A lab is a place where all research, inventions and discoveries happen. However, it is also risk prone space for the users due to hazardous conditions, materials and processes. Neglecting safety rules can have grave consequences for personnel, public health, management and all other stakeholders.
Here are common lab safety blunders to avoid:
1. Incorrect Labelling
If labels are wrong, incomplete or indecipherable, then there is a significant possibility of accidents and injuries or inaccurate readings. Label every single item, no matter how small, in the lab. All equipment, chemicals, assets and fixtures and other substances must bear their correct name and other relevant details. The labels should remain up to date and be readable.
2. Not Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Ignoring the PPE code makes the lab users vulnerable to the dangers of perilous substances. The personnel must wear their lab coats, gloves, masks, eye protection gear, appropriate clothes, closed-toe footwear and respirators. Avoid wearing jewellery or contact lenses. PPE and correct dress code thwarts exposure to biological, radiological, electrical, chemical, mechanical and other occupational hazards.
3. Improper Handling and Storage
Improper handling and storage of chemicals, materials and other substances can result in spillages and explosions. Follow the pre-defined guidelines or protocols for handling and storage. Toxic or inflammable chemicals should be stored in separate cabinets according to their compatibility. The storage cabinet should remain locked when not in use. The storage area should be well-ventilated to let out toxic vapours.
4. Incorrect Handling of Equipment
Using the lab equipment carelessly or not adhering to instruction manuals can damage it or cause malfunctioning. More importantly, the readings or results may not be reliable. Hence, it is important to handle the equipment with care, follow safe practices and also calibrate it before use. Inspect the equipment at regular intervals for maintenance.
5. Inappropriate Waste Management
Poor waste management practices are a serious risk to personnel and public health and to environment. The hazardous waste can cause contamination, spread diseases or lead to dangerous chemical reactions. It can also raise non-compliance issues with the government and environmental bodies. The first conscious effort of any lab should be to minimise the waste. At the time of disposal, the waste should be segregated, decontaminated, stored and labelled in leak-proof boxes and discarded as per the guidelines.
6. Ignorance about Location of Safety Equipment & Exit Routes
A breach of safety protocol, especially when it causes fire or explosion causes chaos in the laboratory. However, the situation can be brought under control by using fire extinguishers or rushing to safety shower cubicles or eyewash stations or taking emergency exits. What would happen if you don’t know the location of the safety equipment or exit routes?
The laboratory personnel must be well-trained on the location and usage of safety equipment. Exit routes should be easily accessible, have visible signage and unobstructed.
7. Unsupervised Working
No matter how experienced you are, it is advisable to avoid working alone in the laboratory, especially after office hours or on holidays. It is a risk to your health and safety. In case of an injury or any mishap, it would become challenging to call for help and mitigate the situation. Maintain active communication with your colleagues or supervisors through emails or text messages if you need to work solo for some reason. Do not leave the operations or experiments unattended either. Do not conduct unauthorised operations.
8. Ingestion of Chemicals
Even if you work with chemicals using gloves, wash your hands before consuming any food or beverages or applying cosmetics. Don’t eat or drink in the laboratory. Don’t use lab microwave or refrigerator for your food. Frequent hand washing will also lower the risk of chemical exposure through direct skin contact. Avoid mouth suction of equipment such as pipetting or sniffing the chemicals.
9. Ignoring Risk Assessment
It is imperative to assess the potential safety hazards and loopholes in processes before starting the work. This way, you will be able to minimise the risk of adverse incidents.
10. Not Reporting Safety Slip-Ups
Lab personnel must report even a minor safety failure to the authorities. At times, such trivial issues can escalate into bigger hazards over time.
Conclusion
Every lab has a standard set of safety guidelines that all users must adhere to. Ensure that everyone is aware and properly trained in these protocols.
