Working Safely
Safe chemistry is more than following rules—it is a commitment to planning ahead, recognizing hazards, and looking out for one another. Every member of our department contributes to a culture where research and teaching can be conducted safely, responsibly, and efficiently.
Working safely means taking the time to understand the hazards of your work, using appropriate controls, and speaking up when something doesn't seem right. Most laboratory incidents can be prevented through good planning, clear communication, and thoughtful decision-making.
The Principles of Safe Chemistry
Before beginning any experiment, ask yourself:
- Do I understand the hazards of the chemicals and equipment I will be using?
- Have I reviewed the appropriate Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)?
- Am I wearing the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?
- Is my workspace organized and free of unnecessary hazards?
- Do I know what to do if something goes wrong?
- Have I planned how to manage the waste generated by this experiment?
If the answer to any of these questions is no, stop and seek guidance before proceeding.
Safe laboratories are built on consistent habits.
Maintain Good Housekeeping
- Keep aisles, exits, and emergency equipment clear.
- Clean work areas after completing experiments.
- Return shared equipment and supplies to their proper locations.
- Remove unnecessary clutter from laboratories and offices.
Know Your Chemicals
- Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before using unfamiliar chemicals.
- Label all containers clearly.
- Store chemicals according to compatibility.
- Never use unknown or unlabeled chemicals.
Wear Appropriate PPE
- Wear the PPE required for your work.
- Dress appropriately for laboratory work.
- Inspect PPE before use and replace damaged equipment.
Manage Chemical Waste Properly
- Label waste containers as soon as waste collection begins.
- Keep containers closed except when adding waste.
- Never mix incompatible waste streams.
- Request waste pickup before containers become full.
Communicate
- Ask questions whenever you are unsure.
- Report unsafe conditions promptly.
- Share lessons learned after incidents or near misses.
- Help maintain a respectful and supportive laboratory environment.
Safety Is Continuous Improvement
A strong safety culture depends on everyone participating.
We improve by:
- Completing required training.
- Following Standard Operating Procedures.
- Reporting incidents, hazards, and near misses.
- Learning from inspections and safety observations.
- Sharing ideas that make our laboratories safer.
Every question asked, hazard corrected, and near miss reported helps strengthen the department's safety program.
