Although accidents can affect any workplace, lab mishaps can have deadly consequences. One way to avoid issues is to acknowledge them. Look at these common lab accidents and learn how to prevent them. This way, you’ll increase the safety culture of your operation.
Fires
Fires are a common hazard with hot surfaces and flammable materials. Workers should review fire procedures, seal flammable materials, and locate fire extinguishers. It’s also best to inspect burners for leaks to avoid flares.
Heat Burns
Please exercise caution when handling hot items. Handling things without proper tools can cause severe burns. Lab personnel should use water baths, cooling collars, tongs, and other cooling equipment to avoid hot surfaces with bare hands. If individuals suffer from heat burns, place the burn under cool water for 20 minutes. Cover the area with a wet cloth and seek medical attention for larger burns.
Cuts and Scrapes
Cuts and scrapes are common lab accidents because workers use sharp objects such as scalpels, razors, and needles for tasks. In addition, disposing of sharp objects can injure people’s hands if they don’t protect their skin. Lab personnel can safely handle sharp items with protective gloves and should wrap broken glass and needles before carrying them to the trash.
Contamination
In terms of lab safety, “wash your hands” is a basic rule. However, it makes a significant impact in laboratories. Contamination can affect experiments, chemicals, and substances. Additionally, some lab bacteria can cause bodily harm. It’s important to wash your hands before and after interacting with foreign substances.
Additionally, people should protect their clothes and skin with protective gear. In particular, aprons, gloves, and safety goggles are mandatory. These items prevent people from leaving the lab with harmful substances on their skin that can spread illnesses to other individuals.
Inhalation
Accidentally inhaling gases or chemicals can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, respiratory problems, and fainting. This problem increases in rooms with poor ventilation. Lab personnel must follow correct procedures, including opening windows and utilizing ventilation fans. They can also use equipment to measure the amount of gas emission inside rooms.
Furthermore, accidental inhalation can happen from poor storage. Proper chemical storage is important in laboratories for several reasons, but primarily, it prevents environmental exposure. No one wants substances to release into the atmosphere and contaminate air quality.
Spills and Breaks
Accidents happen, and glasses may break in the lab. However, rushing through experiments or being negligent are the culprits of spills and breaks. Careful movements and proper procedures minimize accidents. It’s important to understand the dangers of certain chemicals and know what to do if spills occur. For instance, some chemical spills require special cleaning equipment.
Also, read: Various Tasks That Your Lab Should Outsource
