Laboratory Equipment Safety

Laboratory equipment shall be operated only by authorized and appropriately trained personnel. Users shall:

  • Follow manufacturer instructions, applicable SOPs, and University requirements.
  • Inspect equipment before use.
  • Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
  • Report defects or malfunctions immediately.
  • Remove unsafe equipment from service.

Centrifuges

Centrifuges shall be properly maintained, balanced, and operated according to manufacturer instructions. Users shall inspect rotors and components, properly balance loads, ensure safety interlocks are engaged, and never open a centrifuge until it has completely stopped. Excessive vibration, unusual noise, or malfunction requires immediate shutdown and reporting.

Autoclaves

Only trained personnel may operate autoclaves. Users shall inspect safety components, wear appropriate PPE, avoid overloading, allow pressure and steam to dissipate before opening, and allow materials to cool before handling.

Vacuum Systems

Vacuum equipment may present implosion, flying glass, chemical, and pressure hazards. Use vacuum-rated equipment, inspect glassware, use appropriate traps or filters, provide shielding when necessary, and release vacuum slowly.

Compressed Air

Compressed air shall not be used to clean clothing, skin, or the body. Users shall inspect hoses and fittings, use appropriate pressure and safety devices, secure hoses, and wear appropriate eye protection.

Machine Guarding

Equipment with moving, rotating, or pinch-point hazards shall have appropriate guards:

  • Guards and interlocks shall remain in place during operation.
  • Safety devices shall never be bypassed or disabled.
  • Secure loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair.
  • De-energize equipment before servicing or adjusting moving components.
  • Defective guards shall be repaired before equipment is returned to service.

Pressure Vessels

Pressure vessels shall be operated within manufacturer-rated limits and inspected before use. Do not modify pressure-relief devices. Equipment shall be depressurized before opening or servicing and damaged or leaking vessels shall immediately be removed from service.

Equipment Inspection, Maintenance and Removal from Service

Laboratory equipment shall be maintained according to manufacturer recommendations, applicable requirements, and University procedures. Defective or unsafe equipment shall be:

  • Removed from service
  • Clearly identified/tagged “Out of Service”
  • Repaired and inspected by qualified personnel
  • Returned to service only after safe operation is confirmed

Required inspection, maintenance, calibration, and repair records shall be maintained in accordance with applicable requirements. Faculty/PIs and LSCs are responsible for equipment within their areas, while EHS may conduct periodic compliance inspections.

Donated Materials and Equipment

Donated laboratory materials and equipment require EHS and Risk Management review and approval before acceptance or use. Donated materials must have, as applicable:

  • Clear identification and manufacturer labeling
  • Appropriate hazard warnings
  • Intact and compatible containers
  • No evidence of leakage, corrosion, crystallization, or deterioration
  • An obtainable SDS
  • An obtainable manufacturer’s operating/service manual, equipment specifications or technical data sheet
  • Known receipt/opening information
  • Compliance with applicable regulatory and University requirements

A risk assessment shall consider the item’s hazards, intended use, compatibility, storage requirements, and facility capabilities.