Eye
- Lab eyewear should be as comfortable as possible, fit well over the
eyes and around the face, and not interfere with the movement of the
person.
- When necessary, signs should be placed in the lab, stating that eye
protection is required before entering the lab.
- Appropriate eye protection should be worn when using
- caustics, corrosives, or irritants
- glassware under vacuum or pressure (reduced or elevated)
- cryogenic materials
- flammable materials
- radioactive materials
- explosives
- lasers (special lens protection required)
- UV light (special lens protection required)
- biohazards
Body
- The lab coat is designed to protect the clothing and skin from
chemicals that may be spilled or splashed.
- Lab coat should always be properly fitted to the wearer and is best if
it is knee length.
- An apron provides an alternative to the lab coat. It is usually made of
plastic or rubber to protect the wearer against corrosive or irritating
chemicals.
- An apron should be worn over garments that cover the arms and body, such
as a lab coat.
Hands
- Always get into the habit of wearing protective gloves in the lab.
- Aside from acting as a shield between hands and hazardous materials,
some gloves can also absorb perspiration or protect the hands from heat.
- Before use, check to make sure the gloves are in good condition and free
from holes, punctures, and tears.
- Care should be taken when removing gloves. Peel the glove off the hand,
starting at the wrist and working toward the fingers.
- Wash hands as soon as possible after removing protective gloves.
Feet
- Feet protection is designed to prevent injury from corrosive chemicals,
heavy objects, electrical shock, as well as giving traction on wet floors.
- If a corrosive chemicals or heavy objects were to drop or fall, the most
vulnerable portion of the body may be the feet.
- Shoes that completely cover and protect the feet are recommended.
- Fabric shoes, such as sport shoes, absorb liquids readily.
- Shoe types should not be worn in the lab (Sandals and sleepers, Sport
shoes, Wooden sole shoes, High heel shoes)
Ears
- Ear protection should be worn where the noise level is above 85
decibels.
- Areas where excessive noise is present should be warned with signs
indicating ear protection is required.
Types of ear protection include:
- Ear plugs provide the basic protection to seal the ears against noise.
- Ear muffs provide extra protection against noise, and are more
comfortable than ear plugs.
- Cotton inserts are poor suppressors of noise and should be avoided.
Nose
- Since certain lab experiments may produce noxious contaminants and
fumes, respiratory protection may be required in your lab environment.
- Lab personnel noting changes in air quality, should contact their lab
supervisor and express their concerns.
- A medical examination may also be required to assure that the lab user
is physically capable of respirator use.
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