Reporting Incidents

USC’s “Injury and Illness Prevention” policy is published on the University’s website. This policy replaces the former safety policy and outlines the safety roles, responsibilities and expected practices within the university community, including research laboratories.

All emergency incidents (e.g. fire, failed containment, spills, injuries, or illnesses requiring medical attention beyond first aid or transportation, human exposure to or misuse of biological materials, chemicals or radiation, or ongoing criminal activity) should be reported immediately to DPS at 213-740-4321.  The Emergency Notification and Incident Reporting page provides guidance on additional reporting requirements, including links to the appropriate incident report forms. 

PIs should also familiarize themselves with the related fact sheet for reporting non-emergency injuries and illnesses incidents.

Incidents involving exposure or loss of containment of recombinant DNA or transgenic organisms are subject to special reporting requirements under NIH guidelines. PIs who use recombinant DNA or transgenic organisms should read the Biosafety Manual and ensure their lab personnel are familiar with reporting requirements.

The EH&S Emergency Notification Poster (“1-2-3 poster”) should be printed and prominently displayed in all labs, workshops, and other areas where incidents may occur; it is advisable to also post in offices. PIs should ensure their personnel are familiar with the emergency notification procedures outlined on the website and the poster, and should ensure their personnel have DPS emergency and non-emergency numbers programmed in their phones. (UPC DPS emergency 213-740-4321; UPC DPS non-emergency 213-740-6000).