EH&S prepared for and responded to a variety of emergencies and disasters with the goal of protecting students, faculty, and staff while eliminating safety threats to the university community.

A fire in Sweeney Hall damaged the west wing of the building. Response by EH&S staff did not end when the fire department left. EH&S remained involved through the cleanup to ensure chemicals were disposed of properly, verified that water-soaked areas were dried thoroughly, and assessed that the building was once again safe to occupy.

EH&S joined with Iowa’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department, providing radiological emergency response teams, team coordination, and radiological dose assessment for Iowa’s nuclear power plants. Thankfully a response has never been needed, but through continuous practice, EH&S will be prepared to respond.

EH&S responded and guided cleanup efforts with small laboratory mishaps, so important research could continue.