Purpose
To establish a clear and consistent process for handling lost and found items on Grays Harbor College campuses, ensuring timely return of property to its rightful owner and secure management of unclaimed items.
Scope
This procedure applies to all students, employees, contractors, visitors, and campus community members on GHC property or at GHC-sponsored events.
Responsibilities
- Safety & Security Office: Collect, log, store, and return found items; dispose of unclaimed items in accordance with this policy.
- Individuals who find items: Turn in items promptly and provide required information.
- Individuals who lose items: Complete a ‘Lost Item’ form (available on the Safety & Security webpage) and cooperate with recovery efforts.
Found Items — Turn-in Procedure
When you find an item, turn it in to:
- Safety & Security Office: Building 800, Room 860; or
- Lost & Found Drop-Box: Near the Student Life Office and the Book Store on the first floor of the 3000 tulalW building.
Provide the following information if possible:
- Date and approximate time item was found
- Location (building, floor, area)
- Name of person who found it (optional but helpful)
- Brief description (color, brand, distinguishing features)
Collection and Inventory
- Every Friday, the Safety & Security Officer will collect all items from the drop box and office.
- Name of person who found it (optional but helpful)
- Brief description (color, brand, distinguishing features)
Return of College Property
If the found item belongs to GHC (e.g., laptop, library book):
- Safety & Security will coordinate return to the appropriate department (IT Services, Library).
- The department will require a signed receipt upon retrieval.
Lost Items — Claiming Procedure
- Complete the ‘Lost Item’ form on the Safety & Security website.
- Provide item description, approximate time/location of loss, and contact information.
- Safety & Security will cross-reference the inventory and notify you if a match is found.
- Identification or verification may be required upon retrieval.
Unclaimed Items
Items not claimed within 60 days will be considered unclaimed.
After 60 days, items may be:
- Used by the College
- Destroyed
- Sold or donated to charitable organizations
- Otherwise disposed of in compliance with institutional and legal guidelines
Storage and Security
- All found items will be stored securely in the Safety & Security Office.
- Access to inventory and storage is limited to authorized personnel.
- Records will be maintained for at least 60 days plus any additional archival period required by institutional policy.
Exceptions
- Perishable items, hazardous materials, prohibited items, or items requiring special disposal (e.g., medications, sharp objects) will follow separate protocols.
- Items turned in by GHC staff for departmental property will be routed directly to the owning department.
Responsible Offices
- Primary Oversight: Safety & Security Office
- Support: Facilities, Student Life, Library, IT Services, and any department owning property subject to return