A Guide to Hazardous Materials and Laboratory Safety

A worker wearing a yellow hazmat suit, full-face respirator and heavy protective gloves seals the lid of a blue chemical drum inside a controlled storage area.

Understanding laboratory safety is essential whether you're a student, technician or professional researcher. Labs that handle hazardous materials demand discipline, awareness and adherence to procedures, not just to protect your work but to protect lives.

While laboratories vary in size and purpose, the fundamentals of safe lab behavior remain constant. These best practices help create a secure, productive environment where science can flourish without compromising health or safety.

Plan Ahead

Proper planning is your first line of defense. Know what materials you'll be using, understand their dangers and review how to safely store, handle and dispose of them. Consult Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) before starting any procedure, and ensure that the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is being used.

It's also a good idea to locate emergency equipment such as eyewash stations, safety showers and fire extinguishers before you begin. Being proactive, not reactive, is key to preventing incidents.

Follow All Established Safety Procedures

Lab rules are developed based on past incidents and established safety standards. Ignoring them, even briefly, puts everyone at risk. Always:

Wear PPE as required.
Label and store chemicals correctly.
Know how to shut off gas, electricity and vacuum lines.
Conduct regular inspections of your work area.

These procedures don't limit freedom; they enable safe scientific progress.

Memorize Emergency Procedures

Every second counts in a crisis. Knowing how to respond quickly and appropriately can prevent injuries or save lives. Be sure to:

Memorize exit routes and evacuation procedures.
Know how to use fire extinguishers and eye wash stations.
Keep emergency contact numbers posted and accessible.
Understand shelter-in-place and spill containment protocols.

Learning and practicing safety procedures can build reflexes that will help you react appropriately and calmly in an emergency situation.

Keep the Lab and Yourself Clean

Good housekeeping in the lab isn't about aesthetics but about safety. A tidy work area reduces the risk of accidents and contamination. To keep your work area clean and safe:

Wash your hands before and after lab work.
Decontaminate work surfaces regularly.
Store lab coats away from personal clothing.
Keep aisles and emergency exits clear.

Handle Chemicals Carefully

Chemicals are potent tools, but they must be handled with respect. Misuse, even if unintentional, can have dangerous consequences.

Understand the properties and risks of the substances you'll be working with.
Never taste or directly inhale chemicals.
Use fume hoods when working with volatile or toxic substances.
Clearly label all chemical containers.
Follow proper disposal protocols when you're finished with your work.

Don't Leave Equipment or Chemicals Unattended

Unattended experiments and open containers are among the most common causes of lab accidents. Equipment can overheat, chemicals can react unexpectedly and minor issues can become major hazards without supervision. If you must step away:

Shut off heat or pressure-producing devices.
Secure all materials.
Inform a supervisor or colleague of your absence.
Label your setup with your name, the time and your expected time of return.

Report Potential Hazards Immediately

Small hazards can quickly turn into big problems if they're not taken care of. Even minor concerns like a frayed power cord or an improperly sealed chemical bottle should be reported right away. If you spot a potential safety concern:

Notify your lab supervisor or designated safety officer.
Document the issue as needed.
Follow up if the hazard is not resolved.