Findings noted during an inspection are classified using a 4-point scale, with Level 4 indicating the greatest severity.  The severity level are included with the description of any findings during the inspection. The severity level of the finding will be assessed by the inspector and documented using the following definitions: 

• Severity Level 1 – Notice
  • Situation is a minor departure from Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), common sense, best practices and/or housekeeping standards.
  • Action – All findings will be noted on the inspection. The supervisor must address the inspection findings and update the inspection platform within thirty (30) days.
• Severity Level 2 – Moderate
  • Situation is not life threatening, and does not pose risk of serious illness or injury, and/or significant damage to property. The violation may also be an infraction of EPA, OSHA, and/or local (state, city, institutional) regulations.
  • Action – All findings will be noted on the inspection. The supervisor must address the inspection findings and update the inspection platform within fifteen (15) days.
• Severity Level 3 – Important
  • Situation is potentially life threatening, with an associated danger that may pose a risk of serious illness or injury, and/or significant damage to property. The violation may also be an infraction of EPA, OSHA and/or local (state, city, institutional) regulations.
  • Action – Operations may be discontinued and the occupants evacuated from the room until the situation is resolved. All findings will be noted on the inspection. The supervisor must address the inspection findings inside the laboratory within five (5) days and update the inspection platform within ten (10) days.
• Severity Level 4 – Critical
  • Situation is life threatening with an imminent danger that poses an immediate risk of serious illness or injury, and/or significant damage to property.
  • Action - Operations will be discontinued and the occupants evacuated from the room until the situation is resolved. All findings will be noted on the inspections. The supervisor must immediately address the inspection findings and update the inspection platform within five (5) days.

Please contact EH&S if you have any questions or concerns.