Lab Safety

General Lab Safety Rules

• Eyewashes should be flushed weekly and documented on eye wash tags.
• Chemical waste should be labeled with specific contents.
  • Keep label attached to the container at all times.
  • Keep the chemical waste containers closed.
  • Replace any old and deteriorated labels whenever they are found.
• Chemical fume hood sashes should be kept closed whenever possible. Maintain the minimum possible opening when working. Do not store chemicals in fume hoods.
• No food or drinks are allowed in the labs on in any place where hazardous materials are present.
• Never store food or drinks in laboratory refrigerators or freezers.
• Do not wear shorts or open-toed shoes in labs. Wear appropriate protective equipment when working in labs where hazardous materials or equipment are present.
• Remove clutter and practice good housekeeping.
• Do not use cell phones, Bluetooth, and MP3 players while working in the lab.
• Do not keep or work with flammable substances near an open flame or other heat source.
• Secure gas cylinders properly and keep safety caps on cylinders when not in use.
• Have appropriate spill cleanup supplies available and follow the proper response procedures.
• Eliminate extension cords and power strips that are plugged into each other. Make sure there is no exposed wiring.
• No lab equipment or chemicals are allowed in corridors. Keep exits and aisles clear of obstructions.
• Emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers, should be kept clear of obstructions.
• Chemical bottles should kept closed when not in use, and should not be stored on the floor or benchtops.

Lab Safety Materials

• Lab Safety Tips Training
• Biological Spill Procedures Policy
• Reactive Materials Guidelines
• 3. - General Lab Safety Policy
  • 3.3 - Handling Practices Policy
    • 3.3.4 - Labeling and Signs Policy
    • 3.3.5 - Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Policy
  • 3.4 - Laboratory Chemical Storage and Inventory Policy
    • 3.4.1 - Chemical Compatibility Guide
    • 3.4.2 - Flammables Guide
    • 3.4.3 - Corrosives Guide
    • 3.4.4 - Oxidizers Guide
    • 3.4.7 - Peroxide Forming Materials Guide
    • 3.4.8 - Compressed Gas Cylinders Policy
  • 3.5 - Exposure Control Measures Policy
    • 3.5.1.2 - Fume Hood Safety and Guidelines
    • 3.5.2.1 - Protective Clothing Policy
    • 3.5.3 - Eye Wash Stations and Safety Showers Policy
  • 3.6 - Housekeeping Policy
  • 3.9 - Fire Safety Equipment Policy
• 4. - Emergency Procedures Policy
  • 4.2 - Chemical Spill Procedures Policy
• 5. - Training and Inspections Policy
• 7. - Miscellaneous Policies