Inherent to the teaching, research, and service missions of any university are certain risks. If some of these risks are inappropriately unmanaged, then injury, loss of life, regulatory non-compliance and/or severe reputational damage can result. The possible institutional exposures stemming from these risks have become so significant that many universities are commissioning external assessments of their environmental health & safety (EH&S) programs to provide some level of assurance that appropriate risk mitigation is being achieved.  But unfortunately, the persons being asked to assess the programs may not be equipped with a basic understanding or appreciation of what EH&S programs do. To address this shortcoming, this presentation will, in layman’s terms, provide an overview of the common EH&S risks that may be present on a campus and will describe the steps commonly taken to manage these risks. A particular emphasis will be placed on “best practice” approaches rather than mere regulatory compliance and the rationale for this differentiation will be explained. The discussion will culminate in the presentation of the actual report that is provided to the executive leadership of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston that reflects the institution’s status in four key areas, of which one is compliance. The perspective of the institutional compliance officer regarding this unique report will also be provided. Ample time will be allotted for participant questions and discussion.