Laboratory Access | Penn State Department of Materials Science and Engineering

MatSE is dedicated to putting safety first. Our department is committed to being the safest department on campus, taking a proactive and intentional approach to protecting our students, staff, and faculty.

To support this commitment, MatSE has developed its own comprehensive safety training and procedures, going beyond standard requirements. These measures ensure a strong culture of safety and position MatSE as a model for the entire University community.

How to receive laboratory access

Read the MatSE Safety Manual and prepare for the exam.
Request and take the safety exam.
1. Once you feel you are sufficiently prepared for the exam, e-mail safety@matse.psu.edu for instructions on how to access the exam.
2. The exam will be provided in CANVAS and a passing score of 80% or higher is required.
3. After your passing score is verified, you may work in the lab under supervision.
Penn State Environmental and Safety (EHS) training is mandatory for unsupervised access to the laboratories (annual refreshers). If you are going to work in a lab independently, you will need to complete EHS Initial Laboratory Safety Training and receive your certificate.
1. This course is a one-time requirement under the Chemical Safety Program and applies to anyone who supervises laboratory staff or works in an area using flammable, acidic, basic, toxic, or reactive chemicals.
2. Your certificate, as well as any annual refresher training certificates must be provided to safety@matse.psu.edu. Also, provide copies to your research group's lab safety manager. Each lab you work in must keep certificate copies in the chemical waste log book.
3. Additional safety training is available through EHS and is necessary for specific hazards (e.g., radiation, lasers, etc.). Training on the Chemical Inventory Management System (CHIMS) is required for individuals tasked with maintaining their research group's inventories of hazardous chemicals.
Request card access to the Steidle Building laboratories, if needed. Fill out a Penn State Facility Access Authorization Form and a MatSE Swipe Access Form for Steidle Building Each form must be signed by the appropriate individuals and email it to matseaccess@ems.psu.edu.

Need a pair of safety glasses? Contact safety@matse.psu.edu.