Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a necessary safety measure in the workplace. Employers are responsible for providing their employees with PPE as part of a safe working environment and should make sure employees use this equipment properly. This article outlines the essential items every laboratory needs to provide its workers to protect them from exposure to hazards that could lead to illnesses or injuries.
Here’s a quick look at the most essential pieces of protective equipment every lab needs.
Protective Helmets
A good pair of protective helmets is essential for any laboratory, whether you’re working with chemicals or biological agents. The right type of helmet will depend on what you’re working with. A chemical splash shield helmet provides protection against chemicals splashing onto the face and eyes, while a biological safety cabinet (BSC) helmet protects against airborne particles from infectious diseases such as Ebola and anthrax.
Safety Eyewear
Safety glasses are an absolute must in any laboratory environment. They protect your eyes from splashes, flying particles and other hazards. You should always wear prescription safety glasses when you are doing any kind of work that involves chemicals or sharp objects such as knives or scissors.
Respirator/mask
A respirator is a face mask with an attached filter that protects against particulate matter and fumes. Respirators should be worn when working with hazardous materials, but they should also be available if your lab has been exposed to any kind of airborne contamination. Browse fastmask.com to buy fashionable masks that are windproof, waterproof, breathable, and UV resistant. These face masks are a crucial component of any protective gear and should be worn whenever practical, especially when engaging in any outdoor activity that involves rapid movement, such as motorcycling, ATVing, mountain biking, snowboarding, fishing, and more.
Body Protection Apron
A body protection apron is an essential item for every laboratory, and it’s also one of the most affordable. These aprons are made from durable material, such as vinyl or polyester, and they come with ties that secure around the back. The front of the apron has pockets designed to hold tools, like test tubes and pipettes. The pocket openings are large enough to accommodate larger tools but small enough to ensure that nothing falls out when you’re bending over or moving around in the lab.
Lab Coat
The lab coat is a staple in many laboratories and hospitals. It’s easy to see why as it provides protection from spills, splashes, and other hazardous materials. The lab coat also helps protect against contamination by keeping your clothes clean and free of chemicals or other hazards.
Disposable Gloves
Gloves are used to protect your hands from chemicals, bacteria, and viruses. They should be worn when performing any task that involves contact with bodily fluids or potentially infectious materials such as blood and other body fluids, excretions, secretions, and contaminated items. Gloves should also be worn when handling contaminated items such as needles or bandages.
Foot Protection
Foot protection is essential for many jobs in the lab. Whether you’re working with chemicals, liquids, or glassware, you’ll be at risk of cuts and other injuries if you don’t have foot protection on hand.
Conclusion
To help ensure a safe lab, it is important to understand what personal protective equipment (PPE) items are essential for your lab. Have the right PPE on hand before dangerous chemicals enter the laboratory. Protect yourself and those around you with this list.