II (14). Hazardous Materials

The possession, manufacture, storage, or use of hazardous materials in residence halls, FSILGs, and other areas where appropriate MIT Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) safety precautions are not in place is prohibited. Prohibited hazardous materials include, but are not limited to:

  • Hazardous chemicals
  • Biological materials
  • Radioactive substances, lasers (class 3b or class 4)
  • Ammunition
  • Explosives (including firecrackers and missiles)
  • Flammable materials
  • Accelerants
  • Gas grills
  • Hibachis
  • Charcoal grills or lighter fluid
  • Gasoline
  • Flammable liquid
  • Gas-powered equipment
  • Propane cooking equipment (see below).

Gas Cylinders

Students are prohibited from receiving, possessing, storing or using any gas cylinder (including, but not limited to, liquid nitrogen, helium, nitrous oxide) in any MIT residence hall. If a student attempts to purchase these materials without prior approval from EHS, the order will be cancelled and the cylinders confiscated. Students may be subject to severe disciplinary action as stated in the MIT Policies and Procedures.

Propane

Due to safety concerns, the use of propane cooking equipment in residence halls, FSILGs, and other areas where appropriate EHS safety precautions are not in place is prohibited. Safer alternatives include electric grills and house kitchens. Exceptions to this policy are rare and require permission from the DSL Environment, Health & Safety Program Manager in conjunction with the Cambridge Fire Department and require at least two weeks advance notice and a detailed proposal including safety precautions. In general, exceptions may only be granted if propane equipment is operated by professional caterers, under the supervision of a licensed plumber and in the presence of a detail from the Cambridge Fire Department.

Contact the Environment, Health & Safety Office at 617-452-3477 if you have any questions concerning the above restrictions on hazardous materials.