Laboratory Protection


 


    Eye
  • 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
    Body
  • 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.
    Hands
  • 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
  • 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)
    Ears
  • 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.
    Types of ear protection include:
  • 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.
    Nose
  • 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.