Safety Tips for Anyone in a Lab Position
Posted July 11th, 2019
A science lab is typically a fairly dangerous place. Fire hazards and chemicals are often present, and lab accidents can have incredibly serious consequences. As a result, taking extra precautions is essential. Not only does it ensure your safety, but also the safety of those around you. If you work in a lab position, here are some safety tips you need to embrace.
Follow the Instructions
If there are instructions for the task that you are about to perform, follow them to the letter. Even a slight deviation can create a hazard or dangerous situation, so you need to be vigilant as you go through each step.
Before you begin any work, read through the instructions in their entirety. If you aren’t certain about a step, ask for guidance immediately, even if it is for one of the procedures that occur later in the process.
Know Your Safety Procedures
Knowing the location of any safety equipment and documented procedures is vital in a lab. This ensures that, if an accident occurs, you understand where you need to go for guidance or to find critical equipment that can keep everyone safe and healthy.
Dress Appropriately
Your attire needs to make sense for the lab environment in which you work. Review any company dress code standards and always use any personal protective equipment that is provided, even if it isn’t the most comfortable. Any dress code requirements are put in place for a reason, so make sure to follow them precisely.
No Food or Drink
Eating or drinking in a lab is always a bad idea. Not only is there a risk of contaminating your work with your snack or beverage, but dangerous chemicals or pathogens could end up in something that you end up consuming, putting your health at risk.
Don’t Taste or Smell Chemicals
Many chemicals can cause significant harm if they are consumed or inhaled. In some cases, the consequences of tasting or smelling a chemical can be deadly. If you have any doubts about what is in a container, look for a label. Also, make labeling containers while you work a habit to ensure you can keep track of what is in which vessels.
Never Randomly Mix Anything
Being in a lab can make you feel a bit like a mad scientist. But, if you start randomly mixing things, you could create a deadly concoction (such as a toxic substance or gases), or ignite a fire or explosion.
Follow Waste Disposal Procedures
Many substances that you’ll find or produce in a lab can’t just be flushed down the drain or tossed in any old trash can. They can be hazardous to others, the water supply, or any environment in which they end up.
Before you begin any work, review any disposal procedures that you’ll need to complete once you are finished. Then, follow them to the letter, ensuring you are going your part to clean up and handle the process correctly.
Boost Your Business with Help from Bayside Solutions!
Ultimately, the above safety tips can help anyone working in a lab. If you’d like to learn more about workplace safety, the knowledgeable team at Bayside Solutions can help. Contact us to speak with a member of our staff about your questions today and see how our lab safety expertise can benefit you.
