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5 essential laboratory safety devices you can't do without

5 essential laboratory safety devices you can't do without

“Safety First” is the first and most important golden rule of working in a science laboratory. Because the lab is a place full of risks that may not be seen, ranging from contact with hazardous chemicals, splashing of hot liquids, toxic vapors, to unexpected accidents. Prevention is always better than cure. And the first line of strongest defense is to have and use. Laboratory Safety Equipment Appropriate and standardized

Here are 5 safety devices that are considered basic necessities that every laboratory must have to create a safe working environment for all personnel.

1. Eye Protection The eyes are extremely delicate and sensitive organs. Even a single splash of chemicals can cause permanent vision loss. Therefore, wearing eye protection is “mandatory” at all times while in the lab.

  • Safety Glasses: Suitable for protection against impact from debris, but has gaps on the sides and top.
  • Safety Goggles: It is the best choice for protection against chemical splashes because it is designed to fit snugly against the face and provides protection from all directions.

2. Lab Coat The clothes you wear from home will not protect you from chemical hazards. A lab coat acts as a first line of defense, protecting your skin and personal clothing from chemical spills. Choose a lab coat made of cotton or a chemical-resistant, flame-retardant material, with long sleeves and all buttons fastened for maximum protection. It is also important to remove it before leaving the lab area to prevent external contamination.

3. Chemical Resistant Gloves 3. Chemical Resistant Gloves Hands are the part of the body that is most likely to come into direct contact with chemicals. However, there is not just one type of glove that can be used in every situation. Different glove materials have different chemical protection capabilities, such as:

  • Nitrile gloves: It is a popular choice and is resistant to a wide range of chemicals and solvents.
  • Latex gloves (Latex): Good protection against germs and biological agents, but some people may have allergies and have poor tolerance to certain chemicals.
  • Neoprene/Butyl Gloves: It is used for work that requires contact with very strong corrosive chemicals. Therefore, the glove compatibility chart should be checked every time before use.

4. Fume Hood This is a critical piece of engineering safety equipment used when working with toxic, corrosive, or volatile and flammable chemicals. Fume hoods draw hazardous chemical vapors away from the user's work area and release them safely to the outside of the building, reducing the risk of direct inhalation of harmful vapors. Proper use of a fume hood, such as keeping the sash at the proper level, is key to preventing this.

5. Emergency equipment: Eyewash and shower 5. Emergency equipment: Eyewash and shower (Emergency No matter how well protected, accidents can still happen. Eyewash and safety shower are the last line of defense to help reduce the severity of injuries. Eyewash & Safety Shower)

  • Emergency eyewash station (Eyewash Station): Must be able to supply clean water at a consistent rate to continuously flush the eyes for at least 15 minutes.
  • Emergency Shower (Safety Shower): These are used in cases where large quantities of chemicals are spilled on the body or clothing. Everyone in the lab must know where and how to use these devices, and their operation must be checked regularly.

Summary Laboratory safety is a shared responsibility of everyone. Investing in quality safety equipment is an investment in the well-being of our most valuable resource, our people. MIT Trade We recognise this importance and offer a wide range of laboratory safety equipment, from personal PPE to lab equipment. Contact us for a consultation.

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