Medical Safety & Global Health
Open Access

Laboratory Safety

Before conducting any experiment, you should access the hazards related to the work, including; what are the worst possible things that could go wrong, how to deal with them, and what are the prudent practices, protective facilities and equipment necessary to minimize the risk of exposure to the hazards. Always know the hazards of the materials used (e.g., corrosively, flammability, reactivity, and toxicity). Use the Project Hazard Review Checklist (in Adobe PDF format) to help you with this assessment. Read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for information on all chemicals you plan to use. Make sure all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is on hand. Use the MSDS or Personal Protective Equipment Selection Guide (in Adobe PDF format) to select the needed equipment. Post a sign on the door to notify others of the lab hazards and list emergency contact numbers. Inspect equipment and apparatus for weaknesses, cracks or damage before beginning work. Inspect electrical equipment and cords for frayed wiring or damage before use. Discard or repair damaged equipment before use.