Laboratory Safety

Laboratories have many hazards associated with them. Safety rules and regulations are created to protect laboratory personnel from unsafe work practices and exposure to hazardous materials. Part of a good safety culture is communication and discussion about safety hazards within the laboratory. Below are some basic guidelines for maintaining a safe laboratory environment.

• To ensure that help is available if needed, do not work alone if using hazardous materials or performing hazardous procedures.
• To ensure that help is available in case of emergencies, laboratory personnel should not deviate from the assigned work schedule without prior authorization from the laboratory supervisor.
• Do not perform unauthorized experiments.
• Follow the appropriate standard operating procedures at all times in the laboratory.
• Always read the Safety Data Sheets and label before using a chemical in the laboratory.
• Everyone, including visitors, must wear appropriate PPE, including eye protection and laboratory coat or apron in areas where laboratory chemicals are used or stored.
• Wear appropriate gloves when handling hazardous materials. Inspect all gloves for holes and defects before using.
• Use appropriate ventilation such as laboratory chemical hoods when working with hazardous chemicals.
• Contact the EHS office if you have questions about the adequacy of the safety equipment available or the chemical handling procedures.
• Know the location and proper use of the safety equipment (i.e., eyewash, safety shower, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, fire alarm pulls)
• Maintain situational awareness.
• Make others in the laboratory aware of any special hazards associated with your work.
• Notify supervisors of any chemical sensitivities.
• Report all injuries, accidents, incidents and near misses to your supervisor and EHS.
• Do not allow unauthorized persons in the laboratory.
• Report unsafe conditions to the laboratory supervisor and EHS.
• Properly dispose of all chemical wastes, by contacting the EHS office. Follow organizational policies for drain and trash disposal of chemicals.

Laboratory Safety Resources:

• Broken Glassware Disposal
• Chemical Hygiene Plan
• Chemical Right to Know Poster
• Chemical Spill Response Guide
• Chemical Storage Guide
• Emergency Eyewash and Safety Shower Program
• Field Research Safety Guidelines
• Laboratory Hazard Assessment
• Laboratory Information Questionnaire
• Laboratory Inspection Checklist
• Laboratory Inspection SOP
• Laboratory Safety Manual
• Medical Surveillance
• Medical Surveillance Form
• Chemical Inventory Template
• Specialty Chemical List
• Safety Data Sheet Portal