Laboratory manufacturer and funishers, InterFocus has released a guide to keep laboratories safe while enabling the brightest minds to fulfill their potential.
Safety is key, both in terms of holding regular training sessions and incorporation into the design of the laboratory itself.
When building new laboratories or updating the current facilities, implementing safety-conscious design principles from day one can help optimise the safety of the setting.
Rather than working around hazards or overcompensating to avoid potential dangers – researchers in a lab which has been designed for safety will be able to complete work in an optimised setting.
Sanitation facilities should be placed conveniently for all members of the research team to access and utilise. Placing full and relevant sanitation facilities near all members of the research can help them immediately apply the treatment they require.
According to a report from Universal Medical, one of the major causes of accidents and injuries in the laboratory is the use of the wrong chemicals and materials. Clear and accurate labelling of all bottles, tubes and containers can help remove the risk of mix-ups and potentially dangerous mishaps.
Commercial laboratories which receive frequent visitors to the research facilities could inadvertently be compromising the safety of the lab.
While it is important to accept visits from potential investors, external teams and other parties – a cramped and crowded laboratory is a potentially dangerous laboratory. Implementing a tour route or visitor area in the laboratory may seem an unusual use of space, but can help the research team continue their work uninterrupted.
When accidents do happy they should be fully and accurately reported. Developing a system which allows all members of the lab to report any accidents, injuries or safety infringements can make it easier for all other members of the team to anticipate future hazards.
Instilling a properly structured supervision system can ensure that all members of the team will be working directly under the supervision of a professional more likely to respect safe working ethics.
This can help ensure that no corners are cut and no dangerous practices are carried out in the laboratory.
Furthermore, it is vitally important that the supervisory team are also responsible for overseeing accident reporting in the laboratory.
For more information, please visit the Interfocus website here.
