Author: Paige Diane Pittman

Proper Containers Prevent Spills and Injuries Routinely Inspect Look for the following indicators that a container is compromised: Leaks: Puddles or crystals around the bottle or lid. Cracks: Small cracks may be difficult to see, be sure to inspect closely....

Personal Protective Equipment Requirements Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting against chemical, biological, radiological and mechanical hazards. PPE must be provided, properly used and maintained in a clean and reliable condition. Minimum PPE The following are required in...

Inventory of Radioactive Materials and Devices Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date inventory of radioactive materials and devices is essential for regulatory compliance, safe laboratory operations and the protection of personnel and the environment. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires all radioactive...

How Purdue Supports Safe Hearing Practices What Is the Hearing Conservation Program? Purdue University's Hearing Conservation Program helps protect faculty, staff and students from noise-induced hearing loss caused by workplace sound exposure. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead...

Proper Use, Maintenance and Guidelines Chemical fume hoods help protect researchers by capturing and exhausting hazardous vapors, gases and particulates. To ensure proper ventilation and safe operation: Keep the sash fully closed when the hood is not in use. Perform...

Preventing Needle-Related Injuries Needles are essential tools in research, but they also pose serious risks. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself, your colleagues and others. General Handling Guidelines: Use blunt-tip needles whenever possible. Plan ahead and organize your workspace before...

Required Trainings for Lab Personnel Effective training is the foundation of a safe laboratory. Supervisors must ensure all lab personnel complete required training before working with hazardous materials. Additional training may be required depending on research type and hazards. Minimum...

Understanding RF Exposure Hazards Radiofrequency (RF) radiation is a type of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation. It is emitted by various types of electronic devices and systems including: Wireless communication antennas (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular) Broadcast transmitters (radio and TV)- Research equipment (e.g.,...

Think Before You Print! 3D printing, commonly used for prototypes, models and design projects, offers exciting opportunities for innovation, but it also comes with safety risks like high heat, airborne particles and electrical hazards. Most printers use thermoplastics such as...

Handling Sharps Safely Sharps are items that are capable of puncturing, cutting or abrading the skin. Such items include: Glass and plastic pipettes Broken glass Test tubes Petri dishes Razor blades Needles Syringes with needles Injuries from sharps often occur...