Getting Started

Welcome! Learn about the training and mandatory courses required before you work in a research lab at VCH Research Institute.

Before you can work in a research lab, you must receive orientation, training and complete all MANDATORY courses. Until then, you must work under the supervision of a staff member who has the required training. Building orientation will be provided by your PI and/or Lab Supervisor.

Obtain a VCHRI Photo ID, Card Access & Key

Please complete the VCH Research Institute Photo ID, Card Access, & Key Request Form and submit the form and required photo to research@vch.ca.  

Obtain a Lab Coat

To obtain a lab coat download and complete the Lab Coat Requisition Form.

Purchasing lab coat

  • Lab coats now have to purchased
    • $18 for new; $9 for used; $6 for alterations (sleeve hemming, etc.)
  • Debit or cost center only
    • Cash or credit card is not accepted
  • Hours of operation are 7AM to 3:30PM, Monday to Friday
    • Telephone: 604.875.4111 ext 63182
  • New lab coat purchase and laundry pick up is at JPP room B723

Cleaning lab coat

  • Cleaning service included (no cost)
    • Turn around time is 4 working days
  • Dirty coat drop off is in laundry chute located beside JPP room B722

General Lab Safety

The following is a list of general lab safety rules that should be followed:

  1. No food or drink may be consumed in the laboratories. A shelf has been provided in the hallway for drink and food containers. Do not bring empty containers into the lab.
  2. Due to possible chemical hazards: No open toed shoes; No shorts; Bare legs must be covered. No exceptions.
  3. Lab coats must be worn in the lab areas but not in the lunch room or public areas.
  4. Gloves should not be worn outside of the lab areas unless transferring materials between labs. You must always have one ungloved hand for opening doors, elevators, etc.
  5. Personnel protective equipment (goggles, gloves, lab coats, etc.) are provided and must be used as appropriate.
  6. Do not abuse shared equipment and sign up for use when required.
  7. Keep exits and hallways clear.

Visit the Health and Safety section for more information.

Mandatory Courses

Listed below are courses offed through UBC Risk Management and VCH Research Institute:

  • WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)
  • Introduction to Laboratory Safety Course
  • Laboratory Chemical Safety Course
  • Laboratory Biological Safety Course
  • Preventing and Addressing Bullying & Harassment
  • How to Deal with Bullying and Harassment in the Workplace
  • Radionuclide Safety and Methodology Course
  • Laser Safety and Program Development Course
  • TDG – Transportation of Dangerous Goods
  • Animal Care

Visit the Regulations and Training section for more information.