Safety Procedures in a Lab

Laboratories are often home to harmful chemicals, virulent microbes, powerful equipment and other objects that can create safety hazards. Carelessness in the lab can lead to a serious accident or injury. Sound judgment, precautionary measures and an adherence to basic safety requirements are necessary to reduce mishaps in the laboratory.

Chemical safety

• Do not smell an unknow chemical or substance.

  The most important rule when it comes to chemicals in the laboratory is to assume that every chemical is hazardous and to handle them with according caution. Always label chemicals correctly and clearly with the name, date and concentration of the substance. Never return any unused chemical to the container. Measure the exact amount needed, and discard of any excess in the proper container. When handling chemicals, wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety gloves and fume hoods to avoid contact with the skin and inhalation of fumes respectively. Do not taste or smell the contents of a container in order to determine the contents. If the container has no label, set both the container and the contents aside for proper identification by the appropriate experts. Familiarize yourself with the safety and health data of all the chemicals used in the laboratory, and maintain a high level of concentration when working in the laboratory by removing any source of distraction.

Personal safety

• Keep your work area uncluttered.

  Do not carry food or drink into the laboratory. Do not attempt to use any equipment with which you are not familiar. If your hair is long, tie it back. If your clothing is loose or your sleeves are long, secure your clothing to prevent it from accidentally falling into any chemical or catching fire. Work areas must be kept clean and uncluttered. Wear a face shield or safety glasses when handling hazardous materials such as toxic agents or microbes. Wash your hands before you enter a laboratory and as you are about to leave the laboratory.

Disposal of harzardous material

• Waste containers must be clearly labeled.

  Hazardous wastes from laboratories are stored in specially designated containers which are labeled clearly with the words "Hazardous Waste." These containers must remain closed at all times when not in use. When the container is filled, the date must be printed on a label and affixed to the container, after which it should be transferred to a main accumulation area for pickup by the appropriate agency.