Keeping people safe in your business’s R&D lab should be a priority for your firm. You don’t want to get into a situation where you’re facing a lawsuit because you failed to protect people. Labs can be dangerous places because of the materials they handle. Many contain toxic substances or dangerous viruses that require careful management. Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep the people in your lab safe from harm. These 4 techniques prioritise well-being and reduce risks considerably. So, what should you be doing?
By Team Savant
Image: National Cancer Institute
Train People
The first step, as always, is to train people. You want them to understand the basics, like handling chemicals and responding to emergencies.
Make sure you update your training routines regularly to reflect new evidence and risks. Ensure you provide adequate instructions whenever you introduce new pieces of equipment so people in your firm know how to use them properly.
Make sure you emphasize ergonomics and physical safety. Ensure people have the right chairs for their needs and that they can work comfortably all day. Make sure lab equipment is at the right height to minimise the risks.
Ensure People Use PPE
You also want to make sure that people in the lab use personal protective equipment. This gear is vital for keeping individuals safe and ensuring that they don’t come into contact with anything dangerous.
Many labs deal with harsh, corrosive substances that, if they come into contact with the skin, could cause extreme damage. Others are dealing with dangerous biologicals that require proper management to contain effectively.
You may also need to speak to a fume hood company. These specialize in getting waste gases out of the lab and into scrubbers that can dispose of them safely. You don’t want toxic fumes lingering, since that can wreak havoc on the situation.
Keep The Lab Clean
Another priority should be to keep the lab clean. Making sure everything is neat and tidy reduces the risk of contact with the skin or dangerous admixtures.
Make sure you designate areas for chemicals, tools, and equipment. Split everything up so that it has its proper place.
Also, put protocols in place for dealing with spills and accidents. You should follow the instructions on the side of the bottle and have items, like sand, nearby to manage any spill.
Trays and absorbent materials are also helpful in this regard. These allow you to mop up problems quickly and return your lab to regular operations.
Perform Regular Safety Inspections
You also want to perform regular safety inspections of your lab. Imposing audits on your team makes it more likely they will remain compliant with best practices and follow your official guidance.
Don’t just allow team members to continue doing what they’re doing indefinitely. It is all too easy for them to get into bad habits. Make sure you track things like accidents and near misses to ensure that your people aren’t taking unnecessary risks with their own health, or the health and well-being of other staff.