Safety in the Food Lab

Food lab safety is very similar to regular lab safety. However, there are some variations due to some differences in equipment and materials being used in the work.

Behavior/General

• While food labs do not have dangerous chemicals or other hazards as in a chemical lab, improper behavior can still result in serious injury. Do not play with equipment, particularly knives and pans. Do not run or throw things. Wear proper attire. Loose fitting clothing or loose long hair can become caught on objects or burned on stove tops.

Equipment

• In a food lab you will work with things such as knives and various electrical appliances. When using knives, cut/slice away from you so you're less likely to be cut if it slips. Also, if you need to let someone else use a knife, hand it to him by the handle, not the blade. Unplug electric appliances before cleaning them. Do not immerse them in water for cleaning. Some parts may be taken out to clean with other dishes but you should wipe down parts that cannot with a damp cloth instead.

Oven and Stove Area

• When you are working with an oven, turn it off when you are finished. Always turn off the stove top when you are done as well. Never check to see if a burner is hot by touching it. Keep the stove area clear of clutter to minimize the risk of fire. If you check on a covered pot, open it so the heat will vent away from you. When taking food out of the oven, pull out the oven rack before you remove the food to avoid getting burned.

General Work Area

• Keep work areas as neat and clean as possible. Keep only what you know you will be working with in your work space. You will be able to work more efficiently and extraneous objects will not be in your way to get knocked over or caught on other things.

Sink Area

• When working near the sink, don't keep electrical appliances or sharp utensils/objects nearby. If you are washing utensils, wash things such as knives individually and do not let them sit at the bottom of the soapy water. This will help ensure that neither you or anyone else will be cut. Also, don't let the water get so hot as to burn when turning on the faucet.