Student Laboratory Safety Training

S.T.A.R.S. (Safe Techniques Advance Research Science) Training

S.T.A.R.S. Training is a summer program only. 

Select one of the links below for more information:

• Goals
• Summer Student Safety Training Requirements
• Program Components: What You Need to Know

• Safe Laboratory Practices and Procedures

• S.T.A.R.S. Brochure

• Summer Handbook 2024
  

Goals

1. To provide students with the knowledge of a broad range of safety topics applicable to a biomedical research facility in a hands-on-"learn by doing" laboratory environment.
2. To foster critical thinking and problem solving skills vital to potential hazard recognition and accident prevention through mock learning scenarios and challenges.
3. Students will learn how important it is to stop, think, and apply safe laboratory practices when working at the NIH.

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Program Components: What You Need to Know

Introduction to Laboratory Safety - Computer-based Training

All new employees working in a NIH laboratory are required to complete this computer-based training course prior to working in the lab. Training provides an overview of basic laboratory safe practices and an introduction to common chemical, biological, and physical hazards.  Remember to keep your training certificate for your records. To register, visit the NIH Safety Training Courses- Main. 

 
You do not need to have NIH identification to take online Safety courses.

STARS Laboratory Safety Training Class

All new summer students working in a NIH laboratory who have not obtained  their Bachelor Degree are required to complete the STARS laboratory safety training within 7 days of beginning work in the laboratory.

This course is taught by occupational safety and health professionals.   A broad range of laboratory topics covered including:

• principles of biosafety 
• chemical handling and use 
• common laboratory hazards 
• emergency preparedness

The learning objectives will be met through active dialogue between students and instructors. During the course you will:

• work in small groups with an instructor 
• practice and learn safe laboratory techniques and practices 
• learn rules of safe laboratory conduct  
• problem solve and challenge critical thinking skills through a series of learning exercises

To demonstrate material comprehension, attendees must complete a quiz.  An 85% minimum passing grade is required. If attendees required additional follow-up due to a low-scoring quiz grade, students will receive additional one-on-one instruction to ensure course completion and success. To register, visit the NIH Safety Training Courses- Main. 

  
You do not need to have NIH identification to take online Safety Courses

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