Lab Safety

A laboratory poses potential risks due to exposure to corrosive and toxic materials, flammable solvents, high pressure gases, explosive chemicals and dangerous microbes. A little care and adherence to prescribed safety guidelines will help avoid laboratory mishaps.

Before setting up, consider the type of experiments you’re running & the materials that will be used. If you think that they are hazardous in nature, apprise yourself with the safety standards.

Prepare yourself

• Attend all laboratory safety training sessions especially for materials you’re working with
• Read the safety manual & only perform procedures you’re authorized to perform
• It’s best to work under direct supervision or with another laboratory personnel
• Know where the emergency workstations are along with emergency medical kits

Account for Potential Exposure

• Wear clothing that’s full sleeved and no open shoes to ensure that even without PPE, you’re safe
• Avoid keeping nay food items or drinks near your work station
• Use fume hoods to prevent exposure & keep the materials stored in designated cabinets
• Report any damaged electrical or broken materials to your supervisor immediately

Implement protective standards

• Don’t leave any ongoing experiments unattended
• Practice good hygiene practices for yourself and the materials that are being used
• Always wear PPE in the laboratory irrespective of what you’re doing
• Have dedicated stations to work, store and discard materials