The University of San Carlos, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State Chemical Security Program (CSP) and CRDF Global, conducted an online 3-day webinar and workshop entitled, “Remote Interactive Training on Chemical Safety and Security for Academic Institutions in the Visayas” last October 13-15, 2021.
The program was headed by the USC Water Laboratory Head Marie Kristie B. Reyes, R.Ch. The resource speakers and trainers included Patrick John Y. Lim, Ph.D., Department of Chemistry Chair Brian John Sarno, Ph.D., Sharajen A. Julasiri, M.Chem., and Reyes herself.
USC President Fr. Narciso Cellan, Jr. SVD, D.Comm. and Vice President for Academic Affairs Fr. Jesuraj Anthoniappen, SVD, Ph.D. graced the training with their opening and closing remarks, respectively. Andrew Carpenter, CDRF Global Technical Officer, was also present to give a few words on the commencement and culmination of the event.
The training covered the basic principles of chemical health, safety, and security in the laboratory. Day 1 dealt with an Introduction to Chemical Safety and Security, Hazard Recognition, and Hazard Controls. Day 2 then covered Principles of Chemical Management including Inventory and Storage, as well as International and National Regulations on Controlled Chemicals. Finally, Day 3 concluded with webinars on Waste Disposal, Emergency Planning and Response, and a Virtual Laboratory Visit.
The training was attended by 35 administrative staff and faculty members from 15 academic institutions in the Visayas Region, including Cebu Institute of Technology-University, Cebu Normal University, Hilongos National Vocational School (Leyte), Holy Name University (Tagbilaran City), Negros Oriental State University, Philippine Science High School-Central Visayas Campus, Philippine Science High School-Eastern Visayas Campus, Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, Silliman University, Southwestern University MHAM, Southwestern University PHINMA, University of San Agustin (Iloilo City), USC Senior High School, University of the Philippines Visayas, and Velez College.
by Alixandra Alviola