Identify some hazards, while working in science laboratories. Give methods of first aid to deal with hazards in science laboratories.

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Many labs are more hazardous and risk-filled than the average workplace – the cost of existing on the cutting edge of the sciences. Whether you’re looking for cures, breakthroughs or new technologies, it is vital that you and the whole team understand each and every hazard of the laboratory.

With a full understanding of the hazards and risks attached to working in a laboratory, you and your team will be able to work to your fullest, combining effective research with safe practice. So, here we have listed a selection of the most common hazards and risks of the modern laboratory.

Chemical Hazards

Handling chemicals is a typical part of the day-to-day routine for many lab workers, but the risks and hazards remain the same. Many organic and inorganic chemicals are corrosive to the skin and to the eyes, and can be toxic. Full safety wear should be provided to any members of the team handling chemicals, and provisions to treat any exposure or clean spillages should be present in the laboratory.

It’s not only direct contact which may be hazardous, chemical reactions which generate heat can lead to thermal burns. This further demonstrates the importance of ensuring the surface of the skin is protected from the potential for burns and exposure.

Similarly, incorrect venting within the laboratory could be hazardous. Without full and correct ventilation, a distillation or chemical reaction could lead to an explosion in the lab. Depending upon the size of the explosion and the materials affected, this could be hugely dangerous for the team and for the lab.

Inhalation of certain chemicals can be dangerous, with many of the most common solvents proving to be extremely toxic. These dangers can be immediate or slowly manifest over time – making it important that the research team are protected from the fumes produced by these hazardous chemicals.

Ingesting chemicals is a huge risk in many laboratories, due to contamination on hands, food and drink. This demonstrates the importance of safe and secure storage for all food and drink items, away from chemical exposure. Furthermore, comprehensive hand-washing and sanitation provisions should be accessible for all members of the research team exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Prevention

When it comes to chemical hazards, effective prevention is the best way to manage the risks of working with these dangerous substances. Practising proper chemical segregation is essential in all labs, as some substances can react with each other to create chemical reactions, fires and even explosions. Protective clothing and good housekeeping are also important for protecting your team from chemical hazards.

Watch the video below for more information on how to minimise chemical hazards in your lab and what to do in an emergency. Electrical Hazards Even the most experienced research professional can overlook basic safety principles when working with electricity – so it is vital that protective measures are employed throughout the laboratory. Particularly hazardous are electrical units which are positioned close to liquid, so these should be fitted with ground-fault circuit interrupters to break the circuit should any current flow to ground.