[labnetwork] After Hours Policies - Wet Processing

[Peter J Duda III]

Michael
Our policy and setup is almost identical (coincidentally) to Noah’s policy.  All of the higher hazard chemical processing happens in one bay, and those benches require a buddy after hours.  Our cleanroom is also under camera surveillance.  We do stipulate that the person performing the work after hours inform the other individual that they will be working in that area to ensure that the “buddy” will be present in the cleanroom the entire time.  This is designed to serve as a “check in” “check out” policy so that there is an active awareness of the situation.

Thanks
Peter J Duda
Technical Director, Pritzker Nanofabrication Facility
Institute for Molecular Engineering
University of Chicago
5640 South Ellis Avenue
ERC LL178
Chicago, IL  60637
Office: 773-702-8903
Pager/Text:  773-652-0480
duda at uchicago.edu
ime.uchicago.edu

From: labnetwork-bounces at mtl.mit.edu [mailto:labnetwork-bounces at mtl.mit.edu] On Behalf Of Michael Hume
Sent: Thursday, September 29, 2016 2:31 PM
To: labnetwork at mtl.mit.edu
Subject: [labnetwork] After Hours Policies - Wet Processing

Dear Colleagues,

We are in the process of re-evaluating our after-hours policies, specifically in regards to wet chemical processing (eg. HF/BOE/KOH/TMAH/Piranha cleaning). Historically, we have not allowed these processes after hours, primarily due to safety concerns. That said, as demand within our facility grows, and the competence of our user base increases, the question has been raised as to why these processes can't be performed within a framework of proper procedures to ensure user safety (eg. buddy system, etc..)

I am interested in the general approach of other facilities. Does anyone allow these processes? Does anyone forbid them? In either case what is the general reasoning for your decision? If you do allow them, what sort of protocols or policies do you have in place to provide a safe working environment?

Any feedback you may have is much appreciated!

Regards,

--

Michael Hume

Operations Manager

University of Alberta - nanoFAB

W1-060 ECERF Building

9107 - 116 Street

Edmonton, Alberta

Canada T6G 2V4
www.nanofab.ualberta.ca<http://www.nanofab.ualberta.ca/> Ph: 587-879-1519
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