What you should know for Lab Safety Awareness Week

The Radiological and Environmental Management department within Purdue Administrative Operations is participating in Lab Safety Awareness Week on Feb. 13-17, which is sponsored by the Campus Safety, Health and Environmental Management Association for higher education.

Researchers and others working in campus laboratories are encouraged to practice a strong safety culture while performing work, and the actions below provide a good foundation.

Use Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment, known as PPE, helps minimize exposure to a number of potentially hazardous conditions that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. PPE must be worn at all times in the laboratory when handling hazardous chemicals.

More information about required PPE is provided in Chapter 6 of Purdue’s Chemical Hygiene Plan.

Maintain Appropriate Spaces

Keeping laboratory spaces and supplies tidy will help to reduce accidents, injuries and major events like fires. Work areas should be kept uncluttered, and access to safety features or equipment, such as emergency exits and fire extinguishers, should always be maintained. Establishing a routine for laboratory clean-out days and equipment maintenance promotes a preventative attitude and strong habits. 

Complete Training for Equipment

Safety equipment is standard in laboratories to help with emergency response, and individuals working in those spaces need to know how to access and use each piece in advance. Check if eyewash stations, safety showers, fire extinguishers and spill kits are present and in good condition. Disposable safety supplies should be replenished as they are used, and regular training and maintenance for equipment should be performed.   

Identify Hazards and Risks

All laboratory employees must have a good understanding of the hazards associated with chemicals being used and stored in the lab. Individuals should always review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to evaluate hazards and become familiar with handling and safe disposal of materials. Having and following a hierarchy of controls will help minimize risks.

Take Accountability

Research is often a collaborative effort, and so is maintaining safety. When possible, work with at least one other person to ensure that help is available, if needed. Minimize the amount of hazardous waste in accumulation storage areas at any given time, and frequently arrange for safe disposal. Share safety information with others, and regularly incorporate safety topics into meetings. 

Pickup services for all chemical or hazardous waste generated on campus are available. More information about waste disposal and the pickup request form are available online. Questions about hazardous waste management may be directed to 765-494-0121 or hazwaste@purdue.edu.

Administrative Operations supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. Increasing awareness and knowledge about laboratory safety is just one of many ways the organization powers Purdue.

Downloadable 8.5-by-11-inch flyers that summarize and expand on these safety actions are available on the Radiological and Environmental Management website. Questions about laboratory safety and related topics may be directed to Radiological and Environmental Management at 765-494-6371 or researchsafety@purdue.edu.