2014-67

Arizona State University
University Senate
Spring 2014

Senate Motion #2014-67

Motion Introduced by: Research and Creative Activities Committee
 
Date of First Reading: April 16, 2014 via e-mail
 
Date of Second Reading: April 28, 2014
 
Title of Motion: Formation of a University Safety Committee

Action Requested: Both the Research and Creative Activities Committee and the University Academic Council recommend passage of this motion. 
 
Rationale: Click here to read background information regarding this proposed committee.   
 
 
Whereas The University Senate recognizes that safety is an important concern in the University and desires to enhance the culture of safety among all students and employees, and
 
Whereas Events at other universities have stimulated reviews of safety priorities, attitudes, and practices at ASU, and
 
Whereas The reviews just cited have raised concerns that some laboratories and other common work spaces may either pose undue risks or may currently require training that is not relevant to ongoing activities,
 
Therefore: The University Senate recommends that the Senate leadership shall work with the Provost Office and other administrative units to form a University Safety Committee (USC).  The Senate recommends incorporation of the following:
 

1. The Committee shall be composed primarily of members from the Academic Assembly for staggered three-year terms, and preferably chaired by one of these members.  Membership may also include voting or non-voting personnel from the Provost, Environmental Health \& Safety, or other offices.

 
Existing safety committees that are required by federal or state laws or regulations shall remain separate and independent.
 

1. The USC may conduct periodic safety reviews and may make recommendations to academic units about the needs for safety officers and/or safety committees.  It may require periodic reports from units.
   
   
2. The USC may recommend the nature and degree of training needed for various types of areas appropriate for the risks that are posed for users. The requirements should not place unnecessary burdens on users, particularly of areas that may commonly be called `laboratories.'