Laboratory safety

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Safety resources for FSE students

As a student in the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE), you may be required to use our laboratories and clinics depending on your degree or units you are undertaking.

All our students who use laboratories or clinics will also undergo a full induction for that particular facility once classes commence.

Below are some useful resources you can access before you start.

Students looking into microscopesHere are some rules you'll need to follow to ensure your safety.

Any student/staff/visitor who enters a laboratory MUST wear closed toe shoes.

This means no:

  • flip-flops/thongs
  • sandals
  • ballet flats

We recommend you organise your footwear before your first classes so that you do not have to rush out to the shops in week one.

We’ve listed some useful external resources that can help explain safety in an Australian context in more detail:

Some degrees and units also require you to wear particular safety equipment (for example lab coats and eye wear).

Your lecturers will advise you on these requirements during your first week.


Engineering students

Two engineering students working on projectIf you’re studying any undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree in Engineering, you’re required to complete the below online modules.

  • MQ Health and Safety
  • Hazardous Chemicals

Find these modules.

All students will have access to these resources online from the second week of February. We highly recommend doing this before your first class so you’re well prepared.


Research laboratory safety

If you’re a HDR student or an Undergraduate or Postgraduate Coursework student who will be required to access a research laboratory, you’ll need to complete the below online modules.

Two students working in laboratoryIf you’re not sure if this applies to you, contact your relevant department.

  • Lab Essentials
    • Introduces MQ expectations regarding lab-related activities, and describes the tools and resources available to assist you.
  • Hazardous Chemical Safety Training
    • Covers basic principles of management of hazardous chemical acquisition and storage.
    • There is an online module and a practical observation component.
    • The module is designed to encourage the engagement of both the trainee (student/staff/collaborator) and their supervisor in matters of safety in the workplace.

Click on “course catalogue” and search for this module.

View our step-by-step instructions on accessing the online training portal [PDF 396KB].


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Online enquiry: Service Connect Portal
Ground Floor, 18 Wally's Walk
Macquarie University NSW 2109

Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm