Laboratory Hazards and Control Measures

Laboratory Hazard Assessment

A Laboratory Hazard Assessment (LHA) shall be completed before initiating new laboratory operations, introducing new hazardous materials or equipment, or beginning activities that introduce significant new hazards.

The LHA identifies hazards, evaluates risk, and establishes appropriate controls using the Hierarchy of Controls. As applicable, the assessment addresses:

  • Chemical, biological, physical, mechanical, electrical, thermal, radiation, ergonomic, fire, compressed gas, cryogenic, and other hazards
  • Engineering and administrative controls
  • PPE requirements
  • Applicable SOPs and SDSs
  • Personnel qualifications and training
  • Emergency response requirements
  • Specialized University programs or regulatory requirements

Completed LHAs shall be reviewed by EHS and approved through the applicable departmental process before the activity begins.

Laboratory personnel must understand the hazards associated with their work, follow established safety procedures, use required controls and PPE, and report unsafe conditions.

Control measures may include engineering controls, administrative controls, safe work practices, training, and PPE. Where a hazard is addressed by a specialized University safety program, laboratory personnel shall comply with that program and applicable procedures.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical equipment shall be properly installed, grounded, maintained, and used in accordance with manufacturer instructions and applicable electrical codes.

Laboratory personnel shall:

  • Inspect electrical equipment, cords, and plugs before use and remove damaged equipment from service.
  • Keep electrical equipment away from water, chemicals, and other sources of damage.
  • Use extension cords only for temporary applications and never as a substitute for permanent wiring.
  • Use approved power strips with overcurrent protection and never daisy-chain power strips or extension cords.
  • Maintain appropriate GFCI protection where electrical equipment is used near water or in wet or damp locations.
  • Use only electrical equipment approved for hazardous locations where flammable vapors, gases, or combustible dust may be present.
  • Never bypass electrical safety devices or perform unauthorized electrical repairs or modifications.

Electrical repairs, installations, and work on energized systems shall be performed only by qualified personnel. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements shall be followed when applicable.

In an electrical emergency, do not contact energized equipment or an affected person until the power has been safely disconnected. Activate the University emergency response system and contact Public Safety or emergency services as appropriate.

Thermal Hazards

Laboratory personnel shall identify and control hazards associated with hot surfaces, heating equipment, open flames, and temperature-controlled processes.

Bunsen burners, hot plates, ovens, kilns and other heating equipment shall be used in accordance with approved procedures. Open flames shall not be used where flammable materials or vapors may be present. Appropriate engineering controls, safe work practices, and PPE shall be used to prevent burns, fires, and other injuries.

Cryogenic Materials

Cryogenic materials present hazards including extreme cold, frostbite, pressure buildup, oxygen displacement, and asphyxiation.

Laboratories using cryogenic materials shall comply with the University Cryogenic Materials Safety Program, applicable SOPs, and required training and PPE. Appropriate ventilation, storage, transportation, and emergency procedures shall be maintained.

The current Cryogenic Materials Safety Program is maintained by EHS and incorporated by reference into this LSP.

Laser Safety

Laser hazards shall be assessed and controlled through appropriate engineering controls, administrative controls, safe work practices, PPE, and training.

Laboratory activities involving lasers shall comply with the University Laser Safety Program and applicable regulatory requirements. Refer to the Laser Safety Program for specific requirements.

Radiation Safety

Activities involving radioactive materials or radiation-producing equipment shall be conducted in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements and the University Radiation Safety Program.

Appropriate training, engineering controls, administrative controls, safe work practices, and PPE shall be implemented based on the type and level of radiation hazard. Refer to the Radiation Safety Program for specific requirements.

Pressurized Systems and Compressed Gases

Compressed gases, pressure vessels, vacuum systems, and other pressurized equipment can present hazards from uncontrolled pressure release, equipment failure, fire, explosion, and hazardous gas exposure.

Pressurized systems shall be properly selected, secured, maintained, and operated within their design limitations. Appropriate engineering controls, safe work practices, training, and PPE shall be used.

Laboratories using compressed gases shall comply with the University Compressed Gas Safety Program and applicable SOPs. The current program is maintained by EHS and incorporated by reference into this LSP.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Laboratories shall be maintained in a clean and orderly condition to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Particular attention shall be given to hazards created by water, chemicals, cords, hoses, equipment, clutter, and uneven surfaces. Laboratory personnel shall:

  • Keep aisles, exits, and work areas clear.
  • Clean or report spills promptly.
  • Secure cords, hoses, and tubing away from walking paths.
  • Maintain adequate lighting.
  • Store materials safely and securely.
  • Wear appropriate closed-toe footwear.
  • Report damaged floors, equipment, or other unsafe conditions.

Biological Hazards

Biological hazards shall be assessed and controlled through appropriate biosafety practices, containment measures, engineering controls, safe work practices, PPE, and training.

Laboratory activities involving biological materials shall comply with the University Biosafety Plan, applicable SOPs, and other requirements established by EHS and the appropriate University oversight programs.