order to carry out its duties and responsibilities, the Environmental Health and Safety Division will reference standards or codes related to safety which have been adopted and promulgated by nationally recognized standards-setting organizations. The interpretation of safety codes and standards is the responsibility of the Environmental Health and Safety Division.

EH&S is divided into six functional Departments. Facility and Fire Safety includes the Pest Control and Fire Equipment Service Units. Radiation Control and Radiological Services is responsible for University-wide radiation protection. Occupational and Research Safety is responsible for monitoring all biological and chemical research activities, clinic safety, accident prevention programs and also oversees safety issues at IFAS off-campus stations. Diving Science and Safety supports scientific diving for the University of Florida. Hazardous Materials Management coordinates the disposal of radioactive and chemical waste. Industrial Hygiene is responsible for asbestos, indoor air quality and other industrial hygiene programs.

In order to assure an effective Environmental Health and Safety program for the University of Florida, it is imperative that all individuals associated with the University comply fully with the polices and procedures set forth in this manual.

Vice President for
Finance and Administration