Guidelines for General Academic Lab Safety

Standard Precautions

Read and understand your laboratory's standard operating procedures/rules

Save a copy of the YSU Chemical Hygiene Plan

Know how to report accidents

Know the meaning of hazard pictograms

Flame Warning IconBase Warning IconToxic Warning IconImportant Warning IconGas Warning IconPersonal Warning IconOxidizer Warning IconEnviromental Warning IconExplosion Warning Icon

Hazard Controls

Use This Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as a Minimum

  • Lab coat (standard, knee-length)
  • Chemical splash goggles
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Long pants
  • T-Shirt
GogglesGlovesLab Coat

Nitrile gloves are not required except when handling corrosive, flammable or toxic chemicals.

Know the Location of SAFETY EQUIPMENT

  • Emergency eyewash/shower
  • Drench-hose
  • Class-ABC Fire Extinguisher
  • First Aid Kit
  • Chemical Spill-response Kit
Emergency ShowerExample of an emergency eyewash 1Example of an emergency eyewash 2Example of an emergency eyewash 3Fire extinguisher

Work Practice

When leaving the lab, remove gloves and lab coat

Never have food or drink in the lab workspace

Goggles and Lab Coats can be removed once all chemicals in the room are put away and the instructor indicates it is appropriate to do so.

Read the safety data sheet prior to working with a chemical.

Storage & Transportation

Always segregate and store chemicals in appropriate cabinets

Always transport chemicals in secondary containment