I was very impressed with the focus and quality of the research safety article on the front page of The Scientist, Oct. 27, 1997 (R. Lewis, "Researchers' Deaths Inspire Actions To Improve Safety"). It went beyond the usual coverage of chemical hazards to address the larger picture of research risks, their prudent assessment, and responsible management. All researchers need to recognize these "common sense" activities as essential components to their work: anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control of potentially injurious risks.

Michael G. Hanna
Manager, Biological and Laboratory Safety
University of Michigan
Occupational Safety and Environmental Health
Ann Arbor, Mich. 48109-1010
E-mail: mhanna@umich.edu

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