Lab Safety

IY1-Biological Sciences

Introduction to Lab Safety

Thoughts?

Why Lab Safety Matters?

• Protects you, your peers, and the environment -
• Prevents accidents and injuries
• Ensures reliability of experimental results

Why Lab Safety Matters

• Safety is everyone's job
• Be proactive in identifying and reporting hazards
• Follow all safety protocols consistently

Your Responsibility

Key Safety Areas We Will Address

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Lab Coats
• Wear at all times in the lab
• Should be knee-length and buttoned up
• Remove before leaving the lab area

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety Goggles
• Need to be worn at all times
• Must be worn over prescription glasses
• Clean regularly with lab-provided solutions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Gloves
• Nitrile gloves for most applications
• Check for tears before use
• Remove correctly to avoid contamination
• Change gloves when switching tasks or if contaminated

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Closed-toe Shoes
• No sandals or perforated shoes
• Leather or synthetic materials that cover entire foot
• Avoid high heels or platform shoes

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper Handling of Chemicals and Biological Materials

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
• Location in the lab
• How to read: focus on hazards, precautions, and first aid
• Importance of consulting before using new chemicals

• Chemical Storage and Labeling
• Store by compatibility, not alphabetically
• Proper labeling: name, concentration, date, hazards
• Use secondary containment for liquids
• Never store chemicals on the floor or above eye level

THANK YOU!