Business
Major Laboratories Take Steps To Improve Their Safety Protocol

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The laboratory is a dangerous environment. There are unstable chemicals, hazardous equipment, and plenty of opportunity for accidents! Recently, major labs across the country have been enforcing much stricter safety protocols. Partly as a result of tighter health and safety laws, these rules will reduce the risk of accidents on site.
Unlike a simple trip or fall at the office, an accident in the lab can have potentially fatal consequences. Many laboratories come into contact with harmful radiation and flammable material.
We spoke to some of the top laboratory supervisors to get a sense of what changes were being made. On the whole, there is a heavy focus on containing chemicals and reducing the likelihood of accidental damage.
Personal Safety
The biggest concern for any lab supervisor is the personal safety of its scientists. Working in test conditions, there is the potential for any number of accidents. Prevention all starts with a stricter set of personal rules. Clothing and protection, of course, are the first steps. All scientists must wear the correct lab coats, gloves, and goggles where necessary. Open shoes such as sandals or bare feet (you’d be surprised!) are strictly prohibited. Finally, any long hair must be tied back, and loose clothing and jewelry safely secured. It sounds like common sense, but failing to stick to these simple safety precautions is the biggest cause of accidents.
Avoid working alone
Scientists were always discouraged to work in teams. Now, many labs are making this a strict rule. Working alone in a lab can have dangerous consequences. Without an authority figure to act accordingly, accidents are difficult to handle. At the very least, scientists working alone must seek clearance from a supervisor.
Quarantine and containing contamination
Scientists are very concerned about dangerous chemicals and elements escaping the lab. All lab coats and equipment must be surrendered before leaving the laboratory. Many workers are also subject to a quick inspection and encouraged to wash thoroughly before leaving.
Ventilation
Harmful fumes and toxins can quickly build up in a laboratory environment. A number of concerning incidents have lead supervisors to install better ventilation systems. The law also dictates a reasonable requirement that must be adhered to. In many labs, special fume hoods are used by scientists to protect themselves from the build-up of gas.
Inspections and Audit
Laboratories rely on independent review teams to inspect the lab on a regular basis. This external inspection helps point out holes in the safety system. They’ll also suggest improvements and upgrades. Additionally, labs are increasing the rate of inspection on regular equipment to ensure safety.
Housekeeping
Many accidents in the lab occur through simple human misjudgement. A miscalculation or incorrect formula can cause an accident quickly. Automated software like a LIMS system can help keep the lab in order. It tracks stock, keeps the inventory, and manages the laboratory from one place. It helps reduce the likelihood of mistakes.
Under the correct rules and procedures, the laboratory is an exciting and powerful place. But, lab managers must always keep one eye open for safety.
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