Laboratory Safety

Laboratory Safety

Basic laboratory safety rules must be followed in every laboratory that uses hazardous materials or processes. Instructors are expected to assess potential hazards and teach relevant laboratory safety procedures to students prior to laboratory access. While in the lab, students must be supervised, well-behaved, and maintain proper hygiene. Additional safety rules may be required for specific processes, equipment, and materials.

• All laboratory personnel should place emphasis on safety and chemical hygiene at all times. Determine the potential hazards and appropriate safety precautions before beginning any work.
• Students should not be allowed access to the laboratory without supervision.
• Know locations of laboratory safety showers, eyewash stations, and fire extinguishers. The safety equipment may be located in the laboratory or in a hallway near the laboratory entrance.
• Know emergency exit routes.
• Laboratory safety glasses or goggles should be worn in any area where chemicals are used or stored. They should also be worn anytime there is a chance of splashes or particulates entering the eye.
• Assume that all chemicals of unknown toxicity are highly toxic.
• Post warning signs when unusual hazards, hazardous materials, hazardous equipment, or other special conditions are present.
• No horseplay will be tolerated. Avoid distracting or startling persons working in the laboratory.
• Use equipment only for its designated purpose.
• Combine reagents in their appropriate order, such as adding acid to water.
• Avoid adding solids to hot liquids.
• All containers must have appropriate labels. Unlabeled chemicals should never be used. Never leave containers of chemicals open.
• Do not taste or intentionally sniff chemicals.
• Never consume and/or store food or beverages or apply cosmetics in areas where hazardous chemicals are used or stored.
• Wash exposed areas of the skin prior to leaving the laboratory.
• Long hair and loose clothing must be pulled back and secured from entanglement or potential capture. Avoid wearing jewelry in the lab.
• Closed-toe shoes will be worn at all times in the laboratory. Perforated shoes or sandals are not appropriate.
• Procedures should be developed that minimize the formation and dispersion of aerosols.
• Do not pour chemicals down drains. Do not utilize the sewer for chemical waste disposal.
• Keep all sink traps (including cup sink traps and floor drains) filled with water by running water down the drain at least monthly.
• Do not utilize fume hoods for evaporations and disposal of volatile solvents.
• Perform work with hazardous chemicals in a properly working fume hood to reduce potential exposures.
• Avoid working alone in a building. Do not work alone in a laboratory if the procedures being conducted are hazardous.
• Instructors and staff will update and have access to a Science Inventory List
• Access to laboratories and support areas such as stockrooms, specialized laboratories, etc. is limited to approved personnel only.
• All equipment should be regularly inspected for wear or deterioration.
• Equipment should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s requirements and records of certification, maintenance, or repairs should be maintained for the life of the equipment.
• Designated and well-marked waste storage locations are necessary.
• No cell phone or headphone usage in the active portion of the laboratories, or during experimental operations.
• Clothing made of synthetic fibers should not be worn while working with flammable liquids or when a fire hazard is present as these materials tend to melt and stick to exposed skin.