There is never a better time than now to evaluate your laboratory safety procedures. For larger facilities, this can be a daunting task but necessary nonetheless. Regardless of lab size, we have put together the list of few quick laboratory safety tips. After you've reviewed each of them, you can begin implementation by completing a simple audit. Put into practice these quick tips and you'll be a safety pro in no time!
Primary tip is to pay attention to apparatus set up. Many procedures require clamping glass to supports, ring stands, etc. Take care not to over-tighten any glassware clamps. Hand-tighten only to firm, but not extreme, pressure. Over-tightening can produce mechanical stress. Always examine glassware for any chips. Chips weaken glassware and can lead to possible breakage and injury. Since specialty glassware is expensive, repairs may prove economical. Make sure any glassware sent for repair is empty and clean. If solvents are used, rinse the item with water and let dry completely.
Next tip is to work with a lab partner. It isn't always possible to perform experiments or duties with a partner. But if and when it is possible, it should be encouraged to work in teams. Two sets of eyes and hands double the chances of successfully catching a mistake or slip up. Human error is expected. Everyone makes mistakes. Working in teams helps keep each other in check. It also allows quick response if someone is injured.
Subsequent tip is to Conduct Unannounced Inspections. Put together a safety audit checklist and perform random, yet routine inspections. Making them random and unannounced will alleviate the possibility of personnel "tidying up" for the inspection. Nobody likes a pop-quiz. But when safety is a priority, they must be done. Over time, well developed laboratory safety training and inspections will create good habits. These habits are invaluable.
Consequently, it is always advisable to have a budget for lab safety equipment. Maintaining a strict budget is key to any laboratory safety plan. When drafting a new budget or revising current spend, make sure funds are set aside to buy safety equipment. These items include eye wash stations and solution, protective gloves, goggles and safety glasses, ear plugs, splash guards, lab coats, fire extinguishers, and plenty more. It can get costly to purchase and maintain adequate measures. But nothing is more valuable than the well-being and safety of personnel. Budgeting for it will remove future funding concerns and the situation of having to decide what is more important in a pinch. Costs associated with training should also be considered. There may be some production downtime to facilitate training courses. Props, paper handouts, and hourly wages all ring up a bill. Remembering to add these costs to your safety fund will prevent surprises.
Primary tip is to pay attention to apparatus set up. Many procedures require clamping glass to supports, ring stands, etc. Take care not to over-tighten any glassware clamps. Hand-tighten only to firm, but not extreme, pressure. Over-tightening can produce mechanical stress. Always examine glassware for any chips. Chips weaken glassware and can lead to possible breakage and injury. Since specialty glassware is expensive, repairs may prove economical. Make sure any glassware sent for repair is empty and clean. If solvents are used, rinse the item with water and let dry completely.
Next tip is to work with a lab partner. It isn't always possible to perform experiments or duties with a partner. But if and when it is possible, it should be encouraged to work in teams. Two sets of eyes and hands double the chances of successfully catching a mistake or slip up. Human error is expected. Everyone makes mistakes. Working in teams helps keep each other in check. It also allows quick response if someone is injured.
Subsequent tip is to Conduct Unannounced Inspections. Put together a safety audit checklist and perform random, yet routine inspections. Making them random and unannounced will alleviate the possibility of personnel "tidying up" for the inspection. Nobody likes a pop-quiz. But when safety is a priority, they must be done. Over time, well developed laboratory safety training and inspections will create good habits. These habits are invaluable.
Consequently, it is always advisable to have a budget for lab safety equipment. Maintaining a strict budget is key to any laboratory safety plan. When drafting a new budget or revising current spend, make sure funds are set aside to buy safety equipment. These items include eye wash stations and solution, protective gloves, goggles and safety glasses, ear plugs, splash guards, lab coats, fire extinguishers, and plenty more. It can get costly to purchase and maintain adequate measures. But nothing is more valuable than the well-being and safety of personnel. Budgeting for it will remove future funding concerns and the situation of having to decide what is more important in a pinch. Costs associated with training should also be considered. There may be some production downtime to facilitate training courses. Props, paper handouts, and hourly wages all ring up a bill. Remembering to add these costs to your safety fund will prevent surprises.
About the Author:
Kaira G. Tafoya has spent the past 30 years helping entrepreneurs and organizations with their laboratory start-up endeavors. He now uses his experience and expertise to help groups choose the best laboratory compliance consultant for them. If you would like to learn more about Best Toxicology Lab Start Up Experts in Fort Worth he suggests you visit his friend's for more information.
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