At UC Davis Facilities Management (FM), protecting the health and safety of technicians and the campus community is always the top priority. One important way this commitment is carried out is through hazardous material sampling, led by Jonathan Parrott and Robert Deman of the FM Safety Office.

Materials such as lead and asbestos can pose significant health risks if not properly identified and managed. To ensure safety, the FM Safety Office collects samples and sends them to SGS Forensics Laboratories for professional analysis. This process provides accurate results and gives project teams the information they need to move forward safely and in compliance with all regulations.

Hazardous material sampling can take place at several points in a project’s life cycle, during planning, at kickoff, or even midway if unforeseen conditions arise. This flexibility allows FM teams to remain proactive, respond quickly to concerns, and maintain safe working environments across all projects.

Beyond sampling, the Safety Office also plays a vital role in training and certification. The team conducts Asbestos Awareness training for Custodial staff and manages all Asbestos and Lead training certifications for Building Maintenance Services (BMS). In addition, FM Safety works closely with the campus EH&S Industrial Hygienist to perform Silica evaluations across all departments, ensuring exposure risks are identified and controlled. Training is also provided for all team members to keep them in compliance with safety requirements.

These programs, written and managed by the Safety Office, are integral to ensuring safe work practices whenever hazardous materials may be disturbed. By maintaining awareness, training records, and ongoing evaluations, FM ensures staff are not only protected but also fully equipped to recognize and respond to potential hazards.

Together, through sampling, evaluations, and proactive training programs, FM staff and the Safety Office work as a team to maintain a safe environment for employees and the entire campus community.