Working in a lab can be dangerous. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to minimize the risk. Here are just four tips for increasing safety and decreasing accidents!
- Always Wear Protective Gear
This might sound obvious, but the world is full of scientists, researchers and lab technicians who injured themselves after skimping on the safety gear. Make it a hard rule that everyone in the lab has to wear goggles, gloves and whatever other protective clothing is necessary for the job.
- Buy Lab-Specific Furnishings
There are chairs, tables and cabinets that are made specifically for lab use. They have nonstick surfaces and big handles for opening and closing that are easy on gloved fingers. You can also find things like hazardous location refrigerators that have very precise temperature controls for delicate samples.
- Say No to Anything Flammable
Flammable objects are a no-go in any laboratory setting. In fact, many types of lab equipment are made with fireproof materials that are designed to be safe even after a dangerous spill or explosion. Of course, it’s always better not to test their strength and to leave flammable objects outside of the lab in the first place.
- Practice Safety Drills
This tip is more for professors and property owners than everyday lab workers, but if you’re accountable for the safety of your testing site, it’s a good idea to hold regular safety drills. Do them so often that your staff complains about them. You want them to be muscle memory in the event of an emergency.
These are just a few tips for lab safety that are applicable to many different fields. Contact us at American Biotech Supply if you have any questions or are looking for products like hazardous location refrigerators.
