Biochemical Lab Safety

In a biochemical laboratory, workers may be experimenting with hazardous chemicals and equipment. For proper biochemical lab safety, workers wear proper clothes and safety equipment, know how to deal with hazardous materials, and know what to do in the event of an emergency.

Safety Wear

• Safety wear and proper clothing must be worn to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals and lab equipment. Proper clothing includes close-toed shoes and a lab coat. Safety wear includes protective goggles and gloves, and a face mask, if necessary.

Handling Hazardous Chemicals/Equipment

• Flammable chemicals must be kept far from any heat source. Heating and electrical equipment is never left unattended, and is turned off if not in use. Workers do not use equipment if it seems to be functioning irregularly.

Proper Disposal and Clean-up

• Chemical spills are cleaned up immediately to avoid any possible accidents. Some chemicals may be hazardous to others or the environment if not disposed of properly, and therefore are managed according to special disposal instructions.

Emergencies

• Emergency lab equipment includes first aid kits, eye wash equipment for eye exposure, showers, and a telephone to call help if necessary. For fires, laboratories have a fire blanket and a fire extinguisher.

Behavior

• Appropriate behavior is required to avoid unnecessary accidents. Laboratory workers remain attentive and prepared to deal with an emergency at all times. Cell phones and pagers are turned off to avoid distractions.