subject: Style, Safety, And Status With Doctor Lab Coats [print this page] Lab coats are worn by doctors and scientific researchers for a variety of reasons. Many of these reasons are practical, and related to the nature of their work. The coats protect skin and clothing from chemicals, germs, and other dangerous materials professionals may come in contact with during normal activities. The coats have several pockets so that necessary small equipment can always be within arms reach. Lab coats are also worn to reflect the rank or status of an individual. When you see someone in a hospital or laboratory with a clean, stylish white lab coat its pretty easy to see that theyre not a member of the janitorial staff.
Medical Lab Coats
Medical lab coats are specially designed for use in health institutions. They are worn by medical professionals among them doctors and nurse practitioners. The coats are a mandatory garment for most people working in these positions. Although some wear them for protective reasons, they are often viewed as a symbol of expertise and help distinguish medical staff from other staff in a medical institution. White is the dominant color for medical lab coats although one can choose from a range of materials the most common being polyester and cotton.
Most coats are treated to enhance flame resistance; however, the treatment degrades after continuous laundering. Other factors which degrade the coats include acids and reactive chemicals although they can stand most of the organic solvents. Considering superior features like performance, versatility and appearance, most professionals in the medical field consider cotton as the best material for lab coats. In addition, cotton is a lightweight material which is easily tie-dyed.
Safety
The main purpose of having a lab coat on is provision of safety while working. For this reason, they should be washed properly to maintain high hygiene standards required in a health institution. You can select those with elastic cuffs which prevent the sleeves from dragging. For maximum protections against hazards, medical lab coats should always be worn properly.
Other Fields
Apart from medical institutions, lab coats are also applicable for people in other fields like chemistry, nuclear science and others which involve experiments with hazardous chemicals. Professionals working in radioactive environments have coats specially made to protect them from damaging rays. If your lab coat degrades so that it can no longer protect you effectively, consider a new one. Some institutions provide generic coats for all employees although you can always purchase one with features which suit your preferences.
The lab coat has become a symbol of status and professionalism in the fields of medicine and scientific research. Coats are available in different materials, but most are made from a blend of cotton and polyester, and are available for men and women. Modern lab coats are also available in a variety of colors and styles; professionals are no longer limited to the standard white lab coats used exclusively in times past.
