Preventing Contamination in the Laboratory Requires Caution
Preventing Contamination in the Laboratory Requires Caution
Laboratory technicians are exposed to some of the most dangerous kinds of things one could imagine. There may be contaminants like viruses that could infect the whole lab. There may be those kinds of chemicals that could cause severe burns. These are just a little of what a lab worker may deal with on an average day. What are some ways for preventing contamination in the laboratory?
Wearing protective eye wear, disposable lab coats, and changing your gloves every time you are finished with a task are some obvious ways in keeping down contamination in a lab setting. Many contaminants can be kept where they need to be by just following these simple rules. If you work in a lab, make sure to pay special attention to touching your face or arms while working. You should always wash your hands after every job you finish despite the fact that you wear gloves.
Many kinds of protective equipment are available for those that work in a laboratory. You might be involved in testing of contaminates that would require you to wear a face shield. You may need to make sure that ventilation fans and hoods are on before beginning work with some chemicals.
Keeping your work areas clean and organized is an important part of maintaining safe working conditions as well. You can easily spill flasks or beakers of they are just sitting around after you are done with them. Think of the outcome if these containers held a dangerous substance and it spilled on you? Make sure to always practice good housekeeping habits in your lab area.
Laboratory hazards can be prevented when the proper measures are taken to do so. Never pour contaminated fluids into drains or do not place hazardous waste in the trash that will go to the local landfills. Always read handbooks that are offered for you to learn about all the ways that lab work can be dangerous. The public, the environment, and you can remain safe from disaster due to contamination when you are taking the proper safety steps every day.