University of Gothenburg

Lab and Equipment Rules

Here you'll find everything you need to know to work safely and efficiently in our labs. From basic safety guidelines to using our chemical management system and conducting risk assessments.

Before you begin your work

Before starting work in our labs, you'll need to complete an orientation covering safety, evacuation procedures, waste management, and general guidelines. You can book your orientation at the reception.

You'll also need to sign a form acknowledging that you have read and agree to comply with our safety rules.

You can download the rules here, which should be signed and handed to the Lab Manager.

During work in our labs

Our labs are communal spaces where we share various resources and areas, such as dishwashing and weighing rooms, autoclaves, freeze dryers, and some microscope stations. It's crucial for everyone to contribute to maintaining a clean and organized environment, as well as ensuring fair use of shared resources.

Certain labs and pieces of equipment belongs to the center's permanent researchers and can only be accessed with prior approval. If you're uncertain about the specifics, consult the Lab Manager.

We offer a wide range of instruments and equipment for loan from our storage. Should you require special materials like liquid nitrogen, dry ice, or gases, these can be ordered separately.

If you encounter any issues, need help locating specific items, or experience equipment malfunctions, please contact the Lab Manager.

Specific lab rules

Radioactive Substances

The importation and handling of radioactive substances at Kristineberg are governed by specific regulations, which can be found in the documents linked below. If you plan to work with radioactive substances, consult these documents and contact the Radiation Safety Officer (Lars Ljungqvist) before placing any orders.

Radioactive Lab Regulations (pdf)

Microbiology & GMM

Work involving microbes and Genetically Modified Microorganisms (GMM) is regulated by The Swedish Work Environment Authority (AFS 2005:1 & 2000:5). Local microbiology regulations can be found in the link below. Prior to conducting any lab work or introducing microbes into the facility, a risk assessment must be completed. If you are unfamiliar with this process, consult the Microbial Safety Officer (Lars Ljungqvist) or the Microbial Advisory Person (Maria Asplund).

Microbiology & GMM Regulations (pdf)

Risk assessments

To maintain a safe working environment, it's crucial that all lab activities involving hazardous substances undergo risk assessments in accordance with Swedish Work Environment Authority guidelines. You can complete your risk assessment using the KLARA system with a personal login, or you may use another template. The important thing is that the assessment should cover all the criteria outlined in the document below.

Risk Assessment Guidelines (pdf)

Chemical handling system KLARA

At Kristineberg, we utilize the KLARA chemical handling system for convenient access to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), classification, risk phrases, and label printing. Please note that KLARA is only accessible via the GU network or through a VPN.