Safety Equipment

The following examples represent equipment that is provided and maintained to promote safety on the Winona State University campus.

Fire Extinguishers

Nearly 1,000 fire extinguishers are located throughout campus. The fire extinguisher program is coordinated by the Environmental Health & Safety Department, with the assistance of outside contractors (for annual inspection and maintenance) and the Security Department (for monthly inspections).

If you notice problems with any campus fire extinguishers, please contact the EHS Department.

Eyewash Stations and Safety Showers

Eyewash stations and safety showers are located in most laboratory settings and mechanical or boiler rooms.

Eyewash inspection and flushing is the responsibility of each respective department where the stations are located. Facilities Services employees conduct safety shower flushing.

If you are working with chemical or physical agents that pose a severe eye and skin exposure risk, assure that you know the location of your nearest eyewash or safety shower before you begin the task.

Sharps Containers

Sharps containers are located in the majority of first floor restrooms in each building, as well as in some laboratory settings.

Needles, scalpels, contaminated broken glass and other “sharps” must be placed in one of the sharps containers and not thrown in the regular trash.

Questions relating to sharps containers can be directed to the EHS Department.

Laboratory Hoods and Biosafety Cabinets

Laboratory hoods and biosafety cabinets are located in the laboratories to protect lab occupants while working with hazardous chemicals or infectious agents. The hoods and cabinets undergo annual maintenance inspections by an outside contractor.

More information on the hoods will be provided as part of the curriculum for anyone working in lab settings.

Personal Protective Equipment

Winona State University provides all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) for University employees. Questions regarding types, locations and availability of PPE should be directed to each respective department.

If you would like assistance determining proper PPE for a task, please contact the EHS Department.