In the past five years, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has completed several different aativities aimed at reducing the risk of chemical spills and exposures in schools, including chemical collections, training workshops, and a mercury needs assessment. IDP found that many schools store and use hazardous chemicals in ways that increase the risk of accidents and exposures. As a result of these activities and findings, IDPH developed strategies for educating teachers and drafted recommendations for schools.