Safer STEM Safety Qualification for Teaching Assistants

Three hour online safety training for teaching assistants before any lab work.

• Asynchronous instruction provided by Safer STEM and Rutgers University
• Approx. 3 hours of self-paced, research-based content
• Designed specifically for teaching assistants in academic science labs
• Emphasizes hazard recognition, PPE, emergency response, and safe practices
• Recommended for all college/university science teaching assistants

This Campus Lab Safety for Teaching Assistants qualification is a foundational online training tailored for undergraduate teaching assistants who support instructional labs in chemistry, biology, microbiology, and related disciplines. This asynchronous ~3 hour curriculum uses engaging multimedia content and scenario-based examples to build critical competencies in recognizing chemical, biological, and physical hazards; reinforcing proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE); interpreting Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and hazard communication standards; and responding confidently to spills, exposures, and injuries. The course prepares TAs to safeguard students, model professional laboratory behavior, and meet institutional and federal safety expectations before they facilitate any lab activity.