The 1995 MOU between the Texas DPS and the THECB establishes procedures for maintaining controlled substances, controlled substance analogs, chemical precursors, and chemical laboratory apparatus used in educational or research activities at institutions of higher education. This document also defines the requirements and procedures necessary for TAMU's compliance with the MOU. The full text of the MOU is available from the TAMU EHSD (979-845-2132).
The objective of the MOU is to heighten awareness regarding the potential problem of the diversion of laboratory chemicals and apparatus to illegal drug operations. The list includes many common pieces of laboratory equipment in addition to possible precursors for the manufacture of illicit drugs. Table AT1 provides a list of the controlled items including precursor chemicals and related laboratory apparatus and glassware whose purchase, use, transfer, and disposal must be monitored. The complete procedures and requirements that are necessary for TAMU to comply with the MOU are listed in "Appendix B."
On campus, the Control of Precursor Chemicals and Laboratory Equipment Implementation Plan is posted in areas where controlled items are ordered, received, used, or stored (Fig. AF1). If there are any questions concerning these documents, please contact the Chemical and Biological Safety Officer in the EHSD (979-845-2132) or contact the Director of Security or University Police (979-845-8058) for assistance with security and police matters.
The MOU does not apply to the JOIDES Resolution, as the ship operates outside the jurisdiction of the Texas DPS. Nevertheless, the chemicals and equipment listed in Table AT1 must be controlled while in the state of Texas. When these equipment and chemicals are purchased for the ship, it is the responsibility of the Marine Logistics Coordinator to maintain a record of all purchases of controlled chemicals and equipment and to ensure that they are kept in a locked storage room until shipped from ODP to the JOIDES Resolution.
For equipment returned from the ship for storage or surplus, it is the responsibility of the shipping Laboratory Officer to notify the Supervisor of Technical Support of the pending shipment. Once the equipment has arrived at TAMU, the Supervisor of Technical Support ensures that the equipment is kept in a locked storage room and is available to only authorized personnel.