Research advancements into different fields of study have increased the risks for accidents, criminal acts, or a potential breach of national security, and the types of hazardous materials (HAZMAT) stored and used at universities and colleges are under new scrutiny. Before, a chemistry laboratory might only have basic substances such as sulfur, iodine, and magnesium. Today, a well-equipped research laboratory can stock anything from morphine and other controlled substances to hydrochloric acid and other extremely corrosive materials. Since the 1940s, additional federal, state, and local guidelines have been implemented to broaden oversight of universities' research activities in an effort to promote a greater sense of security and safety for the general public. This chapter examines how higher education institutions are affected by compliance, safety, and security issues, and how institutional research can play a role in chemical HAZMAT control. Particular emphasis is placed on the impact of the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2007: Section 550, DHS-2006-0073, RIN 1601-AA41, 6 CFR Part 27--Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (Department of Homeland Security, 2007). To illustrate the importance of, and the challenges involved in, complying with Homeland Security's new chemical guidelines, this chapter also includes a synopsis of an in-depth case study conducted at a higher education institution. (Contains 8 figures and 2 tables.)