Welcome to ESSR
Our Vision is a campus where safety and sustainability are core values at every level of the institution.
Celebrating 50 Years of Safety and a Sustainable Future
This year marks a significant milestone for the University of Maryland (UMD): the 50th anniversary of the Department of Environmental Safety, Sustainability and Risk (ESSR). This is a moment to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and look forward to a future where safety and sustainability are deeply woven into the fabric of our university.
Terrapin Youth Protection Strategic Plan
The University of Maryland has launched a comprehensive strategic plan for establishing an enterprise-wide risk management system for any university-affiliated activity involving minors. This initiative fosters a culture of safeguarding and excellence in youth engagement. Learn more about Terrapin Youth Protection.
How Can We Help You?
► Training
ESSR UNITS
ESSR is organized into several areas of expertise:
Report to ESSR
Report emergencies, spills, injuries, mold concerns, incidents, near misses and hazards by pressing the REPORT button.
To report a mold or air quality concern, press
Report a Mold or Air Quality Concern.
For general inquiries, visit AskESSR.
ESSR BY THE NUMBERS
ESSR’s impact in 2025 is felt across every corner of campus. From safety programs and sustainability initiatives to research support and risk mitigation, our work contributes to a stronger, safer, and more resilient University of Maryland. The data we track—from inspections and trainings to waste reduction, emergency preparedness, and sustainability progress—clearly shows one thing: ESSR delivers more for our campus community.
News
New Job Hazard Analysis Resource for UMD
The Department of Environmental Safety, Sustainability & Risk has launched a new Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) webpage to support safer work practices across campus. The page explains what a JHA is, when it should be used, and how supervisors and employees can work together to identify hazards and select appropriate controls.View Article Details for New Job Hazard Analysis Resource for UMD 
UMD Wins ABSA Biosafety & Biosecurity Award
UMD earned First Place in the ABSA International Biosafety Month Outreach Award for its creative poster series honoring biosafety and biosecurity heroes across campus. This recognition highlights the Biosafety team’s innovative approach to promoting a strong culture of safety at the university.View Article Details for UMD Wins ABSA Biosafety & Biosecurity Award 
Campus Sustainability Month Celebration
October is Campus Sustainability Month, and the Office of Sustainability is hosting the third annual Campus Sustainability Month Celebration!View Article Details for Campus Sustainability Month Celebration 
ESSR 2024-2025 Annual Report
The ESSR Annual Report is now available, highlighting our accomplishments, key initiatives, and continued commitment to fostering a safe and sustainable campus community.View Article Details for ESSR 2024-2025 Annual Report Biosafety Month at UMD
ESSR is celebrating the 12th anniversary of Biosafety & Biosecurity Month with the theme “It takes a village to build a culture of biosafety,” highlighting campus-wide collaboration in research safety.View Article Details for Biosafety Month at UMD Notice of Cases of Body Lice
The University of Maryland’s Pest Control Management Units have inspected and thoroughly treated the campus locations where body lice were reported. Inspections are continuing to ensure that no additional areas are affected. If you see a problem on campus, please submit a request through the Facilities Service Central portal. If you are experiencing symptoms, contact the University Health Center. All known areas have been inspected and treated.View Article Details for Notice of Cases of Body Lice 
Celebrating Excellence: Al Sactor Honored with Prestigious UMD Award
Al Sactor, Assistant Director in the Fire Marshal Office at ESSR, received the President’s Distinguished Service Award. This marks the first time an ESSR team member has earned this prestigious university honor.View Article Details for Celebrating Excellence: Al Sactor Honored with Prestigious UMD Award Annual Fire Safety Report
The 2025 Annual Fire Safety Report is available.View Article Details for Annual Fire Safety Report The Power of Partnerships
ESSR and UMPD conclude $2.9M grant, strengthening campus safety and partnership.View Article Details for The Power of Partnerships UMD’s Ben McGee Joins National Academies Study
Ben McGee, ESSR’s Assistant Director for Radiation Safety / Radiation Safety Officer, will serve on a National Academies committee examining radiation exposure and health outcomes for flight crewmembers.View Article Details for UMD’s Ben McGee Joins National Academies Study 
UMD Heat Safety Program
With the summer season beginning, it is critical that we maintain a safe and healthy environment for our campus community. The university has guidelines to help you manage your workforce in summer conditions.View Article Details for UMD Heat Safety Program Summer Youth Program Readiness
UMD requires all Summer Terrapin Youth Programs to meet safety requirements, including TerpLink registration and CPS/CJIS clearances. ESSR provides support and will monitor compliance to ensure all programs are fully approved before they begin.View Article Details for Summer Youth Program Readiness