Guidelines for Accepting Donated Equipment
 
Are you considering accepting donated equipment?  If so, here are some things to consider:  

• How hazardous is the equipment?
• What was wrong with the equipment for it to become expendable?
• Was it too old to operate, did not work properly, or were replacement parts unavailable?
• If the manufacturer has gone out of business, what are your options regarding repair and replacement parts?

 Some measures to consider to help mitigate product liability exposure include:  

Have the equipment inspected and tested before it is used and repaired or upgraded as needed to be sure it is safe for use. 

If there are known safety hazards or deficiencies, identify them and either repair them or recommend that donor repairs them, or consider not accepting the donation if equipment is not deemed usable. 

Obtain documentation on the physical conditions of the equipment. 

Understand clearly the terms of the donation. 

Obtain advice of University General Counsel prior to signing any agreement.