The lab environment is hazardous by nature.
The actual risk is largely determined by you and those working with you. It's your responsibility
to know and follow the rules and be able to recognize potential safety hazards. The first consideration is proper dress. What
you wear in the lab can help prevent serious, even fatal injuries. Often, you'll be working
with chemicals that could harm you if they come into contact with your skin. So the best way to prevent skin exposure is
to wear clothes that cover your entire body. Shorts and sandals leave your skin exposed,
so instead wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. Remove jewelry before entering the lab and
tie back long hair. Bring only the things that you need into the
lab. Leave all personal items, like backpacks, purses, or jackets outside, so they don't
become contaminated. Now that you're properly dressed for the
lab, let's take a look at personal protective equipment, or P-P-E. For general lab work, a lab coat, safety glasses
or goggles, and gloves are required. Always button your coat and try to keep the cuffs
tucked into your gloves. Wear a chemical apron if you're working
with splash hazards, volatile, or reactive solutions. Safety glasses can protect your eyes from
flying debris. However, these glasses won't protect you from splash hazards. That's
why you may need to wear chemical resistant safety goggles. Always wear gloves in the lab. Be sure to
choose the most appropriate type. You need gloves that are resistant to the chemicals
you'll be handling. These gloves are non-absorptive. Even so,
chemicals can leach through over time, so it's a good idea to change your gloves and
wash your hands frequently, especially if they've come into contact with chemicals. Thermal and puncture-resistant gloves are
used for handling extremely hot or cold materials such as when using the autoclave, handling
dry ice, or handling sharps. Some chemicals produce dangerous vapors. A
respirator can protect you, however by law you must first complete the proper training.
So ask your lab manager or instructor about respirator training. Always remove PPE and wash your hands before
leaving the lab and entering public areas. And be aware that you can spread chemical
or biological contamination by touching items such as light switches...door knobs...or even
phones while your gloves are still on. Dressing for the lab and wearing personal
protective equipment will minimize the risk for exposure or harm. But clothing and PPE
aren't enough to keep you safe. We'll take a closer look at safety equipment in our next lesson.