Physical Plant

LAB SAFETY

Always keep the lab doors closed to stop the spread of fire and smoke into the hall or other exit passageways.

Always know two ways out of the building and know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher.

Always know the location of the nearest emergency shower/eyewash station.

Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment: lab coat, closed-toe shoes, safety glasses, gloves. Contact lenses and jewelry are not recommended in the lab.

Always consult the MSDS before working with an unfamiliar chemical.

Always keep flammable liquids stored in a proper cabinet and not under a hood.

Use the appropriate container for the disposal of syringes and broken glass. Never throw syringes or broken glass into the trash can.

All cloths or paper towels that have been used with a flammable cleaning solvent are capable of spontaneous combustion and must be promptly disposed of outside the building.

Always label chemical waste with the chemical name, date generated, and your name.

Compressed gas cylinders must always be securely strapped. When not in use, they must be capped.

Always work with a partner in the lab. Never work alone.

Never consume food or drink in the lab.

Never place equipment or storage so that it could block access to the electrical panel or the emergency shower/eye-wash station.

Never use equipment with spliced or frayed wires.

Report all defective equipment or unsafe conditions.

For more information, call Science Safety Officer Frank Woodruff at 266-4933; Biosafety Officer Nick Griffis at 266-4933; or Campus Safety Officer Rodger Jackson at 266-4850.