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Laboratory Safety Equipment- Rules to Follow

Laboratory Safety Equipment

9 March 2011- Everyone working in a science laboratory must know the lab safety rules and procedures. As the lab environment itself is considered hazardous, the responsible authorities of all laboratories must ensure visibility of safety signs in the laboratory as well as publish laboratory safety manual. As far as the question of laboratory safety equipment is concerned, every possible step should be taken while buying and using them. Here are some general as well as specific rules regarding laboratory safety equipment for all concerned people who need to work in science laboratories.

Laboratory Safety Equipment- Buying Rules

There are certain rules that must be observed while buying laboratory safety equipment.

Give preference to such lab safety equipment having such features that limit contact between the operator and hazardous material as well as mechanical and electrical energy.
These safety equipment should be corrosion-resistant, easy to decontaminate and impermeable to liquids
As far as possible, lab safety equipment should not have sharp edges or burrs.

Laboratory Safety Equipment- Handling Rules

Always review the lab safety equipment manufacturers' documentation and keep them safely and handy for future reference.
One should use all laboratory equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions only.
People handling specific lab safety instrument should be properly trained in their setup, use and cleaning.
Whenever sending the equipment for servicing, ensure that it is appropriately decontaminated.

Personal Lab Safety Equipment Guidelines

Anyone working in a laboratory must ensure his/her personal protection, specially by using personal safety equipment like gloves, safety goggles, lab coats etc. Proper eye and facial protection should be ensured while working in areas where hazardous materials or substances of unknown nature are stored or used; where there is a possibility of existence of splash, flying objects or moving particles; and where there are such eye hazards as UV or laser light.

Protective Eyewear

For selecting appropriate protective eyewear, consider the following rules:

Get safety glasses with side shields for light-to-moderate work in a science laboratory.
If you see a significant risk of splash of chemicals, or projectiles while working, get yourself safety goggles.
If there is a risk of splash on face, or possibility of explosion, get full face shield along with safety goggles.
If you use correction lenses, consult with optometrist or ophthalmologist before buying safety glasses.

Protective Clothing

Protective Clothing

Proper protective clothing like lab coats, aprons, coveralls etc. are required in laboratories where hazardous materials are handled. For selecting appropriate protective lab clothing, consider the following rules:

Get knee-length lab coats having button or snap closures.
When working with highly toxic or infectious substances, wear a solid-front lab coat or gown having back closures and knitted cuffs.
Sometimes you might need to operate certain specific laboratory procedures such as transferring large volumes of corrosive material. You should wear protective aprons in such situations.
Always remove your lab protective clothing when leaving the laboratory. You should also remove them if you suspect contamination.

Laboratory Safety Supply for Hand Protection

Hand protection is also important in a laboratory. Protective gloves are the key lab safety supplies for hand protection from various hazards in a laboratory. For selecting appropriate protective lab clothing, consider the following rules:

Select an appropriate glove that provides adequate protection from specific hazard(s) like radiation, chemicals, biohazardous material and physical hazards such as abrasion, tearing, puncture and exposure to temperature extremes.
Some glove materials like latex rubber gloves may cause skin reactions. There are many alternatives that can be used to avoid skin problems. These include non-latex gloves; hypo-allergenic, non-powdered or low-protein latex gloves; polyethylene, PVC or cloth liners under latex gloves; non-latex gloves under latex gloves.
Always check the work gloves for leakage before using. Test rubber and synthetic gloves by inflating them.
Ensure that the gloves fit properly and are long enough to cover the skin between the top of the glove and the sleeve of the lab coat.
Do not use worn or torn gloves. Do not reuse disposable gloves and discard them if they seem to have become contaminated.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance of reusable gloves. Before using gloves, learn how to remove them without touching the contaminated outer surface with your hands.