Safe Habits in the Laboratory

Ken Yancey

Choosing Appropriate Clothing

Appropriate ClothingClothing should cover as much of the legs,

feet, arms and eyes as possible. E.G. No shorts, sandals or short sleeves

Avoid loose clothing which could spill chemicals or catch fire

If wearing good clothing be sure to wear a lab apron

Appropriate Clothing (Cont.)Lab clothing must:

Be worn to protect against minor spills or contamination of street clothing.

Be worn where chemical, biological or other hazardous materials are used or stored.

Be fitted properly so that they are fastened and flexible for use.

Be made of an appropriate material for the work environment. E.G. Cotton or polyester blend

Regularly cleaned and maintained.Be thrown out if showing wear.Not be worn eating areas, offices or public places.

Appropriate ShoesVery little

ProtectionProtection

from glass but not chemical spills

Protection from glass and small spills

Common Rules for Glove UseSelect:

Gloves resistant to the desired chemicals. (See MSDS)Appropriately sized gloves to prevent tearing or lose of

dexterity.Always:

Check gloves for any external tearing before using.Remove gloves so that the exterior doesn’t contact any

skin.Consider washing the surface of gloves frequently with

water.Avoid all naked flames.Do not reuse disposable gloves

Choosing GlovesConsult a glove selection chart

*http://www.allsafetyproducts.biz/page/74172

Eating in the LabEating in the lab probably won’t get you that

third arm you’ve been hoping for.Can result in accidentally ingesting harmful

chemicalsAll food will be banned from labs as of Fall

2010