Laboratory Protection

Lab eyewear should be as comfortable as possible, fit well over the eyes and around the face, and not interfere with the movement of the person.
When necessary, signs should be placed in the lab, stating that eye protection is required before entering the lab.
Appropriate eye protection should be worn when using
caustics, corrosives, or irritants
glassware under vacuum or pressure (reduced or elevated)
cryogenic materials
flammable materials
radioactive materials
explosives
lasers (special lens protection required)
UV light (special lens protection required)
biohazards

The lab coat is designed to protect the clothing and skin from chemicals that may be spilled or splashed.
Lab coat should always be properly fitted to the wearer and is best if it is knee length.
An apron provides an alternative to the lab coat. It is usually made of plastic or rubber to protect the wearer against corrosive or irritating chemicals.
An apron should be worn over garments that cover the arms and body, such as a lab coat.

Always get into the habit of wearing protective gloves in the lab.
Aside from acting as a shield between hands and hazardous materials, some gloves can also absorb perspiration or protect the hands from heat.
Before use, check to make sure the gloves are in good condition and free from holes, punctures, and tears.
Care should be taken when removing gloves. Peel the glove off the hand, starting at the wrist and working toward the fingers.
Wash hands as soon as possible after removing protective gloves.

Feet protection is designed to prevent injury from corrosive chemicals, heavy objects, electrical shock, as well as giving traction on wet floors.
If a corrosive chemicals or heavy objects were to drop or fall, the most vulnerable portion of the body may be the feet.
Shoes that completely cover and protect the feet are recommended.
Fabric shoes, such as sport shoes, absorb liquids readily.
Shoe types should not be worn in the lab (Sandals and sleepers, Sport shoes, Wooden sole shoes, High heel shoes)

Ear protection should be worn where the noise level is above 85 decibels.
Areas where excessive noise is present should be warned with signs indicating ear protection is required.

Ear plugs provide the basic protection to seal the ears against noise.
Ear muffs provide extra protection against noise, and are more comfortable than ear plugs.
Cotton inserts are poor suppressors of noise and should be avoided.

Since certain lab experiments may produce noxious contaminants and fumes, respiratory protection may be required in your lab environment.
Lab personnel noting changes in air quality, should contact their lab supervisor and express their concerns.
A medical examination may also be required to assure that the lab user is physically capable of respirator use.